What must dental assistants do to legally expose or develop radiographs?

In Florida, dental assistants are required to be certified by the board to legally expose or develop radiographs. This certification ensures that the dental assistant has met the necessary educational and competency standards set by the state.

Obtaining certification involves completing an accredited course in radiography and passing an examination that tests the assistant’s knowledge and skills related to the safe and effective use of radiographic equipment. This requirement is put in place to protect patient safety and maintain the quality of dental care, as improperly taken radiographs can lead to misdiagnosis or exposure to unnecessary radiation.

While licensing, education requirements, and experience are important aspects of a dental assistant's qualifications, the specific requirement to expose or develop radiographs hinges on certification from the board. This ensures that only those who have demonstrated their knowledge and competence are allowed to perform such critical tasks in a dental setting.