Savannah Tech Dental Hygiene Best Practices For Students

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As a dental hygiene student at Savannah Tech, it's essential to stay up-to-date with the best practices in the field to provide top-notch care to patients. Dental hygiene is a critical component of oral health, and by following these best practices, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and confident dental hygienist.

Importance of Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene plays a vital role in maintaining good oral health. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory infections. As a dental hygienist, you'll be responsible for removing plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth, as well as providing preventative care and education to patients.

Pre-Clinical Best Practices

Before you even start treating patients, there are several best practices to keep in mind:

• Sterilization and Disinfection: Ensure that all instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and disinfected to prevent the transmission of diseases.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear PPE, including gloves, masks, and eye protection, when treating patients.
• Patient Assessment: Conduct thorough patient assessments to identify any potential health risks or concerns.

Clinical Best Practices

When treating patients, follow these best practices:

• Use of Ultrasonic Devices: Use ultrasonic devices to remove plaque and tartar, as they are more effective than manual scaling.
• Proper Instrument Handling: Hold instruments correctly to prevent fatigue and injury.
• Effective Use of Polishers: Use polishers to remove stains and smooth out surfaces, but avoid using them too aggressively, which can damage tooth enamel.

Patient Education and Communication

Patient education and communication are critical components of dental hygiene. Follow these best practices:

• Clear Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively with patients, explaining treatment options and procedures.
• Patient Education: Educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
• Motivational Interviewing: Use motivational interviewing techniques to encourage patients to adopt healthy habits and behaviors.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

Accurate documentation and record-keeping are essential in dental hygiene. Follow these best practices:

• Thorough Records: Keep thorough records of patient treatments, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and progress notes.
• Accurate Documentation: Document all patient interactions, including consultations, treatments, and follow-up appointments.

Staying Current with Continuing Education

As a dental hygienist, it's essential to stay current with continuing education to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and research. Follow these best practices:

• Attend Workshops and Conferences: Attend workshops and conferences to stay current with the latest techniques and research.
• Online Courses: Take online courses to stay current with the latest developments in dental hygiene.
• Professional Memberships: Join professional organizations, such as the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), to stay current with industry developments and best practices.

Conclusion

By following these best practices, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and confident dental hygienist. Remember to always prioritize patient care, stay current with continuing education, and maintain accurate documentation and record-keeping. As a dental hygiene student at Savannah Tech, you have the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this rewarding career.

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