answers verified to pass 2026/2027
Healthcare Roles of a Dental Hygienist
Key Responsibilities
Dental hygienists are responsible for providing preventive oral care, including cleaning teeth, applying
sealants, and educating patients on oral hygiene practices.
They conduct assessments of patients' oral health, including taking medical histories and performing
oral examinations.
They play a crucial role in the early detection of oral diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease,
and can refer patients to dentists for further treatment.
Dental hygienists also provide patient education on nutrition and its impact on oral health, promoting
overall wellness.
They may administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide under certain supervision levels, enhancing
patient comfort during procedures.
Levels of Supervision
Direct Supervision: The dentist must be physically present in the office while the hygienist performs
procedures.
General Supervision: The dentist has authorized the hygienist to perform procedures without being
present, but the dentist must be available for consultation.
Indirect Supervision: The dentist must be on the premises, but not necessarily in the same room, while
the hygienist performs procedures.
No Supervision: Hygienists can perform certain procedures independently, as allowed by state
regulations.
Professional Code of Ethics
The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) provides a code of ethics that emphasizes patient
autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and veracity.
Ethical principles guide hygienists in making decisions that prioritize patient welfare and uphold
professional integrity.