ADHA approves interim policies on scaling, airway health

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Board of Directors has approved interim policies about scaling procedures and airway health screenings.

The ADHA advocates that scaling procedures should only be performed by licensed dental practitioners with advanced education. Other professionals who want to perform scaling should have similar training and demonstrate competence.

Additionally, the ADHA supports dental hygienists screening patients for airway health, as it is crucial for overall oral health, development, and the early detection of conditions like sleep apnea.

Member requests triggered the association to release the policies.