Practices

  1. Dental Cleanings: Hygienists perform thorough cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth. This includes scaling, root planing, and polishing to help maintain optimal oral health.
  2. Patient Education: Hygienists play a vital role in educating patients about proper oral hygiene techniques, such as brushing, flossing, and dietary recommendations. They provide guidance on maintaining healthy habits and preventing oral diseases.
  3. Oral Examinations: Hygienists perform oral assessments, including examining the teeth, gums, and oral tissues. They look for signs of gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, and other oral health issues, alerting the dentist for further evaluation or treatment.
  4. Dental X-Rays: Hygienists may take dental X-rays as part of the diagnostic process. These X-rays help identify hidden dental problems, such as tooth decay, impacted teeth, or bone loss.
  5. Application of Preventive Treatments: Hygienists may apply fluoride treatments or dental sealants to protect teeth against cavities. They may also provide antimicrobial agents or desensitizing treatments to manage specific oral conditions.
  6. Periodontal Care: Hygienists are trained to assess and treat gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. They perform periodontal maintenance procedures, including deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria and calculus from below the gumline.
  7. Oral Health Assessments: Hygienists evaluate patients' overall oral health, including assessing risk factors, reviewing medical histories, and identifying potential oral health concerns.
  8. Collaboration with Dentists: Hygienists work closely with dentists to develop personalized treatment plans for patients. They provide valuable insights and collaborate on preventive and restorative care strategies.