The dental hygienist
A dental hygienist is a paramedic with a four-year HBO education. The profession of dental hygienist is legally regulated in the Individual Health Care Professions Act (BIG Act). This law describes the area of expertise and the training requirements. It is important to you that this law promotes and monitors the quality of professional practice and protects you against incompetent and careless actions.
What does the dental hygienist do?
A dental hygienist is an oral care professional who focuses on prevention and oral care to prevent and combat tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease (gingivitis/periodontitis).
Examples of treatments are:
- Mapping your teeth/oral situation
- Screening for dental abnormalities, bacterial examination and drawing up an appropriate treatment plan
- Professional dental cleaning
- Treating inflamed gums (gingivitis/periodontitis) or advanced gingivitis with destruction of the jaw bone
- Provides extensive information about the development of cavities (caries), gum disease, the effect of dietary habits, smoking and abnormal oral behavior
- Provides information and advice about dental care, such as the use of toothpicks, brushes and mouth rinses
- Sealing the cracks (fissures) on the chewing surfaces of molars (sealing)
- Making dental impressions
- Applying dental protective agents such as fluoride
- Polishing fillings
- Teeth whitening
- Filling primary cavities
- Taking and assessing x-rays
When do you go to the dental hygienist?
You go to the dental hygienist to get and keep your teeth and gums healthy. The following cases may be a reason to visit the dental hygienist:
- If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing
- If your gums are red, painful, swollen, sensitive or no longer firm/tight around your teeth
- If your teeth are sensitive/have sensitive tooth necks
- If your teeth or molars become loose
- Had/have regular cavities/tooth decay
- If you smoke
- There is often tartar or deposits on your teeth
- There is a bad taste or bad breath
- You have questions about your oral care and
- If you are pregnant or have health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Do you need a referral?
You do not need a referral to the dental hygienist. Everyone is welcome at the dental hygienist, from young to old. You can make an appointment without a referral.