ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Fifty-sixth Legislature

Second Regular Session

House: RA DP 6-0-0-0

HB 2639: dental assistants; education

Sponsor: Representative Hendrix, LD 14

Caucus & COW

Overview

Provides the option for a dental assistant to pass a course on either exposing radiographs or coronal polishing that qualifies as recognized continuing education as determined by the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners (Board) in order to perform certain duties relating to the exposure of radiographs and polishing of the teeth.

History

The Board regulates and licenses dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, dental consultants, dental therapists, denturists and dental assistants. Additionally, the Board reviews complaints against licensees and business entities, conducts investigations and is authorized to take disciplinary action for violations of state laws relating to these professions (A.R.S. §§ 32-1201 through 32-1299.26).

A dental assistant is any person who acts as an assistant to a dentist, dental therapist or dental hygienist by rendering personal services to a patient in close proximity to the patient while the patient is under treatment, observation or undergoing diagnostic procedures. Dental assistants are allowed to expose radiographs for dental diagnostic purposes and polish the natural and restored surfaces of teeth under either the general supervision of a dentist or the direct supervision of an affiliated practice dental hygienist if the dental assistant has passed an examination approved by the Board (A.R.S. §§ 32-1201, 32-1291).

Provisions

1.   Allows the option for a dental assistant to pass a course on either exposing radiographs or coronal polishing that qualifies as recognized continuing education as determined by the Board in order to perform duties relating to the exposure of radiographs and polishing of teeth. (Sec. 1)

2.   Makes technical changes. (Sec. 1)

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6.                     HB 2639

7.   Initials AG/IG     Page 0 Caucus & COW

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