To issue a prescription for dental hygiene services, the patient must be what?

• A. An insured patient.
• B. A patient of record.
• C. A patient under 12 years old.
• D. A new patient with no prior history.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a prescription for dental hygiene services can be issued only for someone who already has an established relationship with a dentist as a patient of record. In Florida, a patient of record is someone who has been examined by a licensed dentist, has a diagnosed plan of treatment, and is under ongoing care within the established dentist–patient relationship. This ensures there is a current diagnosis and a documented plan before hygiene services are prescribed, and it keeps supervision and accountability clear. Being insured, being under a certain age, or being a brand-new patient with no prior history do not by themselves authorize issuing a hygiene prescription. A new patient would need an initial exam and a formal treatment plan before becoming a patient of record.