4 Reasons to Show Your Dental Hygienist You Appreciate Them

Dental hygienists are a crucial part of the caring team at your dentist’s office. They work tirelessly to help ensure that all of their patients are able to continue enjoying bright, healthy smiles. Since the second week of April is National Dental Hygienists Week, now is a good opportunity to consider everything your hygienist does for you. Below is a closer look at 4 important reasons why you should appreciate your hygienist!

1. Dental Hygienists are Highly Dedicated to Learning

Becoming a dental hygienist requires years of study. But even after becoming licensed, all hygienists are expected to regularly complete a certain number of continuing education hours, which allows them to keep up with the latest advancements in the field. This ensures that they are able to continue bringing their patients the high-quality care that they deserve.

2. Dental Hygienists Keep Your Smile Clean and Bright

When you visit your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning, it is typically your dental hygienist who handles the process of removing any plaque or tartar that has built up on your teeth since your last appointment. Getting rid of these harmful substances is crucial for making sure that your smile stays cavity-free. On top of that, your hygienist can also keep your teeth looking their best by polishing away stains on the surface of the enamel.

3. Dental Hygienists Can Help You Take Better Care of Your Smile

Patient education is an important part of a dental hygienist’s duties. While they’re cleaning your teeth, your hygienist can give you valuable advice for taking better care of your smile at home. This can include tips for brushing and flossing as thoroughly as possible as well as insight into changes you can make to your diet to promote oral health.

4. Dental Hygienists Capture Clear, High-Quality X-Rays

At least once a year, your dental hygienist may take X-rays of your mouth. X-rays are an invaluable diagnostic tool that can help your dentist identify oral health issues that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Hygienists are trained to know how to safely capture X-rays that show the mouth and jaw from a variety of angles, thus giving your dentist all of the information they need to make accurate, trustworthy diagnoses.

In short, dental hygienists work hard to ensure that all patients get the care that their smiles need. The next time you pay your dentist’s office a visit, don’t be shy about letting your dental hygienist know that you appreciate what they do!

About the Author

Dr. Stephanie Lacquaniti graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and she has completed continuing education courses from SPEAR Education and local study clubs. She works alongside her dental hygienists and the other compassionate members of her dental team in order to bring her Mount Dora patients comprehensive, state-of-the-art care at Lacquaniti Dental. If you’re ready to schedule your next dental appointment with Dr. Lacquaniti, you can do so by visiting her website or calling (352) 383-8121.