Which of the following describes the responsibility of work authorization to the dental laboratory?

Correct answer: B. The laboratory should be directly in touch with the dentist

• A. While patient preferences guide esthetic decisions, the DENTIST bears professional responsibility for the final prosthesis outcome, including instructing the laboratory appropriately.
• B. The laboratory work authorization (laboratory prescription/work order) must be directed TO and FROM the licensed DENTIST. The ADA and state practice acts require that the dentist supervise and be responsible for laboratory work. The lab's primary professional relationship is with the dentist, not the patient or auxiliary staff.
• C. Dental assistants CANNOT be the responsible party for laboratory work authorization. The licensed DENTIST bears ultimate responsibility for the prescription sent to the laboratory.
• D. In most jurisdictions, only the licensed dentist may write or authorize the laboratory prescription/work order.