If a dental hygienist plans to administer nitrous oxide, to whom must they notify?

• A. The board
• B. The state health department
• C. Their employing dentist only
• D. No notification required

Answer: (A)

Administering nitrous oxide falls under regulated sedation practices, so it requires formal oversight. In Louisiana, a dental hygienist who plans to use nitrous oxide must notify the Board of Dentistry before providing the service. This notification helps ensure the hygienist has the proper training, equipment, monitoring protocols, and emergency procedures, and that the practice is conducted within the approved scope under appropriate supervision. The state health department handles broad public health matters, not the day-to-day regulatory approval for individual sedation procedures. The supervising dentist oversees clinical aspects, but the formal notification requirement is to the board to guarantee compliance with standards and patient safety.