What is a potential benefit of Direct Access Supervision for patients?

Direct Access Supervision allows dental hygienists to provide care without the direct oversight of a dentist for certain procedures. This model empowers dental hygienists to assess and address patients' oral health needs more promptly, leading to greater accessibility for patients seeking dental hygiene services. Patients can receive cleanings, preventive treatments, and educational support potentially without the delays associated with coordinating care with a dentist.

Increased accessibility means that more individuals may benefit from routine dental hygiene services, especially in underserved areas where access to dental care is limited. This arrangement can facilitate timely interventions, helping to prevent more serious dental problems that may require complex treatments down the road.

This approach contrasts with models that require dental input at every stage, which can hinder patient access to services due to appointment scheduling complexities and additional logistical barriers.