A Bachelor of Oral Health is needed to become a dental therapist.

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter dental therapy training. Sixth Form Certificate or NCEA-equivalent biology is required, and other useful subjects include chemistry and English.

Dental therapists do training and development courses to keep up to date with new technology and information. Supervisory courses may vary between health boards. Dental therapists will be required to participate in on-the-job training to remain registered.

For dental therapists who have taken time off, there are refresher courses offered at the University of Otago. The Waitemata District Health Board also offers retraining.

Dental therapists need to be registered and hold an Annual Practising Certificate.

Experience as a dental assistant or dental technician may be useful.