I have been going to this dentist who lately doesn't seem to be in the office that much. This last visit was in order to have my temporary crown removed and have the permanent one put in. It turned out that he was out of town on vacation. The two dental assistants in the office did the work with one permanently cementing it in. I live in the state of Florida, and I'm wondering if this was legal for a dental assistant to do this. I am rather concerned as to whether it was adjusted properly. Also, I'm having some twinges in that area of my mouth but hoping they will settle down. Wondering if anyone knows for sure whether a dental assistant is allowed to do this in Florida. I don't really want to go back to this dentist because he also doesn't followup on things that well and, like I said, is gone so much. Would appreciate any info. Thanks
In some states, they can. I do not know the particulars for FL, but I doubt they could do this without the dentist being present in the office. I know that in PA, where they are about as liberal as any state, the dentist has to be present to verify that the crown fits properly and that the bite is adjusted properly. As assistant can not do this.
The twinge that you are talking about sounds like you may be biting on that tooth hard. The bite may need to be adjusted. I am a Dental Asst in a specialty practice. I hope that this helps. I would also request that the dentist make the adjustment.
Your dentist should re-shape to your specifications - it is perfectly normal for you to feel a bit of roughness or ill fitting after the novacane wears off. My dentist was happy to accommodate, no charge. As for an assistant shaping...maybe it differs from state to state, but I have NEVER had an assistant shape a crown for me here in Georgia. Good luck.
You might want to discuss this with this dentist and allow him to take a radiograph, check the bite and do a visual exam of this crowned tooth to assure it was seated properly since you feel it might not be and are having these twinges. Although some dental assistants and hygienist excel and are highly capable of performing these extended duties, they are never allowed to do so without the dentist being in direct supervision and on the premises.
