We have a serious dental problem in Vermont, more than one in six of our friends and neighbors cannot get the dental care they need because they can’t afford it, or they simply can’t find a dentist. While we will not be able to fix this problem overnight, there are concrete steps we can take now to increase access to necessary dental services. One answer to this problem is allowing licensed dental practitioners (also called LDPs) to practice in Vermont.
LDPs are mid-level practitioners who have more training than a dental hygienist and less training than a dentist. LDPs can perform, among other things, fillings and simple extractions. Mid-level dental practitioners have been increasing access to high quality dental care around the world and in two states for years, and with your help they can do the same here in Vermont.
Whether in your children’s schools or local health clinics, licensed dental practitioners can make it easier to get dental care in your community. Currently the legislature is reviewing a bill that would allow for dental practitioner to practice here in Vermont, and we need your help to make this vision a reality. Make sure you click here to let your legislators know that you want them to make it easier for Vermonters to get the dental care they need.