Dental Hygiene Technology

The dental hygienist, working under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, provides oral health care to patients by scaling and polishing teeth, takes and processes dental x-rays, applies caries preventive agents (fluoride and sealants) and provides advice and instruction concerning oral hygiene. Most hygienists are employed in private dental offices. Others are employed in public schools, state and local health clinics, hospitals, industry, and voluntary health agencies.