What procedure can a Dental Hygienist perform under supervision?

A dental hygienist's practice scope is defined by state regulations, which outline the procedures they are permitted to perform under supervision. In Washington State, dental hygienists are trained primarily in preventive care and therapeutic procedures, but they typically do not perform more invasive surgical procedures, such as suturing or endodontic treatment, without additional training and certification.

Suturing is considered a surgical procedure, and while it might be within the realm of practice for a dentist or a dental surgeon, it is generally beyond the scope for dental hygienists, even under supervision. Similarly, endodontic treatment involves more complex procedures that require additional qualifications and is usually performed by specialized dentists.

Insertion and post-insertion adjustments of dentures may also be seen as part of a dentist's or dental technician's responsibilities, since it involves a high level of clinical judgment and specific technical skills. While hygienists may assist in this process, direct responsibility for these treatments generally lies with licensed dentists.

Given these points, dental hygienists in Washington State are not authorized to perform any of the listed procedures under supervision, which validates the choice that none of the procedures listed can be performed by a dental hygienist under supervision in this context.