Dental therapist

A Dental therapist is a licensed oral health professional who provides preventive and restorative dental care, usually for children and adolescents. The role of a dental therapist can vary depending on the country and the specific regulations in place.

History

The concept of a dental therapist originated in New Zealand in the 1920s. The aim was to provide dental care to children in rural areas where there was a shortage of dentists. The idea has since spread to other countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Role and Responsibilities

Dental therapists are trained to provide a range of dental care services. These can include:

• Oral health education
• Preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatments
• Restorative care such as fillings and extractions
• Referring patients to dentists or specialists for more complex procedures

Education and Training

In most countries, dental therapists must complete a specific course of study and pass a licensing exam. The length and content of the training program can vary, but it typically includes both classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice.

Regulation

The regulation of dental therapists varies by country. In some places, they are regulated by the same body that regulates dentists, while in others they are regulated separately. Regulation typically includes requirements for education, licensing, and ongoing professional development.

See Also

• Dentist
• Oral health
• Dental hygiene
• Dental assistant