When you visit the dentist’s office, you probably see several people caring for patients like you. There’s the dentist, of course, and the receptionist behind the front desk, but you may be wondering about the other people on the team.
A critical position in the dental clinic is your McAllen dental hygienist! This week is Dental Hygienist Recognition Week, so keep reading to discover how dental hygienists are so important to your dental health!
What Is a Dental Hygienist?
Dental hygienists are highly trained professionals who have completed dental certifications or have college degrees. They’re also licensed by the state to perform their duties.
Dental hygienists focus on dental hygiene, a significant part of your dental health! From dental cleanings to checkups, dental hygienists are the key to helping your teeth stay shiny and strong.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Dental hygienists do a lot of behind-the-scenes work around the office, like cleaning their patient rooms and reviewing charts; but their main goal is dental cleanings!
When you walk into the dentist’s office for an appointment with the hygienist, they will first review your dental and medical history. Next, they will check your mouth for any abnormalities or concerns you may have. This is called oral screening. Your dental hygienist may also take some X-rays if yours are out of date or if a concern needs a deeper look.
Then comes the fun part! Dental hygienists will use their handy tools to clean off any plaque or tartar that’s building up on your teeth. They also look down under your gum line and check for any build-up that may be hiding.
After the cleaning, your dental hygienist can go over any at-home dental care tips, diet suggestions, or questions you may have about keeping your teeth healthy. They will also update your chart with details about your dental cleaning so it’s ready for your next dental checkup!
Come Visit Your McAllen Dental Hygienists at Heroes Dental!
From tooth repair to teeth whitening, there are many treatments your dentist can perform to help your teeth. However, if your teeth aren’t checked or deeply cleaned regularly by a dental hygienist, you’ll be more prone to cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems.
Dental hygienists aren’t taken for granted here at Heroes Dental! We understand their importance in dental care and are grateful for their contributions to our team. If you haven’t met our amazing dental hygienists, schedule a dental cleaning today!