Signed by Governor Peter Shumlin

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes and regulates dental therapy.

Highlights:

• Establishes the profession of dental therapy and requires an individual, licensed as a dental hygienist, to graduate from a dental therapist educational program, complete an examination, and pay an application fee to become a dental therapist (Sec. 1).

• Requires a dental therapist to enter into a written collaborative agreement with a licensed dentist and work under the dentist’s general supervision (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that a supervising dentist and dental therapist are not required to practice in the same building (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes a dental therapist to perform certain procedures, including, but not limited to, root canals, suture removal, and crown replacement (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text