Under which type of supervision must a dentist be present during a procedure?

The answer is correct because direct supervision requires that a dentist be present in the dental office while a dental hygienist or another dental professional performs procedures. Under this type of supervision, the dentist not only has to be physically present but must also be available to provide immediate guidance and assistance if needed during the procedure.

This level of supervision is typically applied to more complex or potentially invasive procedures where the presence of a dentist is crucial for patient safety and care quality. In direct supervision, the dentist is responsible for the diagnosis and treatment planning while the dental hygienist executes the plan under the dentist’s watchful eye.

This concept emphasizes the collaborative environment of dental practice, ensuring that a dentist is actively involved in patient care when higher levels of expertise are required. Understanding the importance of direct supervision can help ensure adherence to practice regulations and enhance the quality of care provided to patients.