Maine Dental Career Center

Home Dental Therapist

What does a dental therapist do?

Dental therapists in Maine are dental hygienists with additional training that enables an added scope of practice beyond their dental hygienist scope. Dental therapists can perform such additional treatments as simple tooth extractions and fillings.

For information on the scope of practice of a dental therapist, read the Maine revised statute.

Where does a dental therapist work?

Dental therapists can work in any clinical setting where appropriate dentist supervision is available.

How do I become a dental therapist?

To become a dental therapist in Maine, you must first be a dental hygienist and then complete a Board approved dental therapy program. Currently, there are no dental therapy programs available in Maine.


To learn more about the Qualifications for Dental Hygienist Licensure and Dental Hygienist Practice Authorities from the Maine Board of Dental Practice Rules, download the qualification sheet from maine.gov.

All inquiries about licensure for dental therapists should be directed to the Maine Board of Dental Practice. Determination of candidate eligibility will be at the sole discretion of the Maine Board of Dental Practice.