| If the midlevel dental provider movement is going to continue to grow as it has over the past several years, it will be crucial to evaluate and learn from the midlevel dental providers currently practicing in the United States. A study released by Community Catalyst in May did just that and asked the question—are midlevel dental providers, such as dental therapists, economically viable? The answer was a clear yes. Not only were dental therapists found to be economically viable, costing less than 30 cents for every dollar of revenue they generate, they were also found to be effective at providing preventive care to low-income children and adults. The research, from Frances M. Kim, DDS, DrPH, was the first to look at how dental therapists are working out in the field. And the results are promising. |
