Extending Prevention Through Dental Hygienists

Collaborative Practice Dental Hygienists

Extending preventive dental care to those in need may be accomplished through the use of appropriately qualified dental hygienists who have entered a legal “collaborative agreement” with a licensed dentist. While this type of practice cannot meet the comprehensive dental needs of a community, it does offer a cost-effective and efficient way to prevent dental problems in the first place.

To learn what is required of dentists and dental hygienists who wish to enter this kind of practice, go to www.normandale.edu/dental/. This site describes how to establish a collaborative practice arrangement, including a collaborative agreement template. You can also find information about legal liability, use of mobile/portable dental equipment, billing for dental hygiene services, and much more. The Minnesota law governing this type of practice is found at www.dentalboard.state.mn.us, then click on “Statutes and Rules” and go to 150A.10, Subd.1a., Limited authorization for dental hygienists.

Several schools in Minnesota offer Dental Hygiene Education Programs.