Dental Hygienist Responsibilities

To the average person, a dental hygienist might seem to just "do cleanings.” But there’s much more to our profession than that. The responsibilities of a dental hygienist are as follows:

• Assessing patient’s dental and medical histories
• Understanding how a patient’s medical conditions and medications can affect their oral health
• Assessing vitals and recognizing abnormal readings and signs of undiagnosed medical conditions
• Recognizing any pathologic conditions of the head and neck
• Assessing for oral cancer
• Taking x-rays
• Assessing x-rays for signs of cavities, bone loss, and recognizing any abnormalities
• Updating patient’s hard tissue charting (missing teeth, existing restorations, etc.)
• Assessing gum health by thorough gum examinations at every appointment
• Detecting and removing plaque bacteria, tartar buildup, and stain from teeth
• Administering local anesthesia injections (numbing) when needed
• Administering nitrous oxide (laughing gas) when needed
• Performing laser bacterial debridement, if necessary
• Treating and preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease
• Communicating findings and collaborating with dentist to determine patient needs
• Adding items to patients’ treatment plan and explaining dental procedures
• Educating patients on their dental condition and giving recommendations to improve oral care at home
• Providing nutritional counseling, if necessary
• Explaining how oral health affects the overall health of the patient
• Applying fluoride varnish
• Placing dental sealants
• Practicing proper infection control by cleaning the operatory thoroughly
• Performing proper sterilization of instruments
• Documenting treatment in appointment notes
• Responding to medical emergencies within the dental office when necessary
• Following up with patients regarding follow up visits if not scheduled

And most importantly, building a relationship and trust with patients!