An oral health therapist studies extensively and can become an active member of the Dental Council of New Zealand. This allows them to practice oral health therapy on patients, performing the following functions:
- Preventative Care for All Ages
- Restorative Dentistry, Treatment and Oral Appliances
- Oral Health Advice and Patient Education
- Guidance and Referrals
- Health Promotion, Research and Policy Development
Our priority is oral health in Dunedin, so we offer oral health therapy along with general and advanced dental care.
The Role of Your Oral Health Therapist
Preventive Care for All Ages
An oral health therapist provides preventive treatment for patients of all ages via professional teeth cleans and dental sealants. These cleans are more thorough than the toothbrush and floss, ridding your smile of the stubborn tartar that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
Restorative Dentistry, Treatment and Oral Appliances
An oral health therapist can treat tooth decay in kids like a children’s dentist in Dunedin. The therapist can use filling material, such as composite resin (tooth-coloured fillings). The therapist may also treat gum disease using deep cleaning or other procedures. They can create or maintain oral appliances like mouthguards and nightguards to treat and aid in prevention.
Oral Health Advice and Patient Education
Your oral health therapist provides oral care guidance and patient education, allowing you to make the most of your at-home oral care routines. They can recommend specific products or an at-home maintenance schedule to address specific concerns.
Guidance and Referrals
For example, your oral health therapist can provide guidance if you have sensitive teeth. They can also refer you to specialists to address specific concerns.
Health Promotion, Research and Policy Development
An oral health therapist can raise awareness through health promotion, aid in dental care research and have a hand in policy development that helps patients enjoy healthier smiles.
Is It Time to Visit Your Oral Health Therapist?
To learn more or to book your next visit with the dentist or oral health therapist, we welcome your call on (03) 477 8387.
