Person Who Cleans Teeth At A Dental Practice
Introduction
A person who cleans teeth at a dental practice is a dental hygienist. Dental hygienists are licensed professionals who work closely with dentists to provide preventive dental care to their patients. They are responsible for cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and educating patients on how to maintain good oral health.
Education and Training
To become a dental hygienist, one must complete a two-year associate degree program or a four-year bachelor's degree program in dental hygiene. In addition to classroom instruction, students in these programs receive hands-on training in dental clinics where they learn how to clean teeth, take X-rays, and assist dentists with procedures.
After completing their education, dental hygienists must pass a national licensing examination before they can practice. They are also required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure and stay up-to-date on the latest advances in dental hygiene.
Responsibilities
Dental hygienists are responsible for a variety of tasks at a dental practice. Their primary responsibility is to clean teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup, and polishing them to remove surface stains. They also examine patients for signs of oral diseases and take X-rays to detect any underlying issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.
In addition to cleaning teeth, dental hygienists also educate patients on how to maintain good oral health. They teach patients how to brush and floss properly, and provide tips on healthy eating habits that can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Collaboration with Dentists
Dental hygienists work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive dental care to their patients. They often assist dentists with procedures such as fillings, root canals, and extractions. They also help dentists diagnose oral diseases and develop treatment plans for their patients.
Working together as a team, dental hygienists and dentists are able to provide high-quality dental care that helps patients maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives.
Conclusion
A person who cleans teeth at a dental practice is a dental hygienist. These licensed professionals play an important role in providing preventive dental care to patients, cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and educating patients on how to maintain good oral health. Working closely with dentists, dental hygienists help ensure that patients receive the highest quality dental care possible.