During your biannual checkups and cleanings, your dental hygienist in Covington will do a deep clean of your teeth. Though it’s an important part of their jobs, hygienists do a lot more than just clean your teeth. Their job includes tons of daily responsibilities that are performed behind the scenes. Read on to learn more about the many responsibilities of your dental hygienist.
Comforting Patients
Dental anxiety is a problem that approximately 36% of the population deals with. Some patients even struggle with a more intense form of this issue called dental phobia that makes it incredibly difficult for them to visit the dentist and receive the help they need. Dental hygienists help make fearful patients feel more relaxed during their appointments so they can get the care they need in a calm, comfortable environment.
Education
Visits to the dentist for cleanings and examinations are a great opportunity for you to ask your dental hygienist questions or to bring up concerns so you can learn more about your smile. They can provide guidance and give patients advice on changes they can make to better their oral health. If you have a serious issue like severe periodontal disease, a hygienist can also help educate you on what you can do to treat the issue and how to prevent it in the future.
Screenings
Before you even see your dentist, the hygienist will do a dental exam so they can determine the overall condition of your mouth. During this exam, they will check for tooth decay, early signs of gum disease, and any other abnormalities that the dentist needs to be made aware of. Hygienists will also review a patient’s dental and health history so they can understand and identify:
- Previous dental work
- Overall health changes
- Allergies
- Medical conditions
- Potential oral health risks
- Medications
Treatment
You may think dentists are the only ones in the office that work on patients, but dental hygienists are responsible for treating them, too. They regularly perform cleanings and checkups to remove plaque and tartar from patients’ teeth. They also give fluoride treatments, polish teeth, apply sealants, and more.
Impressions and X-Rays
If you need a dental implant or an oral appliance, your hygienist will usually be the one to take the impressions of your teeth. They also take x-rays to uncover issues that can’t easily be identified by the naked eye. Additionally, dental x-rays can detect gum disease, oral infections, cavities, and even certain types of tumors.
Next time you visit your dentist’s office for a checkup and cleaning, don’t forget to thank your dental hygienist. They put in a lot of hard work to help you maintain good oral health, so make sure to show your appreciation for everything they do by taking good care of your smile!
About the Practice
Dean Dental Care provides comprehensive care to the residents of Covington, Conyers, and Porterdale. Dr. Stephen Dean and his talented, compassionate team of dental health professionals welcome families and individuals of all ages. Their two skilled dental hygienists are ready and willing to answer any questions you may have and make you feel comfortable and safe throughout your appointment. If you’re interested in learning more or want to schedule an appointment with Dean Dental Care, call their office at (770) 786-3915 or visit their website.