My son was at the dentist getting impressions for crowns the dental assist did it, is this normal?

The dental assistant had to remove the temporaries and put new ones on several times and they do not look that great, is this normal? We assumed the dentist would be doing this.

My son was at the dentist getting impressions for crowns the dental assist did it, is this normal?
It depends on your state, since each state in the US has different 'scope of practice' for thier assistants.





In NY, an assistant is not allowed to take the final impression for the crowns, nor is she allowed to make the temporary crowns...not even if she's licensed.





You can find out if you go to www.danb.org, and look up your state. If you find it isn't allowed, the assistant and the dentist could be fined and a malpractice suit can be filed.





Good luck to you.
Reply:An assistant can make the temporary crowns because it is not something that will be with you forever. She is more than likely trained to do this. The reason it is removed and replaced many times is probably because of what they are made of. If it is acrylic, you have to remove it several times to make sure the product does not "set up" on the tooth. The bite has to be accurate or you will get a throbbing toothache. With that said, the doctor should make sure to check the 'work' and your bite before you leave the practice. Assistants now a days, when trained properly, can do many things. IF the doctor did not trust her, he would do it himself. If you are worried, I would ask the doctor what is the assistants background and training. That should put your mind at ease.





PS if your dentist is still using acrylic for temps...look for another doctor with some new technology. Cerec crowns are the way to go. No impressions, no temps...the crown is made while you wait...no second visit. Check it out on line. Hope this helps.
Reply:I've had a lot done myself. The assistants only clean and take impressions. The dentist is suppose to do the rest.
Reply:I'm confused, there are temporary and permanent IMPRESSIONS?! I can see the asst. doing the initial impressions of the teeth, but not the actual crowns... You should call and ask, it's your kid and your money, so please don't feel bad asking the staff at your dentist office :D
Reply:An Assistant did my impressions. It may have just been a new person. Don't worry, the dentist won't let her mess up. The only thing the dentist really does is the actual surgery.
Reply:It depends on what state or country you are in. If properly trained someone else could take the impression, cause if it is not right when Dr sees it they can do it over. Doc W