Sec. 262.002. PRACTICE OF DENTAL HYGIENE. (a) A person practices dental hygiene if the person:

(1) removes accumulated matter, tartar, deposits, accretions, or stains, other than mottled enamel stains, from the natural and restored surface of exposed human teeth and restorations in the human mouth;

(2) smoothes roughened root surfaces;

(3) polishes exposed human teeth, restorations in the human mouth, or roughened root surfaces;

(4) topically applies drugs to the surface tissues of the human mouth or the exposed surface of human teeth;

(5) makes dental x-rays;

(6) administers a local anesthetic agent under the authorization and supervision of a dentist in compliance with Section 258.001(5); and

(7) performs any other service, task, or procedure prescribed by board rule.

(b) A person legally practicing dental hygiene does not violate state law regulating the practice of dentistry.

Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.

Amended by:

Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 868 (H.B. 3824), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.