A dental assistant in Alaska CAN do the following under direct supervision of the dentist:
– A dental assistant in Alaska can provide support to a dentist under the supervision of a properly licensed dentist.
– There are no x-ray licensing requirements. You can operate and perform x-rays.
– Chart and inspect the mouth and teeth.
– Apply fluoride topically.
– Place a rubber dam.
– Take blood pressure, temperature and pulse.
– Give oral hygiene instructions.
A dental assistant in Alaska CANNOT do the following:
– Remove stains and deposits from teeth (clean teeth).
– Place sealants on the teeth.
– Administer nitrous oxide to the patient.
– Any other activities or duties of dentistry that are specifically limited to dentists or dental hygienists.
To become a dental assistant qualified in Coronal Polishing in Alaska:
– Send in an application form to the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners. This form must be notarized.
– Pay the fee to the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners.
– Do ONE of the following: (1) successfully complete a program of instruction approved by the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners, or (2) be licensed or certified in another jurisdiction to perform coronal polishing and provide documentation to the board.
– A dental assistant licensed in Coronal Polishing in Alaska (in addition to the regular duties noted above) can: (1) polish teeth under direct supervision.
To become a dental assistant qualified in Restorative Functions in Alaska:
– Complete a course approved by the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners
– Pass the Western Regional Examining Board’s exam OR have similar authority from another jurisdiction.
– A dental assistant qualified in Restorative Functions in Alaska can place restorations under direct supervision of a dentist in addition to all of the general duties described above.
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