It’s important to remember that a visit to the dentist doesn’t just involve the dentist – there’s also the dental hygienist, who plays an essential role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

So, what exactly does a dental hygienist do?

Dental hygienists are trained professionals

Dental hygienists are trained to work alongside dentists to provide preventative dental care. This means that their primary focus is on preventing oral diseases such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer before they occur.

One of the key tasks that dental hygienists perform is cleaning teeth. This involves removing plaque and tartar build-up that can’t be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone. They use specialized tools to clean the teeth, including scalers and ultrasonic devices that use high-frequency vibrations to remove hardened deposits.

Check for signs of decay or disease

Dental hygienists also perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to check for any signs of decay or disease. They may take X-rays to get a closer look at your teeth and identify any potential issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.

They educate their patients

Another important role that dental hygienists play is educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices. They provide advice on brushing and flossing techniques, as well as diet and lifestyle changes that can improve oral health.

But wait…there’s more!

In addition to these tasks, dental hygienists may also perform other procedures such as applying fluoride treatments and sealants to protect teeth from decay.

It’s important to note that dental hygienists are licensed professionals who have undergone extensive training to provide these services. They work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive care and ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment.

Dental hygienists play a critical role in maintaining oral health by providing preventative care, cleaning teeth, performing examinations, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices. We are grateful and celebrate our Cedar Tree Dental hygienists. They’re the ones who continue to make us all smile brightly.