Dental Team and Specialties
Dental hygienist
A dental hygienist is a licensed oral health professional who cleans teeth, takes X-rays, and teaches patients how to care for their teeth and gums.
A dental hygienist is an oral health care provider who offers teeth cleanings, preventive dental care, and oral hygiene instruction. A hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, which reduces your risk for cavities and gum disease. They work together with dentists.
The ADA says hygienists perform patient screening procedures, including X-rays, and teach patients how to practice good oral hygiene. They also apply sealants and fluoride. The tasks hygienists may do depend on state law.
A hygienist is not the same as a dental assistant. Assistants provide an extra pair of hands to help the dentist complete treatment. See dental assistant, general dentist, and teeth cleaning. Also see dental cleaning.