What is NOT a permitted procedure for Dental Hygienists according to regulations?

Cementing permanent restorations is not a permitted procedure for dental hygienists according to the regulations because this task is typically considered outside the scope of practice for dental hygienists. In many states, including North Carolina, certain procedures, especially those involving the permanent modification or attachment of restorative materials to the tooth structure, are reserved for licensed dentists.

Dental hygienists are skilled in a variety of clinical tasks that support oral health, but their scope does not encompass those procedures that significantly alter or restore teeth permanently. This helps ensure that complex decisions regarding patient treatment and restorative procedures remain with the dentist, who has a comprehensive understanding of the patient's overall oral health and treatment needs.

On the other hand, applying sealants that do not require mechanical alteration, taking impressions for study models, and applying antimicrobial solutions are activities that fall within the scope of practice for dental hygienists. These tasks are often more preventive in nature and can be managed by a licensed hygienist without the need for direct supervision from a dentist during the procedures, aligning with their training and regulatory framework.