Oral Preventive Assistants Can be a Good Thing for Dental Practices

Arizona has introduced the oral preventive assistant role. While controversial, this DA says to keep an open mind and look at the advantages.
In April 2025, Arizona introduced the oral preventive assistant (OPA) role, a strategic move to enhance dental care accessibility, especially in underserved regions. This initiative mirrors the US Air Force's longstanding commitment to preventive dental care through its prophy tech program.
As a USAF-trained dental assistant, I was excited to learn that this role is transitioning into the civilian world. It in no way aims to eliminate the dental hygienist’s role but instead enhance access to patient care. OPAs will work collaboratively with hygienists. Here’s what this new position entails...
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In April 2025, Arizona introduced the oral preventive assistant (OPA) role, a strategic move to enhance dental care accessibility, especially in underserved regions. This initiative mirrors the US Air Force's longstanding commitment to preventive dental care through its prophy tech program.
As a USAF-trained dental assistant, I was excited to learn that this role is transitioning into the civilian world. It in no way aims to eliminate the dental hygienist’s role but instead enhance access to patient care. OPAs will work collaboratively with hygienists. Here’s what this new position entails...
Click Here to Read More