Role of Dental Hygienists

Today, dental hygienists have an unprecedented opportunity to positively influence patients’ oral health as well as their overall well being. Their knowledge of the oral-systemic connection allows for dental hygienists to provide more comprehensive care tailored to their patients, such as:

ASSESSMENTS – Prior to the clinical examination, inquire about existing medical conditions, currently prescribed medications and other therapies that may have implication on oral manifestations that may develop in the mouth. Evaluate the patient’s compliance to medications and treatment therapy.

SCREENING – This is a critical step used to detect early stages of disease. Screenings include oral cancer evaluations, blood pressure monitoring, blood glucose testing, periodontal saliva sampling and/or bone density testing if offered by the practice.

EDUCATION – Patient handouts, videos and other materials are available from various organizations for patients to take home or access online via the Internet. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association has numerous online fact sheets (www.adha.org) and dentalcare.com offers customizable patient education pamphlets in 17 languages.

REFERRALS – If a clinical examination or screening test suggests presence of a systemic disease, the dental hygienist should discuss the issue with the dentist and consider referral of the patient to the physician or the appropriate health care provider.

TREATMENT PLANNING - Recall appointments, in-office treatments and home care products can be tailored, based on the patient’s health status and perceived compliance.

HOME-CARE PRODUCTS - Home-care products are an essential part of treatment planning for any patient, but for aging patients with medical conditions the importance is critical. Numerous products are available to improve periodontal health, reduce the risk of caries and alleviate dry mouth.