In November of 1994, the People
of the State of Washington passed Initiative 607,
allowing persons other than dentists to manufacture and sell
dentures to the public.
This new professional would be known as a Denturist. Following
the passing
of I-607, Denturists in the state were allowed to become licensed.
Today, Denturists are recognized as an important part of the
health profession.
Thanks to those who helped pass the initiative, the public now
has the right to
choose an affordable alternative when it comes to denture care.
A Denturist in the State of Washington is a licensed professional
whose field
of dentistry is dedicated solely to providing removable full
and partial dentures
directly to the public. A Denturist is a recognized health professional
who
constructs, inserts and adjusts removable dentures as well as
over dentures
on implants. Most licensed Denturists have served many years
fabricating
dentures. Furthermore, they passed a comprehensive practical
exam on the
fitting and making of dentures along with a thorough written
examination
conducted through the State of Washington Board of Denture Technology.
A Denturist is trained not only in the construction of dentures
but also educated
in microbiology, physiology, oral pathology, head and neck
anatomy and more.
Denturists are an important part of the community of dental
care providers.
When you seek the care of a Denturist you will find that
as a patient you play
an active role in the discussion of what you desire for your
new dentures.
Remember, you are in the hands of a professional who specializes
only in the
making of removable prosthodontics. Your Denturist will involve
you in the steps
necessary to ensure your dentures fit properly and meet your
full expectations.
Denturists in the state of Washington are required by law
to have a license to
practice denturism posted in their clinic for public viewing.
If you are ever in doubt
that the person you are seeing is not licensed, ask to see
his or her license. If they
are not able to provide a license, they may not have one,
and this is not acceptable.
It is important to report someone who is not licensed to the
State of Washington
Department of Health at 360-236-4868.
The Washington Denturist Association was formed to promote
unity and to
maintain standards of professional ethics among Denturists
in our state.
The WDA represents the interests of members of the association
to all levels
of government and to the public. The organization provides
continuing education
for its members, and member Denturists work together to keep
abreast on the
latest developments in the denture field.
We would like to thank everyone responsible for the passing
of Initiative 607
and for seven great years of being able to provide the public
with quality,
affordable denture care.
Remember, a Denturist IS the best choice
for your denture needs...
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