Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists
Dental hygienists and dental hygienist-therapists can work in all sectors of dentistry, their role is twofold.
They have both clinical and health promotional responsibilities. Clinically they help to treat and prevent periodontal (gum) disease by scaling and polishing teeth, applying prophylactic and antimicrobial materials, they take dental radiographs and undertake monitoring and screening procedures.
Dental hygienist-therapists can also treat the dentition with simple restorations, placement of preformed crowns and pulp treatments on deciduous teeth (baby or milk teeth).
Dental hygienists and dental hygienist-therapists are also permitted to apply topical fluorides and fissure sealants in order to reduce dental caries (tooth decay).
Their health promotional role includes motivating and encouraging individuals and groups in oral health practises, including oral hygiene and dietary advice.
Dental hygienists & therapists need to work with a flexible team approach; to have good communication skills and to demonstrate a high level of manual dexterity in order to undertake complex oral treatments.
Following qualification, dental hygienists and dental hygienist-therapists can work in many settings - NHS/Independent general practice, specialist periodontal or orthodontic practice, hospital (staff hygienists, tutors/lecturer, and specialist departments eg. special needs), education, research, health promotion and community as well as working aboard.
Once qualified, continuing professional development (CPD) is important in order to keep skills and knowledge up to date. At BSDHT CPD events a 'Certificate of Attendance' is issued to indicate that the course meets the criteria of the GDC lifelong learning scheme.
