Worldwide Review of Dental Hygienists’ Extended Scope of Practice in Radiology

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to summarise the competencies and legal position of the dental hygienist (DH) regarding oral radiology through a worldwide review. METHODS: A structured and peer-reviewed online questionnaire of 27 questions was developed. This was emailed to all DH associations that are members of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) or European Dental Hygienists Federation (EDHF). After obtaining the data, all responding associations were contacted to confirm that the data were summarised in the correct order and were asked to provide further clarification of answers if necessary. A descriptive analysis was performed to summarise the data. RESULTS: The response rate was 84%, as 26 out of 31 countries completed the questionnaire. In 78% of the countries, the DH can legally take intraoral radiographs, but in 42% of the countries, the dentist first needs to provide a referral or indication for a radiograph. In 46% of the countries, the DH may not formulate a diagnosis based on a radiograph. In only 27% of the countries, the DH can independently own radiographic equipment. CONCLUSIONS: The required qualifications, skills, and scope of practice of the DH regarding oral radiology vary by country and, within some countries, even vary by state or province.