Dental therapy recognized in Washington

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (D) signed HB 1678 into law, establishing the profession of dental therapy. Dental therapists, in limited settings and under the supervision of a dentist, may fill cavities and perform emergency services if authorized by the dentist, and may supervise dental assistants, expanded-function dental auxiliaries and dental hygienists. The bill is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.