What are the two advanced procedures that dental hygienists may perform?

The correct answer highlights two advanced procedures that dental hygienists are authorized to perform under specific conditions in many states, including Oklahoma. The administration of local anesthesia falls within the expanded scope of practice for dental hygienists who have received the necessary training and certification. This allows them to manage patient discomfort more effectively during various dental procedures. Similarly, nitrous oxide analgesia is also an advanced procedure that dental hygienists may offer, helping to alleviate anxiety and pain during dental treatments. Together, these procedures enhance the hygienist's ability to deliver comprehensive patient care.

Other options mention procedures that, while important in dental care, are typically outside the standard scope of practice for dental hygienists. Root canal therapy and fillings often require a dentist's expertise for diagnosis and treatment planning. Likewise, extractions and crown fittings are generally procedures conducted by dentists, ensuring the highest standard of care. Oral examinations and X-rays are performed frequently by dental hygienists, but they do not qualify as advanced procedures in the context of this question. Thus, the chosen answer accurately represents the advanced skills that dental hygienists can utilize to improve patient outcomes.