Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer signed Senate Bill 283 into law on August 6, expanding what dental hygienists in the state can legally do. The bill passed both chambers of the general assembly unanimously.
Under the new law, hygienists can apply sealants and perform routine cleanings without a prior dentist exam, provided a dentist sees the patient within 12 months. The law also allows hygienists to administer and dispense fluoride and other topical agents under a dentist's standing order, engage in dental hygiene assessment and treatment planning, and directly supervise dental assistants, according to a news release from the governor's office.
"Our health care system works best ... when every licensed professional can practice to the full extent of their education, training and expertise," said state Sen. Marie Pinkney, the bill's prime sponsor.
Delaware joins a growing number of states expanding hygienists' scope of practice to address provider shortages and improve access to preventive oral care.
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