The American Dental Hygienists Association is opposing three proposed resolutions from the American Dental Association.
Five notes:
1. The ADHA is opposing three proposals from the ADA regarding faculty-to-student ratios and the ability of dental students and internationally trained dentists to practice as hygienists.
2. The first resolution aims to align faculty-student ratios in dental hygiene programs with the ratios of predoctoral dental education programs.
3. The second proposal would allow dental students and residents to practice as hygienists after completing dental competencies.
4. The third proposal would allow internationally trained dentists to practice dental hygiene in the U.S. without passing a state licensing exam.
5. The ADHA said Oct. 11 that it is submitting written testimony to the ADA in opposition of the resolutions and is asking the ADA House of Delegates to reject the proposals because they pose "significant risks" to educational standards and patient safety.