This bill establishes a new category of dental hygienists known as "extended care licensed dental hygienists" in Oklahoma, creating three levels of licensure: Extended Care Permit I, II, and III. Each level has specific qualifications, including required hours of dental hygiene care, training, and sponsorship by a licensed dentist. The bill outlines the scope of practice for these hygienists, which includes tasks such as the removal of deposits from teeth, application of fluoride, and providing dental hygiene instruction. Additionally, it mandates that dental hygienists must have professional liability insurance and limits the number of hygienists a supervising dentist can monitor to three.

Furthermore, the bill allows for Medicaid coverage for services provided by extended care dental hygienists, ensuring that underserved populations, including children and seniors, can access dental hygiene services. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026. Overall, this legislation aims to expand access to dental hygiene care while maintaining oversight and ensuring the quality of services provided.