For which activity is general supervision required in dental hygiene practices?

General supervision in dental hygiene practices allows a dental hygienist to perform certain procedures without the dentist being physically present but requires that the dentist has authorized the procedures beforehand. Conducting patient assessments falls under this category because it is a fundamental aspect of dental hygiene that assesses the patient’s oral health status and is often performed during routine visits.

The ability to conduct assessments independently supports the hygienist's role in preventive care and education, which is essential in promoting oral health. This linkage emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the hygienist and the dentist, ensuring that patient care maintains a standard of safety and quality.

In contrast, activities such as performing teeth whitening procedures, placing permanent restorations, and surgical extractions typically fall under direct supervision, whereby the dentist must be present in the office to oversee these procedures. This requirement ensures that more complex and invasive treatments are conducted under the careful guidance of a licensed dentist, reflecting the higher level of skill and risk associated with those activities.