Getting professional dental care is important for everyone. Most people go to a dentist for dental care; however, there are other alternatives when searching for a professional to help care for a person’s teeth and mouth. One of those professionals is a dental therapist. Dental therapists are licensed and trained for dental care, and they work in conjunction with a dental care team to provide care to certain populations, such as those who are uninsured, low-income or living in an underserved area.
What Does a Dental Therapist Do?
Many people think of dental therapists like advanced dental hygienists. They are trained more than hygienists are — but not as much as dentists. Dental therapists can do basic, routine dental work like cleaning teeth, installing fillings, seating temporary crowns and pulling teeth.
In certain states like Maine and Vermont, dental therapists don’t need direct supervision while performing more complex procedures. States like Arizona, Connecticut, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio and Texas are thinking of following suit. However, while there are some states in which dental therapists can perform procedures without a dentist present, all dental therapists must be supervised in some capacity by a licensed dentist.
How Does a Dental Therapist Differ from a Dental Hygienist or Dentist?
Since dental therapists have more training than hygienists, they are able to perform more complex procedures. However, they are not authorized to perform highly complex procedures like installing permanent crowns, doing basic oral surgery and more.
What Training or Education Has a Dental Therapist Received?
To become a licensed dentist, a person must attend dental school full time for four years. Dental therapy programs are shorter than dentistry programs — and they often range in length from 24 months to 32 months.
When Should Someone See a Therapist vs. a Dentist?
There are more than 14,000 dental therapists around the world. And, while dental therapists aren’t prevalent in all American states, access to them is continuing to grow.
For someone who doesn’t have access to a dentist in their geographical area, a dental therapist may be a good option. Alternatively, if an individual doesn’t have income or insurance but needs to pay for oral care, they might find that a dental therapist is a more affordable option. However, it’s still important to see a dentist if the dental therapist recommends more extensive work, or if the patient needs a serious procedure like oral surgery.
