Whether they work in private offices or in public health, dental hygienists are important members of dentists’ oral health teams. Though professional dental hygienists still clean teeth by removing tartar caused by plaque buildup patients didn’t remove by brushing and flossing, they are also educators, researchers and agents for change.

Professional dental hygienists in private practice are also responsible for instructing patients about preventive dental care and counseling patients about dietary choices.  They take patients’ medical and dental histories, apply sealants and fluoride and process X-rays.

Those working in the public health system conduct dental screening exams, demonstrate new preventive dental methods and procedures, help plan community dental health programs, and may also be involved in seeking funding for dental health care provided to low income people.

Though most dental hygienists work with dentists in private practice, an increasing number are working as researchers in hospitals and schools of dentistry.

Regardless of where they work, dental hygienists must be graduates of an accredited dental hygiene program, pass a state board examination that includes both written and clinical tests and be licensed by the state in which they practice.