A dental assistant in Utah CAN do the following under direct supervision of the supervising dentist:
– A dental assistant in Utah can provide support to a dentist under the supervision of a properly licensed dentist.
– There are x-ray licensing requirements in Utah for dental assistants. These are (from the Dental Assisting National Board website):
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Complete a dental assisting course from a CODA-accredited program,
- Pass the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam,
- Complete a radiology course and exam approved by the Utah Dentist and Dental Hygienist Licensing Board that meet the criteria established by rule of the Board
– 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 Utah CANNOT do the following:
– Remove stains and deposits from teeth (clean teeth).
– Place sealants on the teeth.
– Apply stainless steel crowns or fillings
– Repair or fill cavities.
– Give or administer anesthetics (shots).
– Any other activities or duties of dentistry that are specifically limited to dentists or dental hygenists.
Relevant Links:
– Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing – Dental Assistant