(a) A person practices dental hygiene if the person:
(1) removes accumulated matter, tartar, deposits, accretions, or stains, other than mottled enamel stains, from the natural and restored surface of exposed human teeth and restorations in the human mouth;
(2) smoothes roughened root surfaces;
(3) polishes exposed human teeth, restorations in the human mouth, or roughened root surfaces;
(4) topically applies drugs to the surface tissues of the human mouth or the exposed surface of human teeth;
(5) makes dental x-rays;
(6) administers a local anesthetic agent under the authorization and supervision of a dentist in compliance with Section 258.001(5); and
(7) performs any other service, task, or procedure prescribed by board rule.
(b) A person legally practicing dental hygiene does not violate state law regulating the practice of dentistry.
Official text of the Texas Occupations Code as published by the Texas Legislative Council.