In 2018, were registered dental hygienists (RDHs) allowed to provide educational services without the supervision of a dentist?

In 2018, were registered dental hygienists (RDHs) allowed to provide educational services without the supervision of a dentist?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on the service
• D. Only under certain conditions

Answer: (A)

In 2018, registered dental hygienists (RDHs) in Iowa were indeed permitted to provide certain educational services without the direct supervision of a dentist. This aligns with the evolving scope of practice for dental hygienists, which has expanded over the years to allow for a greater degree of autonomy in areas such as education and preventive care. Educational services may include conducting presentations, workshops, or discussion groups about oral health and hygiene practices, fostering better public awareness and community health. This ability to offer educational services independently is significant because it recognizes the expertise of dental hygienists in oral health and acknowledges their role in public health education. However, while dental hygienists can operate independently in educational contexts, any clinical procedures or hands-on care typically fall under the supervision of a dentist. Understanding this distinction is crucial for RDHs to navigate their responsibilities and professional scope effectively.

In 2018, registered dental hygienists (RDHs) in Iowa were indeed permitted to provide certain educational services without the direct supervision of a dentist. This aligns with the evolving scope of practice for dental hygienists, which has expanded over the years to allow for a greater degree of autonomy in areas such as education and preventive care. Educational services may include conducting presentations, workshops, or discussion groups about oral health and hygiene practices, fostering better public awareness and community health.

This ability to offer educational services independently is significant because it recognizes the expertise of dental hygienists in oral health and acknowledges their role in public health education. However, while dental hygienists can operate independently in educational contexts, any clinical procedures or hands-on care typically fall under the supervision of a dentist. Understanding this distinction is crucial for RDHs to navigate their responsibilities and professional scope effectively.