Which type of supervision does not require the dentist to be present during the procedure?

General supervision is characterized by the dentist’s capacity to authorize procedures while not being physically present during the activities carried out by the dental hygienist or dental assistant. This level of supervision indicates that the licensed professional can provide initial instructions for a specific procedure but does not need to be available in the treatment area to oversee the execution.

This autonomy allows trained professionals to perform certain tasks within the dental practice without the immediate oversight of a dentist, as long as those procedures fall within the legally permitted scope of practice.

In the context of the other types of supervision, direct supervision requires that the dentist be present in the office and available to provide support. Indirect supervision also mandates that the dentist be available in the facility, although not necessarily in the same room. Personal supervision aligns closely with direct supervision, emphasizing a close working relationship where the dentist is in the same vicinity as the performing licensed individual.

Thus, general supervision is unique because it grants flexibility and allows for a wider range of operational efficiency in a dental practice.