Dental Therapist
— BECOMING A DENTAL THERAPIST
Dental Therapist
A dental therapist is a licensed oral health professional who practices as part of the dental team to provide educational, clinical and therapeutic patient services. There are two types of dental therapists in Minnesota, one is a traditional licensed Dental Therapist and the other is a licensed Dental Therapist that has met certain criteria and achieved certification for Advanced Dental Therapist distinction. Dental Therapists and Advanced Dental Therapists have a specific scope of practice and are required to have a collaborative management agreement with dentists.
— LEARNING
Educational programs in Minnesota
There are currently three educational programs in Minnesota that offer dental therapy programs:
University of Minnesota Dental School Division of Dental Therapy
Director
612-625-2161
Minnesota State University, Mankato, Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy
Dental Director
507-389-1342
Metro State University
Doris Hill
Dean of Nursing & Health Sciences
Andrea Jordan
Department Chair
651.-793-1369
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— GET TO KNOW MORE —
Fast facts
What education is needed to become a dental therapist?
Certificate post Bachelor’s degree; Master’s Degree
What is the typical practice setting of a dental therapist?
Minnesota dental therapists are limited (by State statute) to primarily practicing in settings that serve low-income, uninsured, and underserved patients or a dental health professional shortage area.
Where can I find more information?
Check out https://www.americandentaltherapyassociation.org/for-students and https://www.mndta.org/ for more information.