All NPI Numbers of Advanced Practice Dental Therapist
What is an Advanced Practice Dental Therapist?
An advanced practitioner can provide preventive services, fillings, extractions and more for Medicaid/low-income patients. They have a master's degree and work under less supervision than regular therapists.
Where do they practice?
Most states do not recognize this role, but Minnesota and Maine have programs supervising advanced therapists. They typically work in community clinics, schools or low-income senior centers to increase access to care.
What is their education?
Programs are 2-3 years and lead to a master's degree after several years as a regular dental therapist. Curriculum focuses on expanded clinical skills and case management for vulnerable populations.
What procedures can they perform?
In addition to basic therapy duties, they may provide endodontic treatments, periodontal therapy, extractions, removable prosthetics and more - depending on state laws. The goal is maximizing their skills to serve unmet needs.
What is the career outlook?
This is an emerging role with potential for growth as more states recognize the ability to increase access to care through midlevel dental providers working under less direct dentist supervision. Legal/regulatory changes will impact future opportunities.