What type of supervision is required for remediable tasks of root planing?

For remediable tasks of root planing, direct supervision is required. This means that a licensed dentist must be physically present in the dental office while the dental hygienist performs these tasks. Direct supervision ensures that the dentist can provide immediate oversight and intervention if necessary, which is crucial for procedures that may have significant implications for patient care and safety.

This level of supervision is essential because root planing involves the careful removal of calculus and plaque from the root surfaces of teeth, which can affect the patient's overall oral health. In performing these tasks under direct supervision, the dental hygienist can ask questions and receive guidance in real-time, ensuring that the procedure is completed correctly and effectively.

The other types of supervision, such as indirect and general supervision, do not provide the same level of oversight. Indirect supervision allows the dentist to be available but not necessarily present, which could lead to issues if complications arise. General supervision provides a broader scope but lacks the specifics of direct involvement, negating the immediate support a dental hygienist might need during more complex procedures like root planing. No supervision would be inappropriate for such clinical tasks, as patients' health and safety must always be prioritized.