Regional Fact Sheet for Hygiene and Assistant Qualifications, Requirements, and Employment Law

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on state qualifications and requirements for dental professionals in the United States. This resource is designed to help you navigate the complex landscape of state-specific regulations, employment laws, and professional standards in the dental industry.

Disclaimer

Please note: While TempStars strives to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information to our members, the content in this guide is for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal or accounting advice. TempStars accepts no responsibility for the timeliness or accuracy of this information. We strongly recommend consulting with your accountant and legal advisor about your individual circumstances to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Overview of Resources

In this guide, we've compiled a wealth of information and links to help you understand:

1. State-specific qualifications and requirements for dental professionals
2. Relevant employment and labor laws for the states where TempStars operates
3. Scope of practice for dental hygienists and dental assistants
4. Licensing and certification requirements

For Dental Hygienists

American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA) Resources

The ADHA provides comprehensive information about dental hygiene practice across the United States. Key resources include:

1. Dental Hygiene Practice Act Overview by State: This summary outlines allowable duties and licensure requirements (both initial and by credentials) for each state.
2. Permitted Functions and Supervision Levels by State: This resource details the specific tasks dental hygienists can perform in each state and the required level of supervision.
3. Scope of Practice: Dental hygienists work in various settings and under different levels of supervision. Each state determines:
   • Services dental hygienists can perform
   • Settings in which they can practice
   • Supervision requirements
4. State Licensure Credentials - Endorsement Chart: This chart provides a state-by-state breakdown of licensure by credentials/endorsement requirements.

For Dental Assistants

Understanding Certification

It's crucial to understand that dental assisting regulations vary significantly by state:

• Some states do not regulate dental assisting at all
• There's an important distinction between certified and non-certified dental assistants
• Certification requirements and allowed duties can differ widely between states

Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Resources

DANB provides detailed fact sheets for each state where TempStars operates. These fact sheets include:

1. Recognized Job Titles: Official titles used for dental assistants in each state
2. Education, Exam, and Training Requirements: Specific qualifications needed to work as a dental assistant
3. Allowable Functions: Tasks that dental assistants are legally permitted to perform
4. Required Supervision Levels: The type and degree of supervision required for various tasks

DANB and American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) Core Competencies

The ADAA/DANB Alliance developed a list of 70 dental assisting tasks representing a broad range of core competencies. This list, created between 2002 and 2005, serves as a benchmark for dental assisting skills across the country.

Key resources include:

• Dental Assisting Functions Chart: Outlines specific tasks and their corresponding numbers for easy state-to-state comparison
• Levels of Supervision Chart: Details the required supervision for various dental assisting tasks
• DANB State Career Ladder Outline: Provides information on career progression for dental assistants in each state

How to Use This Guide

1. Start with Your State: Focus on the information specific to the state(s) where you plan to work.
2. Understand Your Role: Whether you're a dental hygienist or assistant, review the sections relevant to your profession.
3. Check Regularly: State requirements can change. Make it a habit to review this information periodically.
4. Seek Clarification: If you're unsure about any requirements, reach out to your state dental board or professional association for clarification.

Stay Informed and Compliant

As a dental professional, staying informed about your state's requirements is crucial for your career and legal compliance. Use this guide as a starting point, but always verify information with official state sources and seek professional advice when needed.

TempStars is committed to supporting your professional journey by providing access to these valuable resources. If you have any questions about using this information in conjunction with our platform, please don't hesitate to contact our support team.

State Requirements 

State Employment/Labor Law