Utilization of nondentist providers and attitudes toward new provider models: findings from the National Dental Practice‐Based Research Network

Abstract

Objectives The purpose of this study was to quantify within The National Dental Practice-Based Research Network current utilization of dental hygienists and assistants with expanded functions and quantify network dentists’ attitudes toward a new non-dentist provider model - the dental therapist. Methods Dental practice-based research network practitioner-investigators participated in a single, cross-sectional administration of a questionnaire. Results Current non-dentist providers are not being utilized by network practitioner-investigators to the fullest extent allowed by law. Minnesota practitioners, practitioners in large group practices, and those with prior experience with expanded function non-dentist providers delegate at a higher rate and had more-positive perceptions of the new dental therapist model. Conclusions Expanding scopes of practice for dental hygienists and assistants has not translated to the maximal delegation allowed by law among network practices. This finding may provide insight into dentists’ acceptance of newer non-dentist provider models.

Assistance For Dentists In Lithuania

“…According to the results of our study, Lithuanian dentists should be taught that it is more effective to work with a qualified dental assistant rather than a specialist with low qualification and how to utilize the dental assistant's qualification fully. The same recommendations for foreign dental schools can be found in the literature -students should learn how to utilize their staff members more effectively [17]. Inclusion of contemporary four-handed practice subject in the curriculum could improve employment and increase the value of the profession of certified dental assistants in the long term.…”

“…Certified dental assistants are trained to perform various complex tasks, develop an effective four-handed dentistry practice in the dental surgery. Competent dental assistant increases productivity, reduces stress and strain on practicing dentist [17][18][19]. The results of the study show, that each third dentist of those who work with an assistant employ non-certified dental assistant (i.e.…”

“…As a result, inflammation of muscles, joints and tendons which causes pain and limited movements is not encouraged. A dentist who shares work and responsibilities with a dental assistant can pay more attention to his patient, therefore expanded function personnel has a positive effect on quality of dental care [17]. Recent study among USA dentists showed that nearly one quarter of respondents felt that employing dental personnel who can perform auxiliary tasks would free up their time for more complex and interesting dental procedures [17].…”

“…A dentist who shares work and responsibilities with a dental assistant can pay more attention to his patient, therefore expanded function personnel has a positive effect on quality of dental care [17]. Recent study among USA dentists showed that nearly one quarter of respondents felt that employing dental personnel who can perform auxiliary tasks would free up their time for more complex and interesting dental procedures [17]. Another research proved that practices that reported using allied dental personnel had more income, provided almost twice as many visits and had more auxiliary hours [18].…”

Minnesota dentists׳ attitudes toward the dental therapist workforce model

“…5 A study of dentists in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (NDPBRN) revealed 25% of dentists thought dental therapists would positively impact on quality of dental care; however, about half thought dental therapists would increase access to care. 6 In contrast, the majority of US dental deans (n¼44) agreed a mid-level provider like a dental therapist should play a role on the dental team. 7 To date, a cross sectional study of Minnesota dentists' attitudes and opinions of dental therapy and emerging workforce models has not been done.…”