Work

Effectiveness of Mid-Level Providers in Reducing Oral Health Disparities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This comparative study explores how mid-level dental providers—dental therapists and independent dental hygienists—help reduce oral health disparities in the United States. By analyzing policy and Medicaid utilization data between states with independent and restrictive practice laws, the study finds that provider autonomy correlates with greater access, higher Medicaid participation, and improved preventive care outcomes. The paper supports regulatory reforms that expand mid-level provider scope of practice to enhance oral health equity nationwide.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17333344

Authors: Barbosa da Silva, Diego, Barbosa da Silva, Anna Karolina, de Oliveira Forti, Julianne, Aparecida Rosa de Oliveira, Renata

Language: English

Topic: Dental Health and Care Utilization

Subfield: Periodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7089187686

FWCI:

Cites:

Cited by:

Related to: