Can Dental Hygienists Do Fillings?
Dental hygienists play a crucial and valuable role in dentistry. They are an integral part of the dental care team and provide important services that contribute to the overall oral health and well-being of patients. Can dental hygienists do fillings?
In this article, we’ll break down the scope of practice of dental hygienists and answer the question ‘Can dental hygienists do fillings?’.
Table of Contents
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative dental procedure used to repair and restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or other minor structural issues. The procedure typically involves the removal of the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and the filling of the resulting cavity with a dental filling material.
Depending on the size of the cavity, you may need to get numb in the area. The appointment will take around 30-45 minutes depending on the size of the cavity and other varying factors.
Can Dental Hygienists Do Fillings?
Can dental hygienists do fillings? In most cases, dental hygienists are not qualified to perform dental fillings. This procedure is usually performed by a dentist, who has completed the necessary education and training to perform restorative dental work.
Performing dental fillings would require the dental hygiene curriculum to be restructured and expanded. This would also add additional courses and clinic time to the program – delaying the process of requiring the degree.
Scope of Practice of Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are prevention specialists in the dentistry field and help their patients improve their health and maintain strong smiles. Can dental hygienists do filling? The scope of practice a registered dental hygienist can perform includes:
Preventive Care: Dental hygienists focus on preventive dental care, which is essential for maintaining oral health. They perform teeth cleanings (scaling and polishing) to remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Education: Dental hygienists educate patients about the importance of good oral hygiene and the impact of diet and lifestyle on oral health. They offer advice on maintaining healthy teeth and gums and may provide recommendations for specific oral care products.
Screening and Assessment: Hygienists often conduct oral health assessments and screenings, which can include checking for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues. Early detection of problems is key to effective treatment.
X-rays: Dental hygienists take dental X-rays, which are essential for diagnosing and monitoring dental conditions.
Periodontal Care: Dental hygienists are trained to provide non-surgical periodontal therapy for patients with gum disease. This treatment is vital for managing and improving the health of a patient’s gums.
Promotion of Overall Health: Good oral health is connected to overall health, and dental hygienists can play a role in identifying and addressing conditions or habits that may impact both oral and systemic health.
While dental hygienists play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems, they do not have the training or scope of practice to perform restorative procedures like fillings.
Dental Therapists and Dental Fillings
The dental therapist profession is a relatively new degree that expands the scope of practice of dental hygienists. The ability of dental therapists to perform fillings and other restorative treatments depends on the specific regulations and licensing requirements in the region or country where they practice.
In some places, dental therapists have been authorized to perform a range of procedures, including fillings, under the supervision or collaboration of a dentist. This is often done to expand access to dental care in underserved areas and improve the efficiency of dental practices.
To learn more about two degrees, check out our article Dental Therapists vs Dental Hygienists.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile Store for educational products and printables to help with oral hygiene in patients and improve your daily workflow. Certain products even come with a customizable feature to support your dental office.
