What type of planning is involved in dental hygiene procedures that can be delegated to dental hygienists?

The option that states "assessment and treatment" is the correct choice because dental hygienists are specifically trained to perform both assessment and treatment procedures within their scope of practice. In this context, assessment refers to the clinical evaluation of a patient's oral health status, including gathering health histories, performing oral examinations, and identifying potential issues such as periodontal disease or cavities.

Following the assessment, dental hygienists are authorized to carry out various treatment procedures, which may include scaling and root planing, administering preventive care such as sealants and fluoride treatments, as well as educating patients about oral hygiene practices. This dual role of assessing and treating is essential for the comprehensive care of patients and is a key component of dental hygiene practice.

Other options involve aspects of dental practice that are not typically delegated to dental hygienists. For instance, diagnosis and evaluation are mainly the responsibilities of the dentist, as they require clinical judgment and decision-making based on comprehensive evaluations. Consultation may occur, but it usually involves dentists discussing treatment options, making it less relevant to the specific duties of dental hygienists. Research and planning might pertain to broader public health initiatives or educational programs rather than direct patient care. Thus, the combination of assessment and treatment is the primary focus within the delegated tasks for dental