What defines the concept of 'examine' in the context of dental supervision?

The concept of 'examine' in the context of dental supervision specifically refers to the process of performing a clinical examination on the patient. This clinical exam is essential as it involves assessing the patient's oral health and identifying any necessary treatments based on the findings. It is a hands-on evaluation that allows the dental professional to gather crucial information for diagnosis, treatment planning, and to ensure that any interventions are appropriate.

While scheduling appointments, reviewing dental records, and discussing treatment plans are important aspects of dental practice, they do not constitute an examination. These tasks may support the treatment process but lack the clinical evaluation component that is critical when defining 'examine' under dental supervision laws. Thus, the act of performing a clinical exam directly aligns with the core responsibilities involved in dental care, emphasizing its role in patient assessment and treatment decision-making.