Dental therapy: evolving in Minnesota's safety net

Area of Science:

• Oral health policy
• Dental workforce development
• Public health dentistry

Background:

• Dental therapy is an evolving profession with varying levels of acceptance.
• Minnesota's dental safety net providers' perspectives on dental therapy were largely unknown prior to this study.
• Understanding early adoption patterns is crucial for workforce integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the initial employers of dental therapists in Minnesota.
• To survey dental safety net providers' perceptions of dental therapy.
• To assess prospective views on dental therapy employment options.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 32 Minnesota dental safety net providers was conducted in July 2011.
• An employment scan was utilized in October 2013 to identify early adopters.
• Data were collected to assess provider perceptions and employer characteristics.

Main Results:

• Prior to licensing, 77% of safety net dental clinic directors supported dental therapy.
• The initial employers of licensed dental therapists are predominantly safety net clinics.
• Dental therapists are being employed in diverse and innovative roles within these clinics.

Conclusions:

• Dental therapy has established a strong presence in Minnesota's safety net clinics, despite ongoing controversy.
• The diverse application of dental therapists highlights their potential within oral healthcare.
• Further research is recommended to establish best practices for integrating dental therapists into oral health teams.