Attitudes of Virginia Dental Hygienists Toward Dental Therapists
Problem: The purpose of this study was to determine the opinions and attitudes of Virginia dental hygienists toward dental therapists (DTs) and to determine if current education level and years of practice affected opinions regarding education requirements for DTs. Methods: After IRB approval, a 22-item questionnaire was distributed online to a convenience sample of 910 Virginia dental hygienists. Questions assessed attitudes of participants toward the DT using a seven-point Likert-type scale ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 7 (strongly agree). Additionally, participants were asked to respond to demographic questions and open-ended questions about potential advantages and/or disadvantages to DTs. Independent sample t-tests and chi-square analysis was used to analyze results. Results: An overall response rate of 22% was obtained (n=200). Most respondents agreed a DT was needed in Virginia (M=5.78, P
Dental therapist, Dental therapy, Mid level dental practitioner, Mid level dental provider, Mid level oral health practitioner, Mid level oral health provider, Dentistry, Public Health
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