Scope of Practice, Supervision Levels, and Delegation
Mississippi uses supervision categories to decide which dental functions may be delegated and what dentist involvement is required. The exam tests whether you can classify a task and identify the minimum supervision level.
Core rules
- Direct supervision generally means the dentist is physically present in the office, has examined the patient, and is available to intervene.
- Indirect supervision generally means the dentist has authorized the procedure in advance but is not physically present; availability and prior examination requirements are set by Board rule.
- General supervision generally means the dentist has authorized the hygienist or assistant to perform services without the dentist on site, subject to rule limits and any required treatment plan.
- Hygienists may perform prophylaxis, scaling, root planing, sealants, fluoride, radiographs, and local anesthesia only where the Board permits and with required certification or supervision.
- Assistants may perform reversible, delegated tasks; expanded functions require formal training, certification, and direct supervision unless the rule states otherwise.
Worked example
An assistant places and contours a composite restoration while the dentist is at a nearby office and reachable by phone. This is not direct supervision because the dentist is not physically present. Unless Mississippi rules specifically authorize the expanded function under a different level, the task is improperly delegated.
Traps that cost marks
Do not treat phone availability as direct supervision. Do not assume a hygienist may perform every hygiene service independently; local anesthesia and periodontal procedures often carry stricter requirements. Do not let unlicensed staff perform tasks that require clinical judgment, even if the dentist checks the result later.
Exam focus
Name the task, identify who may perform it, then apply the required supervision level. The key is not the title of the auxiliary but the specific procedure and the Board's delegation rule.