As used in this subpart:

1. (1) “Local anesthesia” means the elimination of sensations, especially pain, in one (1) part of the body by the topical application or regional injection of a drug;
2. (2) “Regional injection of an anesthetic agent by a dental hygienist” means infiltration and block injections of an anesthesia administered inside the oral cavity; and

3. (3)

   1. (A)

      1. (i) “Topical anesthesia” means the application of an anesthetic directly to the surface of the body.
      2. (ii) Pursuant to this subpart, this will be limited to the oral cavity.
   2. (B) Topical anesthesia may be administered by a licensed dental hygienist without the necessity of the hygienist obtaining a permit from the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners.
   3. (C) A dental hygienist may only administer topical anesthesia to a patient when under the supervision of a licensed dentist.