They evaluate patients' dental health and focus on finding and treating gum disease. Dentists can detect the early warning signs of a variety of diseases, such as oral cancer and gum disease, which can generally progress without pain. In addition to dentists, a dental hygienist can help keep teeth clean, which in turn can help prevent a variety of diseases. Both dental hygienists and dentists work in a dental office and can be seen cleaning their teeth, using dental tools, taking X-rays and more.
But when it comes to names and functions, what does each one do? Are there any differences between the two? Who has more educational experience or knowledge about teeth? Here are some answers to the questions above and information to help you learn more about people who poke around their teeth. Dental hygienists and dental therapists are specially trained to work with the dentist to care for patients and can help you with your treatment plan. Many are qualified as hygienists and therapists. Dental hygienists guide brushing techniques, flossing methods, and recommendations for oral care products adapted to individual needs.
The costs of treatment with a dental hygienist will vary depending on what is being done and from office to office. If your dental hygienist is trained to do so, you can complete fillings following the dentist's advice. If gum disease has progressed to more advanced stages, you may need surgical procedures to clean your teeth; definitely, these procedures cannot be performed at home without the presence of a dentist. Both jobs require knowledge about teeth, but dentists must know about tooth fragility, lifespan, and much more.
In addition to cleaning and education, dental hygienists often perform other important tasks, such as taking X-rays, applying fluoride treatments, and administering local anesthesia when needed. One of the primary responsibilities of a dental hygienist is to perform thorough cleaning, also known as prophylaxis. Once your teeth are in good health, your dentist may recommend a smile renewal, teeth whitening, or composite adhesive to achieve the beautiful smile you want. Once the decay has been completely eliminated, the filling is replaced, which would be considered a restoration of the tooth and is not within the purview of a dental hygienist. Direct access allows you to see the dental hygienist for an oral health evaluation and limited treatments.
Hygienists do more than dental assistants and work to help the dentist, while the assistant helps hygienists and the dentist. Their diverse skill set allows them to help dentists diagnose potential problems early on and provide the necessary preventive care. Dentists are tasked with filling cavities, extracting teeth, treating gum disease, and can issue prescriptions.
