At Hampshire Dentists, we’re always looking for ways to enhance your care, which is why we now have two skilled Dental Therapists, Leena and Vaida, on our team. Dental Therapy is a relatively new concept in dentistry, so you may not be familiar with it yet. However, Therapists play a key part in delivering modern, comprehensive care. In this post, we’ll explain what Therapists do and how they can support your oral health.
What is a Dental Therapist?
A Therapist is a highly trained dental care professional who provides a range of preventive and restorative treatments. They have a unique role that sits between a dental hygienist and a dentist. Therapists are trained to perform many procedures that, traditionally, only dentists were known to carry out, which makes them an essential part of modern dental practices. They work closely with dentists to ensure a comprehensive approach to your care.
What can they do?
Therapists are equipped with a wide range of skills and can perform many treatments that you may not expect. Here are some key services they provide:
- Routine examinations and assessments
Dental Therapists can carry out regular check-ups to assess your oral health. If they spot any concerns, such as tooth decay or gum disease, they will either provide treatment themselves or refer you to a dentist for more complex care. - Fillings and restorations
Therapists are fully qualified to treat cavities and perform fillings, restoring your teeth using the latest techniques. - Children’s dentistry
Therapists play a crucial role in children’s dental care, offering routine exams, cleanings and education on oral hygiene. They can also extract baby teeth (when required) and apply treatments to protect young teeth from decay. - Preventive care and oral health advice
Preventive care is a core part of a Therapist’s role. This includes professional cleanings to remove plaque and calculus, along with guidance on maintaining oral health at home including brushing, flossing, and diet tips. - Treatment of gum disease
Prevention and management of gum disease is a key part of a Therapist’s role. Professional deep cleaning and advice on home care can help you maintain healthy gums.
Want to find out more. Click here to see further information from the British Society of Hygiene and Therapy.
Why see a Dental Therapist?
There are several advantages to seeing a Dental Therapist:
- Convenience: with Dental Therapists managing some routine and preventive care, we can offer more appointment availability, reducing waiting times and providing greater flexibility for your visits.
- Preventive focus: Therapists are experts in preventive care, they help catch problems early which can save you from needing more complex treatments down the line.
- Gentle approach with nervous patients: Therapists are often praised for their gentle and calm approach, making them especially suited for treating children and nervous patients. Their focus on prevention and less invasive procedures can create a more relaxed experience.
Working alongside your Dentist
It’s important to know that Therapists don’t work in isolation, they work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive care. If you need more complex treatment, your dental therapist will refer you to a dentist. This collaborative approach ensures that you receive the most appropriate and effective care.
Your Hampshire Dentists Therapists
We’re proud to have Leena and Vaida, two experienced Therapists, on our team. They are here to support your oral health whether you need a check-up, a filling, or help managing gum health.
If you’d like to book an appointment or learn more about how Dental Therapists can enhance your dental care contact us today. We’re here to make your dental care as smooth and effective as possible.
Vaida
Leena
