Dental Therapist

Dental Therapist

The Dental Therapist provides preventive and restorative dental care to patients under the supervision of a dentist, with a focus on oral health needs, disease prevention, and basic restorative treatments within the defined scope of practice. This role prioritizes patient care, comfort, and safety while combining strong clinical skills with patient education to promote oral health.

The Dental Therapist practices in accordance with established clinical protocols, regulatory requirements, and organizational policies and ensures the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care. This role collaborates closely with dentists and other members of the care team to support coordinated treatment planning and continuity of care.

Essential Job Functions

1. Provides comprehensive patient care through assessment, treatment planning, implementation, and evaluation using the dental hygiene and therapy process, in collaboration with a supervising dentist and in accordance with Wisconsin Dental Examining Board scope of practice requirements.
2. Performs preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic clinical procedures as delegated and authorized by a licensed dentist, in accordance with established clinical protocols, Wisconsin state regulations, and organizational policies.
3. Delivers restorative dental services within the Wisconsin dental therapy scope of practice, including preparation and placement of restorations, placement of temporary restorations, and extraction of nonsurgical primary or permanent teeth as permitted under Wisconsin law.
4. Collaborates with dentists in the development, implementation, and execution of patient treatment plans to ensure coordinated, comprehensive, and continuous care.
5. Provides patient education and counseling on oral hygiene, preventive care, and post-treatment instructions to promote long-term oral health and disease prevention.
6. Documents all patient care accurately, thoroughly, and in a timely manner in the electronic dental record, ensuring compliance with organizational standards, billing requirements, and applicable regulations.
7. Adheres to infection prevention and control standards, including CDC, OSHA, and Wisconsin-specific requirements, to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
8. Recognizes, responds to, and assists in the management of medical and dental emergencies in accordance with established protocols and clinical training.
9. Participates in quality improvement and performance initiatives designed to enhance patient outcomes, access to care, operational efficiency, and clinical effectiveness within the dental service line.
10. Performs routine maintenance and care of dental instruments, equipment, and operatory readiness to ensure safe and efficient clinical operations.
11. Maintains active licensure and ongoing competency through continuing education, skills development, and compliance with Wisconsin Dental Examining Board requirements and organizational standards.
12. Communicates effectively with patients, dentists, hygienists, assistants, and interdisciplinary care team members to support coordinated, patient-centered care delivery.
13. Practices within the defined scope of dental therapy licensure under Wisconsin law and complies with all federal, state, and local regulations, including HRSA and FQHC program requirements, as well as Family Health Center policies and procedures.
14. Maintain regular attendance to perform essential job functions.
15. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Associate's Degree in Dental Therapy.

Certifications / Licenses

1. Wisconsin Registered Dental Therapist License.
2. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification at time of hire, or within three-months of employment.
3. Valid Wisconsin Driver's License required with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR), per FHC guidelines.

Equal Employment Opportunity