What is required for direct supervision in a dental practice?

The requirement for direct supervision in a dental practice is correctly identified as when a licensed dentist must examine the patient, authorize the procedure, and approve the work before the patient leaves. This level of supervision is crucial to ensure patient safety and the quality of care provided during dental procedures.

Under direct supervision, the dentist ensures that they are actively involved in the patient's treatment process by conducting a thorough examination prior to delegating any specific procedures to dental hygienists or assistants. Additionally, this arrangement mandates that the dentist evaluates the outcome of the procedure, reaffirming accountability for patient care and adherence to established standards of practice.

This structure safeguards patients, as it establishes a firm line of responsibility in the healthcare framework, ensuring that only qualified individuals are involved in patient care and that their work is vetted by a licensed professional. The other options do not fulfill these critical requirements, as they permit a level of autonomy that could lead to diminished oversight and, therefore, a potential risk to patient safety and treatment efficacy.