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A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
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AN ACT
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relating to the regulation of dental assistants. |
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BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: |
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SECTION 1. Section 265.002, Occupations Code, is amended by |
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adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: |
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(d) The supervision, direction, and responsibility |
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requirements of this section may not be construed to prohibit a |
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registered dental assistant from engaging in the practice of a |
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dental assistant as an independent contractor. |
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SECTION 2. Section 265.003(a), Occupations Code, is amended |
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to read as follows: |
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(a) A dental assistant who is not professionally licensed |
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may [be employed by and] work in the office of a licensed and |
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practicing dentist and perform one or more delegated dental acts |
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under: |
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(1) the direct supervision, direction, and |
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responsibility of the dentist, including: |
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(A) the application of a pit and fissure sealant; |
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(B) coronal polishing, if the dental assistant |
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holds a certificate under Section 265.006; and |
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(C) the application of fluoride varnish; or |
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(2) the general supervision, direction, and |
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responsibility of the dentist, limited to: |
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(A) the making of dental x-rays in compliance |
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with Section 265.005; and |
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(B) the provision of interim treatment of a minor |
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emergency dental condition to an existing patient of the treating |
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dentist. |
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SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2011. |