The Role of Dental Hygienists: Why does BLS Certification Matter?

When seeking dental care, the first professional that typically comes to mind is a dentist. However, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure our teeth are clean and healthy are dental hygienists – the unsung heroes of oral health. This article delves into their crucial role and underscores the importance of their often-required BLS certification from the American Heart Association (AHA). While there are other certifying entities, such as The American Red Cross, the AHA remains the dominant entity certifying healthcare providers in oral health.

Why are Dental Hygienists Important?

• Preventive Care: Dental Hygienists are the embodiment of the saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” working tirelessly to preempt dental complications.
• Health Ambassadors: Their influence isn’t limited to oral health. By fostering oral wellness, they indirectly bolster our overall health.
• Patient Education: Every patient leaves the dental office with not only clean teeth but also the knowledge to sustain that cleanliness until their next appointment.

What is the role of a Dental Hygienists?

A dental hygienist is an oral health professional who is trained and licensed to provide preventive dental care. They protect teeth from plaque buildup and are crucial in maintaining our overall oral health.

Responsibilities & Expectations

• Teeth Cleaning: Dental hygienists make sure our teeth are clean and healthy by removing plaque, tartar, and external stains.
• Examination: They serve as the primary defense against oral diseases. Regular check-ups with them can catch issues like gingivitis early on, ensuring prompt intervention.
• Education: Educating patients about optimal oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and maintaining a tooth-friendly diet is paramount in promoting preventative care.
• X-rays: Dental hygienists use x-ray machines to look out for any underlying dental problems that aren’t immediately visible.
• Assisting in Emergencies: With their BLS certification, dental hygienists can address emergencies that can sometimes arise in a dental office. While such incidents are rare, preparation is paramount.

BLS Certification: A Vital Credential

Many dental hygienists possess BLS (Basic Life Support) certification from institutions like the American Heart Association (AHA). Here’s why:

• Medical Emergencies: Medical emergencies ranging from allergic reactions to sudden respiratory distress can and do occur in the dentist’s office from time to time. These professionals are trained to respond adeptly to such situations.
• Sedation Procedures: Certain dental treatments involve sedatives. In these instances, dental hygienists play a pivotal role in ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort.
• Handling Stress: Dental anxiety is widespread. Recognizing and managing anxious patients is an art, and dental hygienists are well-trained in this regard.
• CPR Proficiency: Being a fundamental aspect of BLS, CPR can be lifesaving. On the rare occasion that a cardiac emergency arises in a dental office, a BLS-trained dental hygienist can be invaluable.
• Upholding Standards: Numerous dental associations and state boards require BLS certification, often favoring institutions like the AHA. This uniformity emphasizes a proactive stance on emergency preparedness in dental settings.

In summary, while dentists are undeniably pivotal, a dental office would not operate as efficiently without the expertise of dental hygienists. With their roles amplified by certifications from bodies like the AHA, they stand as robust pillars in the oral health community.

Call to Action: Share your experiences with dental hygienists in the comments. Together, let’s give a nod to the unsung heroes of oral health!