What is the role of the dental hygienist in a children’s dental office?
Dental hygienists are licensed health care professionals focusing on preventative oral health. Traditionally the role of the dental hygienist is to evaluate and gather information about each patient through x-rays and exams. Next, it usually involves a plan for treating any periodontal (gum and bone) condition, by cleaning the teeth and helping the patient maintain good oral habits. The hygienist’s most important role is patient education, teaching patients and parents how to prevent cavities and other dental diseases.
In many children’s dental offices the hygienist is often counted on to help out with restorative procedures. This usually includes giving local anesthetic and placing fillings. One difference between an adult and children’s practice is the hygienist may be more involved with the restorative treatment of children. This varies based on the state, but hygienists in Washington are trained in expanded duties.
Becoming a hygienist requires about 4 years of school, including 2 years in dental hygiene school. In Washington State, additional training is given beyond the scope of traditional dental hygiene. Hygienists are taught how to administer local anesthesia and to place and carve restorations (fillings). Clinical and written board examinations are required to demonstrate competency in these areas.
At Children’s Dentistry of Wenatchee the hygienist spends a good portion of the day administering anesthesia for patients and placing the fillings after Dr. Cara has prepared a tooth for restoration. Your child will typically get a “hygiene check” during a cleaning visit to scale off any calculus (a.k.a. tartar) as well as get oral health recommendations. During this time the hygienist will evaluate each child’s mouth for areas that need improvement, and always make sure to praise good work. The assistants are very involved in patient education and checkups. Working closely with the assistants to make sure that each child has an enjoyable experience is key to the success of your child’s visit.
Above all else the hygienist is a coach helping to instill lifelong healthy habits. By connecting with children at a young age dental problems cannot only be treated, but kids will be given knowledge as a preventative tool. Hygienists are a great resource on oral health. So bring your smile and questions to your next visit!
Dental hygienists are licensed health care professionals focusing on preventative oral health. Traditionally the role of the dental hygienist is to evaluate and gather information about each patient through x-rays and exams. Next, it usually involves a plan for treating any periodontal (gum and bone) condition, by cleaning the teeth and helping the patient maintain good oral habits. The hygienist’s most important role is patient education, teaching patients and parents how to prevent cavities and other dental diseases.
In many children’s dental offices the hygienist is often counted on to help out with restorative procedures. This usually includes giving local anesthetic and placing fillings. One difference between an adult and children’s practice is the hygienist may be more involved with the restorative treatment of children. This varies based on the state, but hygienists in Washington are trained in expanded duties.
Becoming a hygienist requires about 4 years of school, including 2 years in dental hygiene school. In Washington State, additional training is given beyond the scope of traditional dental hygiene. Hygienists are taught how to administer local anesthesia and to place and carve restorations (fillings). Clinical and written board examinations are required to demonstrate competency in these areas.
At Children’s Dentistry of Wenatchee the hygienist spends a good portion of the day administering anesthesia for patients and placing the fillings after Dr. Cara has prepared a tooth for restoration. Your child will typically get a “hygiene check” during a cleaning visit to scale off any calculus (a.k.a. tartar) as well as get oral health recommendations. During this time the hygienist will evaluate each child’s mouth for areas that need improvement, and always make sure to praise good work. The assistants are very involved in patient education and checkups. Working closely with the assistants to make sure that each child has an enjoyable experience is key to the success of your child’s visit.
Above all else the hygienist is a coach helping to instill lifelong healthy habits. By connecting with children at a young age dental problems cannot only be treated, but kids will be given knowledge as a preventative tool. Hygienists are a great resource on oral health. So bring your smile and questions to your next visit!
Morgan
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