Which requirement is NOT necessary for a dental hygienist licensed in North Carolina regarding supervision styles?

In North Carolina, dental hygienists are allowed to practice under different supervision styles, which can include direct supervision, indirect supervision, or general supervision. Under general supervision, specifically, a dentist does not have to be physically present in the office while the hygienist performs certain services, provided that a written treatment plan has been established.

This means that it is not a requirement for the dentist to always be physically present for a dental hygienist to provide care. In contrast, there are still other supervisory requirements, such as the dentist needing to evaluate the patient, which ensures that the hygienist is operating within the parameters of necessary care for that specific patient. Additionally, having a written treatment plan is essential for all procedures performed by the hygienist, mapping out the intended course of action agreed upon between the dentist and the patient.

Thus, the requirement indicating that the dentist must always be physically present is not necessary for a dental hygienist practicing under the appropriate conditions in North Carolina, making this the correct answer.