What is the best interest of the patient? I have been in the dental field for over 5 years. I believe I am more educated than most normal consumers coming into a dental office for a "check-up".  When making a check-up appointment with my dental office, I am putting my health and the care of my dental needs in your hands. When I am getting restorative work done, I am making that appointment with a licensed doctor. When I am getting my teeth cleaned, I am making that appointment with a licensed hygienist that has taken the approapriate courses to being fully educated and knowledgeable about my teeth. Aren't we misrepresenting ourselves if an assistant is cleaning teeth in our dental offices. Have they taken years out of their lives to be educated on the hygiene of teeth. I think not. As dental professionals, we should be setting the bar very high for excellence in dental care.  This regulatory action is NOT IN THE BEST INTEREST OF OUR PATIENTS. Thank you.