Each state is different and abides by different codes that benefit the state the best. Many considerations to take in count and it important each state researches to provide the best codes. “This code is enacted as a part of the state’s continuing statutory revision program, begun by the Texas Legislative Council in 1963 as directed by the legislature in the law codified as Section 323. 007. Government Code. The program contemplates a topicby-topic revision of the state’s general and permanent statute law without substantive change.
These codes a consistent with the objectives of the statutory revision program, the purpose of this code is to make it more accessible and understandable by rearranging the statutes into a more logical order that benefits the state. Also, implementing a “format and numbering system designed to facilitate citation of the law and to accommodate future expansion of the law” Eliminating codes that aren’t successful, duplicative, unconstitutional, expired, executed, and other ineffective provisions. While, reiterating the law in modern American English to the greatest extent possible has to become the best solution.
These are all general provisions when conducting the codes. There is Sec. 267. 006 in Texas to abide by and implement in every day practice. “Dental hygienist” means a person who practices dental hygiene under a license issued by the board under Chapter 256. ” A dental hygienist is a person that performs the following: removes accumulated matter, tartar, deposits, tobacco stains, from the natural and restored surface of exposed human teeth such as the roots and crowns, and restorations in the oral cavity. Extended performances include: smoothing of roughened root surfaces and surfaces in general.
Polishing exposed the entire dentition, around restorations that are present, or roughened root surfaces. Also, applying topical drugs such as Benzocaine to the surface tissues of the oral mucosa in conjunction to the dentist administering anesthesia. Or the exposed surface of human teeth to allow relief of sensitivity or pain. Takes and develops dental x-rays when prescribed or needed for the patient. Performs any other service, task, or procedure prescribed by board rule supervised by the dentist.
“A person legally practicing dental hygiene does not violate state law regulating the practice of dentistry. In addition Dental Practice Act and Board Rules and dentist provide codes and rules within their limits and offices to abide by, a Texas-licensed dental hygienist may perform the following services and procedures in the dental office of their supervising Texas-licensed dentist or dentists who are legally engaged in the practice of dentistry in this state or under the supervision of a supervising dentist. Nitrous oxide is monitored by a hygienist not started or stopped. They just monitor the patient, while under the influence and ask for help when levels need to be changed per the patient.
Lasers are new and are being used daily now. Some articles stated the following: ” Prior to using a laser for nondiagnostic purposes, dental hygienists must complete no less than twelve hours of in-person continuing education in laser utilization specific to the procedures to be performed by the dental hygienist using the laser. ” Three of the twelve required hours must include clinical simulation laser training similar to the procedures to be performed by the dental hygienist. The continuing education must be provided by an educational course provider recognized by the Board.
Dental hygienists must maintain documentation of the satisfactory completion of the required continuing education courses such as lasers. “Lasers used by dental hygienists must be in accordance with the minimum standard of care and limited to the dental hygienist’s scope of practice. A dentist who supervises a dental hygienist in the use of lasers must have laser education and training sufficient to adequately supervise the dental hygienist, including but not limited to meeting the continuing education requirements required of dental hygienists” These are extensions of what a hygienist can do.
Not every hygienist will want to use a laser or may not have the need in the office setting they work in. Continuing education is expensive and time consuming so it best to work in your dimensions. A dental hygienist may give oral hygiene instructions and go over with the patient without the direct supervision /general supervision of a licensed dentist in a public or private institution. Hospital or extended care facility or under a board of health or in a public clinic you may also do the same. It is when it comes to diagnosing and starting treatment you need to consent from the dentist you are working with.
All dentist are different, but it would be in your best interest to get the approval of your dentist to proceed. There may be something you did not catch on the medical history, x-rays or clinically, so the dentist is the one to give permission to proceed because it is his office and license on the line as well as yours. Continuing education for a Texas Dental Hygienists requirements to maintain state licensure include the following: Texas dental hygienists are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education every 1 year.
Dentist will normally pay for these courses and will take the team to a convention to knock them all out. If that is not the case it is their own responsibility to maintain these hours on their own. Only 6 of the 12 required hours may be completed as home study the others need to be completed in a class somewhere. Studies have shown classroom learning helps with picking up the course quicker. Some classes include: Dental Hygienist Bundle: 10 Hours, On Sale! Endodontic Bundle: 12 hours ,Fundamentals Bundle: 10 Hours, Oral Surgery Bundle #1: 12 Hours.
These are all straight off the State Board of Dentistry website. If you do no fulfill these hours your name could be appear on this website along with your revoking your license. It will go away once you renew your continued education hours. Continuing education is great way to stay up to date with the newest procedures as well as learning new things. Continuing Education. com features original, unbiased, and accredited courses on a broad range of topics designed to help advance your healthcare career.
Backed by more than 30 years of experience, our content is the trusted source of continuing education for millions of professionals every year. Its top priority is to help you grow, develop, and never stop learning the newest and next big things. Overall, dental hygienist should maintain 12 continued education hours, work under a supervised dentist, and abide by the codes of the state you’re working in. Keeping up to date is important and crucial to the patients and your future career.
