How dentists and oral health therapists work together?
Dentists and oral health therapists often work collaboratively to provide comprehensive dental care. Here's how they typically work together:
Shared Responsibilities: While dentists perform more complex procedures like surgical extractions, dental implant placement, root canal therapy and advanced restorative work; oral health therapists focus on preventive care, scaling and cleaning, and basic restorative procedures. This division allows both professionals to concentrate on their areas of expertise.
Collaborative Treatment Plans: Dentists and oral health therapists develop treatment plans together. For example, a dentist might diagnose a patient's condition and create a plan that includes regular oral hygiene measures and scaling, which the oral health therapist will carry out.
Paediatric Care: Oral health therapists often have a specific interest in children’s dental care. They provide routine check-ups, cleaning, and educational sessions for young patients, while the dentist handles more complex issues if they arise.
Preventive and Educational Roles: Oral health therapists play a significant role in educating patients about oral hygiene practices. Dentists rely on them to reinforce these practices and maintain patients' oral health between visits.
Routine Procedures: Oral health therapists handle routine procedures such as applying fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and filling small cavities. Dentists oversee these treatments and step in for more complex cases.
Emergency and Follow-up Care: Dentists handle emergency situations and complex dental treatments. Oral health therapists provide follow-up care and ensure that patients adhere to post-treatment instructions.
By working together, dentists and oral health therapists ensure that patients receive well-rounded and thorough dental care, maintaining both the health and aesthetics of their smiles.