Have you ever found yourself sitting in the dental chair wondering, “What exactly do dental hygienists do beyond what I see?”
Gaining insight into their everyday roles and responsibilities helps us gain a greater appreciation of how these healthcare professionals contribute to maintaining oral health.
In this blog page we create a What Do Dental Hygienists Do blog topic post with all details.
Table of Contents
Prepping For The Day’s Ahead
As part of their daily duties, dental hygienists typically start their day by prepping the dental operatory for use –
this typically includes making sure all instruments and equipment have been sterilized prior to being utilized as well as reviewing patients’ medical histories to anticipate any specific needs that might arise during an appointment.
Dental hygienists’ meticulous preparation work is integral to providing seamless operations and outstanding patient care throughout the day.
Engaging Patients Directly: At the Core of What Dental Hygienists Do
When the day starts dental hygienists’ main job is clear: the care of patients. What exactly is the role of dental hygienists in caring for their patients? A lot actually!
Dental hygienists offer essential dental hygiene services that eliminate the tartar and plaque to avoid gum diseases.
In addition, they conduct initial dental examinations, develop and take dental x-rays apply sealants and fluorides and create fillings and sutures, and then remove them when needed.
While many people consider dental hygienists to be primarily the hands-on care of patients their responsibilities actually go to a greater extent.
Knowledge Is Power: Dental Hygienist as Educators
Dental hygienists play an essential part in patient education.
Their role involves teaching people about proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, diet and lifestyle decisions that could have an impact on oral health.
Dental hygienists play a pivotal role in discussing the relationships between oral health and overall wellness, emphasizing the significance of routine dental care, and encouraging regular check-ups for their patients.
Furthermore, they equip their clients with knowledge for a healthier future than just cleaning teeth!
Juggling Administration: Behind-the-Scenes of What Dental Hygienists Do
Dental hygienists perform several administrative duties that support their work as dental hygiene providers, such as maintaining patient records, scheduling appointments and processing billing.
Dental Hygienists play an essential role in running an efficient dental practice. Their duties should not be overlooked!
Ending: Reflection and Preparing for Tomorrow
As they prepare to close out a day’s work, dental hygienists make sure all instruments used during the day have been sterilized, while also cleaning and prepping the operatory in preparation for tomorrow.
They may review next day’s appointments, assist special patient needs as necessary and reflect upon yesterday’s efforts.
Conclusion: What Do Dental Hygienists Do Every Day?
Dental hygienists juggle numerous duties that go well beyond our dental visits; from preparation and hands-on patient care, education and administration duties, and end-of-day tasks.
Their workdays are dedicated to maintaining and improving oral health – having an incredible impact on overall well-being.
What exactly do dental hygienists do on a daily basis? They educate, administer and continually strive to provide optimal oral health care; for which we must express our sincerest appreciation.
