Many people wonder why they can't just call to get their teeth cleaned without paying for a doctor exam as well. First of all it's in your best interest to have your teeth examined because even severe dental problems may not hurt and treating them early is easier, and less costly, than treating them later.
But until recently it was against the law to have any work done, including a cleaning, without diagnosis by a dentist. Maine has passed a new law, Independent Practice of Dental Hygiene, allowing certain hygienist to clean teeth without the oversight of a dentist. However, they cannot diagnose problems and must report any obvious findings to your dentist, but without the benefit of x-rays to tell how serious a problem you might have.
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