Summary of SB 541

• Establishes licensure and regulatory framework for dental therapists in Michigan, including education requirements, examination standards, and continuing education of 35 hours every 2 years.

• Dental therapists must practice under dentist supervision with a written practice agreement and may provide services including oral evaluations, cleanings, extractions of primary teeth, restorations, local anesthetics, and nitrous oxide administration.

• Restricts dental therapist practice to specified health settings serving vulnerable populations, including federally qualified health centers, hospitals, correctional facilities, tribal health programs, and dental shortage areas.

• Limits supervising dentist to 4 dental therapists and dental therapist supervision to 3 dental assistants and 2 dental hygienists per practice setting.

• Establishes application and license fees for dental therapists ($15 application, $40 annual license fee) and requires study of impact on patient safety, access, and costs within 7 years; effective March 27, 2019.