Dental hygienists have a primary role in oral hygiene and healthcare. They remove deposits from teeth, examine their gums and record the presence of any abnormalities or diseases.
Hygienists have a sophisticated inventory of tools which they require to complete the complex procedures that oral hygiene demands. These include hand and rotary instruments and even ultrasonic devices, which are used to scale and polish teeth. These tools are also used to remove stains, plaque and tartar from teeth. X-rays are also required sometimes to diagnose problems. DHs may even use models of teeth to explain to their patients the procedures they need to carry out. These models are even used to plan periodontal therapy.
The geographical location of the hygienists also decides their functions. In some states, Dental Hygienists have the power to administer anesthetics. This is because different authorities allow different levels of procedures in their province. In some places, they are allowed to do temporary fillings, periodontal dressings, remove sutures and polish metal restorations. Other states, do not give such powers to the hygienists.
DHs not only treat dental problems, but also tell patients how to maintain good oral health. For instance, they explain the relationship of food and dental hygiene to their patients and even inform them on how to select their toothbrushes. Proper techniques of brushing and flossing are also explained by these hygienists.
As hygienists work hand-in-hand with dentists, they sometimes diagnose and prepare clinical diagnostic tests which the dentist then interprets. They even sit next to the dentist during some complicated procedures.
The work conditions that the dental hygienists enjoy are brilliant. Their offices are clean and well-lit. Proper clinic guidelines ensure that the work space is well disinfected and free of any harmful fumes. Hygienists don't have much to do with emergency cases and hence enjoy a proper work time without any urgent calls. They have to wear safety glasses, surgical masks and gloves to protect themselves from patients that have communicable diseases. The only concern that dental hygienists face is the advent of shoulder or neck problems. This arises as they have to sit long periods in the same posture when they are operating or treating patients.
Dentists often hire on-call dental hygienists to work with them a few times a week, so this gives them the flexibility to work in many offices at the same time. They may even chose to open their own dental care centre.
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