Which of the following is NOT a duty that an unlicensed DA may perform?

An unlicensed dental assistant (DA) is allowed to perform several tasks under California dental law, but there are clear boundaries regarding the duties they are permitted to undertake. Performing dental hygiene tasks is specifically reserved for licensed dental hygienists. This is because dental hygiene involves not only technical skills but also a comprehensive understanding of dental diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient management, which requires formal education and licensure.

In contrast, charting clinical records, sterilization, and taking intraoral impressions for non-prosthodontic appliances are tasks that are typically within the scope of practice for an unlicensed DA. These duties do not require the same level of expertise, licensure, or direct patient care as dental hygiene tasks do. Thus, the correct answer highlights the limitations of an unlicensed DA in performing certain tasks that require licensure and a deeper level of training.