The California legislature has passed Senate Bill 1453 to expand licensure pathways for dental assistants and update the scope of practice for dental assistants.
Here are eight changes the bill makes to the dental industry in the state, according to a Sept. 19 news release from the California Dental Association:
- The bill shortens the timeline for dental assistants going through on-the-job training to 800 supervised hours to match the current standard for registered dental assistant educational programs. The existing 15-month on-the-job program will continue.
- Individuals who hold a certified dental assistant certificate from the Dental Assisting National Board and move to California can now apply for dental assistant licensure without starting from the beginning of training.
- Duties dental assistants can perform are expanded under the bill. Unlicensed assistants will be allowed to perform coronal polishing under direct supervision after completing a course. Licensed assistants will be able to attach buttons as well as add and remove orthodontic bands under direct supervision.
- Pediatric dentists will be eligible for both pediatric and adult minimal sedation permits. The change fixes a technicality in a 2022 law that unintentionally prevented pediatric dentists from getting an adult permit to treat patients over the age of 13.
- The California Dental Association will develop specified mental health courses that qualify as core continuing education courses for dentists, addressing well-being and burnout.
- Out-of-state dentists who use their dental license to practice non-clinically will be able to receive a California license through licensure by credential.
- Individuals applying for the Orthodontic Assistant Permit will no longer require work experience to begin an OAP course or take the OAP exam. Permit holders will also have expanded capabilities under direct supervision.
- The bill is awaiting the signature of Gov. Gavin Newsome and the provisions will go into effect Jan. 1, 2025.