Dental hygiene is crucial to maintaining oral health. And that reason alone is why dental hygienists exist.
In this article, we delve into what exactly dental hygienists do and even explore some extra topics such as the average salary they earn in the UK.
What do Dental Hygienists Do?
Dental hygienists are licensed dental professionals dedicated to helping patients in preventing dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. While they are commonly associated with professional teeth cleaning services, their expertise extends far beyond, encompassing an array of preventive treatments aimed at preserving the health of teeth and gums over the long term.
Below you will find 7 key tasks routinely carried out by dental hygienists:
1) Teeth Cleaning
One of the primary duties of dental hygienists is to perform professional teeth cleaning procedures, also known as dental prophylaxis. This involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth using specialised instruments.
2) Oral Health Assessment
Dental hygienists assess the oral health of patients by examining their teeth and gums, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They may also take dental X-rays to aid in diagnosis.
3) Educating Patients
A significant aspect of the dental hygienist’s role is patient education. They provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, offer advice on maintaining good oral hygiene habits, and discuss the importance of regular dental check-ups.
4) Applying Fluoride Treatments
Dental hygienists may apply fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel and help prevent tooth decay. This is especially beneficial for patients at higher risk of developing cavities.
5) Administering Sealants
In some cases, dental hygienists apply dental sealants to the surfaces of teeth to protect them from decay, particularly in children and adolescents.
6) Scaling and Root Planing
For patients with gum disease, dental hygienists may perform scaling and root planing procedures to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to promote healing.
7) Assisting During Dental Procedures
Dental hygienists often assist dentists during various dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, and extractions, by providing support and ensuring patient comfort.
What Does RDH Stand For?
RDH stands for Registered Dental Hygienist. It is a professional designation used to indicate that an individual has completed the necessary education and training requirements to practice as a dental hygienist and is registered with the appropriate regulatory body or licensing board.
It simply signifies that the hygienist has met the standards set forth by regulatory authorities and is qualified to provide dental hygiene care to patients.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Salary Earn on Average in the UK?
The salary of a dental hygienist in the UK can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. According to data from PayScale, the average salary for a dental hygienist in the United Kingdom is around £34,803 per year. However, salaries can range from approximately £22,000 to £49,000 or more, with factors such as additional qualifications and specialisation influencing earning potential.
In addition to their base salary, dental hygienists may receive benefits such as private healthcare coverage and pension contributions, depending on their employment arrangements. Those working in private practice settings or for larger dental practices may also have opportunities for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
Conclusion
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in promoting oral health and preventing dental diseases through their expertise in teeth cleaning, patient education, and preventive dental care.
At The Dental Abode, we are proud to offer professional dental hygienist services. If you’d like to seek treatment at our state-of-the-art practice in Chelmsford, get in touch today for a dental hygienist appointment!