What is one of the purposes of WAC 501-570?

WAC 501-570 serves a crucial role in the dental hygiene field by establishing guidelines for duties that are specifically directed towards individuals who are not licensed to practice dentistry. This regulation is important as it delineates the scope of practice for dental hygienists and ensures that they operate within the framework of the law, particularly when interacting with patients and performing procedures.

By focusing on the responsibilities and protocols that dental hygienists must follow, WAC 501-570 helps to protect both the practitioners and the patients. It provides a clear understanding of what dental hygienists can do, as opposed to what would fall under the purview of a licensed dentist. This creates a safer environment for patients as well as clear expectations for practitioners, contributing to overall public health and safety.

In contrast, while licensing dental hygienists is certainly a critical aspect of their practice, it is not the primary focus of WAC 501-570. Additionally, regulating financial planning for dentists and overseeing dental marketing strategies are not relevant objectives of this specific regulation, as they pertain more to the business side of dentistry rather than the professional duties of dental hygienists.