After completing the required course, how fast can a Dental Assistant II operate a slow-speed handpiece?

The correct answer reflects the understanding of specific regulatory guidelines that apply to the operation of dental handpieces by trained dental assistants. For a Dental Assistant II, the maximum speed they are permitted to operate a slow-speed handpiece is 10,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). This limit is established to ensure patient safety and effective operation of dental equipment.

Operating within this range allows the dental assistant to use the handpiece for tasks such as polishing teeth or removing decay without exceeding the capabilities of the equipment or the safety of the procedure. This regulation is crucial, as it balances efficiency with the need to minimize risks associated with excessive speed, such as damage to dental tissues or equipment.

In comparison, the other choices suggest maximum speeds that either exceed this regulatory limit or imply a lack of regulation, which is not accurate. Regulation provides a framework for practice that ensures all dental professionals, including assistants, are trained and operate within safe and defined parameters.