Louisiana Dentistry Jurisprudence Practice Exam 2026 – All-In-One Resource to Master Your Certification!

A dental hygienist is permitted to provide hygiene services to patients of record. This means that the hygienist can deliver preventive care, such as cleanings and educational services, to patients who have an established relationship with a dentist. The term "patients of record" typically refers to individuals who have been evaluated by a dentist and have an ongoing treatment plan or record of prior visits.

This requirement ensures that the care provided is coordinated and aligns with the patient's overall oral health needs. The dental hygienist works within the scope of practice as determined by state laws, which generally mandate that dental hygienists provide services under the supervision of a licensed dentist or to those patients who are actively being managed by a dentist.

Other options may imply restrictions or conditions that do not align with the established regulations. For instance, the idea that hygiene services can be provided only to new patients or solely in partnerships with other hygienists limits accessibility to care. Additionally, requiring a dentist’s referral for every instance may hinder the hygienist's ability to deliver preventive care efficiently to established patients. In contrast, recognizing the rights of dental hygienists to serve patients of record promotes a collaborative and effective approach to dental care.