The primary distinction between a dentist and a dental hygienist is that a dental hygienist specializes in cleaning, scraping, and polishing teeth. A dentist has a broader range of abilities for treating and restoring teeth and gums. Dentists and dental hygienists take on very different roles in a dental office. A hygienist is best known for their deep dental cleaning services, but they also provide preventive care to patients.
If you have questions about caring for your teeth at home, the hygienist is the ideal person to ask. Dentists are qualified to provide more specialized treatment, while dental hygienists provide general dental care. A dental hygienist will save your teeth by treating gum disease and helping people rule out related issues, such as bad breath.Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral diseases, performing surgical procedures on teeth, gums, and mouth tissue, and providing advice on proper oral hygiene. They also create treatment plans for patients, prescribe medications, and perform corrective surgeries.
On the other hand, dental hygienists focus on preventive care. They clean teeth, remove plaque and tartar buildup, take X-rays, apply sealants and fluoride treatments, and provide patient education on proper oral hygiene. In the UK, dentists must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) to practice legally. Dental hygienists must also be registered with the GDC to practice legally. Both dentists and dental hygienists must complete an approved course of study and pass an exam before they can be registered with the GDC. In conclusion, the main difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist is that a dentist has a wider range of skills for treating and restoring teeth and gums while a dental hygienist specializes in cleaning, scraping, and polishing teeth.
Dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral diseases while dental hygienists focus on preventive care.
