Browsing: Dental Therapy

Dental therapists are mid-level providers — similar to physician assistants or nurse practitioners — who perform preventive, restorative and intermediate restorative procedures such as fluoride applications, cavity repairs and extractions of diseased teeth. These licensed professionals work under the general supervision of dentists and often practice in locations with underserved populations.

1.2 million Wisconsinites live in dental care shortage areas. Children, seniors, veterans & the disabled are most likely to lack access to oral care. Here’s a successful effort to provide dental care to underserved populations without relying on taxpayers.

University of Minnesota Ph.D. candidate Jason Hicks testifies in favor of 2019 SB 89 before the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Health and Human Services on August 21, 2019

2019 SB 89 would provide for the licensure of dental therapists, who are health care practitioners who may engage in the limited practice of dentistry.

Badger Institute Policy Analyst Julie Grace testifies in favor of 2019 SB 89 before the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Health and Human Services on August 21, 2019

2019 SB 89 would provide for the licensure of dental therapists, who are health care practitioners who may engage in the limited practice of dentistry.

The creation of the dental therapy profession in Wisconsin through Senate Bill 89 would be an important step in improving access to and usage of dental care for disadvantaged and underserved populations in Wisconsin and potentially reducing negative economic and societal costs associated with poor oral health.