The dental hygienist is the member of a dental team that usually “cleans your teeth.” This experience may be pleasant, or not, depending on how well you have maintained your teeth. Most dental professionals encourage a dental examination and dental X-rays annually, as well as a cleaning twice a year.
The practice of dental hygiene requires a college degree.
Most states have at least one school that offers an Associate of Arts in Allied Health, a two year program; or a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health, a four year program. These programs are offered locally at the Medical College of Georgia’s Augusta campus. All states require licensure with completion of written and clinical examinations. In military dental clinics, a valid license from any state is acceptable.
Fort Gordon has three dental clinics where registered dental hygienists collectively see an average of 543 patients per month. Snyder Dental Clinic is considered the “troop clinic” where Signal Soldiers and students are inprocessed with a focus on oral hygiene and general dentistry.
Snyder has three registered dental hygienists who treat an average of 370 patients per month. The medical center Dental Clinic located on the first floor includes oral and maxiofacial surgery as well as general dentistry.
Tingay Dental Clinic is a specialty clinic, which is the home of three Army Dental Residency Training Programs. These programs include Endodontics (root canals), Prosthodontics (dentures, crowns and bridges) and Periodontics (gum surgery and dental implants).
The hygienists at Tingay help support the hygiene needs of the Eisenhower Army Medical Center staff and the Wounded Warrior mission. Two registered dental hygienists at Tingay see an average of 173 hygiene patients per month.
Brig. Gen. W. Bryan Gamble DDEAMC Commanding General Clinical dental hygiene requires dental X-rays and a minimal dental examination. The visual examination reveals cavities, defective fillings, ill fitting or partial dentures, fixed partial dentures and dental implants. These defects are noted by the examining dentist. The exam also reveals dental health issues such as soft or bleeding gums (gingivitis), heavy hard deposits (calculus), bone loss and periodontal disease. Unchecked, these findings can lead to loss of teeth.
A prophy (prophylaxis) is the removal of hard and soft deposits on the teeth. The deposits are usually removed with metal instruments called scalers and then the teeth are polished. Periodontal disease often requires more extensive deep cleaning. Usually, local anesthesia is administered during this procedure. Moderate to severe generalized gingivitis and periodontal disease has been linked to other serious health issues.
Careful dental hygiene practice is the key to good dental health. Everyone should brush carefully and slowly (about 2-3 minutes each brushing) using a soft nylon bristle toothbrush. Brushing should be done twice a day, preferably after breakfast and before bed. Careful brushing removes soft deposits “just under the gum” on the inside cheek and tongue side of the teeth. Your hygienist can show you the proper method for flossing your teeth. These guidelines along with good nutrition will help you maintain good oral hygiene and keep your natural teeth.
Remember, that beautiful smile you see in the mirror is the result of the joint venture between you and your dental health professionals (source)
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