Dental Hygienist: New roles and tasks
This year, 2008 , very important changes will affect
the dental profession.
Restrictions have been lifted by The General Dental Council on the services and tasks which can be offered by Dental hygienists as well as Dental Nurses and Dental Therapists, provided they have received appropriate training for any new tasks that may be undertaken.
Some new tasks for our hygienist Nicky Smith
- Taking impressions and measurements to make study models of people's teeth.
- Smooth over and polish old fillings which may be rough but do not need replacing.
- Using Oraquix, a numbing gel to make tooth cleanining more comfortable
- Giving local anaesthetic for deeper cleaning.
- Applying Dentomycin antibiotic and Periochip antiseptic gels to help treat gum disease .
See a great new instructive video on gum disease here
- Taking clinical photographs . Before and after shots for dental makeovers and treatment planning
This year all qualified dental nurses must be registered with The General Dental Council and high standards of professionalism are expected of them.
All other dental nurses must be on a recognised training program.
As the year progresses, the duties of dental nurses will also be expanded.
More news as it becomes available.