Why does my dentist Want me to see the dental hygienist?Dental hygienists have the education and training to provide specialised care in prevention and maintenance of the mouth, teeth and gumsYour dentist and dental hygienist work together to provide the best possible care for your mouth, teeth and gums and your general well-being.

“A dental hygienist is a registered dental professional who focuses in preventive oral health. They are involved in assessing, planning, implementing & evaluating preventive oral procedures, based on your own needs”

the preventiveapproach to oral

health that Will help you maintain your

teeth for life.

oralb.com.au

The DenTal hygienisT

sponsored byfor more information please visit www.dhaa.infoor contact us at contact@dhaa.asn.au

What is a dental hygienist?A dental hygienist is an oral health professional who is specifically trained member of the dental team who works together with the dentist to provide fully integrated

dental care.Hygienists may work in a variety of

settings from private practice, specialists practices

(Orthodontics, Periodontics), in the public sector and also work in residential aged care facilities.They play an important role in oral health by providing individualised oral hygiene care and treatment to prevent dental disease of the teeth and gums and help improve general health and well-being.

What is the role of a dental hygienist?Hygienists provide the following;1. Dental hygiene education tailored to the individual

patient’s needs. This comprehensive one-on-one instruction includes care for your gums and teeth and information on dietary habits, risk factors and health conditions which may be adversely affecting your oral health and general health

2. Plan with your dentist an oral health maintenance program including assessment of your teeth and periodontal tissue (gum) health, evaluation of radiographs (xrays) and review of your medical history

3. Removal of calculus (tartar) deposits and stains from teeth4. Application of caries (decay) preventing

agents and recommendation of products for home use

5. Community education and health promotion for schools, kindergartens, service groups and organisation6. Provision of preventive oral

health services to residents of nursing homes and patients with special needs

Why is dental care so important?Dental disease can be prevented.Effective home plaque

control techniques help prevent gum disease and the

use of fluoride tooth paste can help prevent dental caries.

Preventive early intervention and education will improve oral health and general health.

preventive dental treatment for all agesDental disease occurs at any age, therefore treatment and advice from a dental hygienist will benefit everyone.Patients are taught how dental disease occurs and how disease may be prevented.For many children the application of fissure sealants to the grooves of the back teeth may protect against dental caries. In the aging population changes in general health and medications can impact on saliva flow and quality and have a direct impact on the oral health of a personIt is important that everyone establishes good oral health self-care. Your dental team including the dentist and dental hygienist can assist you maintaining healthy teeth and

gums oral health for life and improve general well-being.