Are dentists allowed to delegate duties to dental hygienists in Nevada?

In Nevada, dentists are allowed to delegate certain tasks to dental hygienists, but this delegation is regulated by law. This means that there are specific tasks that licensed dental hygienists are permitted to perform under the supervision of a dentist, and these tasks are clearly defined in state regulations. Hygienists can carry out functions such as teeth cleaning, taking radiographs, and applying sealants, among others, as long as they are within their scope of practice as defined by the Nevada Dental Practice Act.

This legislative framework ensures that patient safety is maintained while allowing hygienists to maximize their skills and training. It also maintains the integrity of the dentist's supervisory role, ensuring that complex or critical tasks remain the responsibility of the dentist. Therefore, the answer is correct because it reflects the legal structure under which delegations can be made appropriately.

The other options incorrectly suggest a broad range of permissions or restrictions that do not align with the established laws governing dental practice in Nevada. For instance, suggesting that no tasks can be delegated overlooks the collaborative nature of dental care and the extensive training that hygienists receive.