Dear Board,

Please consider allowing Expanded duty dental assistants to be able to scale and prophy patients under direct dental supervision in the office.  This is a simple and uncomplicated procedure that is of such a nature that the skills of a hygienist are not required to complete it properly.  The hygienist can be used better in more difficult situations of care.   This increases the level of care and lowers the cost to the patients.  And it elevates the status of the hygienist.  A win-win for all.

Kevin A. Ryan, DDS