Who must have prescribed temporary dental appliances for dental hygienists to perform adjustments?

Dental hygienists are allowed to perform adjustments on temporary dental appliances, but such actions must be governed by specific protocols to ensure patient safety and legal compliance. In Florida, the law stipulates that these procedures be carried out only under the prescription of a licensed dentist. This is crucial because the dentist has the knowledge and authority to diagnose the patient's condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment, including the specifics of any appliances.

The dentist’s prescription serves as a formal directive that not only ensures the dental hygienist is operating within their scope of practice, but also protects the patient by ensuring that any adjustments made are necessary and appropriate for their particular needs. This preserves the integrity of the treatment plan and ensures that the dental hygienist's actions align with the dental standard of care.

Therefore, the requirement for a dentist’s prescription is a key aspect of regulatory compliance and professional practice standards in dental hygiene, underlining the importance of collaboration and communication within the dental healthcare team.