News — nitrous safety

Some states require separate credentialing for dentists and auxiliary staff for nitrous oxide administration. Typically, dentists are required to have a permit for this. Many states also require dental assistants and hygienists to have a separate certificate to monitor a patient who on N2O.If N2O is used in a dental office, I highly recommend that hygienists and dental assistants obtain their N2O monitoring certification (if required). It affords the dentist the flexibility to step out of the operatory during a procedure. It also eliminates the potential for allegations that an auxiliary practice outside their scope.For auxiliary staff, practicing outside their...