Title: Module 1 - Expanded Functions and the Law
Course: DEH 2530 Expanded Duties > Section: Module 1 - Expanded Functions and the Law

Introduction

Each state has a board of dentistry that determines which dental procedures are delegatable to dental auxiliaries. Those procedures that go beyond the routine dental hygiene duties are termed expanded functions (or expanded duties). Variations among the states are the norm and each state board of dentistry dictates the educational and credentialing requirements of the dental auxiliary permitted to perform these advanced skills.

In this module, we will examine Florida Rule 64B5-16 and Statute 466.024 as an example of one state’s practice act and how it defines expanded functions for dentists and auxiliaries in the state. Armed with this knowledge, students from other states will be able to access their practice act to ascertain what expanded functions are permissible in their locale. As an exercise, students will be assigned one additional state to research so as to compare expanded functions in that state with those in Florida.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Access the Florida Board of Dentistry website and locate the statutes and board rules that govern the practice of dentistry in the state.
- Name the rule that governs the tasks that are delegable to dental hygienist and dental assistants.
- Define the three levels of supervision and four levels of training in Florida.
- List the functions allowed by law for the dental hygienists and the level of supervision for each.
- Recognize the functions allowed by law for the dental assistant and the level of supervision for each.
- List nine functions that can be performed by the dental hygienist but not the dental assistant.

Readings & Resources

Robinson, Debbie, Doni Bird. Essentials of Dental Assisting, 5th Edition. Saunders, 2013. p. 333-4

Assignments & Activities
- Complete the Student Contract
- Post in the Greetings and Introductions Discussion Board
- Post in the Module 1 Discussion Board
- Complete the Module 1 Additional Resources Assignment
- Complete the Module 1 Quiz