When a RDA assists the dentist in performing intraoral procedures, this is called?

• A. Direct supervision
• B. General supervision
• C. Personal supervision
• D. Indirect supervision

Answer: (A)

Direct supervision is the level at which the dentist is in the same office and provides immediate direction and oversight for the RDA’s intraoral tasks. Intraoral procedures require real-time guidance to ensure the work follows the treatment plan and to address any issues as they arise, so the dentist must be readily available to supervise. That immediate, in-the-room direction is what makes this the appropriate term for an RDA assisting in intraoral procedures. Other supervision levels involve the dentist being unavailable in the operatory or not required to be in the same room, which is not suitable for tasks done inside the mouth.