California Dental Board debates AB 873 infection control training for unlicensed dental assistants

In a recent meeting of the Dental Hygiene Board of California, held on March 21, 2025, significant discussions unfolded regarding proposed legislative changes that could impact dental assistants and patient safety. The atmosphere was charged with concern as board members and public participants voiced their opinions on two key bills: AB 873 and AB 489.

AB 873 proposes to amend the current requirement for unlicensed dental assistants to complete an 8-hour infection control course before they can handle potentially infectious materials. The new bill would allow these assistants a 90-day grace period to complete the course after starting their employment. While some board members expressed support for this change, citing workforce shortages and the need for practical training, others raised alarms about patient safety. They argued that allowing unlicensed assistants to work without immediate training could jeopardize both their safety and that of patients.

Dr. Tukas Okhai from the California Dental Association (CDA) advocated for the bill, emphasizing that it balances patient safety with practical workforce needs. He argued that the proposed timeline would enable new hires to apply their real-world experiences to their training. However, the California Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) firmly opposed the bill, insisting that no unlicensed individual should handle infectious materials without proper training. They highlighted the risks involved, drawing parallels to food safety regulations that require immediate training before handling food.

The board ultimately decided to take an "oppose" stance on AB 873, reflecting the consensus that patient safety must remain paramount. The discussions highlighted a broader concern about the implications of workforce shortages in the dental field and the need for adequate training protocols.

Another bill discussed, AB 489, aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare advertising, ensuring that AI does not mislead consumers into believing they are interacting with licensed professionals. The board recommended a watch position on this bill, indicating a cautious approach as they monitor its development.

As the meeting concluded, the board members recognized the importance of balancing workforce needs with the critical responsibility of ensuring patient safety. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the dental community in California, particularly in navigating legislative changes that impact both practitioners and the public they serve. The board's commitment to consumer protection remains a guiding principle as they continue to address these complex issues in future meetings.