Visiting the dentist for check-ups and cleanings is at the core of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, equally important is the intervention of the dental hygienist. In most cases, cleanings are carried out by hygienists, who are specially trained to diagnose signs of gum disease and tooth decay. Early diagnosis of these conditions will lead to better treatment and a better overall preventive plan.
At Sheen Dental, your dental hygienist in Richmond will provide essential preventive dental care with an emphasis on dental education. Our aim – besides keeping your teeth and gums healthy and clean – is to inform you on all these habits that can be harmful to your teeth and gums, provide dietary advice and show you the best brushing and flossing techniques.
What can a dental hygienist in Richmond do?
Depending on the education and experience of each dental hygienist, they can perform several procedures. At Sheen Dental, our dental hygienists are trained to clean and polish your teeth thoroughly, while they can also develop and interpret x-rays. Our dental hygienists can also look for signs of tooth decay or gum disease and they also administer all of our educational programmes directed to our patients (i.e. smoking cessation). Moreover, our dental hygienists can also perform preventive procedures such as dental sealants or fluoride treatments.
What can’t a dental hygienist in Richmond do?
In general, while there are many tasks that dental hygienists can do, some things should be left to the dentist. For certain tasks, dental hygienists do not need to work under the supervision of a dentist since they have the training and experience to perform these treatments on their own. In some cases, dental hygienists will collaborate with dentists helping with complex dental treatments. However, a dental hygienist in Richmond will not perform any complex dental treatment, unless they are cleared by the dentist.
Get in touch
It is recommended to visit the dental hygienist in Richmond for cleanings at least twice a year. However, your dental hygienist may suggest that you visit more frequently, depending on your dental history and your risk of gum disease or tooth decay. If you can’t remember you last visited, contact us today.