Are dental assistants allowed to probe?
Answer
Yes, with completion of the scaling module.
Are RDAs able to adjust temporary crowns/restorations intra-orally?
Answer
No. The MDAA and MDA are currently reviewing the Scope of Practice and are researching the viability of developing modules and/or courses for the addition of new skills.
Are RDAs allowed to perform in-office bleaching techniques?
Answer
Yes. Bleaching techniques utilize skills that are currently taught such as: isolation techniques and application and curing. RDAs with dental dam, treatment liners, desensitizing, or pit and fissure sealants are fully qualified to apply bleaching agents. As with any procedure, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions pertaining to the product use and technique.
Can dental assistants administer Nitrous Oxide?
Answer
No. Registered Dental Assistants are not allowed to administer nitrous oxide. It is considered to be outside the legal scope of practice. RDAs can sit with the patients, and monitor their reaction to the nitrous. The dentist is required to place the mask, and set the ratio of the gases.
Can RDAs cement band and loop space maintainers?
Answer
RDAs who have successfully completed the Orthodontic Module may cement bands and appliances. The dentist must perform a final check prior to the patient being dismissed.
Can RDAs place paper points during root canal procedures?
Answer
No. The MDAA and MDA are currently reviewing the Scope of Practice and are researching the viability of developing modules and/or courses for the addition of new skills.
Can RDAs place temporary fillings?
Answer
No. The MDAA and MDA are currently reviewing the Scope of Practice and are researching the viability of developing modules and/or courses for the addition of new skills.
Can RDAs polish restorations?
Answer
Yes, restorations may be polished using slow-speed handpieces with rubber cups, rubber points and brushes. The use of finishing burs is not permitted.
Can RDAs remove cement from permanent crowns?
Answer
No. The MDAA and MDA are currently reviewing the Scope of Practice and are researching the viability of developing modules and/or courses for the addition of new skills.
Can RDAs remove orthodontic cement with an ultrasonic scaling device?
Answer
No. At the present time removal of orthodontic cement by RDAs can only be done with hand instruments.
Can RDAs who have completed the Orthodontic Module bond brackets?
Answer
Yes, RDAs may directly bond brackets. RDAs may perform indirect bonding and may also bond non-critical attachments. The dentist must perform a final check prior to final dismissal of the patient.
Can RDAs who have successfully completed the Orthodontic Module cement orthodontic bands?
Answer
Yes, RDAs who have successfully completed the Orthodontic Module may cement bands. The dentist must perform a final check prior to the patient being dismissed.
Do RDAs require the Orthodontic Module to work in a practice that provides orthodontic treatment?
Answer
If the RDA is performing any of the skills directly related to orthodontic treatment, then she must have the Orthodontic Module.
What skills are included in the Orthodontic Module?
Orthodontic Module for Registered Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists in Alberta
The listing of clinical skills below was developed in consultation with and cooperation from the ADA&C, CADA, ADHA and ASO.
- taking intra-oral and extra-oral photographs
- registration of centric occlusion wax bite
- patient placement for exposure of extra-oral radiographs (cephalometric, hand/wrist, panoramic)
- placement and removal of separators
- preliminary placement of fixed appliances prior to adjustment by a dentist
- preliminary placement of removable appliances prior to adjustment by a dentist
- preliminary fitting of bands
- placement and removal of oral isolation devices in preparation for direct and indirect bonding procedures
- manipulation and application of materials for bonding and banding procedures
- preparation of the teeth for banding and bonding procedures
- bonding of non-critical attachments following prescription of the dentist and prior to final check by the dentist
- indirect bonding following the prescription of the dentist and prior to final check by the dentist
- cementation of bands and appliances prior to final check by the dentist
- removal of banding cement utilizing hand instruments
- checking integrity of bands, bonds, attachments, etc.
- placement and removal of archwires which have been formed by a dentist
- placement and removal of archwire accessories and ligatures
- provide patient instruction regarding:
- the care and use of orthodontic appliances
- oral hygiene and disease control
- elastic placement
- proper eating habits and patient cooperation
- orthodontic emergencies
