What level of supervision is needed for a dental assistant to perform dental radiography?

In Iowa, dental assistants can perform dental radiography under general supervision, which allows them to carry out this function without the constant presence of a dentist. General supervision means that the dentist must be physically present in the dental facility but does not need to be in the same room when the radiography is being performed. This level of supervision is crucial as it enables dental assistants to efficiently support the dental team while still ensuring that a dentist is available to provide oversight and guidance as necessary.

This provision enables dental practices to operate more smoothly and allows dental assistants to carry out necessary tasks as trained professionals, benefiting both the practice and the patients. Understanding the distinction between general and direct supervision is essential for proper compliance with Iowa's dental practice laws. Direct supervision, on the other hand, would require the dentist to be in the room at all times when the procedure is performed, which is not required for dental assistants performing radiography under general supervision.