AboutMark Bornfeld DDS Expertise I can respond to all questions dealing with the practice of dentistry, from both the dentist`s and patient`s perspective. I am knowledgeable about all dental disciplines, from cosmetic dentistry to surgery, from restorative dentistry to root canal treatment. I have strong opinions about controversial issues in dental practice, including those topics which directly impact on the reputation of the profession in the eyes of both the lay public and our health profession colleagues.
Experience
Past/Present clients Editor, Queens County Academy of General Dentistry newsletter; contributor to Dentistry.com 29 years practicing general dentistry partnered with brother Steve as one-half of the DentalTwins®
Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS Date: 7/13/2008 Subject: legality of dental assistant / dental lab tech taking impressions
Question Hi, Is it legal for a dental assistant and or dental lab tech to take impressions on a patient for the purpose of making retainers, mouth guards and bleaching trays on his/her own without a dentist's script? I am in the state of PA. Thanks.
Answer Dear Julie,
Although I am not directly familiar with the laws as they apply in Pennsylvania, I have found an online source that seems reputable that states:
"The following functions are not
permitted by any level of dental
assistant:
46. Take impressions other
than for study models or
diagnostic casts"
(see: http://www.danb.org/PDFs/Charts/Pennsylvania.pdf )
This would seem to indicate that a dental assistant is not legally empowered to take impressions for the purpose of making retainers or any oral appliance, either with or without a dentist's prescription.
Dental lab technicians are not legally allowed to provide dental service of any kind directly to patients in the state of Pennsylvania.
Hope this helps...
Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY
