When it comes to oral health, knowing which dental professional to see can be confusing. Two roles that often cause confusion are dental hygienists and periodontal specialists. While both focus on gum health, their training, responsibilities, and expertise differ significantly – let’s explore Dental Hygienists vs Periodontal Specialists.
What Is a Dental Hygienist?
A dental hygienist is a qualified oral health professional who works alongside dentists to provide preventative dental care. Their primary focus is maintaining healthy teeth and gums through professional cleaning and patient education.
Dental hygienists typically complete a two to three-year diploma or degree programme. In the UK, they must register with the General Dental Council to practise legally.
Their key responsibilities include:
Dental hygienists help patients maintain good oral health through regular cleanings and education. Most patients will see a hygienist every six months as part of their routine dental care, though this can differ based on a patient’s dental needs.
What Is a Periodontal Specialist?
A periodontal specialist, also called a periodontist, is a dentist who has undertaken additional specialist training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease.
To become a periodontist in the UK, one must first qualify as a dentist, and then complete specialist training in periodontology.
Periodontal specialists focus on:
Periodontists treat more severe oral health issues that go beyond the scope of general dentistry and dental hygiene.
You would typically see a dental hygienist for:
You would be referred to a periodontal specialist for:
Working Together for Your Oral Health
We talk about Dental hygienists vs periodontal specialists – but the two often work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. Your hygienist might be the first to notice signs of periodontal disease during a routine cleaning and refer you to a specialist for further assessment.
After periodontal treatment, you’ll likely return to regular maintenance visits with your hygienist, possibly on a more frequent schedule than before.
Understanding the difference between dental hygienists and periodontal specialists helps you navigate your oral healthcare needs more effectively. While hygienists play a crucial role in prevention and maintenance, periodontists provide specialised care for more complex gum-related issues.
For optimal oral health, regular visits to your dental hygienist are essential, with referral to a periodontal specialist when needed. This collaborative approach ensures your smile remains healthy for years to come.
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