Which task requires training but can be performed under indirect supervision?

The correct answer indicates that all the mentioned tasks—polishing restorations, taking impressions, and applying topical fluoride—are activities that require specific training but can be performed under indirect supervision by dental hygienists.

In Florida, dental hygienists are permitted to engage in certain procedures under indirect supervision, meaning that a licensed dentist is not required to be physically present during these tasks but must be available to provide supervision as needed. This allows dental hygienists to work more efficiently while still ensuring patient care is overseen by a dentist.

For each of these tasks, dental hygienists must receive appropriate training to ensure they perform them safely and effectively. Polishing restorations involves understanding the materials and techniques to avoid damaging the restoration or the tooth. Taking impressions requires skill to ensure accurate models are captured, which are essential for effective treatment planning and restoration fitting. Applying topical fluoride is a preventative treatment that requires knowledge of dosages and methods to ensure patient safety and effectiveness.

Together, these tasks reflect the expanded role of dental hygienists in providing care to patients while upholding the standards and regulations set forth by Florida's dental hygiene laws. Since all of these tasks share the same requirements regarding training and supervision, it is appropriate to include them collectively under one answer.