What must happen if treatment is rendered by someone other than the dentist of record?

When treatment is rendered by someone other than the dentist of record, it is essential for the integrity of patient records and the practice of dental hygiene that the name or initials of the treating person are placed in the patient record. This ensures proper accountability and maintains a clear record of who performed specific treatments. Accurate documentation supports continuity of care and facilitates communication among healthcare providers.

Failure to document the treating individual could lead to confusion about the patient’s care and undermine the legal and ethical standards within the profession. This practice also aligns with regulations that emphasize the importance of maintaining comprehensive records in the healthcare field, ensuring that all practitioners involved in the patient's care are clearly identified.