The role of dental therapists (DTs) in the United States is evolving, offering a promising avenue for addressing oral health disparities. As primary care dental providers, DTs have been integrated into the U.S. healthcare system since 2005. This blog explores how practitioners can improve their skills by implementing research outcomes from the dental therapy movement, as well as encouraging further research to enhance health equity.
The Role of Dental Therapists in Advancing Health Equity
Dental therapists have been adopted across 13 states and several Tribal nations in the U.S., driven by a commitment to health equity. This movement focuses on community engagement and improving access to oral health care for underserved populations. By understanding the drivers behind this movement, practitioners can better align their practices with these goals.
Community Engagement and Workforce Diversity
Community engagement is at the heart of the dental therapy movement. Diverse statewide coalitions have been instrumental in advocating for DTs, emphasizing local workforce opportunities and self-determination. National accreditation standards have reduced educational barriers, allowing DTs to be trained in three years without an advanced degree. This approach not only improves workforce diversity but also ensures that care is culturally and linguistically appropriate.
Safe and High-Quality Care
The safety and effectiveness of DTs have been well-documented globally. In the U.S., DTs provide clinical and therapeutic care, including prevention and routine restorative services. Practitioners can enhance their skills by adopting best practices from DTs, focusing on preventive care and patient education to improve overall oral health outcomes.
Implementing Research Outcomes
The research article "Dental Therapists in the United States" highlights several key outcomes that practitioners can implement:
- Fostering Community Engagement: Engage with local communities to understand their unique needs and tailor services accordingly.
- Advocating for Policy Changes: Support policies that expand the scope of practice for DTs and other allied dental providers.
- Enhancing Workforce Diversity: Encourage diverse candidates to enter the field through accessible education programs.
- Improving Access to Care: Implement strategies that increase access to affordable oral health services for underserved populations.
The Path Forward: Encouraging Further Research
While significant progress has been made, ongoing research is essential to continue advancing health equity through dental therapy. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in research initiatives that explore new models of care and assess their impact on oral health outcomes.
Opportunities for Practitioners
- Participate in Research Studies: Collaborate with academic institutions to study the effects of dental therapy on patient outcomes.
- Contribute to Policy Discussions: Engage with policymakers to advocate for evidence-based changes that support DTs.
- Share Best Practices: Disseminate successful strategies within professional networks to promote widespread adoption of effective practices.
Conclusion
The dental therapy movement offers a unique opportunity for practitioners to enhance their skills while contributing to a more equitable healthcare system. By implementing research outcomes and engaging in further research, practitioners can play a pivotal role in advancing oral health equity across the United States.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Dental Therapists in the United States.
