While your dentist performs a wide range of procedures and services, dental hygienists are often overlooked. The truth is that you likely spend more time with your dental hygienist than you do with your dentist. Something that you probably don’t know is that the second week of April is Dental Hygienist Week. Continue reading to learn some of the different reasons to be thankful for your dental hygienist.
Hygienists Are Highly Educated
Dental hygienists must graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program and pass a challenging clinical and written board exam to obtain a license in their state. They also must complete continuing education requirements to stay up-to-date with modern practices, techniques, and treatments.
Hygienists Are Educators
It is the hygienist’s job to educate patients on the best oral hygiene practices and techniques. It’s important that they listen and ask all the right questions so they can understand patients’ concerns. General health and dental health go hand in hand, so by showing patients the right way to keep their smile healthy, they are also helping the patient’s well-being.
Your Hygienist is a Familiar Face
When you go to the dental office for a routine visit, your hygienist can be the familiar face that helps you feel more at ease and confident in the care you are going to receive. Even if you only see them twice a year, you still have a relationship with them. You will feel much happier being treated by someone that you already trust.
Dental Hygienists Give Back
Did you know that nearly 70% of dental hygienists join in at one or several community service events each year? Just like they help you by keeping your smile clean, they love to give back to the community in any way they can.
Hygienists Screen for Oral Cancer
When you go in for your regular cleaning and checkups, cleaning your teeth isn’t your hygienist’s only job. You may not even realize it, but your hygienist also screens you for oral cancer during your visit. While this disease can be incredibly dangerous and even deadly, it can often be treated when caught early on. That’s why your hygienist is on the lookout for any abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. If something looks strange, further steps can be taken to investigate it. Early detection is key to making a full recovery.
Next time you see your dental hygienist, don’t forget about all of the amazing things they do. You have them to thank!
About the Author
Dr. Scott Parker is an experienced dentist who earned his dental doctorate from Loma Linda University. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Tri-County Dental Society. He has an amazing team of dental hygienists helping him care for patients and their smiles. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Calimesa, visit his website or call (909) 795-6019.