Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who examine patients' teeth and gums in an effort to provide the best possible oral health care. Hygienists work closely with the dentist to provide educational, clinical, and therapeutic services in an effort to prevent oral disease such as dental caries (cavities) and periodontal disease (gum disease).
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From Meridian Community College, Left 2008 graduate Alicia Glover; on right, sister, 2009 future graduate Shannon Pickett.
Dental hygiene is not only a fun profession, but can also be a family affair. Having family members is nothing new for MCC. We have had other sisters, mothers and daughters, as well as first cousins graduate from our program. |
They evaluate patients' needs by performing screening procedures, which include reviewing health and dental history and taking temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. Some of their other duties include examining teeth and other oral structures, taking and developing dental radiographs (X-rays), removing calculus and plaque from above and below the gum line, counseling patients on proper nutrition and appropriate oral hygiene techniques, and applying cavity-preventing agents (fluoride and sealant) to teeth. Some dental hygienists are responsible for designing and implementing dental health programs for communities and organizations. Their main objective is educating individuals, as well as the general public, on the best preventative oral health care and the importance of good oral hygiene habits. Anyone interested in this line of work should enjoy working with a variety of different people, be articulate and organized, and work well as part of a team.
A list of Mississippi schools with an accredited course of study for a degree in Dental Hygiene is here...
Link to ADHA, American Dental Hygienists' Association Student Information
Mississippi State Board of Examiners
American Dental Association Student's FAQ's |
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