Dental hygienists are essential members of the dental care team, playing an integral role in the “recognition, treatment, and prevention of oral disease.” 

The ADHA standards for clinical dental hygiene practice list out 5 primary roles dental hygienists play:

1. Clinician
2. Educator
3. Advocate
4. Manager
5. Researcher

This guide explores these five roles of dental hygienists in a clinical setting.

What is a Dental Hygienists Primary Role?

From the Journal of Dental Hygiene, Santella et al. (2012) share that “a dental hygienist is a member of the dental team whose primary role is a public health advocate in the prevention and maintenance of oral health and disease.”

Where do Dental Hygienists Work?

In the article on the professional roles of an RDH, the ADHA suggests that dental hygienists fill these essential roles across a variety of settings, including:

1. Clinics
2. Corporations, companies, and as entrepreneurs
3. Public Health Organizations
4. Research Programs
5. Education Programs

The 5 Roles

1. Clinician

The cornerstone of dental hygiene practice is preventive care. Of course, there are many skills needed to be a dental hygienist. 

Dental hygienists are trained to perform comprehensive oral prophylaxis, including scaling and root planing to remove plaque and calculus. 

They apply fluoride treatments and sealants to prevent tooth decay and provide tailored patient education on proper oral hygiene techniques. 

Their preventive strategies are essential in reducing the incidence of dental caries and periodontal disease, thereby improving long-term oral health outcomes.

Related: Hard Skills for Dental Hygienist

2. Oral Health Educator

Education is a key component of a dental hygienist's role. 

They provide patients with crucial information about the importance of oral hygiene and its impact on overall health. This includes demonstrating effective brushing and flossing techniques, discussing dietary habits that influence oral health, and explaining the significance of regular dental visits. 

By empowering patients with knowledge, dental hygienists foster better self-care practices and enhance patient compliance with preventive measures.

3. Patient Care Advocate

A significant part of a dental hygienist's role is advocating for patient comfort and care. They ensure that patients understand their treatment plans and are comfortable during procedures. 

Dental hygienists often serve as the primary point of contact for patients, addressing concerns, answering questions, and providing emotional support. 

Their compassionate approach helps build trust and rapport, which is crucial for encouraging patients to maintain regular dental visits and follow through with recommended treatments.

Related: List of Duties of a Dental Hygienist

4. Manager

In addition to their clinical responsibilities, dental hygienists often take on managerial roles within dental practices. Their unique blend of clinical expertise, organizational skills, and patient care experience makes them well-suited for various management tasks.

Dental hygienists may oversee the day-to-day operations of a dental practice. This may include scheduling appointments, managing patient flow, and ensuring that all clinical and administrative processes run smoothly. 

Dental hygienists supervise other staff members, including dental assistants and administrative personnel. They are involved in hiring, training, and mentoring new employees, ensuring that the entire team adheres to the practice’s standards and protocols. 

Maintaining high standards of care and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements is another part of the managerial role dental hygienists fill. They develop and implement quality assurance protocols, conduct regular audits, and ensure that the practice complies with OSHA, HIPAA, and other relevant regulations. 

5. Researcher

Dental hygienists may advance the field of dentistry through research.

Evidence-based practice is the cornerstone of clinical practice. Dental hygienists in the role of researchers conduct studies that inform clinical guidelines and protocols. 

Identifying trends in oral health care is another important part of this role. This may include new technologies, new materials, or other methods that may enhance hygiene practices

Related: Dental Hygienist Jobs

Dental Hygienists Are Also Collaborative Team Members

Dental hygienists work collaboratively with dentists, dental assistants, and administrative staff to provide comprehensive care. 

They communicate findings from their assessments, assist in formulating treatment plans, and coordinate with other team members to ensure seamless patient care. 

This collaboration is an important aspect of being a dental hygienist and is another important role hygienists play.

Support Your Hygienists

Dental hygienists fill multifaceted roles ensuring the delivery of high-quality preventive and therapeutic services,

By recognizing and supporting the diverse responsibilities of dental hygienists, dental practices can optimize patient care and foster a collaborative and effective clinical environment.

What other roles do you feel hygienists fill in your office?

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