What are the basic things that hygienist do? Hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases such as gingivitis, and provide other preventive dental care. They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain good oral health. Which sounds similar to a regular dentist that most of us should see twice a year. Many may wonder what's the difference between a hygienist and a regular dentist. Well the first person that you see comes in and cleans your teeth which is the dental hygienist. …show more content…
These hours include at least 600 hours of supervised instruction in preclinical and clinical skills. While most dental hygienists work in private oral health practices, others provide services in hospitals; managed care organizations; federal, state, and municipal health departments; primary and secondary school systems; private businesses and industries; correctional institutions; and private and public centers for pediatric, geriatric, and other special needs groups.
The "RDH" designation stands for Registered Dental Hygienist. It assures patients that a dental hygienist has completed a nationally accredited dental hygiene program, has successfully passed a national written and state clinical examination, and has received a state license to provide preventive oral health care services and patient education. (In Indiana, the designation LDH (Licensed Dental Hygienist) is used instead of RDH.) Make sure your preventive oral health care is being provided by a licensed dental