Reasons to Choose a Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists care for patients' teeth and oral cavities, according to DHSchools.com. These professionals examine teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, take and develop dental x-rays and apply fluoride and sealants. Dental hygienists must be able to multitask and be willing to work hard. Several other factors are important to consider when choosing a dental hygienist.

Personality

• When choosing a dental hygienist, make sure he or she has strong interpersonal and communication skills. This is important because dental hygienists work with members of the public all day and must maintain an attitude of compassion and service. They must be timely and willing to listen to your concerns and thoughts. Although these professionals typically work independently, they also must work well with other members of the dental team to ensure a good overall experience for patients.

Training

• Another reason to choose a dental hygienist is if he or she has completed dental hygiene training from a school that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA). Most dental hygiene programs grant an associate's degree, although some dental hygienists have a certificate, bachelor's degree or master's degree, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. Completion of a dental hygiene program proves that the dental hygienist understands concepts related to anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, radiography, dental materials, the study of tissue structure and the study of gum diseases. In other words, they know how to do their job.

Licensing

• A major reason to choose dental hygienists is if they are licensed in the state in which they are practicing. Practically all states require dental hygienists to pass a written test administered by the ADA's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, as well as a clinical examination available through state or regional testing agencies. Alabama is the only state that does not require dental hygienists to complete the ADA exam, but, instead, pass a separate state licensing examination. Dental hygienists typically also must regularly complete continuing education hours to renew their licenses. Without a current license, a dental hygienist is practicing illegally.

Dexterity

• It's critical to choose a dental hygienist who has good manual dexterity, as hygienists use small dental instruments in patients' mouths and have little room for error. With their hand and rotary instruments, they remove hard and soft deposits from teeth. They also can use electric or air-powered ultrasonic instruments when performing root planing, according to Aetna Dental Plans. Root planing involves removing calculus and plaque below the gum line.

Communication

• An important reason to choose a dental hygienist is his or her ability to clearly explain dental concepts to patients. Hygienists must be able to relate to patients when describing the relationship between diet and oral health and how to select toothbrushes. In addition, they often must demonstrate for patients how to floss and brush teeth.