Hygienist

A dental hygienist is your first line of defense against the numerous oral diseases that impact millions of patients every year. At regularly scheduled dental cleanings, hygienists help patients maintain their oral health with numerous procedures, including:

• Dental cleanings or prophylaxis
• Tooth scaling or root planing
• Oral health screenings
• X-rays
• Fluoride treatment

The hygienist will examine the condition of your teeth, including any obvious signs of decay, and test your gums for signs of gingivitis. They will then choose a dental cleaning routine that matches your plaque and tartar levels. They may apply dental sealants or local anesthesia if further treatment is warranted.

After they have concluded your initial exam, cleaning, and any scheduled X-rays, the dentist will conduct their own examination to determine your next course of treatment.