State Representative Linda Chaney said more than 1,000 dentists are needed here in Florida. She's proposing a bill that would create a new profession that could help address that void. This new role called a "dental therapist" would be considered a mid-level dental care profession. “They are trained to provide a scope of services between that of a dental hygienist and a dentist and may only provide those services under the supervision of a licensed dentist,” Rep. Chaney said. Rep. Chaney said it's something you can accomplish in only three years. “We will relieve pain and suffering,” Rep. Chaney said. Dental therapists are allowed to practice in more than a dozen states. Chaney believes this solution would allow Florida to bring in much-needed care. “66 of Florida's 67 counties are designated as dental health professional shortage areas,” Rep. Chaney said. Many agree more help is needed, but Dr. Zack Kalarickal in Wesley Chapel believes it misses the mark. “A dental therapist doesn't really provide adequate training for the job that it would be asked to perform,” Dr. Kalarickal said. He said the priority should be building on the team already in place. “The concept of what a dental therapist could do is irreversible surgical procedures. I can't undo the damage of a dental therapist,” Kalarickal added. To make this work, a new curriculum will need to be developed. MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/politics/florida-dentist-dental-shortage-tampa/67-e328f3d6-4b83-449f-b6e9-f9605f51fb99