Perspectives of Board Certified Pediatric Dentists on Adding a Pediatric Oral Health Therapist to the Dental Team

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the perspectives of board certified pediatric dentists regarding adding a pediatric oral health therapist/dental therapist to the dental team. Methods: A 27-item online survey was e-mailed to all diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Questions assessed knowledge and opinions regarding the concept of a pediatric oral health therapist, as well as perspectives on the parameters under which such a person could practice. Survey results were tabulated and frequency distributions calculated. Results: Seventy-five percent of respondents hod limited or no knowledge regarding the concept of a pediatric oral health therapist; 79% had limited or no knowledge regarding the use of dental therapists in Alaska. Seventy-one percent disagreed with adding a therapist to the dental team. Pediatric dentists practicing in the public sector were more knowledgeable and supportive. Sixty-six percent indicated they treated children with Medicaid/CHIP insurance. Of those, most disagreed that therapists would enable them to care for more children. Conclusions: Pediatric dentists ore generally not knowledgeable regarding the role of therapists internationally Nevertheless, the majority oppose adding such on individual to the dental team in the United States. (Pediatr Dent 2010;32:505-12) Received July 8, 2009 / Last Revision September 16, 2009 / Accepted September 17, 2009