When you visit a dental office for a routine check-up, one of the professionals you are likely to encounter is a dental hygienist. But what do dental hygienists do, exactly? Dental hygienists are specialized healthcare professionals who focus on preventing and treating oral diseases. They play a vital role in maintaining your oral health by providing services such as teeth cleanings, examinations, and patient education.
In addition to performing teeth cleaning, dental hygienists are trained to take dental X-rays as well as many other tasks that we’ll discuss in this guide. They also work closely with dentists to develop patient care plans and provide instructions on proper brushing, flossing, and diet to prevent cavities and gum disease.
By understanding the answer to “what do dental hygienists do,” you can appreciate the essential role they play in ensuring a healthy smile.
Introduction to the Role of Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are more than just the friendly faces you see during your dental cleanings. They are highly trained professionals dedicated to maintaining and improving your oral health.
Their role is vital in preventing dental problems before they become serious issues. From routine check-ups to specialized care, dental hygienists ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy.
The Importance of Dental Hygienists in Dental Care
Dental hygienists are the unsung heroes of dental care. They work alongside dentists to provide comprehensive oral health services.
Their primary goal is to prevent dental diseases and promote good oral hygiene practices among patients. By doing so, they help you avoid painful and costly dental procedures in the future.
But let’s take a look at the details of exactly what they do every day.
1. Teeth Cleaning and Polishing
One of the essential tasks of a dental hygienist is removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. They use specialized tools to scrape away the buildup of bacteria, food particles, and mineral deposits that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
After cleaning, they also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains and make them look shiny and smooth.
2. Dental X-Rays
Dental hygienists are trained in taking dental X-rays, which are essential for diagnosing and monitoring oral health issues such as cavities, impacted wisdom teeth, or jawbone damage.
They position the X-ray film or digital sensors in your mouth and operate the X-ray machine to capture images of your teeth and jaw. These images help dentists to identify any problems that may not be visible during a visual examination.
3. Oral Health Assessments
During your routine check-up, dental hygienists will also perform an oral health assessment, examining your teeth, gums, tongue, lips, and throat for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
They are trained to identify potential issues and alert the dentist if further treatment is needed.
4. Patient Education
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices. They provide instructions on brushing and flossing techniques, diet choices that promote good oral health, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
They also educate patients on the potential risks of tobacco use and how it can affect their oral health.
5. Application of Fluoride or Sealants
To protect your teeth from cavities, dental hygienists may apply fluoride treatments or sealants to your teeth during your visit. These prevent bacteria from thriving on the surface of your teeth and help strengthen tooth enamel.
Fluoride treatments are especially beneficial for children who are still developing their permanent teeth.
6. Periodontal Care
If you have gum disease, dental hygienists can also provide specialized care to manage and treat the condition. This may include deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, which involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline to prevent further damage.
They may also apply antibiotics or recommend certain medications to help control the infection.
The Educational and Licensing Requirements to Become a Dental Hygienist
To become a dental hygienist, individuals must complete a rigorous education and training program. Most programs require at least two years of college-level coursework in subjects such as anatomy and physiology, radiography, dental materials, and periodontology.
After completing their education, dental hygienists must also pass a written and practical exam to obtain their license. They are then required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license and stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in dental care.
A Rewarding Career in Dental Hygiene
Dental hygiene is a rewarding career that requires not only technical skills but also empathy and communication with patients. Dental hygienists have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their patients’ lives by helping them maintain healthy and beautiful smiles.
So next time you visit your dentist, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of dental hygienists in keeping your oral health in check. They are an essential part of the dental care team, working tirelessly to ensure that your smile stays bright and healthy.
The Difference Between a Dental Hygienist and a Dentist
While both dental hygienists and dentists play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, there are some key differences between the two professions.
Dentists have completed a doctoral-level degree in dentistry and are responsible for diagnosing and treating various dental problems. They also perform more complex procedures such as root canals, fillings, and extractions.
On the other hand, what does a dental hygienist do? They work closely with dentists to provide preventive care and assist in simple procedures such as teeth cleaning and X-rays. They focus primarily on promoting good oral hygiene practices to prevent future dental issues.
Why Choose Fit To Smile Dental
When it comes to choosing a dental practice, Fit To Smile Dental stands out for several reasons.
Led by Dr. Ryan M. Redfearn, Dr. Trent Redfearn, and Dr. Josh Goodman, Fit To Smile Dental offers a wide range of services, including general and cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, and dental implants.
Our focus on building trust and positive patient relationships ensures that you receive top-notch care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Our Unique Approach
Fit To Smile Dental combines modern technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional results. Whether you need routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, our team is dedicated to making your experience as pleasant as possible.
Services Offered
From cleanings and exams to veneers and dental implants, Fit To Smile Dental offers comprehensive dental services to meet all your oral health needs. We also provide specialized treatments such as gum disease therapy and dental sedation, ensuring that every aspect of your dental care is covered.
Convenience and Trust
Fit To Smile Dental goes above and beyond to accommodate their patients. We offer emergency exams within one business day, and we provide clear explanations of insurance that make the financial aspect of dental care stress-free.
Conclusion
Dental hygienists play a vital role in preventive dental care, helping you maintain a healthy smile through regular cleanings, assessments, and education. Their expertise and dedication to patient care make them an indispensable part of your dental health team.
By choosing a dental practice like us here at Fit To Smile Dental, you can ensure that you receive the highest quality care from both dental hygienists and dentists.
Remember, regular dental check-ups are key to maintaining optimal oral health. Schedule your consultation with us here at one of our locations today and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile.