What is a dental therapist?

Following the establishment of the NHS in 1948, the extent of dental disease in the UK was recognised by the Government. The shortage of dental manpower was also evident and this led to the establishment of a course for dental auxiliaries (as dental therapists were then called) to carry out routine dental treatment under the prescription of a referring dentist. From this time on, dental therapists were employed in the community dental and hospital services primarily treating children, dental phobic and special needs patients. On 1st July 2002 legislation was passed to permit a dental therapist to work in general dental practice. Today, dental therapists are trained alongside fellow dental students and are trained to complete restorative procedures to the same standard as that of a dentist. This also helps to build a team approach to dentistry, where the dentist examines the patient and prescribes in writing the course of treatment that they would like the dental therapist to carry out. This delegation to a qualified dental therapist creates more available time for the dentist to carry out complex dental treatments.  On 31st July 2006, legislation was passed to further develop the role of dental therapists in general dental practice. One day the title dental therapist will become as well known as that of dental nurse, dental hygienist and dentist.

What can our dental therapist do for you? 
Veronica has spent many years working in the community dental service treating children, dental phobic and special needs patients. She brings these skills with her into general practice. As a dental therapist, Veronica is qualified to carry out fillings, in both deciduous and permanent teeth for adults and children. She will administer local anaesthetic where, and when, necessary.

• Amalgam fillings.
• Composite fillings.
• Extraction of deciduous teeth.
• Pulp therapy treatment of deciduous teeth.
• Placement of pre-formed (stainless steel) crowns for severely decayed deciduous teeth.
• Take impressions.
• Emergency, temporary replacement of crowns and fillings.
• As a dental therapist, Veronica has also attained the skills of a dental hygienist and many of our patients are referred to her for regular periodontal maintenance.
• She is also qualified to treat gum disease, and patients may be referred to her for periodontal therapy.
• If you have areas of early decay, your dentist may refer you to Veronica for diet advice and fluoride application to prevent cavity formation.
• Fissure sealants can be applied as a preventative treatment.