Each year, the second week of April is dedicated to honoring some of the hardest working people in dentistry - dental hygienists.
Hygienists are an integral part of any dental team, performing valuable work for the internal team, as well as patients.
What do dental hygienists do?
Patients spend a lot of time with their hygienists, so you might just think of them as the friendly people who clean your teeth. Of course, you’re not wrong, but did you know that they also do a lot more?
Registered dental hygienists (RDH) have extensive training in dental techniques, skills, and concepts. They are required to obtain post-secondary education and pass written and clinical exams before applying for state licensure.
In addition to regular cleanings and basic exams, dental hygienists help maintain your oral hygiene by:
- Taking X-rays of your teeth
- Analyzing gum health
- Monitoring bone levels
- Taking dental impressions
- Doing scaling and root planning
- Placing pit and fissure sealants
- Administering local anesthetic
- Documenting medical history
- Assisting dentists with procedures
- Checking for signs of oral cancer
- Recommending oral care products for your specific needs
Working closely with both patients and dentists, hygienists play a critical role in our ability to provide the best patient care possible. Even though April 4-10th is dedicated to recognizing dental hygienists, they play an important role in our practice year-round, and we’re grateful for their hard work and dedication.
Help us acknowledge the essential role they play by taking a moment to thank them for all they do!