Can a dental hygienist administer local anesthesia in North Carolina?

A dental hygienist in North Carolina can administer local anesthesia, but specific criteria must be met, which is why the statement that mentions completion of a recognized course and meeting licensing requirements is accurate.

In North Carolina, the Board of Dental Examiners has established guidelines that allow dental hygienists to administer local anesthesia as part of their practice, provided they have undergone additional training through a Board-approved course. This requirement ensures that they are adequately prepared to perform the procedure safely and effectively.

Furthermore, even after completing the necessary training, dental hygienists must adhere to the state’s regulations and licensing requirements, ensuring that their practice meets the standards set forth by the dental board. This regulatory framework supports patient safety and promotes a high level of professional competency among dental hygienists.

The other options either misinterpret or oversimplify the regulatory guidelines governing the practice of dental hygiene in relation to anesthesia.