Can a dental assistant fabricate and place interim restorations with temporary cement?

A dental assistant can indeed fabricate and place interim restorations with temporary cement under direct supervision. This means that a licensed dentist must be present and overseeing the procedure when it is being performed. In the context of dental practice, direct supervision ensures that the dentist is actively involved in the treatment process, making it a crucial requirement for certain tasks that may require a higher level of clinical judgment.

The rationale behind this requirement is to ensure patient safety and the quality of care. Interim restorations, although temporary, are important in maintaining oral function and comfort while waiting for more permanent solutions. Being under direct supervision allows the dentist to monitor the procedure, provide guidance to the assistant, and intervene if necessary.

This supervision requirement would not apply under general supervision, where the dentist does not need to be present in the office, nor would it permit unsupervised tasks. Such regulations are designed to protect both the patients and the integrity of dental practices, ensuring that dental assistants operate within the scope of their training and state laws, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in delivering effective dental care.