Changing role of dental hygienists
A dental hygiene professor at the University of Minnesota discussed the significance and potential future of dental hygiene as the profession continues to expand.
Dental hygienists are often trained to treat complex dental issues, identify early signs of disease, develop personalized treatment plans and inform patients about maintaining optimal oral health.
The clinical associate professor, who also practices as a dental hygienist, cited in the news article noted that recent research has indicated that oral health may be more connected to systemic health than previously understood. For instance, bacteria in the mouth may be associated with cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Dental hygienists may act as the initial point of care by identifying systemic diseases and referring patients to specialists who can help them manage their specific conditions.
In the past few years, dental hygienists have begun to practice in mobile dental units, long-term care facilities, hospitals and health care homes in order to reach a wider variety of patients — particularly low-income individuals.
Read more: University of Minnesota
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