Can dental auxiliaries adjust the gingival side of complete/partial dentures?

Dental auxiliaries, such as dental hygienists and dental assistants, may adjust the gingival side of complete or partial dentures under certain circumstances defined by regulations and guidelines in Mississippi. The key reason the answer is affirmative is that in many scenarios, after appropriate training, dental auxiliaries are permitted to make adjustments to removable prosthetics, including the gingival side of dentures. This is often part of their role in ensuring patient comfort and the functional effectiveness of dental appliances.

Moreover, adjustments generally involve minor tasks that do not require extensive clinical judgment, such as smoothing rough edges or making small modifications to improve fit. As long as they follow established protocols and work within their scope of practice, dental auxiliaries can perform these adjustments effectively and safely.

The other options focus on restrictions that are not typically mandated when the auxiliary is trained and working within delegation from the supervising dentist. If supervision or additional training were absolutely required at all times, it would complicate the usual process and could hinder patient care.