Which organization sets the national standards for dental hygienists' practice?

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) is the organization that sets national standards for dental hygienists' practice. This professional association is specifically focused on promoting the profession of dental hygiene and advocating for high standards of care. The ADHA works to develop practice standards, establish educational guidelines, and provide resources to ensure dental hygienists are well-prepared and knowledgeable in their field.

By engaging in policy development and providing professional resources, the ADHA influences the advancements in best practices and contributes to the overall scope of practice within the dental hygiene profession. This makes the ADHA a pivotal organization in maintaining and improving the standards of care delivered by dental hygienists across the country, thereby setting the framework for how they operate within the dental healthcare system.

In contrast, the other organizations mentioned have different focuses. The American Dental Association (ADA) primarily represents dentists rather than hygienists, while the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is a research body that contributes to understanding dental and craniofacial health. The World Health Organization (WHO) is a global health agency that provides guidance and standards across a wide range of health issues, but it does not specialize in setting national standards for specific professions like dental hygiene.