Debate Over Dental Therapists Heats Up as Florida Faces Oral Health Crisis
As Florida grapples with a growing oral health crisis and skyrocketing emergency dental costs, lawmakers are revisiting the controversial question of whether to authorize dental therapists. Supporters say these midlevel practitioners could expand access in underserved areas, while opponents warn of potential risks to patient safety and quality of care.
Florida is facing mounting pressure to address its dental workforce shortage, and one possible solution is authorizing dental therapists. Statistics from the Well Florida Health Planning Council show the state continues to fall below the national average for dentist-to-population ratios, with access particularly limited in rural counties. More than 146,000 Floridians visited an emergency department for dental pain and infection in 2024 vs 117,000 in 2021. The cost for these emergency visits has reached $1 billion.
Supporters of dental therapy, including Floridians for Dental Access, the Florida Dental Hygienists’ Association, and more than 400 other organizations, argue that midlevel practitioners could help alleviate workforce shortages. Dental therapists complete Commission on Dental Accreditation-approved programs and are licensed to perform specific procedures, such as restorative care and uncomplicated extractions, under dentist supervision. Advocates point to decades of safe practice in other countries and other states.
The Florida Dental Association, however, has expressed concerns about introducing a new provider category, emphasizing the importance of maintaining patient safety and quality of care. As the legislative session kicks into gear, dentists across Florida will be closely watching as lawmakers revisit the issue and explore strategies to improve access to oral healthcare. Click here to read more.
