Is it permissible for dental hygienists to perform teeth whitening services independently?

Is it permissible for dental hygienists to perform teeth whitening services independently?

• A. Yes, they can perform it independently
• B. No, it must be under the supervision of a licensed dentist
• C. Yes, but only on select patients
• D. No, but they can assist a dentist with the procedure

Answer: (B)

In North Carolina, what a dental hygienist can do is defined by the dental hygiene scope of practice, which requires supervision by a licensed dentist for procedures beyond routine preventive care. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that falls under the dentist’s clinical responsibilities, including patient evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and management of any risks or contraindications. Because of that, it cannot be performed independently by a hygienist. The hygienist may assist or participate in the procedure under the dentist’s supervision, but not solo.

In North Carolina, what a dental hygienist can do is defined by the dental hygiene scope of practice, which requires supervision by a licensed dentist for procedures beyond routine preventive care. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that falls under the dentist’s clinical responsibilities, including patient evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and management of any risks or contraindications. Because of that, it cannot be performed independently by a hygienist. The hygienist may assist or participate in the procedure under the dentist’s supervision, but not solo.