Oral Health Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of health consciousness, the importance of Oral Health Therapists has never been more pronounced.

As oral health awareness progresses, the demand for proficient individuals who can diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health issues becomes more crucial.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Oral Health Therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate responsibilities of an oral health therapist,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a versatile Oral Health Therapist job description template, intended for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Oral Health Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Oral Health Therapists are responsible for promoting oral health and treating oral diseases.

They are a crucial part of any dental team, providing preventive and restorative dental care, primarily for children and adolescents, but also for some adults.

The duties and responsibilities of an Oral Health Therapist include:

• Perform oral examinations to assess patient oral health and diagnose dental diseases
• Provide preventive dental care, including cleaning, scaling, and polishing teeth
• Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and the importance of regular dental check-ups
• Apply fluorides and other cavity-preventing agents to arrest dental decay
• Treat gum diseases and other oral conditions
• Take and develop dental radiographs (x-rays)
• Assist dentists during various dental procedures
• Provide care instructions for patients after surgeries or dental procedures
• Conduct screenings for oral cancer and other oral diseases
• Maintain accurate patient records and safeguard their privacy and confidentiality
• Follow infection control and safety guidelines to maintain a clean and safe working environment
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in oral health and dental hygiene

 

Oral Health Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a qualified Oral Health Therapist to join our dental team.

Your main responsibilities will include providing preventative and restorative dental care, health education, and counseling to promote optimal oral health.

The ideal candidate should have a thorough understanding of dental procedures and the ability to educate patients on the importance of oral health.

They should be experienced in performing routine cleanings, applying sealants, and assessing oral conditions.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform routine dental examinations and cleanings
• Apply fluoride treatments and sealants as preventative measures
• Diagnose and treat oral health conditions in collaboration with dentists
• Provide instructions on dental hygiene practices
• Document patient dental history and treatment plans
• Assess oral health conditions and refer patients to appropriate dental specialists when necessary
• Conduct oral health promotional activities and campaigns
• Ensure strict compliance with safety and sanitation standards in the dental clinic

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Oral Health Therapist or similar role
• Graduate of an accredited Dental Hygiene or Oral Health Therapy program
• Current licensure as a Dental Hygienist or Oral Health Therapist
• Excellent knowledge of oral hygiene and dental health
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle dental instruments efficiently
• Keen attention to detail
• CPR certification

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Oral Health Therapist
• Work Environment: Dental Clinic. Some travel may be required for community oral health education and promotion activities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Dentist or Dental Clinic Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Oral Health Therapist Do?

Oral Health Therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who work primarily in dental practices or public health organizations.

Their primary role is to provide oral health assessments, treatments, and preventive care to patients.

This involves conducting oral examinations, cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and applying protective materials such as sealants and fluorides to the teeth.

Oral Health Therapists also play a crucial role in diagnosing dental diseases and conditions.

They refer patients to dentists or other healthcare professionals when necessary for further treatment.

In addition to this, they are responsible for educating patients and communities about proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of regular dental check-ups.

This can involve delivering oral health education programs in schools, community centers, or other public settings.

Oral Health Therapists may also be involved in research activities, contributing to the field of oral health and helping to develop better dental care strategies.

Ultimately, the role of an Oral Health Therapist is to improve the oral health of individuals and communities, contributing to overall health and wellbeing.

 

Oral Health Therapist Qualifications and Skills

An Oral Health Therapist should have qualifications and skills that match with the requirements of the role, including:

• Proficiency in a variety of dental procedures, including oral examinations, cleanings, and fillings, among others.
• Strong communication skills to explain oral health issues, treatment plans, and preventive care methods to patients.
• A thorough understanding of dental hygiene and dental health, with the ability to educate patients on maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Attention to detail and a steady hand to perform precise procedures that involve sensitive areas of the mouth.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish rapport with patients, understand their concerns and fears, and provide a comforting atmosphere.
• Ability to efficiently manage time to see multiple patients in a day and ensure each receives the care and attention they need.
• Customer service skills for scheduling appointments, addressing patient inquiries, and ensuring a positive patient experience.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods of time during procedures.

 

Oral Health Therapist Experience Requirements

Oral Health Therapists generally complete a bachelor’s degree in Oral Health Therapy or a related field from an accredited university or college.

Their theoretical and practical training during this program counts as valuable experience for their future roles.

For entry-level positions, candidates may require 1 to 2 years of experience, often gathered through internships or part-time roles at dental clinics or hospitals.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Dental Hygienist, Dental Assistant or even Oral Health Educator.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are likely to have honed their skills in patient education, preventive dental care, and early detection of oral diseases.

These professionals are often ready for roles that require more responsibility and expertise.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership or managerial experience, and are often ready for supervisory or management roles within a dental practice.

They may have been involved in designing and implementing oral health programs or even training junior Oral Health Therapists.

 

Oral Health Therapist Education and Training Requirements

To become an Oral Health Therapist, an individual must acquire a bachelor’s degree in oral health or a related field.

The degree programs usually have a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience, which allows students to have hands-on experience in the field.

The courses typically covered include dental health, oral hygiene, oral pathology, oral radiology, and preventive dentistry.

Upon completing the undergraduate degree, students must obtain a professional license to practice as an Oral Health Therapist.

The license requirements vary by state, but generally include passing a state-approved licensing exam.

Further, Oral Health Therapists often pursue post-graduate qualifications, such as a Graduate Diploma or Masters in Oral Health Science, to specialize in certain areas like pediatric dentistry or periodontics.

Additionally, some Oral Health Therapists may seek out certification from recognized dental organizations.

These certifications require ongoing education and can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and to maintaining up-to-date skills and knowledge.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is a requirement for maintaining licensure and staying updated with the latest advances in oral health.

This could involve attending workshops, seminars, and conferences or undertaking further studies.

 

Oral Health Therapist Salary Expectations

An Oral Health Therapist earns an average salary of $72,910 (USD) per year.

The salary range can significantly vary depending on factors such as level of experience, specialization within the field, geographical location, and the specific employer.

 

Oral Health Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Oral Health Therapist need?

Oral Health Therapists need exceptional manual dexterity for precise work in small areas.

They should have strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients of all ages and deliver oral health education effectively.

The ability to calm anxious patients and good physical stamina to stand for long periods are also necessary.

Finally, they need to have a comprehensive understanding of dental procedures and tools.

 

Do Oral Health Therapists need a degree?

Yes, Oral Health Therapists must have a degree from an accredited dental hygiene program, which typically takes three years to complete.

Additionally, they need to pass a written and clinical board examination to obtain licensure for practicing.

Some therapists may choose to pursue further education in oral health or health management.

 

What should you look for in an Oral Health Therapist resume?

An Oral Health Therapist’s resume should highlight their degree from a recognized dental hygiene program and their licensure.

It should also include any relevant experience in dental therapy or dental hygiene.

Other valuable inclusions could be any special certifications, like anesthesia or radiography, and skills in patient education or counseling.

 

What qualities make a good Oral Health Therapist?

A good Oral Health Therapist is patient, gentle, and can make patients feel comfortable during treatments.

They should have strong attention to detail to spot issues during examinations.

Good therapists are also effective communicators who can clearly explain oral hygiene methods and treatment procedures to patients.

Lastly, they should have a commitment to continuous learning to stay updated on the latest developments in dental care.

 

What are the daily duties of an Oral Health Therapist?

An Oral Health Therapist’s daily duties might include conducting oral examinations, cleaning teeth, applying fluoride treatments, and taking dental x-rays.

They may also provide education on oral hygiene, conduct initial patient screenings, and assist dentists during procedures.

Administrative tasks such as updating patient records, scheduling appointments, and maintaining dental equipment may also be part of their role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the true essence of being an Oral Health Therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

It’s about shaping a healthier future, one smile at a time.

With our ready-to-use Oral Health Therapist job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully equipped to step forward.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job postings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every smile you nurture is part of a healthier society.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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