What Can Unlicensed Dental Assistants Do in Tennessee?

Our office frequently receives questions about the duties unlicensed dental assistants can perform in Tennessee. Dental assistants must follow the scope of practice outlined in Tennessee’s Rules for Dental Assistants. They must also stay updated on these rules and maintain current licenses and certifications. Renewals can be completed at www.tennesseeanytime.org

The below information is a guideline adapted from RULES GOVERNING THE PRACTICE OF DENTAL ASSISTANTS as set forth by the Tennessee Board of Dentistry.  Please visit the website at http://www.state.tn.us/sos/rules/0460/0460-04.20120319.pdf

Practical Assistant

The practical dental assistant receives chairside training from a licensed dentist or studies in an accredited dental assisting program.

Scope of Duties: The practical dental assistant must work under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist and cannot perform procedures reserved for RDAs or RDHs.

Coronal Polishing

An RDA with coronal polishing certification can polish enamel and restorations on clinical crowns. They use approved tools and techniques, such as a polishing agent, slow-speed handpiece, prophy angle, rubber cup, or home care cleaning devices.

Nitrous Oxide

An RDA must maintain nitrous oxide certification to monitor patients under the direct supervision of a licensed Tennessee dentist. Additionally, the RDA may only monitor one patient at a time and must remain with the patient at all times. However, they cannot administer nitrous oxide; instead, they may adjust or terminate the dosage only at the dentist’s specific direction or in cases of patient distress.

Sealant Application Certification

An RDA with sealant certification can apply sealants only under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. The dentist must examine the patient before and after the procedure to assess the need and evaluate the results.

Dental Radiology Certification

An RDA with radiology certification is authorized to take dental radiographs, but only under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.

Restorative and Prosthetic Certifications (EFDA)

An RDA with restorative or prosthetic functions certification can perform expanded restorative or prosthetic tasks under the direct supervision and full responsibility of a licensed dentist.

Prohibited Procedures

Please note the prohibited procedures: 

Restorative: RDAs cannot diagnose the need for restorations, cut or prepare teeth or soft tissue, modify existing structures, remove caries, bases, or liners, or use high-speed handpieces intraorally.

Prosthetic: RDAs cannot diagnose the need for prosthetic appliances, establish vertical dimensions or interocclusal records, deliver or adjust appliances, or use high-speed handpieces intraorally.

Conclusion and Next Steps

If you have any questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to contact Modern Practice Solutions. We’re here to support you and ensure your practice remains compliant. Reach out to us today for expert guidance!