Working relationships and professional agreements between dental therapists and dentists

Dental therapists can practise independently for the care of children and adolescents up to age 18 years within the scopes of practice described for dental therapy.  The practice of dental therapy does not require the physical presence of a dentist or other health practitioner. 

Dental therapists and dentists have a consultative working relationship that is supported by a written professional agreement between a dental therapist and a dentist.  A template of the professional agreement is attached to the practice standard.

Practitioners declare their compliance to this standard in their annual practising certificate application form.