A dentist’s job would be much more time consuming if it wasn’t for the invaluable assistance of the dental hygienist. Working in sync, they are able to see more patients and provide each one with the personal attention that they are looking for in a dental home.
When you go to your next dental appointment you’ll expect to see the hygienist before you do the dentist. In fact, if you’re only there to have your teeth cleaned, you may not see the dentist at all. The dental hygienist also takes responsibility for recording and updating a patient’s dental health information, and taking x-rays for the dentist to use in coming up with an appropriate treatment plan. Other duties include doing oral cancer screenings, applying fluoride or sealants, and educating patients about how best to prevent cavities, gum disease or other dental concerns. When all these essential procedures can be taken care of by a trusted, qualified professional it frees up the dentist to prepare for the more invasive or complicated treatments that require his proficiency.
In order to become a licensed dental hygienist, a student must complete an associate’s degree from an accredited college. Earning this degree will usually take two years of study in subjects like pathology and anatomy. If a candidate is interested in working with a pediatric dentist in Aurora, she should plan on taking additional classes in child care, child psychology or technology appropriate to treating children.
Most pediatric dentists will ask for a dental hygienist who has had experience treating children. While enrolled in a program that will lead to a degree in dental hygiene a student can gain the necessary experience by volunteering to work in an established pediatric dental office.
Continuing one’s education is always an asset when looking to get ahead in a profession. This definitely holds true in the field of dental hygiene. Signing up for advanced courses in how to detect cavities in their earliest stages and how to treat children who might have special needs will be taking steps toward that goal. To learn more about cavity prevention,
