Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am currently working as a Dental Therapist in a different country. I would like to work as a Dental Therapist in the US. 

We would recommend that you determine what state in the United States you would like to practice in. Each state has different requirements for what a dental therapist can/cannot do. Click here to view a chart that reviews the scope of work per state that has authorized dental therapy as a profession. Click here to view the second chart comparing laws by state. 

2. How do I support Dental Therapy? 

There are many ways you can support dental therapy. Research oral health care in your state and how dental therapy has been implemented in other states. Download or view articles and research from the ADTA's website: https://amdta.memberclicks.net/research. Educate policymakers about the beneficial impacts of dental therapy. You can bring visibility to dental therapy by endorsing dental therapy at dentaltherapy.org/endorse. Watch webinars from leaders throughout the country using the ADTA’s Learning Management System. Request a speaker from the ADTA to learn more about Dental Therapy for your local community.

3. How do I become a Dental Therapist? 

First, we recommend that you check and see which states have authroized dental therapy as a profession. You can view that information here.

Next, you will want to see what type of dental therapy education program you are interested in. There are currently four dental therapy programs in the United States, one in Alaska, one in Washington, and two in Minnesota. Three of these programs are CODA accredited. Accreditation status is important as some states require this. You can learn more about the individual education programs by clicking on the links below. 

• Ilisagvik Dental Therapy Program in Alaska (CODA Accredited)

• Skagit Valley Dental Therapy Program in Washington (CODA accredited)

• University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Dental Therapy Program (CODA accredited)

• Minnesota State University Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy

4. Am I still a member of the ADTA? 

You can check your membership status by logging into your account here.

If you would like to renew your membership or join the ADTA, complete this form.

5. What is a Dental Therapist’s scope of practice? 

The scope of practice for Dental Therapists can vary between states. To learn more about a Dental Therapist’s scope of practice, click here.

6. Where can I find resources or research about dental therapy? 

Visit our resources and research webpage to learn the facts about dental therapy. The National Partnership for Dental Therapy offers many resources regarding dental therapy. To visit their resource webpage, click here.