All You Need to Know About Dental Hygiene

By Yolanda Friday

A dental hygienist is a vital member of a dental care team who specializes in preventive oral health care. Their primary role is to help patients maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Here's what dental hygienists typically do:

• Teeth Cleaning: One of the main tasks of a dental hygienist is to perform professional teeth cleanings, also known as prophylaxis. They use special instruments to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from teeth. This process helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
• Oral Health Assessment: Dental hygienists examine patients' teeth and gums to assess their oral health status. They look for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues. They may also take dental X-rays to detect problems that are not visible during a visual examination.
• Educating Patients: Dental hygienists play a crucial role in educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices. They provide guidance on brushing techniques, flossing, and using other oral hygiene aids such as mouthwash and interdental brushes. They may also offer advice on nutrition and lifestyle habits that impact oral health.
• Periodontal Care: For patients with gum disease (periodontal disease), dental hygienists perform procedures such as scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth and below the gumline, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to promote healing and prevent bacteria buildup.
• Applying Fluoride and Sealants: Dental hygienists may apply fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay. They may also apply dental sealants, thin protective coatings, to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities in hard-to-reach areas, particularly in children.
• Taking Impressions: In some cases, dental hygienists may take impressions of patients' teeth for various purposes, such as creating custom mouthguards, dental appliances, or models for treatment planning.
• Assisting Dentists: Dental hygienists often work closely with dentists and dental assistants to provide comprehensive dental care to patients. They may assist during dental procedures, sterilize instruments, and perform other tasks to support the dentist's work.

Overall, dental hygienists play a crucial role in promoting good oral health and preventing dental problems through patient education, preventive care, and clinical procedures. Their efforts contribute significantly to maintaining healthy smiles and overall well-being.

To schedule an appointment with Yolanda Friday, click here and begin your journey to wellness.