In April 2025, the Oral Prevention Assistant (OPA) position was created in Arizona as a strategic initiative to increase access to dental care, especially in underserved areas. This initiative reflects the Air Force’s long-standing commitment to preventive dental care through its Preventive Dental Technology program.
As a Dental Assistant trained in the USAF, I was excited to learn that this position is moving into the civilian sector. This is by no means intended to replace dental hygienists, but rather to increase access to patient care. Dental Assistants will work in partnership with dental hygienists. Here’s what this new position entails.
At Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, the Air Force’s Dental Hygiene course demonstrates the importance of preventive dental care in maintaining mission readiness. This intensive course combines classroom instruction with hands-on patient care, and students will perform approximately 170 dental preventions and 60 annual dental screenings.
Graduates return to the force to complete Phase II training under the supervision of experienced dental professionals to ensure they are fully capable of supporting the Air Force Dental Readiness and Sustainment Program.
Drawing inspiration from military efficiency, dental assistants (OPAs) in Arizona are trained dental assistants authorized to perform specific preventive procedures under direct supervision. Their duties include removing plaque and stains, taking periodontal readings, and performing supragingival scaling and polishing (as defined in D1110). To qualify, candidates must complete a board-approved 120-hour training course and hold certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), crown polishing, radiography, and a national dental assistant certification or have completed a certification program.
Some ask, “Why can dental assistants scale?”
Benefits to Dental Hygienists and Dental Offices
Dental Hygienists
Collaborative Support: OPAs can help reduce the hygienist’s workload by assisting with preliminary procedures and documentation.
Focus on Specialty Care: With OPAs managing routine preventive measures, hygienists can devote more time to specialty care and patient education.
Dental Offices
Increased Efficiency: OPAs can handle routine preventive procedures, allowing dentists and hygienists to focus on more complex periodontal procedures.
Improved Access: By expanding the dental workforce, clinics can accommodate more patients, especially in areas where dental care is limited. This means that patients who need periodontal care can get it treated faster because the hygienist’s schedule is not filled with “healthy mouth” preventives.
Arizona’s adoption of the OPA role reflects a broader trend of integrating military best practices into the civilian healthcare system. By leveraging the structured training and efficiency demonstrated by programs like the Air Force Dental Hygiene Course, Arizona is committed to improving its dental care services and ensuring that residents receive timely and effective preventive services.
I understand the resistance from some in the dental community; it’s to be expected when a role that is often considered “just an assistant” undergoes a dramatic shift. I imagine it’s like a plastic surgeon seeing a dentist inject Botox and fillers, or a dentist seeing a dental hygienist administer local anesthesia.
As we’ve seen, there is room for advancement for practitioners in different fields, regardless of their level. I believe OPAs offer a great opportunity for career development, growth, and job satisfaction for dental assistants. We are all on the same team, with a common goal—safe and efficient patient care. Why not give those who aspire to reach new heights in their careers the opportunity to do so as well? Those who are not interested need not apply.
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