Picture this: A healthcare professional wearing personal protective equipment carefully examines a patient’s oral health, removing harmful buildup while educating them about proper dental care techniques.
Think about the last time you visited a dental office – before the dentist arrived, a skilled professional cleaned your teeth, took X-rays, and discussed your oral health habits. That’s a dental hygienist at work.
Dental hygienists serve as preventive oral health specialists, bridging the gap between routine maintenance and advanced dental procedures. With approximately 207,000 practicing dental hygienists in the United States, these professionals play a crucial role in maintaining public health through oral care.
Total employment: 214,100 (2023)
Common Names for Dental Hygienists
- Dental Hygienist
- Hygienist
- Licensed Dental Hygienist
- Pediatric Dental Hygienist
- Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
What Dental Hygienists Do
Dental hygienists play a vital role in maintaining oral health through preventive care. They work alongside dentists to help patients achieve and sustain healthy teeth and gums. Their core responsibilities include:
- Patient Assessment: They examine patients’ teeth and gums, document findings, and create personalized treatment plans to prevent oral health issues like cavities and gum disease.
- Dental Cleaning: Hygienists remove plaque, tartar, and stains using specialized tools, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
- Patient Education: They educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and dietary choices that impact dental health.
- X-Ray Management: Hygienists take and develop dental x-rays to identify hidden dental issues and assist in treatment planning.
- Documentation: They maintain accurate patient records, including treatment plans and progress notes, ensuring continuity of care.
- Preventive Care: Dental hygienists apply fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive materials to protect teeth from decay.
- Treatment Support: They assist dentists by preparing materials, ensuring patient comfort, and following safety protocols during procedures.
- Safety Protocols: Hygienists maintain infection control standards, sterilizing instruments and sanitizing treatment areas to ensure patient and staff safety.
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