A therapy-led dental practice is a type of dental clinic where dental therapists play a central role in providing a wide range of treatments and managing patient care, often working independently within their scope of practice. This model maximizes the skills and expertise of dental therapists, who are qualified to perform a variety of dental treatments.

Key Characteristics:

1. Core Role of Dental Therapists:

   • Dental therapists take the lead in performing treatments such as:
     • Examinations and emergency appointments (within their scope of practice).
     • Preventive care (e.g. fluoride application, oral hygiene instruction).
     • Restorative treatments (e.g. fillings for adults and children).
     • Periodontal (gum) care.
     • Extraction of deciduous (baby) teeth.
     • Cosmposite bonding.
     • Whitening.                                                                                                                 

2. Collaborative Model:

   • Dentists are often present in the practice but focus on more complex treatments (e.g. root canal therapy, surgical procedures, crown and bridges etc.
   • Dental hygienists may complement the team by focusing on preventive and periodontal care but a therapist also offers this treatment.                                                                                                         

3. Patient-Centered Approach:

   • Emphasis is placed on accessibility, affordability, and holistic patient care.
   • Dental therapists often manage a patient list and lead treatment plans within their competence, referring complex cases.