What is the role of a licensed individual who works alongside a dentist to provide care for teeth and gums?

A dental hygienist plays a critical role in providing care for teeth and gums alongside a dentist. Their primary responsibilities include performing dental cleanings, taking x-rays, applying fluoride treatments, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental hygienists often have specialized training and are licensed professionals who can assess patients' oral health, perform scaling to remove tartar, and provide preventive care. This focus on maintaining and promoting oral health is what distinguishes them from other dental professionals.

In contrast, a dental assistant primarily supports the dental office operations and the dentist during procedures but does not typically perform the same level of direct patient care regarding teeth and gums. An oral surgeon specializes in surgical interventions related to the mouth and jaw, while a prosthodontist focuses on designing and fitting artificial replacements for teeth and other parts of the mouth. These roles, while important in the dental field, do not provide the same preventive care and direct interaction in oral hygiene as a dental hygienist does.