Section 7-5 - Expanded Functions Permits (a) Permit. To obtain an expanded functions permit, a dental hygienist shall meet educational standards, or pass an examination approved by the Board, or both. Applicant shall submit a completed application for each function.
(b) Training Course Approval. - (i) Training programs shall be approved in advance in writing by the Board. Due to the varied programs, individual courses shall require individual approval after course content is reviewed by the Board.
- (ii) Applicant shall provide evidence of satisfactory completion of each expanded functions course.
- (iii) In the case of use of lasers, the applicant shall provide proof of certification from the Academy of Laser Dentistry or completion of a laser course through a CODA accredited dental hygiene program.
- (iv) An in-person evaluation for an expanded functions permit may be required by the Board to ascertain the applicant's knowledge of the expanded functions that the applicant wishes to be permitted to perform.
(c) Expanded Functions. The following may be performed by a dental hygienist with an appropriate expanded functions permit: - (i) Administer local anesthetics;
- (ii) Administer and monitor nitrous oxide/oxygen;
- (iii) Use lasers to provide soft tissue therapy within the dental hygienists scope of practice. Dental hygienists shall NOT use lasers at settings intended to cut/remove hard tissue or tooth structure; or
- (iv) Provide public health services at facilities to include, but not limited to: federally funded health centers and clinics; nursing homes; extended care facilities; home health agencies; group homes for the elderly, disabled and youth; public health offices; Women, Infants, and Children; Head Start programs; child development programs; early intervention programs; migrant work facilities; free clinics; health fairs; public and private schools; state and county correctional institutions; community school-based prevention programs; and public health vans.
- (A) Public health services solely consist of prophylaxis, fluoride varnishes, oral health education, and dental screenings. These services can be provided by the hygienist without prior authorization of the dentist. All patients seen shall be referred to a dentist annually.
- (B) The public health hygienist must submit a Collaboration Agreement with a Wyoming licensed dentist. The hygienist must have a current Wyoming dental hygienist license with a minimum of two (2) years clinical experience. The hygienist must carry liability insurance.