A dental hygienist is an oral healthcare professional with wide-ranging responsibilities that improve or maintain the health of teeth and gums. Hygienists often work in the dental industry, but this field also includes positions with public health programs and non-profit groups that provide care to people who might not otherwise be able to afford it.
A hygienist is a valuable member of the dental team and provides patients with essential information about oral hygiene, healthy habits, and treatment options. In addition to providing patients with preventive treatments like fluoride, dental hygienists are also trained to spot potential problems early.
For example, a patient may have a risk for periodontal disease based on certain factors like age or family history. A hygienist can identify red flags such as inflammation or tissue loss and recommend treatment to the dentist before the problem escalates.
The Role of a Dental Hygienist in Maintaining Your Oral Health
During a professional tooth cleaning, a hygienist removes the soft plaque and hard deposits called tartar that build up on the tooth surface. These toxins are the root cause of gum disease, so they must be removed at every dental visit.
UB’s dental hygiene program prepares students for careers in the field through an extensive curriculum that includes introductory science courses like biology, chemistry, microbiology, and anatomy. The baccalaureate program also requires psychology and studio art courses to ensure students have the skills necessary to communicate effectively, collaborate with other dental professionals, and develop manual dexterity. Students are also required to pass a clinical exam to become licensed in their state of practice.