I know through some of my new patients testimony that this is a potentially damaging issue to our profession.  Some practices are engaging in ethically questionable behavior of allowing dental assistants to comlete almost all aspects of a prophylaxis and exam while allowing hygienists to simply scale some surfaces.  I have personal and professional experience that proves this to be devastating to some patients.  Let thoroughly trained dental hygienists perform these duties.  The majority of hygienists have demonstrated a committment to the profession and their patients.  Can we say the same for many assistants with respect to dedication and training?  If they are allowed to provide in depth care for patients, how many practices will set up more elaborage "hygiene mills" for profit without respect of patient well-being.  We must self regulate for the safety of the public.  There already exists a system to train hygienists.  Prospective dental assistants who want to scale teeth can take the appropriate courses.  Thank you.