What type of supervision is required for placing or removing rubber dams?

Placing or removing rubber dams falls under indirect supervision in the context of dental hygiene practice in Florida. Indirect supervision allows dental hygienists to perform certain procedures, like the management of rubber dams, without the immediate presence of a dentist, as long as the dentist has previously authorized the procedure. This level of supervision is appropriate because placing and removing rubber dams are considered supportive tasks that hygienists are trained to perform, given their education and scope of practice.

In Florida, indirect supervision implies that while a dentist must be available to provide consultation and guidance, they do not have to be present in the operatory while the hygienist carries out the procedure. This flexibility recognizes the role of dental hygienists in providing care and enhances the efficiency of dental practices, allowing them to focus on various clinical tasks simultaneously.