What kind of work do dental hygienists do?

Dental hygienists are oral healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in maintaining and improving the oral health of individuals. Their responsibilities include:

1. Preventive Care:

- Provide preventive care services such as teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to prevent cavities and gum disease.

2. Dental Cleaning:

- Remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth using specialized instruments.

3. Oral Hygiene Education:

- Educate patients about proper brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene techniques.

4. Administering Anesthetics:

- Administer local anesthetics as prescribed by the dentist for certain dental procedures.

5. Taking Dental X-rays:

- Take dental X-rays and process them for diagnostic purposes.

6. Patient Records and Documentation:

- Maintain accurate patient records, including treatment notes and medical history.

7. Assisting in Dental Procedures:

- Assist the dentist during various dental procedures, such as fillings, extractions, and root canals.

8. Oral Health Assessments:

- Perform oral examinations to assess the condition of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues.

9. Providing Periodontal Therapy:

- Provide periodontal treatments such as scaling and root planing for gum disease management.

10. Collaboration with Dentists:

- Work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive oral healthcare to patients.

11. Oral Cancer Screenings:

- Conduct oral cancer screenings as part of routine dental exams.

12. Patient Education:

- Provide information about nutrition, tobacco cessation, and other habits that affect oral health.

13. Fluoride Varnish Application:

- Apply fluoride varnish to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.

14. Saliva Testing:

- Perform saliva tests to assess caries risk and monitor periodontal health.

15. Dental Materials Management:

- Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment.

Dental hygienists work collaboratively with dentists to ensure patients receive high-quality oral healthcare services. They play a vital role in promoting good oral hygiene, preventing dental problems, and educating patients about maintaining optimal oral health.