The Wisconsin legislature has passed a bill authorizing the practice of dental auxiliaries in the state.
Five things to know:
1. Senate bill 392 was introduced to the legislature June 10, 2021.
2. Under the bill, dental auxiliaries must be certified by the Dentistry Examining Board and have 70 hours of classroom instruction. They are allowed to help dentists complete specific services, including restorations, applying sealants, taking impressions and adjusting dentures.
3. Advocates supported the bill as a way to boost efficiency at clinics and expand care to underserved communities.
4. The Wisconsin Dental Association President Cliff Hartmann, DDS, released a statement March 8 praising the bill's passing.
5. Wisconsin joins more than 20 other states that allow dental auxiliaries.