Dental Hygiene Laser Use in Georgia: What You Need to Know
As dental technology advances, more states are recognizing the benefits of laser use in dental hygiene. Dental lasers offer minimally invasive treatment options, improved patient comfort, and enhanced clinical outcomes. However, the regulations surrounding their use vary by state. If you're a dental hygienist in Georgia or considering practicing there, understanding the state's stance on laser use in dental hygiene is crucial.
The Role of Lasers in Dental Hygiene Lasers are used in dental hygiene for various procedures, including:
- Bacterial reduction in periodontal therapy
- Non-surgical periodontal treatment
- Desensitization of teeth
- Pain management
- Soft tissue procedures such as gingival contouring
These benefits make lasers a valuable tool in modern dental hygiene, improving patient experiences and treatment outcomes.
Georgia’s Regulations on Laser Use by Dental Hygienists
Georgia';s dental board governs the scope of practice for dental hygienists, including the use of lasers. Currently, dental hygienists in Georgia are permitted to use lasers under certain conditions, but restrictions apply. The Georgia Board of Dentistry stipulates that dental hygienists may use lasers as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) but cannot perform procedures that require cutting or altering tissue. Additionally, laser use must be within the supervising dentist’s scope of practice and must comply with state regulations regarding
supervision.
Rule 150-5-.08: Use of a Dental Diode Laser by a Dental Hygienist
According to Georgia Rule 150-5-.08, dental hygienists may use a dental diode laser under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, limited to bacterial reduction and disinfection of the
gingival sulcus. The rule specifically prohibits the removal of hard and soft tissue, except for incidental gingival curettage. To ensure compliance, hygienists must meet the following
requirements:
- Complete a minimum of 8 hours of interactive didactic and clinical laser training, including laser safety, infection control, patient management, and laser operation.
- Training must be obtained through accredited organizations such as the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, the ADA Continuing Education Recognition Program, or the Academy of General Dentistry Program Approval for Continuing Education.
- Maintain evidence of required training, prominently displayed at the dental office.
- Complete two (2) hours of continuing education in dental diode lasers every two (2) years.
- Adhere to accepted laser safety guidelines.
- Document key details in the patient's record, including the type of laser, wavelength, settings used, local anesthesia applied (if any), and the procedure performed.
Training and Certification for Laser Use in Georgia
To ensure safe and effective laser use, dental hygienists must complete proper training. While Georgia mandates specific training for diode laser use, many dental offices require additional
training to ensure competency and adherence to best practices. Courses such as Dedicated Dental Hygiene’s (DDH) laser training provide hands-on experience and remote learning options
to help hygienists gain proficiency in laser procedures.
Key components of a comprehensive laser training program include:
- Understanding laser physics and safety
- Proper laser technique for bacterial reduction and therapy
- Compliance with Georgia’s dental regulations
- Hands-on application of laser procedures
The Future of Laser Use in Georgia
The increasing adoption of laser technology in dentistry suggests that more states may revise regulations to expand dental hygienists' scope of practice. Advocacy efforts by professional
organizations, along with continued education and training, can help shape future policies that allow greater utilization of lasers in dental hygiene.
For Georgia dental hygienists, staying informed about regulations and obtaining proper training is essential for incorporating laser therapy into practice. By doing so, hygienists can enhance
patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and stay ahead in an evolving field.
Are you a Georgia dental hygienist interested in laser certification? Check out our laser training programs at Dedicated Dental Hygiene (DDH) to elevate your clinical skills and expand your professional opportunities!