Dental care does not exclusively concern the dentist alone. Dentist and a dental therapist are different based on some features.
Dental therapists and dentist are both important domains in the dental specialization. Nevertheless, they have specific discrepancies that can occasionally lead to confusion.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the differences between dental therapists and dental hygienists.

Dental Therapist

Dental therapists are oral health experts who are trained to provide a range of preventative and restorative dental procedures. They perform under the supervision of a dentist and are trained to provide dental care to a wide range of patients, including children and adults.
The function of dental therapists is to assist in the provision of dental care services, especially in areas where there are limited numbers of dentists. In most cases, dental therapists work in community dental clinics and are involved in providing basic dental care services such as fillings, paedo extractions, and oral health education.

They also perform preventive practices such as fluoride treatment, dental sealants, and scaling and polishing.
To become a dental therapist, individuals must finish a three-year diploma program at an accredited dental therapy school. The program covers a wide range of topics, including dental anatomy and physiology, radiography, pharmacology, and dental materials. Upon completion of the program, dental therapists must pass a licensing exam before they can practice in their respective states.

Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists are oral health specialists who are mostly responsible for preventive dental care services. Their primary function is to help patients keep good oral health by providing education on proper oral hygiene practices and performing preventive procedures such as scaling and polishing.
Dental hygienists perform closely with dentists and other oral health professionals to develop exhaustive treatment plans for patients. They may also perform diagnostic procedures such as taking X-rays and charting dental conditions. In some circumstances, dental hygienists may assist dentists in more complex procedures such as root canal therapy and dental implant placement.
To become a dental hygienist, individuals must complete a three-year-old associate degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program at an accredited dental hygiene school. The program also covers a wide range of topics, including dental anatomy and physiology, radiography, pharmacology, and dental materials. Upon completion of the program, dental hygienists must pass a licensing exam before they can practice in their respective states.

Key Differences between Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists

While there are some similarities between dental therapists and dental hygienists, there are also some significant differences. The prior difference between a dental Therapist and a a dental hygienist is;

  • Scope of practice.

Dental therapists are trained to provide preventative and restorative dental care services, while dental hygienists are primarily responsible for preventative care services. Dental therapists are authorized to perform a wider scope of procedures, including fillings, paedo extractions, and other basic restorative services, while dental hygienists focus on providing education and preventive procedures such as scaling and polishing.

  • The level of training required.

Dental therapists are required to complete a three-year diploma program, while dental hygienists are required to complete a three-year associate degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program.

Further, dental therapists are trained to work independently, while dental hygienists work closely with dentists and other oral health professionals.

  • Job Opportunities

Dental therapists and dental hygienists may have different job opportunities available to them. Dental therapists can work in different settings, including hospitals, schools, and public dental clinics. Dental hygienists, on the other hand, generally work in private practices, community clinics, and hospitals.
Finale
In the finale, Dental therapists are trained to work independently, while dental hygienists work closely with dentists and other oral health professionals. Ultimately, both fields play a critical role in the dental setting.