RDA State Dental Practice Act and Legal/Ethical Responsibilities 2

Question 1

In California, which agency is responsible for licensing and regulating dental professionals?

Accepted Answer

California Dental Board (Dental Board of California)

Answer

The Dental Board of California (DBC), under the Department of Consumer Affairs, is the state regulatory agency responsible for licensing and regulating dentists, RDAs, RDEFs, and RDHs in California.

Question 2

What does the concept of 'informed consent' require before dental treatment?

Accepted Answer

The patient must be told and understand the proposed treatment, its risks, benefits, alternatives, and the risk of no treatment, and must voluntarily agree

Answer

Informed consent requires that the patient be provided with complete information about proposed treatment (including risks, benefits, and alternatives), understand it, and voluntarily agree before treatment begins.

Question 3

Under California law, what is the dental radiographer requirement for an RDA?

Accepted Answer

An RDA must hold a dental radiography certificate issued by a DBC-approved program

Answer

In California, an RDA must have completed a DBC-approved dental radiography course and hold a dental radiography certificate (or the qualification must be noted on their RDA license) to legally expose radiographs.

Question 4

What is the legal duty of the dental team regarding suspected child abuse or neglect in California?

Accepted Answer

Dental professionals are mandated reporters and must report reasonable suspicion of child abuse to Child Protective Services (CPS) or law enforcement

Answer

Dental professionals in California are mandated reporters under Penal Code §11166. They must report reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services or law enforcement — they do not need proof, only reasonable suspicion.

Question 5

What is the scope of practice difference between an RDA and an RDAEF in California?

Accepted Answer

An RDAEF (Registered Dental Assistant in Extended Functions) can perform additional clinical procedures including coronal polishing, placement/finishing of restorations, and taking final impressions under general supervision

Answer

An RDAEF holds an additional California license allowing performance of extended functions such as coronal polishing, placement and finishing of Class I, II, III, and IV restorations, final impressions, and other advanced procedures, typically under general supervision.

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

RDA State Dental Practice Act and Legal/Ethical Responsibilities 2