1. DENTAL HYGIENE
By: Leigh Perry

2. History of Dental Hygiene
Early 1900’s Alfred C. Fones concerned about patients with dental caries and periodontal disease.
Trained Irene Newman to be first hygienist. First attempt at dental disease prevention. Very successful.
Opened Fones school of Dental Hygiene in Connecticut in 1913

3. History Continued
Currently dental hygiene is among the top ten fastest growing professions
Numbers expected to grow 30% by 2016

4. Definition of a Dental Hygienist
A person trained and licensed to provide preventive dental services, such as cleaning the teeth and taking x-rays, usually in conjunction with a dentist.
the maintenance of the teeth and gums in healthy condition, esp. by proper brushing, the removal of plaque, etc. Also called oral hygiene

5. Duties of a Dental Hygienist
Primary Duties
Primary Duties
Cleaning teeth
Polishing teeth
Instructing patients on good oral hygiene
Providing preventative care
Working chair side during exams and treatments
Periodontal Debridement
Secondary Duties
Secondary Duties
Take X-rays
Make molds for crowns and dental prosthetics
Remove sutures
Polish fillings and other medical restorations
Take and record medical history and medication lists
Sealants

6. Job Characteristics Flexible Work schedule
May be part-time or full-time
May work for multiple dentists
Must be able to deal with bad breath
Must be able to deal with some blood
Must like teeth

7. Education
Must have high school diploma or GED for entrance into a program
Most programs grant an associates degree, some a certificate, and some a bachelors or masters degree
Associates needed to work in most offices
Higher level education required to teach in public schools, clinics, research facilities, or to teach dental hygiene

8. Who should see a dental hygienist regularly?
EVERYONE

10. References for facts and pictures