Section 262.151 - Delegation of Duties By Dentist(a) A licensed dentist may delegate orally or in writing a service, task, or procedure to a dental hygienist who is under the supervision and responsibility of the dentist, if:(1) the dental hygienist is licensed to perform the service, task, or procedure;(2) the supervising dentist examines the patient:(A) at the time the service, task, or procedure is performed by the dental hygienist; or(B) during the 12 calendar months preceding the date of performance of the service, task, or procedure by the dental hygienist; and(3) the dental hygienist does not:(A) diagnose a dental disease or ailment;(B) prescribe a treatment or a regimen;(C) prescribe, order, or dispense medication; or(D) perform any procedure that is irreversible or involves the intentional cutting of soft or hard tissue by any means.(b) A licensed dentist may delegate to a dental hygienist any act that a dentist may delegate to a dental assistant.(c) A dentist is not required to be on the premises when the dental hygienist performs a delegated act.(d) This chapter does not prevent a dentist from authorizing a dental hygienist employed by the dentist to:(1) instruct and educate a patient in proper oral hygiene; or(2) provide to a patient a medication ordered by the dentist.(e) This chapter does not prevent a dental hygienist from incidentally removing cementum during root planing. Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. 9/1/1999.