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Dental
Hygienist
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is a Hygienist?
Dental Hygiene FAQ
Do I have gum disease?
Stages of gum disease
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What
are the important
things I need to know
about dental health? 
|
 What is a Dental Hygienist?
Dental Hygienists (periodontal therapist
or gum therapist) are specially trained members of the dental team who
work together with your dentist to treat gum diseases and help people
maintain good oral health through care of their teeth and gums.
Dental Hygienists are strong advocates of
the preventative approach to dentistry.
What does the qualified dental
hygienist do?
- Review clinical and medical histories
- Health assessment of the supporting
structures of the teeth (gum, bone and ligament)
- Observe and record changes in dental
status
- Assess patients and develop a care
plan so the patients have a clear understanding of disease
- Take and process x-rays
- Recognize and treat gum disease (which
involves removal of plaque/tartar/stain from teeth by means of
scaling and polishing.
- Polish restorative work (removal of
overhangs and other plaque retaining impediments to good oral
hygiene
- Provide preventative services for
tooth decay (fissure sealants, fluoride treatments)
- Bleach teeth to lighten your smile
- Educate patients on the condition of
their mouths and the options for improving and maintaining their
oral health.
- Demonstrate and educate individuals on
cleaning aids specifically for their mouth.
- Management of minor dental emergencies
with the dentist’s advice
- Make study models and mouth guards for
sport and/or home bleaching
- Maintain orthodontic appliances for
patients
- Providing information on the effects
diet, smoking etc have on oral health.
- Point out to patients any teeth that
could benefit from treatment by a dentist
- Teach and/or carry out research
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