What does direct supervision in Article 7 entail?

Direct supervision, as defined in Article 7, requires that the supervising dentist be physically present in the office while procedures are being performed by the dental hygienist or assistant. This level of supervision is intended to ensure that the dentist can provide immediate oversight and intervention if necessary, thus ensuring patient safety and the quality of care. The presence of the dentist allows for real-time communication and guidance during the procedures, which can be critical in addressing any issues that may arise.

In direct supervision, the dentist must actively oversee the dental procedures, making this option unique compared to other types of supervision, such as general supervision where the dentist’s presence in the office is not mandatory. This distinction reinforces the importance of having the supervising dentist on-site to ensure compliance with safety standards and to enhance the learning experience for dental personnel.