SB 184 - Dental Therapy Summary

• Authorizes the Board of Dentistry to license and regulate dental therapists, with requirements including graduation from an accredited program, passing a practical/clinical examination (ADEX), and passing a written exam on Florida dental laws.

• Dental therapists must practice under general supervision of a dentist through a written collaborative management agreement and are limited to specified settings including health access settings, nursing facilities, schools, correctional facilities, and areas designated as dental shortage areas.

• Authorizes dental therapists to perform preventive, educational, and therapeutic dental services including evaluating radiographs, placing fillings, administering local anesthesia, and performing other services per American Dental Association accreditation standards.

• Requires dental therapists to complete 24-36 hours of continuing education biennially and establishes a Council on Dental Therapy (28 months after first license is granted) to advise the Board of Dentistry on regulations and licensing.

• Expands Medicaid reimbursement for dental services in mobile dental units owned or operated by health access settings and similar programs serving low-income and vulnerable populations.