Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH)

The Dental Hygiene Professional

A dental hygienist is a licensed preventive oral health professional who provides educational, clinical and therapeutic services to the public through the promotion of oral health. In North Carolina, the dental hygienist works under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist and is a vital member of the dental team. A dental hygienist may work in such practice settings as:

• Private dental offices and dental clinics
• Federal, state and local health departments
• Hospitals
• Educational programs for dental hygiene and dental assisting students
• Private business and industry
• Correctional facilities
• Private and public centers for pediatric, geriatric, and other individuals and groups
• Health Maintenance Organizations

Patient care services performed by dental hygienists may include:

• monitoring procedures, such as preliminary review of the patient's health history, dental charting, oral analysis, and taking and recording vital signs;
• exposing and processing dental X rays;
• removing plaque and calculus from above and below the gum line;
• applying cavity-preventive agents such as fluorides and sealants to the teeth;
• teaching patients proper oral hygiene techniques to maintain healthy teeth and gums;
• counseling patients about plaque control and developing individualized at-home oral hygiene programs
• counseling patients on the importance of good nutrition for maintaining optimal health

Last modified: 07/08/2003 at 11:05:09