What are the requirements and training for dental hygienists?
In the past, we have reviewed Dr. Clint Euse, Dr. Kelly Euse, Dr. Randy Wright, and Dr. Matt Lisenby’s education requirements to become a dentist. This week let’s review the education of our three hygientists, ReNon, Kayla, and Kristin. Dental hygienists receive their education through academic programs at community colleges, technical colleges, dental schools or universities. Receipt of their degree allows a hygienist to take their examinations (national and state) to be licensed to work in a dental office.
A career as a hygienist offers a wide range of challenges. In a practice, the dentist and the hygienist work together to meet the oral health needs of patients. Since each state has its own regulations regarding their responsibilities, the services performed by hygienists varies from state to state. Some services provided include:
- patient screening procedures, such as assessment of oral health conditions, review of health history, oral cancer screening, head and neck inspection, dental charting, taking blood pressure
- taking radiographs (x-rays)
- removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits)
- applying preventive materials to teeth (sealants and fluoride)
- teaching patients appropriate oral hygiene to maintain oral health (brushing, flossing)
- counseling patients about good nutrition and the impact on oral health
The most enjoyable aspect of the job for our hygienists is working with the patients. Personal fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing a relationship. As a result of their education and clinical training, ReNon, Kayla, and Kristin are valued members of our team. Dental hygiene education programs offer clinical education in the form of supervised patient care experiences. Additionally, these programs include courses in liberal arts (English, speech, sociology and psychology); basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, immunology, chemistry, microbiology and pathology); and clinical sciences (dental hygiene, radiology and dental materials).
ReNon graduated with a Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene from Oregon Institute of Technology. She has worked at Advanced Dentistry since 2010. Kayla graduated with a Bachelor of Science from University of Nevada Reno and from Mohave Community College hygiene program. She has worked at Advanced Dentistry since 2012. Kristin graduated with an Associate of Science from Rio Salado School of Dental Hygiene and received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Phoenix. She has worked at Advanced Dentistry since 2013. All three of the ladies are recognized by the State of Nevada as Registered Dental Hygienist (R.D.H.) and like the doctors, must keep their license current by attending continuing education classes.
We are very proud of our hygiene staff and invite you to visit our Team page on our website for more information on our staff as well as our practice or, call us at (775) 400-2533 to schedule an appointment.