What level of supervision is necessary for polishing restorations not intended to change existing contours?

Polishing restorations that are not intended to change existing contours falls under the scope of practices allowed under general supervision in Florida. General supervision means that the dentist must be physically available for consultation but does not need to be in the treatment facility during the procedure. This level of supervision permits dental hygienists to perform specific tasks, such as polishing restorations, without direct oversight, enhancing efficiency and allowing for a wider scope of practice.

Considerations for general supervision include that the procedures need to be part of an overall treatment plan established by the dentist. As long as the dental hygienist has received the appropriate training and is performing within the established scope of practice, they can provide this service without needing the dentist to be present for every step.

This contrasts with the need for direct supervision, where the dentist must be present in the treatment room while procedures are being performed, thus not applicable in this context. Indirect supervision involves the dentist being available for consultation but does not require being physically present, which does not fully align with the regulations governing such polishing tasks. Lastly, no supervision would imply complete autonomy, which is not permissible for procedures that fall under dental hygiene practice guidelines.