Oral Health Screening Policy
2003 House Bill 3157, which was passed by the Legislature and signed into law by the Governor, allowed the Oregon Board of Dentistry (OBD) to develope written training and screening protocols so dental hygientists and dental assistants could independently perform Oral Health Screenings in Oregon.
The OBD on January 23, 2004 determined that no additional training was necessary for Oregon Dental Hygienists or Oregon Dental Assistants.
The OBD adopted specific language that must be on any Oral Health Screening Form that would be given to individuals or parents or guardians of minors who would be screened.
The following is the language and would need to be on any Oral Health Screening Form that would be used by any Oregon Dental Hygienist or Oregon Dental Assistant in compliance with Oregon Law.
This language was revised on March 1, 2006.
This is an oral health screening for ______________________________.
A screening is just a quick look and does not take the place of a thorough examination by a dentist. Serious oral health problems may be missed in a screening. The person doing the screening may or may not have any dental training. [Dental Hygienists or Dental Assistants may omit the previous sentence.]
- No visible signs of oral problems. See your dentist at least yearly.
- Visible signs of oral problems were found. A visit to a dentist is recommended to prevent serious or more costly problems.
- Visible signs or symptoms of serious dental needs were found. An immediate visit to a dentist is recommended.
The Board encourages others who may do Oral Health Screenings to use this language on their screening forms.