When you go to the dentist chances are you won’t just be seeing the dentist. The team at Blairmore Dental Centre, your local Saskatoon dentist, includes dental hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff who all work together to give you the best experience and support for your oral hygiene. Dental hygienists are crucial members of that team. Some of the responsibilities of dental hygienists at our Saskatoon dental clinic include reviewing your health history and assessing your oral health conditions, dental cleanings, and educating patients on proper oral health.
This month on the blog, our dental hygienist Veronica walks us through what a typical day looks like for her.
What does a typical day of a dental hygienist look like? I'm here to tell you! My name is Veronica. I graduated and became a dental hygienist almost six years ago and I have been working at Blairmore Dental Centre for over two years. Every day looks a little different, but in that time, I have formed a daily routine that works for me.
Photo of Veronica getting setup for the day!
Start of the day
Blairmore Dental Centre offers varying hours so that all our patients can find a time that works for them and so my day starts at a different time every day. When I get to the clinic, I start off by changing out of my outdoor clothing, into my scrubs. I try to arrive at the office approximately fifteen minutes before my first patient to get settled. I have one treatment room where I see all my patients and at the beginning of each day, I set up my instruments and tools. I assess the chart of each patient to see what needs to be prepared throughout the day. Specific notes are made to suit each patient's need. I check in with my colleagues to see how the day is going and what their day is looking like.
The Patient
When you get to the clinic for your appointment you will often have a few minutes to sit in the waiting room, fill out any forms that need completing and update the front desk about any changes to your insurance or medical history. Once I’m ready for you I will bring you back into the treatment room and we can discuss any concerns that you have. Radiographs (x-rays) are then taken to check for cavities, bone loss, and oral disease or abnormalities. Now time for the cleaning! Some dental hygiene treatments are completed in one appointment, some two or more, and some not at all. All these decisions are based on the best possible treatment for the patient. A typical dental cleaning includes scaling, polish, fluoride, and education.
Veronica preparing a patient for an x-ray at Blairmore Dental Centre
What is scaling?
Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar build up from the teeth and below the gumline. Instruments called "scalers”, or "ultrasonic scalers" are used to complete this. Obtaining a clean oral cavity supports healthy gums and teeth. In turn, it will decrease bleeding, reduce bad breath, and aid in preventing gum disease.
What is polish?
Polish or, "dental prophylaxis (prophy)" is a procedure typically completed after scaling. A gritty paste smooths the teeth and removes any residual debris from the teeth. This prevents plaque bacteria from reattaching to the surface of the teeth.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural occurring element used in dentistry to prevent demineralization of the tooth. This strengthens the tooth and prevents future decay. It can be applied in rinse, tray, or varnish form.
The Dentist
After completing the hygiene portion of the cleaning, it is time for the check-up. I discuss any important information and any concerns you might have had with Dr. Hamilton or Dr. Shire before they come in to see you. Your local Saskatoon dentist will then diagnose any treatment needed, such as fillings, crown, root canals, etc. I mark future treatment down onto your chart so that we can plan for future treatment accordingly.
Oral Hygiene Instruction
At the end of the appointment, I will spend some time talking to you about your at-home oral hygiene routines or care techniques that may need improvement. I give you your swag bag, a package with oral hygiene tools that will help you out at home, and, based on your overall oral health, I recommend the frequency of dental hygiene treatments that you should be returning for. This can range from every three months to one year and is specific to each patient. I walk you back up to the front desk where you get a chance to chat with my amazing front desk colleagues and get scheduled for your next appointment.
Veronica working on our patient records post-appointment
... and Again!
After I have completed the appointment, it is time to prepare for the next one. I complete writing notes in the chart, describing the treatments completed during the appointment and any necessary additional information. The operatory is disinfected and the instruments are reprocessed (sterilized). This process of cleaning and set up is repeated for each patient. I typically have eight patients in the day. By lunch time, my colleagues and I gather to have lunch together. I’m grateful to work with great colleagues. It is important to have a great work team to create a healthy and fun environment!
What I Love About Being a Dental Hygienist
I enjoy being a dental hygienist because I like helping patients lead healthier lifestyles and supporting them with education on their oral and overall health and well-being. I enjoy working with diverse patients and supporting the dental practice and dental team.