As a Dental  Hygienist I oppose the concept of scaling for expanded functions of a Dental Assistant. I have seen too many "scalings" by Navy Dental technicians (assistants) who thought they had the expertise. The tissue resembles hamburger, significant calculus deposits remain, the patient is not benefitted. Additionally, patients become confused as to what treatment has been given and by whom. All this "treatment" does is dilute the quality of the care given.

Knowledge of anatomy, clincial training and strategic instrumentation take more than a few weeks or on the job training.  

Perhaps initially dental practices may gain by having lower salary costs, but ultimately the cost will be greater with the loss of significant patient care. Patients will eventually realize they have been compromised (paying for a procedure expected to be by by a licensed & trained professional that did not occur).

Access to care is important & must be addressed, but diluting the professional care is not the answer.

Find a better solution.

v/r

M.P. Prucha, RDH, MSA