Dental Hygienist

266. Dental Hygienist 
Dental Hygienists are important members of a dental health team. They are dedicated to providing preventive care and patient education, along with clinical procedures including scaling and polishing teeth, assessing gum health, taking X-rays, and applying preventive materials such as sealants and fluoride. By educating patients about how to practice good oral hygiene, dental hygienists help them maintain healthy teeth and gums. Dental hygienists must be familiar with all aspects of oral health, including patient diagnosis, treatment planning, and the use of anesthetic, radiology, sterilization, and safety protocols. They must also know and understand dental anatomy and tooth structure as well as the chemistry and materials used in dentistry. They must keep accurate medical records and be familiar with current technologies available to effectively complete their tasks. Dental Hygienists must also possess excellent communication skills as they often work directly with patients, answering their questions and helping them to understand their dental health needs. They must be able to provide emotional support to patients who may be worried or experiencing pain. In addition to traditional in-person patient care, dental hygienists may also engage in public health programs such as educating the community about oral health or providing routine screenings. They may also be involved in research projects related to oral health, such as examining data to identify trends in oral health risks and evaluate new products or techniques. Dental hygienists are highly skilled professionals who use their knowledge and expertise to help patients achieve and maintain good oral health. With their easy demeanor and friendly attitude, they are approachable, understanding, and above all, committed to providing quality care.