Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental therapist?
Dental therapists are licensed dental care providers that provide community education and some of the most common dental procedures such as preparing and filling cavities. They work as part of a dentist-led team complementing the work of dental hygienists and dental assistants.
How do dental therapists improve care?
Dental therapists can work in any setting, but they are specifically trained to extend routine care into chronic shortage areas. They provide community education and the most frequently needed procedures including preparing and filling routine cavities and simple extractions. Dental therapists work as a part of the dentist-led dental care team including dental hygienists and dental assistants. They help to increase the capacity and productivity of the full team.
Where are dental therapists educated?
The Commission on Dental Accreditation, the same body that approves education programs for dentists, passed national accreditation standards for dental therapists in 2015. Currently, three schools in the U.S. are graduating providers, two in Minnesota and one in Alaska. Several more colleges and universities, including schools in Vermont and Washington are preparing to educate dental therapists.
Are dental therapists and dental hygienists the same?
No. Broadly speaking, dental hygienists are experts on the soft-tissue (gums) and cleaning while dental therapists primarily focus on the hard surfaces (the teeth) and filling cavities. Note: every state is different so reference state law for the most accurate information on the care dental therapists can provide in your community.
Where are dental therapists authorized to practice?
Dental therapists are authorized in some or all settings in Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Maine, New Mexico, Nevada, Vermont, and Washington, as well as through pilot programs in Oregon. Over a dozen other states and Tribal governments are in the process of exploring authorization of dental therapists.