The first major independent evaluation of the Alaska dental therapist program, conducted by RTI International, found that dental therapists in Alaska are providing safe, competent, appropriate dental services. The two-year, intensive evaluation is the first major independent evaluation of its scale to assess care provided by dental therapists practicing in the U.S. Dental therapists receive two years of intensive training and provide prevention, education and basic dental care services, working collaboratively with dentists while extending their reach.