2018 Supplement

Perspectives on the Midlevel Practitioner

2018 Supplement

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Access to dental care remains an ongoing challenge for many Americans; however, strides are being made. Direct access to patients and the continued growth of dental therapy are helping more vulnerable populations to receive professional oral health care. Advances in teledentistry and handheld radiography also help support the efforts of dental hygienists and midlevel practitioners in reaching those individuals who most need dental care. We hope you enjoy this overview of access to care problems and solutions with an emphasis on the role of midlevel practitioners. 

INTRODUCTION

SUSTAINING FORWARD MOMENTUM

By Lorene G. Kent, RDH, BA

ACCESS TO CARE

THE TRAGIC COST OF POOR ACCESSIBILITY TO DENTAL CARE

While progress has been made, there is much work to be done to ensure that all Americans have access to professional oral health care services.
By Mary Otto

IMPROVING ACCESS TO CARE

There are research-supported strategies to expand access to dental care for the United States’ most vulnerable residents.
By Frank Catalanotto, DMD

 

REGULATORY REPORTS

THE IMPACT OF DIRECT ACCESS AND DENTAL THERAPY

Many states are expanding scope of practice for dental hygienists and considering dental therapy to meet the need for oral health care among vulnerable populations.

DENTAL THERAPY PROGRESSES

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association continues advocating for reforms to expand the reach of dental hygienist-based dental therapy models, as well as high educational standards.
By Ann Lynch

CLINICAL PRACTICE

 

CAREER TRAJECTORY OF A DENTAL THERAPIST

A dental therapist practicing in Minnesota shares an inside look at his professional path.
By Drew Christianson, MDT, ADT

TELEDENTISTRY AND THE MIDLEVEL PRACTITIONER

Teledentistry’s wide array of options enable oral health professionals to effectively promote health and prevent disease.
By Tracye A. Moore, RDH, MS, EdD, and Sheba Jones, RDH, BSDH, AP

TECHNIQUE TIPS FOR HANDHELD RADIOGRAPHY

Appropriate training and keeping up to date on research are key to ensuring the safe and effective use of a handheld X-ray device.
By Ann M. Bruhn, RDH, BSDH, MS, and Kimberly Lintag, RDH, BSDH, MS

INNOVATIONS IN RESTORATIVE HYGIENE

The Early Childhood Oral Health Training Program expands access to care and dental hygienists’ scope of practice.
By Marilynn Rothen, RDH, MS; Grace Choi, BA, RDH; Travis Nelson, DDS, MSD, MPH; and Amy Kim, DDS