At Smiles Family Dental, we pride ourselves on having dental hygienists that are highly skilled, knowledgeable and compassionate. Our hygienists go the extra mile to provide quality care and help you feel at ease each time you visit our office. To learn more about our dental hygienists in Irving, Texas, and schedule an appointment with our dentists and team, please contact our office at 972-444-9337.
What is a dental hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a trained dental professional. Hygienists work alongside your dentist to provide care and diagnose problems, and they assist the dentist whenever needed. They may also take over particular duties and tasks as needed.
What does a dental hygienist do?
Dental hygienists provide a number of services, including:
- Dental cleanings
- Patient screenings (preliminary exams)
- Patient education
- X-rays and impressions
- Some treatments, including preventive care such as fluoride or sealants, and surgical tasks such as removing sutures or administering anesthesia
What training do dental hygienists receive?
Dental hygienists complete a number of training requirements and certifications in order to receive their licenses. These requirements include:
- Completing 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.
- Achieving a passing score on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination as well as on a state-based clinical exam. This exam tests their knowledge of dental hygiene procedures, restorative techniques and anesthesia.
A licensed hygienist must renew their license every one to three years.
If you have any questions or if you want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Angelie Zamora and Dr. Rebecca Kim, please call our office and speak with a member of our team.