What level of supervision is required for most dental hygiene procedures?

In Nevada, most dental hygiene procedures require general supervision. Under general supervision, a dentist is not required to be physically present in the facility when the dental hygienist provides care. Instead, the hygienist can work independently as long as the procedures have been authorized by a dentist. This allows dental hygienists the flexibility to perform their duties while still being accountable to a licensed dentist who oversees treatment protocols and patient care standards.

This level of supervision reflects the increasing recognition of dental hygienists' expertise and their ability to deliver preventive and therapeutic care as part of the dental team. Broadly, general supervision enables hygienists to contribute effectively to patient care in various settings, including private practice, public health, and education.

The other supervision types, such as direct supervision, would require the dentist to be present in the office while the hygienist performs procedures, thus limiting the hygienist's scope of practice. Minimal supervision and independent practice are not typically recognized as appropriate for the broad array of services dental hygienists perform in Nevada.