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In many states, dental hygienists can administer sedation, such as nitrous oxide and local anesthetic , to make patients more

comfortable during procedures. Dental hygienists can also be trained to assist orthodontists in placing and adjusting braces, creating expanding appliances, or otherwise managing the positioning of a patient’s teeth. Educating Patients Dental assistants spend more time with patients than anyone else in the dental office. This

Educational Video

For a sneak peak at the daily life of a dental

hygienist, scan here:

means they can educate their patients in a way that dentists cannot. They may teach children and adults proper brushing and flossing techniques, likely counseling their patients to brush and floss more frequently. They may give patients plans for how to quit smoking and otherwise preserve their oral health. In some cases they may even teach their patients how nutrition plays a role in the health of their teeth and gums. Ultimately, dental hygienist are not only health care profes- sionals, they are teachers as well. Doing Clerical and Office Work When a dentist sees hundreds or even thousands of patients each year, there is no way to keep everyone’s needs straight. Every action performed in a dentist’s or an orthodontist’s office must be written down. Whether this is done on paper or

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do? 13