Can Dental Assistants Clean Teeth?

Many students interested in dentistry wonder whether dental assistants are permitted to clean teeth. The short answer: no, dental assistants generally do not perform cleanings in Maryland. However, they play an essential supporting role in the process and perform many other vital duties that keep dental practices running smoothly. At Baltimore Dental Assistant School, students learn exactly what tasks they can—and can’t—perform under Maryland regulations, preparing them for success in the dental field.

Understanding a Dental Assistant’s Scope of Practice

Each state determines what dental assistants are allowed to do. In Maryland, dental assistants assist the dentist during procedures, prepare instruments, take impressions, and handle X-rays—but they do not perform professional dental cleanings. Only licensed dental hygienists or dentists may remove plaque, tartar, or stains from teeth.

Despite this restriction, dental assistants play a crucial role in patient care before, during, and after cleanings. As Chris Lofton, CEO of Zollege, explains:

“Even though dental assistants can’t perform cleanings, they are central to patient comfort and procedural success in every visit.”

What Dental Assistants Can Do in Maryland

At Baltimore Dental Assistant School, students learn a wide range of clinical and administrative skills that support dental hygienists and dentists, including:

• Preparing patients and operatory rooms

• Assisting during cleanings, fillings, and exams

• Taking and developing dental X-rays

• Sterilizing instruments and maintaining infection control

• Taking dental impressions

• Performing coronal polishing (with certification)

• Managing patient records and scheduling appointments

Students are also trained to help patients feel comfortable and informed, ensuring each visit goes smoothly.

Coronal Polishing vs. Cleaning

One important distinction is between coronal polishing and teeth cleaning. In some states, certified dental assistants can perform coronal polishing, which removes surface stains from the enamel but does not involve deep cleaning below the gum line. At Baltimore Dental Assistant School, students learn the difference between these procedures and when each is appropriate.

Hands-On Training at Baltimore Dental Assistant School

The school’s 12-week program combines classroom instruction, clinical lab practice, and externship experience. Students train directly in dental offices to gain real-world exposure to procedures, patient communication, and infection control. By graduation, they understand the teamwork required during cleanings and exams—even if they’re not the ones performing them. As the program manager explains:

“Our students become experts in assisting with cleanings and making patients feel at ease before, during, and after the procedure.”

FAQs

Can dental assistants in Maryland clean teeth like hygienists?
No. Only licensed dental hygienists or dentists are allowed to perform cleanings in Maryland.

What’s the difference between a dental assistant and a dental hygienist?
Dental assistants focus on clinical support and patient coordination, while hygienists perform cleanings and preventive treatments.

Can I become a hygienist after being a dental assistant?
Yes. Many dental assistants go on to further their education and become hygienists after gaining hands-on experience.

Do dental assistants help during cleanings?
Absolutely. They prepare tools, assist with suction, and ensure patient comfort throughout the cleaning process.

Though they can’t clean teeth, dental assistants are indispensable members of the dental team—ensuring every patient receives quality, comfortable care from start to finish.