The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) has recently adopted ten new and updated policies aimed at advancing the dental hygiene profession. These changes are designed to enhance the scope of practice, education standards, and overall quality of care provided by dental hygienists. As a hygiene-only dental practice in Colorado Springs, Practice 32 is committed to keeping our patients informed about developments that impact oral health care.
One of the most significant policy updates is the establishment of a formal definition of Full Practice Authority (FPA) for licensed dental hygienists. Under FPA, dental hygienists are empowered to:
This advancement recognizes the extensive education and training dental hygienists undergo, enabling them to provide comprehensive preventive care. For patients at Practice 32, this means more streamlined and efficient dental hygiene services, focusing on preventive measures to maintain optimal oral health.
To further strengthen the profession, the ADHA has approved a policy advocating for the dental hygiene doctorate degree to become the entry-level credential by 2032. This initiative aims to:
By elevating educational requirements, dental hygienists will be better equipped to address complex oral health issues and collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals. At Practice 32, we support continuous education and professional development to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of care.
The ADHA has also adopted policies opposing preceptor training programs, such as the Alabama Dental Hygiene Program, which bypass Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-accredited educational requirements. This stance emphasizes the importance of standardized, accredited education to ensure consistent and high-quality care across the profession.
For our patients, this means confidence in knowing that the dental hygienists at Practice 32 have undergone rigorous, accredited training, ensuring the delivery of safe and effective preventive dental care.
Recognizing the need to expand access to oral healthcare, the ADHA supports the role of dental therapists as mid-level oral health professionals. Dental therapists can provide preventive and basic restorative care, particularly in underserved communities. While Practice 32 focuses exclusively on preventive services, we acknowledge the importance of collaborative efforts to improve overall oral health access and outcomes.
In line with our commitment to preventive care, the ADHA has adopted a policy supporting the use of xylitol as part of strategies to reduce dental caries. Xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol, has been shown to inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. Incorporating xylitol into daily oral hygiene routines can be an effective measure to enhance oral health.
At Practice 32, we encourage our patients to consider xylitol-containing products as part of their preventive care regimen, alongside regular dental cleanings and proper oral hygiene practices.
The Dental Hygiene Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination (DHLOSCE) has been recognized by the ADHA as a valid and reliable measure of clinical judgment and skills for entry-level dental hygiene practice. This modern assessment method utilizes case-based questions and interactive models to evaluate competency, moving away from traditional single-encounter patient exams.
For patients, this means that newly licensed dental hygienists have demonstrated their abilities through comprehensive and standardized evaluations, ensuring readiness to provide high-quality care.
The ADHA has also adopted a policy supporting the creation of comprehensive state and national diversion programs for dental hygienists with substance use disorders. These programs aim to provide support and rehabilitation, ensuring that dental hygienists can return to practice safely and effectively.
At Practice 32, we believe in the importance of supporting the well-being of dental professionals, as it directly impacts the quality of care provided to patients.
The recent policy updates by the ADHA reflect a commitment to advancing the dental hygiene profession through enhanced education, expanded scope of practice, and a focus on preventive care. At Practice 32, we are dedicated to staying informed about these developments to provide our patients in Colorado Springs with the highest standard of preventive dental care. By embracing these changes, we continue to prioritize your oral health and overall well-being.
Olivia and her team are amazing. This was my 2nd visit to Practice 32 and their welcoming environment, coupled with their professional dental care make it very easy for me to highly recommend them.
