What Does an Oral Hygienist Do?

An oral hygienist is different from a dentist, but what exactly is their job? Many people don't realise which dental hygiene treatments are handled by an oral hygienist - you might be surprised to learn that they're trained to do quite a lot. Here are just a few of the responsibilities held by an oral hygienist.

Teeth Scaling

During a cleaning appointment, you'll be given a teeth scaling procedure, which involves removing plaque or tartar. Both plaque and tartar tend to build up in hard-to-reach places, such as along the gumline or between teeth. It can cause decay and gum disease, so the oral hygienist will take great care to remove this with special tools designed to get even the toughest plaque off your teeth.

Polishing Teeth

The next step in most teeth cleaning appointments is to remove stains and make your teeth look as nice as possible. A light polish is perfect for getting rid of any superficial stains and discolouration on your teeth and will help to keep your teeth looking clean and healthy.

Dental Care Education

Dental hygiene is a very important part of preventing damage to your teeth. Brushing and flossing are necessary, but not everyone understands how to do these everyday tasks properly. Your hygienist will instruct you on proper dental care techniques.

They can also give advice on diet and how to ensure your teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible. This advice is often tailored to your particular needs, as the hygienist knows the specifics of your case and can make recommendations tailored to your areas of concern.

Risk Assessment

Oral hygienists are experts at spotting issues that may require further treatment. For example, they will note any potential tooth decay or loose or cracked fillings. They can also spot whether you’re displaying early signs of gum disease. From there, you'll be referred to a dentist who can help you with the necessary dental treatments.

When to See an Oral Hygienist

Regular teeth scaling will help prevent cavities and disease, so you can stay healthy. It's also a good idea to have your teeth cleaned before major dental work. This will help prevent complications and ensure the dentist has a clean and easy space to work with. You should discuss how often to have your teeth cleaned with your hygienist, as they can recommend the best timeline based on your particular needs.

Ready to get your teeth cleaned? Contact Acorn Dental Health today to schedule an appointment with our expert oral hygienists.