A properly permitted dental hygienist may administer nitrous oxide or local anesthesia only under which supervision?

• A. No supervision
• B. Indirect supervision
• C. Direct on-premises supervision of a dentist
• D. General supervision

Answer: (C)

The key rule here is that administering nitrous oxide or local anesthesia by a properly permitted dental hygienist must be done under direct on-premises supervision. That means the supervising dentist has to be physically present in the facility and immediately available to oversee the procedure and intervene if needed. This direct, on-site oversight helps ensure patient safety, proper technique, and prompt management of any adverse reactions or contraindications.

No supervision would leave the procedure without required oversight, which isn’t allowed. Indirect supervision means the dentist isn’t on the premises, and general supervision doesn’t require the dentist to be on the premises or immediately available. Neither meets the requirement for direct on-premises supervision.