Dental hygienists provide direct care to patients. Using dental instruments, they perform routine cleanings by removing calcareous deposits, accretions, and stains from teeth and beneath margins of gums. They examine patients’ gums using probes to identify periodontal recessed gums and signs of gum disease. They also chart conditions of decay and disease for diagnosis and treatment by a dentist. Hygienists are responsible for maintaining and sterilizing dental instruments. They also provide clinical services or health education to improve and maintain the oral health of patients or the general public.
Degree Type: Associate Degree
Field: Health Science
County: Travis, Williamson, Hays, Bastrop, Caldwell
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Classes offered at Austin Community College.
Classes offered at Temple College.
A professional toolset provided (applied technology) -OR- a uniform of scrubs and stethoscope provided (healthcare)
Organized, good teamwork, multitasker, critical observer, self-monitoring, trained in dentistry, hygiene, clinical works, radiography, orthodontics, and preventative care
