A good dental practice needs good dental hygienists. Our hygienists here at Smiles Family Dental are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable as well as compassionate, and they go above and beyond to provide you with comfortable, quality care that meets your needs. We invite you to call our office at 817-277-1971 to learn more about our dental hygienists in Arlington, Texas, and schedule your visit with our dentists and team.
What is a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists are trained dental professionals who work alongside your dentist to diagnose problems and provide treatments. They assist the dentist whenever needed and may take over particular duties and tasks as needed.
What does a dental hygienist do?
Dental hygienists provide a broad range of services, including:
- Dental cleanings
- Patient screenings (preliminary exams)
- Patient education
- X-rays and impressions
- Some treatments, including preventive care such as applying fluoride or sealants, as well as certain surgical tasks such as removing sutures or administering anesthesia
What type of training do dental hygienists receive?
Dental hygienists complete a number of training requirements and certifications in order to be licensed to provide professional-grade care. These requirements include:
- A college degree from an institution approved by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA). The minimum requirement is an associate degree, but many hygienists complete bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
- A passing score on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination as well as on a state-based clinical exam to test knowledge of hygiene procedures, anesthesia and restorative techniques.
Once licensed, a hygienist must renew their license every one to three years to ensure that their knowledge and skills are up to date.
For more details or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Angelie Zamora and Dr. Britany Jenkins, please contact our office.