Team and HR
General supervision
A level of supervision in which the dentist authorizes the work in advance but does not need to be present while it happens.
General supervision is one level of dentist oversight. A state chart from the American Dental Hygienists' Association describes it this way: the dentist needs to authorize prior to services, but need not be present. Rules differ by state.
It is one of several levels, which also include direct and indirect supervision. Dental therapists, for example, work under general supervision of a dentist with a written collaborative agreement in the states that allow the role.
General supervision is part of dental hygiene supervision and wider scope of practice rules. Check the dental practice act for the exact meaning in a given state. This entry is a general definition.