When you go in for your bi-annual dental appointment, you typically see more than the dentist. But who are you seeing? You’re likely working with a dental assistant or a dental hygienist. What they do is slightly different though. Learn about the similarities and differences between a dental assistant and dental hygienist.

What is a dental assistant?

A dental assistant provides support to dentists and ensures dental practices run smoothly and efficiently. They have a variety of tasks, both clinical and administrative to help facilitate patient care.

What do dental assistants do on a daily basis?

As mentioned above, a dental assistant helps with both dental care and administrative tasks. Some of the tasks a dental assistant may complete include, but are not limited to:

• Patient care: Preparing patients for dental procedures.
• Assisting the dentist: Handing instruments and materials to the dentist during procedures, suctioning the patient’s mouth to keep it dry and managing other chairside tasks.
• Instrument preparation: Sterilizing dental instruments, preparing the necessary tools for different procedures and ensuring everything is properly set up.
• Taking x-rays: Positioning patients and operating X-ray machines to take dental radiographs.
• Scheduling appointments: Managing the dental practice’s calendar and scheduling patient appointments.
• Patient records: Maintaining and updating dental records, ensuring they are accurate and up-to-date.
• Billing and coding: Handling billing procedures, coding dental services for insurance claims and managing patient payments.
• Inventory Management: Ordering dental supplies and managing inventory to ensure the practice has all the necessary materials.

What schooling is required to become a dental assistant?

Dental assistants typically complete a one-year program at a community college or technical school. Completion of the program results in a certificate or diploma.

In Michigan, passing the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam is not required to become a dental assistant. It is recommended though. Other states do require passing the exam.

What is a dental hygienist?

A dental hygienist is a licensed dental professional who specializes in preventive oral health. They play a critical role in the maintenance of patient’s dental health through a combination of clinical procedures, patient education and preventive care.

What does a dental hygienist do?

A dental hygienist covers a variety of tasks to help with patient’s care. These tasks include:

• Teeth cleaning: Removing plaque, tartar, and stains from patients’ teeth through scaling and polishing.
• Examinations: Conducting preliminary dental exams to assess patients’ oral health and identify potential issues such as cavities, gum disease, or oral infections.
• X-rays: Taking a developing dental x-rays to help diagnose problems that are not visible during a regular dental exam.
• Applying preventive materials: Administering fluoride treatments and applying dental sealants to protect teeth from decay.
• Patient education: Teaching patients about proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing techniques and flossing.
• Patient records: Maintaining accurate patient records, including documenting procedures performed and the condition of patients’ teeth and gums.
• Treatment plans: Working with dentists to make a individualized treatment plan based on a patients oral health needs.

What schooling is required to become a dental hygienist?

To become a dental hygienist, you much complete an accredited dental hygiene program. Completion of the two to three year program typically earns you an associate degree. It is possible to obtain a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene for advanced opportunities.

A dental hygienist must be licensed to practice. To be licensed, you must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a state or regional clinical board examination.

What’s the difference between a dental assistant and dental hygienist?

Dental assistants and dental hygienists are both integral members of a dental care team, but their roles are slightly different as you can tell from their daily tasks. While their tasks may be different, they do both provide support for patients and the dental staff.

Are you in need of a dental visit?

If you need to visit a dentist, contact Fortson Dentistry. Our team of dentists, dental assistants and dental hygienists are here to meet your needs at one of our many locations throughout metro Detroit. Contact our team today at +1 (248) 557-8120.

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