When you visit the dentist, you are usually greeted by the dental hygienist before you see the dentist. Dental hygienists play a vital role in patients’ health and well-being. They support dentists by performing essential duties such as collecting dental history, screening patients, conducting dental cleanings, taking X-rays, applying preventive care, and teaching patients good dental hygiene routines. Schedule a visit with our trusted professional teeth cleaning/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ, who can provide you with a thorough deep clean and asses your mouth to identify issues that may need remedying. Please continue reading to learn more about dental hygienists’ integral role in ensuring patients improve and maintain good dental health.
What does a dental hygienist do?
Firstly, dental hygienists are trained dental professionals. Before any dental work is done, a dental hygienist will conduct a medical history. They will obtain information from a patient to devise a personalized dental treatment plan. This includes any previous dental work, medical conditions, changes to overall health, allergies, and medications they may be taking. Once they have reviewed a patient’s dental and health history, they perform a screening.
Dental hygienists will screen patients for tooth decay, periodontal disease, cavities, and other potential dental problems that could impact a patient’s dental health. This process will usually only take a few minutes, but they will also take a quick look at your head, neck, throat, and mouth to ensure everything looks normal. After a screening, the primary part of a dental hygienist’s job will be performed: dental cleanings.
Do they perform dental cleanings?
Generally, hygienists will use various dental tools and techniques to remove stains, plaque, and tartar from your teeth. Removing plaque and tartar is essential as it prevents tooth decay, cavities, inflammation, gum disease, and other serious oral problems. After performing the cleaning, they will apply preventive care. This includes using treatments like fluoride and sealant on your teeth. These polishes will help you keep a bright and healthy smile.
Furthermore, they are also responsible for taking dental X-rays, which are used to detect oral health issues. Dental X-rays are essential so that any oral problems that arise can be detected in the early stages. Hygienists are also responsible for teaching patients good dental hygiene. This includes providing them with tips on best caring for their mouth. They instruct patients on how to brush and floss their teeth properly.
If it’s time for regular teeth cleaning, schedule an appointment with the competent dentists at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge. Our experienced dentists and hygienists are prepared to help you improve and maintain your overall oral health.
