Under Direct Supervision, who can apply non-aerosol and non-caustic topical agents to oral mucosa?

Direct supervision in dental practice refers to the requirement that a licensed dentist must be present in the dental office while certain procedures are being carried out by dental assistants or registered dental hygienists. In California, under direct supervision, both Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs), Dental Assistants (DAs), and Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions (RDAEFs) are permitted to apply non-aerosol and non-caustic topical agents to the oral mucosa.

The scope of practice for dental assistants includes performing certain tasks under the supervision of a licensed dentist, which encompasses the application of topical agents that aren't harmful or produce aerosols. This ability allows them to assist more effectively in patient care, while still ensuring that a licensed dentist is overseeing the procedure.

Therefore, the inclusion of both RDAs and DAs in this context supports the correct choice since it acknowledges the regulatory framework allowing various qualified personnel to perform this task under the right supervision. RDAEFs, having advanced training, are also included in this category, but the key point is that both DAs and RDAs are authorized to perform this procedure as well, leading to the conclusion that the answer encompasses all qualified personnel.