I am totally opposed to allowing expanded function dental assistants to perform either supra or subgingival scaling.   Class I patients desire the same quality of care as those with severe problems.  If assistants are allowed to scale with minimal training the quality of care for our patients will suffer greatly.  There is a reason hygienists must take national boards and pass state examinations after completing a 2 - 4 year program .  We don't just "clean teeth"--we provide many services to our patients and they deserve this continued quality care.  Scaling can't be taught in a few easy sessions.  Hygienists have a more thorough background to work with patients on many aspects of their health.

Also, the statute that has passed requires any expanded function duties to be irreversible.  Improper scaling can damage the gingiva tissues and is not an irreversible procedure.  Please consider the quality of care provided our patients when regulating any aspects of the expanded functions that will be allowed.  Scaling should NOT be allowed by the assistants and decreased quality of care will not improve access to more patients and can do more harm than good.  Virginians do not deserve this kind of care or incomplete procedures that they would be receiving.

Diane Greenwood, RDH