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April 7-14 is National Dental Hygienist Week

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By Stonehaven Dental & Orthodontics | March 22, 2018

Did you know that April 7-14 is National Dental Hygienist Week? It’s true!

In celebration of National Dental Hygienist Week, here is an overview of what these professionals do and what you can expect during your next appointment with your dental hygienist at Stonehaven Dental.

The Role of Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists are an integral part of any dental team, performing valuable work both for the internal team and most importantly patients!

Typically, you’ll spend a lot of time with a dental hygienist during your appointment, as these are the professionals that often perform initial screenings, take x-rays, manage cleanings, and discuss good oral hygiene with you. They also support the office team by completing dental charts, documenting important information about your appointment, and assisting with other activities like ensuring patients are reminded of their upcoming appointments.

Ultimately, your Waco and Harker Heights dentist couldn’t be as effective without a dental hygienist in the office, and your experience wouldn’t be the same without them.

What to Expect During Your Dental Appointment

When you come in for your appointment, you’ll first discuss your dental and medical history with a skilled dental hygienist. This ensures that the office is aware of any issues or concerns that may need to be addressed or accommodated.

Next, a dental hygienist will take radiographs, or x-rays, of your teeth if needed, letting the dental professionals in the office get an inside look at the health of your teeth and jaw.

Dental hygienists also handle your cleaning, ensuring that calculus and plaque are properly removed from the surface of your teeth. They may also apply preventative materials, like fluoride treatments or sealants, if they are needed, and can discuss the impact of nutrition and proper oral hygiene on your teeth and gums.

At times, a dental hygienist may even recommend oral care products, like toothbrushes or toothpaste, that may suit your needs. A dental hygienist is usually the one to give you a post-care goodie bag full of product samples and a new toothbrush.

After their work is complete, they invite your Waco and Harker Heights dentist in to review your information and perform a comprehensive exam to see if there are any signs of decay or gingivitis. If an issue is detected, your dentist will recommend a custom treatment plan to address the concerns and get your teeth and gums into the best shape possible.

Ultimately, dental hygienists are the backbone of our Waco and Harker Heights dental offices. So, during National Dental Hygienist Week, make sure to take a moment and thank them for all that they do.

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Reviews From Our Patients

Krystle J.

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Sammy, Connor, the front desk staff, Dental Hygenist and especially Dr. Town are amazing! It’s great to see the same faces everyone I get a cleaning! Sammy makes the experience comfortable and welcome. Connor may be quiet but he always does a great job! The dental hygienist always remembers me and my kids. Sorry I cant remember her name but she knows who I am and that’s what matters:) Thankful for this staff and the great care they give to my family!

Linda F.

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I love it here. I have never seen a dental office give flowers to first timers. Everyone was so welcome if. In pain but you guys still made me smile. I told my daughter she need to come there. I love how you guys work with options of payment. Again thanks for making me smile in pain.

Emily C.

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We’ve always had a good experience at Stonehaven. The women at the front desk are always cheerful and helpful. I love the hygienists, they always make my children and I feel comfortable and informed. I have pretty high dental anxiety and they’ve never tried to minimize my fears- but they listen to me, and help me feel as comfortable as possible. The dentists and orthodontists have been great! No issues at all. (I just wish my daughter was better at flossing, but we’re working on that!)

Yolanda R.

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Oh my god, this doctor and staff are the best! They are friendly, they explained everything very thoroughly and made me feel very comfortable. The office is so clean and every one of the staff is so amazing especially Crystal! I recommend this dental office big time!!! Thank you Stonehaven Dental!!
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