House passes bill with aim to provide greater access to dental care

Some dental hygienists and assistants might be able to provide services in schools, long-term care facilities and other settings without a licensed dentist first examining the patient.

Rep. Nels Pierson

Sponsored by Rep. Nels Pierson (R-Rochester), HF1712 would modify requirements for hygienists, who have a collaborative agreement with a dentist, to perform work without a dentist first examining the patient. The bill would not change procedures hygienists can provide, but allow them to work outside the clinic in settings where they can better reach underserved communities.

“This is a bill, I believe, will increase access to oral health care for some of Minnesota’s most vulnerable patients,” Pierson said.

Passed 131-0 by the House Monday, the bill now travels to the Senate where Sen. Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake) is the sponsor.

The bill would also allow dental assistants employed by a health care facility, program or organization to provide their services without a dentist present if they’ve entered into a collaborative agreement with a dentist and have completed the required emergency medical training.

Assistants would be allowed to perform procedures such as taking vital signs, providing topical preventative agents, polishing crowns, and taking x-rays without a dentist present.