CA SB653

Authorizes registered dental hygienists to provide fluoride varnish to patients without supervision.

Expands scope of practice for registered dental hygienists to provide dental hygiene preventive services and oral screenings at sponsored events and nonprofit organizations without supervision.

Allows registered dental hygienists in alternative practice to practice in clinics and professional corporations without being employees, and to perform duties in dental offices, residences of the homebound, residential facilities, and dental health professional shortage areas.

Permits registered dental hygienists in alternative practice to perform soft-tissue curettage and administer local anesthesia with documented consultation with a collaborating dentist in specified settings, provided emergency equipment and a trained individual are immediately available.

Removes general supervision requirement for interim therapeutic tooth restorations and instead requires that a dentist provide diagnosis, treatment plan, and instruction prior to the procedure.