HI SB2280

Allows dental assistants to perform limited auxiliary support duties under general supervision of a licensed dentist in public health settings.

Dental assistants must work under the direction of a licensed dental hygienist, who must be supervised by a licensed dentist.

Permitted duties include taking photographs and charting findings, exposing and processing radiographs, measuring vital signs, assisting with dental procedures, and transferring instruments.

Supervising dentist remains responsible for all delegated acts performed by the dental assistant.

Addresses Hawaii's high rate of childhood tooth decay (one in four third graders) by expanding dental workforce capacity in underserved communities and rural areas.