(a) The following term, when used in this section,
shall have the following meaning, unless the context clearly indicates
otherwise: "Coronal polishing" means the removal of plaque and extrinsic
stain from exposed natural and restored tooth surfaces using an appropriate
rotary instrument with rubber cup or brush and polishing agent. This
includes the use of a toothbrush.
(b) A Texas-licensed dentist may delegate coronal polishing
to a dental assistant if the dental assistant:
(1) works under the direct supervision of the licensed
dentist; and
(2) is certified pursuant to subsection (d) of this
section.
(c) The delegated duty of polishing by a dental assistant
may not be billed as a prophylaxis.
(d) A dental assistant seeking certification under
this section must:
(1) pay an application fee set by board rule; and
(2) on a form prescribed by the Board, provide proof
that the applicant has:
(A) at least two years experience as a dental assistant;
and either
(B) completed a minimum of eight (8) hours of clinical
and didactic education in coronal polishing taken through a dental
school, dental hygiene school, or dental assisting program accredited
by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association
and approved by the Board. The education must include courses on:
(i) oral anatomy and tooth morphology relating to retention
of plaque and stain;
(ii) indications, contraindications, and complications
of coronal polishing;
(iii) principles of coronal polishing, including armamentarium,
operator and patient positioning, technique, and polishing agents;
(iv) infection control procedures;
(v) polishing coronal surfaces of teeth; and
(vi) jurisprudence relating to coronal polishing; or
(C) present proof to the Board that the assistant has
either:
(i) graduated from a dental assisting program accredited
by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association
and approved by the board that includes specific didactic course work
and clinical training in coronal polishing; or
(ii) received certification of completion of requirements
specified by the Dental Assisting National Board and approved by the
Board.
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