How does this new position impact access to oral health care?
The dental hygiene profession is already on the frontline of defense against disease. However, due to current state practice acts, there are barriers imposed that do not allow the public direct access to preventive care and education from dental hygienists. Additionally, the U.S. is experiencing a crisis shortage of dentists available to treat the populations who need oral care the most. Millions of Americans in both rural and urban areas are unable to obtain care because there are not enough dentists practicing in those areas. Further, with government statistics revealing a projected decline in the number of dentists while there is a projected growth in the dental hygiene profession, it is clear that dental hygienists will be able to make a huge impact through this expanded role. The ADHP will expand the practice areas and offer this person the ability to serve the public in un-served areas by providing both preventive and restorative care.
