Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist's role in a dental office


The Dental Hygienist's role in a dental office

        Registered dental hygienists (RDH) are licensed oral health professionals who assist the doctor, thoroughly clean your teeth, screen for decay and disease, and help educate you about how to maintain great oral health.
    They often work side by side with the dentist to efficiently complete your care.
    The profession of the dental hygienist is a recognised profession in US and several other countries but not in all.


Duties of a Dental Hygienist in USA

The duties performed by a dental hygienist will vary by state. However in many cases, they will perform some or all of the following:
  Collect dental history and complete dental chartsPerform dental cleanings, removing hard and soft deposits on teeth
  Teach patients good oral hygiene practices
  Apply fluoride and dental sealants
  Take and process X-rays
  Administer nitrous oxide
  Prepare diagnostic tests
  Apply filling materials, temporary fillings, and periodontal dressings;
  Smooth and polish metal restorations
  Screen Tests. Screening for signs of tooth decay, oral cancer and periodontal disease is one of the most important services your hygienist provides. But did you know that symptoms of conditions like heart disease and diabetes can show up in your mouth as well? If your RDH detects any signs to suggest larger health issues, he or she may recommend that you see a physician right away.

Registered Dental Hygienist in USA
    
Not just anyone can become a registered dental hygienist. By the time dental hygienists begin treating patients, they’ve gone through extensive training and testing to become an expert in the field — this makes them an invaluable part of your dental team, ensuring your teeth stay healthy and look and feel great for years to come.

Related links

Dental education - Careers in Dentistry

The Dentist

How to become a Dentist

Dental Schools

The Dental Hygienist

How to become a Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist Schools

The Dental Assistant

How to become a Dental Assistant

The Dental Technician



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Last edited: Aug 15, 2008 12:58 PM.

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