Who is responsible for deciding the legal duties of the dental auxiliary?

The responsibility for deciding the legal duties of the dental auxiliary lies with the State Dental Board. This board is established by state law and is tasked with regulating the practice of dentistry within that state. It defines the scope of practice for dental auxiliaries, which includes dental hygienists, dental assistants, and other support staff. The State Dental Board ensures that auxiliaries are properly trained and licensed to perform specific tasks and responsibilities in accordance with state regulations.

While the American Dental Association and other organizations may provide guidelines and advocate for the profession, it is the State Dental Board that has the legal authority to determine and enforce these requirements. The Department of Health may oversee broader health-related issues but does not specifically regulate dental practice at the level of the State Dental Board. Dental Practice Management generally refers to the administrative aspects of running a dental practice and is not involved in establishing legal duties for dental auxiliaries. This underscores the critical role that the State Dental Board plays in maintaining standards and ensuring compliance within the dental profession.