SB0589 Summary

• Adds definition of "expanded function dental assistant" as a dental assistant who completes specified training requirements in Section 17.1

• Allows expanded function dental assistants to perform five categories of services: taking final impressions, performing pulp vitality tests, placing and finishing restorations, monitoring nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia, and performing coronal polishing and pit and fissure sealants

• Requires expanded function dental assistant certification from approved continuing education sponsors, ADA-accredited dental assistant programs, or Department-approved programs, including Basic Life Support certification

• Permits supervising dentists to authorize and examine expanded function dental assistant procedures prior to patient dismissal, with the dentist remaining responsible for all services performed

• Does not mandate dental assistant certification as expanded function and does not alter existing supervision ratios for dental assistants under Section 17