Periodontal Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advancing healthcare, the significance of periodontal therapists has never been greater.

As dental healthcare progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can maintain, treat, and protect our periodontal health grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a periodontal therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of periodontal therapy,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we present a customizable periodontal therapist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Periodontal Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Periodontal Therapists play a vital role in dental healthcare, focusing on the prevention and treatment of gum diseases.

They work closely with dentists and dental hygienists, providing specialized care aimed at maintaining the health of patients’ teeth and gums.

The following are the duties and responsibilities of a Periodontal Therapist:

• Conduct patient assessments, identify oral health conditions and plan relevant treatment strategies
• Carry out non-surgical periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing
• Administer local anesthesia to patients before performing procedures
• Perform dental radiography and interpret radiographs to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease
• Provide oral health education and advice to patients, including information on diet, smoking and oral hygiene techniques
• Work with other dental professionals to manage patient care and ensure the best possible outcomes
• Maintain accurate patient records, including details of treatments, advice given, and any noticeable changes in oral health
• Adhere to infection control and health and safety protocols, ensuring the cleanliness and sterilization of dental instruments and equipment
• Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in periodontal therapy and continuously seek to improve skills and knowledge through professional development

 

Periodontal Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Periodontal Therapist to join our dental team.

The Periodontal Therapist is responsible for carrying out non-surgical periodontal treatments, examining patients for signs of oral diseases and providing preventive dental care.

Other tasks will include educating patients on oral healthcare and working alongside dentists to implement treatment plans.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience as a Periodontal Therapist, excellent dexterity and eye-hand coordination, and outstanding communication skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform non-surgical periodontal treatments
• Examine patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis
• Educate patients about oral health and preventive dental care
• Record patient treatment information and maintain accurate patient records
• Assist dentists with dental procedures when necessary
• Adhere to safety and infection control protocols
• Assist in the management of dental emergencies
• Communicate with patients and provide post-treatment care instructions

 

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in dental hygiene from an accredited institution
• State licensure to practice as a Periodontal Therapist
• Proven experience as a Periodontal Therapist
• Excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of dental software and ability to keep detailed records
• Good eye-hand coordination and close attention to detail

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Periodontal Therapist
• Work Environment: Dental clinic. Some weekend and evening hours may be required.
• 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: $75,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 a Periodontal Therapist Do?

Periodontal Therapists are specialized dental professionals who primarily focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases.

They examine patients’ oral health and detect any signs of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis.

They also provide therapeutic procedures like scaling and root planing, which involve deep cleaning the teeth and gum line to remove plaque and tartar.

In addition, Periodontal Therapists may perform minor surgical procedures such as gingival flap surgery, when necessary.

They also educate patients about the importance of good oral hygiene and provide instructions on proper brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental products.

Periodontal Therapists often work closely with Dentists and other dental professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients.

They have the critical task of identifying any serious oral conditions that may require more advanced dental or medical intervention.

In some cases, Periodontal Therapists may also be involved in research or teaching in the field of periodontology.

 

Periodontal Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A successful periodontal therapist should possess a range of clinical, interpersonal, and technical skills, which include:

• Robust knowledge of periodontal procedures, patient care, and oral hygiene practices to provide high-quality treatment to patients.
• Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform delicate periodontal procedures effectively.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients, providing information about their oral health and treatment plans.
• Ability to use a variety of dental tools and equipment, as well as knowledge of the latest dental technology, to effectively treat patients and maintain their oral health.
• Patient management skills to ease patients’ anxieties, build trust and maintain a comfortable environment during treatment procedures.
• Strong problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose and treat periodontal diseases and conditions.
• Ability to work as part of a team with other dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
• Good physical stamina to stand for long periods and perform intricate procedures.

 

Periodontal Therapist Experience Requirements

To become a Periodontal Therapist, individuals usually begin their career as a dental hygienist, gaining valuable experience and skills in a general dental practice.

This can take several years, as it is important for the aspiring periodontal therapist to understand the nuances of dental hygiene and basic oral care.

Post qualification, they may further their education and professional development by undertaking a course specifically designed for periodontal therapy.

This additional training often lasts a year or two and includes intensive practical and theoretical learning.

Upon completion of these studies, the individual is typically qualified as a periodontal therapist.

However, a minimum of two to three years of practical experience is often preferred by many dental practices.

During this period, they will have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and become proficient in more advanced procedures.

Those with more than five years of experience in this role are often considered experts in their field.

They may have gained substantial experience in surgical and non-surgical periodontal treatments and may be ready to take on a supervisory or leadership role within the dental team.

Additionally, these highly experienced periodontal therapists may also opt to teach or mentor aspiring dental professionals.

 

Periodontal Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Periodontal Therapists typically need to have completed an accredited dental hygiene program, which generally results in an associate degree.

In addition to general dental hygiene coursework, further specialized training in periodontal therapy is required.

This can include additional coursework or a specialized program, often resulting in a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene or a related field.

All states require periodontal therapists to be licensed, though licensing requirements vary by state.

Generally, licensing requires successful completion of a dental hygiene program, passing a written and practical examination, and completion of a state or region specific exam.

Periodontal therapists also need to have a good working knowledge of various dental tools and technology, as well as procedures specific to periodontal therapy, such as scaling and root planing.

Continuing education is important in this field, due to advancements in dental and periodontal technology and practices.

This can include advanced courses, seminars, or workshops, often resulting in additional certifications or credentials.

In addition, periodontal therapists need to have strong interpersonal skills, as they often work directly with patients and other dental professionals.

Good manual dexterity and physical stamina are also important qualities for this role.

 

Periodontal Therapist Salary Expectations

A Periodontal Therapist typically earns an average salary of $74,820 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the specific region in which they are employed, and the type of dental practice where they work.

 

Periodontal Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Periodontal Therapist need?

Periodontal Therapists should possess excellent manual dexterity and physical stamina as the job requires precise control and long hours of standing.

They should have strong communication skills to explain procedures and treatments to patients.

They also need to be empathetic and have good interpersonal skills to deal with patients who may be anxious or in discomfort.

 

Do Periodontal Therapists need a degree?

Yes, to become a Periodontal Therapist, one must have a degree in dental hygiene or a related field.

In addition, specific training and qualifications in periodontal therapy are required.

They must also be licensed by the state or country in which they wish to practice.

 

What should you look for in a Periodontal Therapist’s resume?

Firstly, confirm they have the necessary qualifications and license to practice.

You should also look for experience in performing periodontal treatments and preventative dental care.

Any additional certifications, such as in advanced life support, would be a bonus.

Look for indications of good patient care, such as positive patient feedback or a demonstrated commitment to continuous learning.

 

What qualities make a good Periodontal Therapist?

A good Periodontal Therapist is patient-centered, ensuring that their patients’ comfort and well-being are prioritized.

They should be detail-oriented to identify symptoms of periodontal disease and carry out treatments effectively.

Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential to explain complex medical terms in a way that patients can understand.

Additionally, a commitment to continuous learning is important to keep up with the latest treatments and advancements in the field.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Periodontal Therapist?

The difficulty in hiring a Periodontal Therapist depends on various factors like geographical location, the demand-supply ratio in that area, and the specific requirements for the role.

In general, it can be a challenge to find a qualified and experienced Periodontal Therapist who fits well with your dental practice’s culture and values.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies behind the role of a periodontal therapist.

And here’s the truth:

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

It’s about sculpting the health of the future, one smile at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive periodontal therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why stop at ready?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every smile treated is a step towards a healthier society.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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