Which of these duties is illegal for dental assistants to perform in Oklahoma?

Scaling teeth is considered an illegal duty for dental assistants to perform in Oklahoma because it is classified as a dental hygiene procedure that can only be carried out by licensed dental hygienists or dentists. Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and requires a certain level of education, training, and licensure to ensure that it is done safely and effectively. This restriction is in place to protect patient health and ensure that only qualified professionals provide certain clinical services.

In contrast, assisting during procedures, patient communication, and appointment scheduling fall within the legal scope of practice for dental assistants. These tasks support the overall functioning of the dental practice and focus on administrative and supportive roles that do not require specialized training or licensure in the same manner as direct patient care procedures like scaling. Understanding these boundaries helps ensure that dental assistants operate within legal guidelines while providing quality care in the dental field.