Brief Description: Allowing nondentists to perform certain procedures under the close supervision of a dentist.

Sponsors: Representatives Benson, Cody and Ahern.

Hearing Date: 2/25/03

Staff: Chris Blake (786-7392).

Background:

The Dental Quality Assurance Commission regulates the practice of dentistry in Washington. The practice of dentistry includes representing oneself as able to perform dental services, offering to perform dental services, operating an office for the practice of dentistry, or engaging in any practice that is included in dental school curricula. Unlicensed practice of dentistry is subject to penalties under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.

There are several exceptions to definition of the practice dentistry that allow people who are not licensed dentists in Washington to engage in certain dental activities. One of these exceptions allows non-licensed persons to perform dental services under the supervision of a licensed dentist with the following exceptions: (1) removing or adding tissues of the oral cavity; (2) diagnosing or treating oral diseases or conditions; (3) administering certain anesthetics; (4) applying oral prophylaxes; or (5) taking impressions of the teeth or jaw to make a restoration, appliance, or prosthesis.

Summary of Bill:

People who are not licensed as dentists, but meet minimum training standards and work under the supervision of a dentist, may place restorations; carve, contour, and adjust contacts and occlusion of restorations; and take impressions of the teeth or jaws to make a restoration, appliance, or prosthesis. The Dental Quality Assurance Commission must adopt rules establishing minimum training standards for these non-licensed people.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 21, 2003.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.