Can a licensed veterinary technician extract loose teeth or dental fragments under supervision?

A licensed veterinary technician is not permitted to extract loose teeth or dental fragments. This restriction is primarily due to the level of skill and the potential risks involved in dental extractions. While veterinary technicians play crucial roles in dental care, including cleanup and assisting veterinarians, they do not have the legal authority to perform extractions themselves.

Direct supervision typically requires a licensed veterinarian to be present and engaged with the procedure, allowing for immediate intervention if necessary. However, the specific nature of extraction procedures involves surgical skills and decision-making that must remain within the purview of a veterinarian. Thus, while veterinary technicians can assist and carry out many duties within a dental procedure, they cannot legally extract teeth or dental fragments on their own or even under direct supervision. This ensures the safety and well-being of the animal, as well as adherence to veterinary practice laws and regulations.