As a concerned patient, I firmly object to the idea of having untrained and uneducated dental assistants responsible for cleaning my teeth and being involved with the plans for future needed care.  In my opinion, being seen by someone who does not have the specialized training to properly provide oral health care is not in the best interest of any patient.  It is clear that dentists in favor of this idea do not have the best interest of their patients in mind.

This motion is simply a ploy by local dentists to decrease payroll expenses in times of economic strife.  Yes, it may be a way to spread care to areas in need, but the true result will be the extinction of the Dental Hygiene professional.

As a patient paying high dollar amounts for dental services, I expect only the best customer service and care from my dentist and dental hygienist.  This would not be possible with the "Dental Assistant II" being approved to scale teeth.