Abstract
Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs), a type of Expanded Function Dental Assistant, are improving access to dental care in states like Kansas, Missouri, and through the Indian Health Service. Studies and pilot programs show increased patient access, enhanced workflow, and high satisfaction among patients and dental teams. OPAs support hygienists and dentists by performing preventive tasks, allowing specialists to focus on complex care, without replacing existing roles. These models address workforce gaps and bottlenecks in dental care delivery.
Recommended Citation
Logan, Paul
(2026)
"HOW ARE ORAL PREVENTIVE ASSISTANTS IMPACTING ACCESS TO DENTAL CARE IN OTHER STATES?,"
Virginia Dental Journal: Vol. 103:
No.
1, Article 9.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/vadentaljournal/vol103/iss1/9