Dental assistants are prohibited from performing any procedure that could lead to what kind of alteration?

Dental assistants are prohibited from performing any procedure that could lead to irreversible alterations because these alterations may significantly change a patient's dental structure or function permanently. Irreversible procedures often involve removal of tissue or alteration of hard and soft tissues in a manner that cannot be undone once completed. This limitation helps protect patients from unnecessary harm and ensures that only qualified professionals, such as licensed dentists and dental hygienists, carry out these advanced procedures.

The distinction is crucial in maintaining patient safety and quality of care within the dental practice, as irreversible alterations could result in long-lasting effects on a patient's health and appearance. Dental assistants are trained to support dental procedures but are restricted from such actions to ensure that they do not exceed their scope of practice. This regulation exists to ensure that all dental work is completed by licensed practitioners who have the necessary education and training in handling irreversible procedures safely and effectively.