A question we often receive is: What does a dental hygienist do?
That is an excellent question, as many are of the opinion that a dental hygienist is merely a way for patients to spend more money – when in fact, it is quite the opposite.
A dental hygienist works in odontological prophylaxis, in other words: preventive dental care. They clean patients’ teeth and examine their mouths for signs of damage, inflammation, and diseases. They assist patients with their oral hygiene and instruct them on how to best maintain it. A dental hygienist works closely with and under the supervision of a dentist, but in some cases, may also receive new patients without a dentist present.
Many believe that a dental hygienist is synonymous with a dentist, just as a cleaner is synonymous with a janitor. However, this is not the case. Their duties sometimes overlap, but they are ultimately different professions. Another common confusion is between the profession of a dental assistant and a dental hygienist. They both work in dental care under the supervision of a dentist, but their duties vary significantly. The duties of a dental assistant primarily consist of helping and assisting dentists, guiding patients to their examination rooms, preparing patients for examinations and procedures, and preparing tools and instruments for the dentist. A dental hygienist works with their own patients, focusing on oral hygiene. In addition to examining the patient’s oral hygiene and cleaning the mouth (removing tartar and bacteria), the dental hygienist also provides information and instructions to the patient on how to best care for their teeth and gums. The dental hygienist also treats conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis. A dental hygienist may also take X-rays and perform fillings after drilling, but not perform the drilling itself. A dental hygienist’s duties include, among other things:
– A preliminary examination of new patients
– Cleaning and removing stains, plaque, and tartar from teeth
– Applying fluoride varnish and sealants
– Taking X-rays
– Administering local anesthesia to patients
– Creating treatment plans and documenting completed treatment for patients
– Examining the patient’s oral hygiene and communicating the results to the dentist
– Educating patients on good oral hygiene practices, such as correct brushing and flossing
– Treating and preventing gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (gum disease)
Why Should I Visit a Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is specially trained to perform examinations and minor treatments and is an expert at teaching you how to best care for your teeth and gums. They have the opportunity to spend more time with you than a dentist can. In most cases, the cost of visiting a dental hygienist is also lower than a visit to a dentist.
Some dentists prefer to perform many of the tasks included in a dental hygienist’s duties themselves, while others prefer to delegate many examinations and lighter treatments to their dental hygienist.
Our dentists and dental hygienists at TandCity Malmö work closely together to provide our patients with the best possible care.
What Does a Visit to a Dental Hygienist Cost?
Our main goal at TandCity is to provide high-quality oral care to everyone. We never compromise between quality and price. We want all of Sweden to smile, and we believe that a satisfied customer will return.
Dental care prices for an examination with our dental hygienists in Malmö:
– Basic examination, performed by a dental hygienist, SEK 730
– Basic examination with a complete periodontal (gum disease) examination, performed by a dental hygienist, SEK 950
Before starting your treatment at TandCity Malmö, you can always ask our dental hygienists or dentists for a cost estimate for your dental care needs.
Book a Visit to TandCity Today
Here are some tips for good oral hygiene from TandCity’s dental hygienists:
– Brush twice daily for about two minutes, preferably with an electric toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste
– Daily use dental floss or an interdental brush to remove bacteria between teeth and other hard-to-reach areas
– Regularly visit your dental hygienist and dentist in Malmö.
Contact TandCity directly, or book an appointment online for a visit with one of our dental hygienists in Malmö. Welcome!
“The text above is written for online marketing purposes. The opinions are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of TandCity.”
