21 NCAC 16G .0101. FUNCTIONS WHICH MAY BE DELEGATED

A dental hygienist may be delegated appropriate functions to be performed under the direct control and supervision of a dentist who shall be personally and professionally responsible and liable for any and all consequences or results arising from performance of such acts and functions.  In addition to the functions set out in G.S. 90-221(a) and 21 NCAC 16H .0201, functions which may be delegated to a dental hygienist include:

(1)           Taking impressions for study models and opposing casts which will not be used for construction of permanent dental appliances, but which may be used for the fabrication of adjustable orthodontic appliances, nightguards and the repair of dentures or partials;

(2)           Applying sealants to teeth that do not require mechanical alteration prior to the application of such sealants, provided that a dentist has examined the patient and prescribed the procedure;

(3)           Inserting matrix bands and wedges;

(4)           Placing cavity bases and liners;

(5)           Placing and/or removing rubber dams;

(6)           Cementing temporary restorations using temporary cement;

(7)           Applying acid etch materials/rinses;

(8)           Applying bonding agents;

(9)           Removing periodontal dressings;

(10)         Removing sutures;

(11)         Placing gingival retraction cord;

(12)         Removing excess cement;

(13)         Flushing, drying and temporarily closing root canals;

(14)         Placing and removing temporary restorations;

(15)         Placing and tying in or untying and removing orthodontic arch wires;

(16)         Inserting interdental spacers;

(17)         Fitting (sizing) orthodontic bands or brackets;

(18)         Applying dentin desensitizing solutions;

(19)         Performing periodontal screening;

(20)         Performing periodontal probing;

(21)         Performing subgingival exploration for or removal of hard or soft deposits;

(22)         Performing sulcular irrigation;

(23)         Applying sulcular antimicrobial or antibiotic agents which are resorbable;

(24)         Performing extra-oral adjustments which affect function, fit, or occlusion of any temporary restoration or appliance; and

(25)         Initially forming and sizing orthodontic arch wires and place arch wires after final adjustment and approval by the dentist.

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 90‑221; 90‑223(b);

Eff. September 3, 1976;

Readopted Eff. September 26, 1977;

Amended Eff. August 1, 2008; August 1, 2000; May 1, 1989; October 1, 1985; March 1, 1985.