Which statement best describes what a dentist's prescription for dental hygiene services must contain?

• A. The patient’s name and address, the dentist’s name, and the services authorized.
• B. The patient’s name and address, the dentist’s name and license number, the authorized dental hygienist’s details, and specific services authorized.
• C. The dentist’s license number only.
• D. The patient’s address only.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a dentist’s prescription for dental hygiene services must clearly identify who is involved, who the patient is, and exactly what procedures are authorized. This ensures a formal, traceable order that the hygienist can follow within the dentist’s supervision.

Specifically, the prescription should include the patient’s name and address to confirm who is receiving care, the dentist’s name plus license number to verify the prescriber’s licensure, details identifying the authorized dental hygienist who will perform the services, and a precise list of the services that are authorized. This combination creates accountability, confirms who is responsible for the treatment, and prevents performing any procedures outside the agreed scope.

Other options fall short because they omit essential elements: one misses the licensure verification or the hygienist’s identifying details, another lacks the patient’s full identification, and another omits the specific services to be performed. All of those gaps could lead to regulatory issues and inadequate patient safeguarding.