The American Dental Hygienists' Association Board of Directors recently approved two interim policies focused on anesthesia administration and dental hygiene licensure.
The first interim policy states that the administration of local anesthesia should be performed exclusively by licensed dental practitioners who have completed advanced education at an accredited institution and have direct access to the public.
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association affirmed in another policy that people seeking to practice dental hygiene in the U.S. must complete a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. They must also meet all clinical training, examination and practice requirements.
The policies will be considered for adoption by ADHA delegates in June 2025, according to a Feb. 6 news release.