Listed as one of the fastest growing occupations through 2016, Dental Hygienist are in great demand. A dental hygienist has a range of responsibilities including preventive care and plaque removal. As one of the fastest growing professions, there is an abundance of information for prospective dental hygienist and dental assistants.
Dental Hygienists handle the majority of minor dental occurrences. Many people only see the dentist for a few minutes unless they are having a procedure. They handle the bulk of patient care include preventive measures, teeth cleaning, and educating patients on proper cleaning methods. At times, the hygienist will apply local anesthetic or carve and mold fillings. This varies from state to state.
Dental Assistants work closely under the supervision of a dentist. The difference between a dental assistant and a dental hygienist is that an assistant has less training and cannot handle as many clinical tasks. Dental assistants are responsible for general office duties, laboratory tasks and patient care. In the office, the assistant will retrieve patient records, disinfect instruments and prepare the dental procedure area. They also provide comfort the patients and explain brief procedures before the dentist arrives. While the dentist is working, a dental assistant will hand instruments and keep the mouth of the patient clear and dry.
Orthodontic Assistants are similar to a dental hygienist but in an orthodontist office. An orthodontist handles the alignment of a patient’s jaw and teeth. This also includes braces. An orthodontic assistant cleans braces, provides fluoride treatments and prepare instruments for the orthodontist. When cleaning, they may remove tension bands and wires. During new brace installments, the orthodontist will apply a mold and UV light. It is the orthodontist assistant’s duty to hold the bracket in place during the procedure so the proper mold of the teeth can be completed.
For more about dental hygienist training please see How To Become A Dental Hygienist.
It is crucial that dental hygients do not scale, polish, scape or brush “silver” amalgam dental fillings that are 50% MERCURY! Any stimulation will cause even more vapor to pour off! Mercury emits 24/7 from these fillings! Mercury is a known neurotoxin, (brain poison) Dental assistants are at the greatest risk while handling prepared amalgam and placement and again while removing exsisting fillings. All must wear a mercury vapor mask in order to be truly protected! Please visit IAOMT.org to view safe removal practices.