Which profession is typically not allowed to perform coronal polishing alone?

In the context of dental practice in California, a Dental Assistant typically cannot perform coronal polishing independently due to the scope of their training and the legal requirements associated with dental procedures. Coronal polishing involves more complex skills and knowledge related to oral health that are generally covered in greater depth in programs for Registered Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists.

Registered Dental Assistants are trained and certified to perform coronal polishing, having completed the necessary education and obtaining the appropriate credentials. Dental Hygienists have an even broader scope of practice, including the ability to perform various periodontal and preventive techniques, including coronal polishing, independently and under a wider set of conditions.

Dentists, as the primary care providers in dental practices, are fully qualified to perform all dental procedures, including coronal polishing. Therefore, while both Registered Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists can perform coronal polishing either under supervision or independently, a Dental Assistant does not have that same level of authorization to perform the procedure alone. This distinction is crucial for compliance with state regulations regarding dental practice.