32 M.R.S. §18373: Expanded function dental assistant

1. Scope of practice. An expanded function dental assistant may perform under the general supervision of a dentist all of the activities that may be delegated by a dentist to an unlicensed person pursuant to section 18371, subsection 3. An expanded function dental assistant may also perform the following activities authorized under the general supervision of a dentist:

A. Apply cavity liners and bases as long as the dentist:

(1) Has ordered the cavity liner or base; and

(2) Has checked the cavity liner or base prior to the placement of the restoration;

B. Apply pit and fissure sealants after an evaluation of the teeth by the dentist at the time of sealant placement;

C. Apply supragingival desensitizing agents to an exposed root surface or dentinal surface of teeth;

D. Apply topical fluorides recognized for the prevention of dental caries;

E.

F.

G. Place and contour amalgam, composite and other restorative materials prior to the final setting or curing of the material;

H.

I. Place and remove gingival retraction cord;

J.

K. Size, place and cement or bond orthodontic bands and brackets with final inspection by the dentist;

L. Supragingival polishing using a slow-speed rotary instrument and rubber cup;

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Y.

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HH. Contour or finish restorative materials using a high-speed, power-driven handpiece or instrument; and

II. Expose and process radiographs.

2. Scope of practice; general supervision.

3. Procedures not authorized. An expanded function dental assistant may not engage in the following activities:

A. Complete or limited examination, diagnosis or treatment planning;

B. Surgical or cutting procedures of hard or soft tissue;

C. Prescribing drugs, medicaments or work authorizations;

D. Pulp capping, pulpotomy or other endodontic procedures;

E. Placement and intraoral adjustments of fixed or removable prosthetic appliances; or

F. Administration of local anesthesia, parenteral or inhalation sedation or general anesthesia.