Teeth survey will show value of dental therapists

“The important role that dental therapists play in promoting oral health and dealing with tooth decay will be recognised through a government survey of New Zealanders’ teeth announced today,” said Richard Wagstaff, National Secretary of the Public Service Association.

The PSA is the union representing dental therapists throughout New Zealand.

“Dental therapists are committed health professionals who have been collecting useful data on the oral health of children aged between 5 and 12 years for some time. This information showed the desperate need for increased government investment.”

“It is young New Zealanders who will benefit from the increased government investment in oral health to ensure that there is modern equipment and more trained staff.”

“The 1990s marked a decline in the quality of the school dental service with dental therapists forced to use outdated equipment and manage large workloads.”

“This survey will highlight the need for a continued investment in oral care to ensure that dental therapists can work with schools and communities to address and prevent serious tooth decay.”

“Dental therapists have just received significant pay increases negotiated through the union which will assist in recruiting new staff into this ageing workforce,” said Richard Wagstaff.

ENDS

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