PURPOSE: This rule provides definitions for specific terms used throughout the rules.

1. (1) “Dentist”—one who is currently licensed to practice as a dentist in Missouri.
2. (2) “Hygienist”—one who is currently licensed to practice as a dental hygienist in Missouri.
3. (3) “Direct supervision”—a level of supervision in which the dentist has authorized the procedure for a patient of record, remains in the treatment facility while the procedure is performed and evaluates the procedure prior to patient dismissal.
4. (4) “Indirect supervision”—a level of supervision in which the dentist has authorized the procedure for a patient of record and remains in the treatment facility while the procedure is performed.
5. (5) “General supervision”—a level of supervision in which the dentist has authorized the procedure for a patient of record and which does not require the physical presence of the dentist in the treatment facility during the performance of the procedure. The patient must be informed that the dentist is not in the treatment facility. The authorization shall be written in the patient’s record and is valid from the date of the most recent examination for a maximum of twelve (12) months. The authorization is not renewable without an examination of the patient by the dentist.
6. (6) “Patient of record”—one for whom the dentist has obtained a relevant history, performed an examination and evaluated the condition to be treated.

AUTHORITY: sections 332.031, 332.091 and 332.311, RSMo Supp. 1999.* This rule originally filed as 4 CSR 110-2.001. Original rule filed Jan. 28, 2000, effective Aug. 30, 2000. Moved to 20 CSR 2110-2.001, effective Aug. 28, 2006.

*Original authority: 332.031, RSMo 1969, amended 1981, 1993, 1995; 332.091, RSMo 1969, amended 1995; and 332.311, RSMo 1969, amended 1997.