The Oregon Board of Dentistry recently passed, among other things, the nation’s first law allowing some dental assistants to administer local anesthesia and reversal agents.
Under the requirements outlined in this law, dental assistants must hold an Oregon Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) Certificate and complete a board-approved curriculum accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or another course of instruction authorized by the Board.
The rule, set to go into effect on Jan. 1, further authorizes dental assistants to perform these functions under the indirect supervision of a licensed dentist. Additionally, the rule specifies that while dental assistants can administer local anesthetic agents and reversal agents, there are age and weight restrictions for patients receiving reversal agents. These agents cannot be used on children under 6 years of age or those weighing less than 33 pounds.
