New regulations set for dental assistants performing coronal scaling in Illinois

In the heart of Illinois, a legislative shift is underway as Senate Bill 1463, introduced on March 13, 2025, seeks to redefine the role of dental assistants in the state. This bill aims to expand the scope of practice for dental assistants, allowing them to perform specific procedures under certain conditions, a move that has sparked both support and concern among dental professionals and patients alike.

At its core, Senate Bill 1463 is designed to address the growing demand for dental care, particularly among underserved populations. The bill permits dental assistants with at least 2,000 hours of direct clinical patient care experience and completion of a structured training program to perform coronal scaling and intracoronal temporization. These procedures, which involve cleaning above the gum line and temporary filling of teeth, are limited to patients aged 17 and younger who are either uninsured, eligible for Medicaid, or whose household income does not exceed 300% of the federal poverty level.

The training program outlined in the bill is rigorous, requiring a minimum of 32 hours of instruction covering essential topics such as dental anatomy and emergency management. Additionally, dental assistants must demonstrate competency through an outcome assessment examination and complete a specified number of procedures under the supervision of a licensed dentist. This structured approach aims to ensure that dental assistants are well-prepared to take on these expanded functions while maintaining patient safety.

However, the bill has not been without its controversies. Critics argue that allowing dental assistants to perform these tasks could compromise the quality of care, especially in vulnerable populations. Concerns have been raised about the potential for inadequate supervision, as the bill limits dentists to overseeing no more than two dental assistants performing coronal scaling at any given time. Proponents, on the other hand, emphasize the bill's potential to alleviate the burden on dentists and improve access to dental care for those who need it most.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications extend beyond the dental office. If passed, it could reshape the landscape of dental care in Illinois, potentially serving as a model for other states grappling with similar access issues. Experts suggest that the success of Senate Bill 1463 may hinge on the balance it strikes between expanding access to care and ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and quality.

With a sunset provision set for January 1, 2026, the future of this bill remains uncertain. As stakeholders continue to debate its merits, one thing is clear: Senate Bill 1463 represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of dental practice in Illinois, one that could redefine the roles of dental professionals and the care they provide to their communities.