I am extremely opposed to allowing assistants to scale teeth. I agree that the idea of supra-gingival scaling  versus sub-gingival scaling is impossible to monitor or address--therefore, only an individual

trained in this area should be allowed to do it, i.e. an accredited, licensed dental hygienist or dentist.

Hygienists are constantly on the lookout for any new problems to be brought to the attention of the

dentist. SCALING IS NOT ALL WE DO. Please do not allow the standard of care to go downhill!

If there is a perceived shortage of hygienists, I propose a better method of employment referral,

perhaps something over the internet. Our office has been contacted in person by at least two

hygienists recently looking for work.