Enhance your knowledge for the Minnesota Dental Jurisprudence Test with our quiz: multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations provided. Prepare effectively!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What types of medications can dental hygienists apply?

  1. Only anesthetic agents

  2. Topical medications including bleaching agents, cavity varnishes, and desensitizing agents

  3. Only anti-inflammatory medications

  4. Any medication prescribed by a dentist

The correct answer is: Topical medications including bleaching agents, cavity varnishes, and desensitizing agents

Dental hygienists are allowed to apply a range of topical medications as part of their role in patient care. This includes not only bleaching agents but also cavity varnishes, desensitizing agents, and other topical agents which may be beneficial for oral health. These medications are typically used to manage sensitivity, enhance esthetics through whitening, and provide protection for the teeth, making them essential tools in the hygiene practice. While anesthetic agents may be included under certain conditions, and dentists certainly prescribe various medications, the scope of practice for dental hygienists specifically includes the application of various topical medications listed in the correct choice. Recognizing this scope is vital for hygienists to provide effective care while adhering to the regulations set forth in dental laws.