Legally, who is permitted to take final impressions?

The correct choice is dentists because they possess the necessary training, expertise, and legal authority to perform the procedure of taking final impressions in a dental setting. This process is a critical component in restorative and prosthodontic procedures, requiring a deep understanding of dental anatomy, the materials used in impressions, and the implications of the impression on the final outcome of dental work.

Dental hygienists, while trained professionals, typically focus on preventive care and may not have the legal scope or training to take final impressions. Similarly, dental assistants support dentists in various tasks but do not usually have the authorization to perform procedures that require clinical judgment or the finality of a dental impression. Patients, naturally, lack the training and expertise to make accurate impressions themselves.

Thus, the role of the dentist is essential in ensuring that impressions are taken accurately and safely, contributing to the overall success of dental treatments.