The Roles of Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistant

When you visit the dentist, you often see other professionals in the office. Usually, the dentist will have a hygienist and a dental assistant as part of the team. While their roles aren’t the same as the dentist’s job, these individuals do play an important part in your dental care. Understanding what the hygienist and dental assistant do can make you feel more comfortable at your dental appointments.

The Dental Assistant
To become a dental assistant, an individual usually completes course work through a community college or technical school. This training will provide hands-on experience before the dental assistant works in an actual dental practice. A dental assistant can serve many functions, including assisting the dentist during treatment, taking impressions, sterilizing instruments, and making temporary crowns for patients. Dental assistants also welcome patients and help them feel comfortable in the dental office.

The Dental Hygienist
At a minimum, a dental hygienist must earn an associate’s degree, though many hygienists choose to obtain four-year degrees. Additionally, hygienists must be licensed in the states where they practice. The dental hygienist is generally responsible for taking patient x-rays, performing an initial periodontal assessment, and cleaning your teeth. During your appointment, the hygienist will also offer tips on home hygiene to help you maximize your oral car routine. A dental hygienist may also perform deep cleanings for gum disease, apply fluoride, remove sutures, and administer local anesthetic.

Contact Us

    You may also like invisalgin

    Invisalign and Children – A Good Fit?

    Does your child need braces, but isn’t sure about being a “metal mouth” for...

    dental implant dentistry

    Why Choose a Dental Implant

    Tooth loss is a common occurrence – millions of people suffer tooth loss –...

    cosmetic denitistry

    What are Cosmetic Dental Procedures?

    Age, bad habits, and food and drink choices can all add up to be...

    Common Services Offered by General Dentists

    Common Services Offered by General Dentists

    General dentistry offers exactly what the name implies: dental care related to the general...

    family dentist

    What Your Family Dentist Has to Say About Your Child’s Pacifier

    Your family dentist knows that your child’s pacifier serves an important purpose. It soothes...

    root canal treatment

    Why Do I Need Root Canal Treatment?

    Even though regular checkups and proper dental hygiene greatly decrease the need for root...

    cosmetic dentistry

    Anatomy of a Smile Makeover

    Everyone hopes to look younger and more attractive, and one way to achieve that...

    invislaign

    Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

    If you are considering straightening your teeth, you may be looking into various orthodontic...

    © 2019 – Smile Care Valencia | All Rights Reserved.

    Call Now