What procedures are dental assistants not allowed to perform?

Dental assistants are not permitted to perform any procedures that require a dentist's license because these tasks involve diagnosis and treatment planning, which fall under the scope of practice for licensed dentists. This includes procedures that directly impact patients’ oral health, such as performing dental restorations, extractions, or any other service that constitutes the practice of dentistry.

It is important for dental assistants to understand the limitations of their role to ensure compliance with regulatory and legal standards in the practice of dentistry. By adhering to these regulations, dental assistants ensure patient safety and the quality of care provided in a dental setting.

While dental cleanings and x-rays may be performed by dental assistants under certain conditions or additional certification, they still require supervision by a licensed dentist. Administrative duties, while part of a dental assistant's role, do not encompass any clinical procedures. Emergency procedures also may be outside their scope unless specifically trained and authorized to handle them in certain situations. Thus, the delineation of responsibilities ensures that tasks performed by dental staff are aligned with their training and licensure.