In Massachusetts, S 1169 and H 2474 are currently pending in their respective chambers.  The bill seek to authorize dental therapists in Massachusetts, and allow them to carry out numerous procedures, some irreversible, under general supervision.

A competing bill, SD 168, has also been introduced, and is pending before the Massachusetts Senate.  SD 168 seeks to create a Public Health Dental Practitioner (PHDP).  PHDPs would be authorized to provide the same services as registered dental hygienists, in addition to several more under the direct supervision of a dentist.  The list of authorized services PHDPs would be able to provide are listed in the text of the bill beginning on page 3.

As opposed to the dental therapists bills, SD 168 requires PHDPs to practice in dental health professional shortage areas or federally qualified community health centers.

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Michigan’s dental therapist bill, SB 541, is still pending before the Senate.  If you practice or live in Michigan, please take a moment to visit the AGD’s Action Center webpage and send a letter to your senator, urging them to oppose this bill.

If you would like more information on legislative matters in your state, or are interested in carrying out advocacy on AGD issues, please contact us at advocacy@agd.org or visit the AGD’s Advocacy webpage.