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A member asked:
Might a dental hygienist drill your teeth or give you fillings?
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
States vary: The procedures allowed for different auxiliary personnel varies from state to state. I am not aware of any state that allows hygienists to actually cut teeth with a dental drill, but I do know that some states allow specially trained dental personnel to place the restorations, under the dentist's supervision. The hygienist can polish your teeth with a rubber wheel and abrasive paste.
Answered 8/18/2013
4.9k views
No: Some states have developed new mid level providers who can remove cavities and place fillings. These pilot programs have usually attracted former dental hygienists into their program. As a general rule hygienists can't drill a tooth or place a filling without additional certifcation and working in a state that permits this type of care.
Answered 8/21/2013
4.9k views
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