Ace the California RDH Law & Ethics Exam 2026 – Smile Bright and Rule Right!

A dental hygienist can indeed work in a therapeutic setting without a dentist present, but there are defined parameters and supervision requirements that must be adhered to. In California, the law allows for dental hygienists to provide certain services independently, particularly when working in specific settings such as public health or educational environments. However, the scope of practice is outlined by regulations that dictate when and how they may operate without direct supervision.

For example, dental hygienists may perform therapies or procedures that do not require a dentist's immediate presence but must still comply with state laws and regulations. This is critical to ensuring patient safety and maintaining the quality of care. The details about these parameters often include limitations on the types of procedures that can be performed autonomously and may also vary depending on the health setting.

This option reflects the balance in the practice of dental hygiene where independence is allowed, but within clearly defined constraints that protect both the hygienist and the patient. Understanding these regulations is crucial for a dental hygienist to practice ethically and legally within California.