Dental Hygienist Career Details
Naturally, these hygienists remove deposits from teeth, but they also teach patients how to practice good oral hygiene to prevent the deposits from continuing to build up. While examining the patient's teeth and gums they record the presence of any complications or abnormalities. Part of a visit to a dental hygienist may include the removal of calculus, stains, and plaque from your teeth. They may also give x-rays should it be justified. To remove the stains they usually use fluorides along with pit and fissure sealants.
In some states, hygienists may administer anesthetics for certain procedures. They also might place and carve filling materials, periodontal dressings, and temporary fillings. They are not allowed to diagnose diseases, but can prepare and give diagnostic tests for dentists to interpret. In certain situations, a hygienist may work side by side with an actual dentist.
Hygienists are also equipped with the preventive knowledge to inform patients of ways in which to improve their dental hygiene. An example of this would be explaining the relationship between diet and oral health, as certain foods may promote or be detrimental to having healthy teeth and gums. They also show patients how to properly brush and provide a criterion for tooth brush selection.
These hygienists use a variety of equipment that is necessary for the correct implementation of their trade. Instruments such as ultrasonics may be used to clean and polish teeth. X ray machines may also be used to take dental pictures as well.
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