As a second year dental hygiene student at DCC/Virginia Western I am very concerned!  The overall concern is the CARE of the patient.  I strongly urge anyone taking this into consideration to also take a look at the level of training that occurs before we can begin these skills.  If the DA II is allowed to remove supragingival deposits, what standard of care is that?  Will the patient walk away thinking that they have just had their teeth cleaned?  How will it effect the patients financial and emotional state when they realize that not only do they need to return to have the rest of the deposits removed, but now their oral conditions have become worse due to what was left.  I know that I have yet to meet anyone that would be alright with that!

I read many comments from dentist that want this passed due to a shortage of hygienists.  But yet I am faced with applying for licenses in two states due to lack of available employment.  If this passes I feel that there will be many more hygienist out looking for a job as well as many patients out looking for a dentist that has a hygienist on staff!  Will I be forced to relocate?

I STRONGLY OPPOSE DA II !!!!