What is the difference between Register Dental Hygienist and Hygienist?
The term "Registered Dental Hygienist" (RDH) is used in the United States and some other countries to designate a dental professional who has met specific educational and licensing requirements. The term "Hygienist" alone may have different meanings depending on the country and context in which it is used. However, in general, the difference between a Registered Dental Hygienist and a Hygienist is as follows:
- Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH):
- Definition: In the United States and certain other countries, a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in oral hygiene and provides preventive dental care.
- Education: RDHs must complete an accredited dental hygiene program, which typically takes two to three years and includes coursework in dental sciences, patient care, clinical procedures, and preventive dentistry.
- Licensing: After completing their education, dental hygienists must pass a national or state board exam to obtain licensure. Licensure requirements may vary by state or country.
- Scope of Practice: Registered Dental Hygienists perform various tasks related to oral health care, including:
- Cleaning teeth (scaling and polishing)
- Applying fluoride treatments and sealants
- Administering local anesthesia
- Taking X-rays (if authorized by state regulations)
- Providing oral hygiene instructions to patients
- Educating patients on oral health and preventive care
- Supervision: In most states, RDHs work under the supervision of a dentist. However, the scope of practice may vary depending on state laws and regulations.
- Hygienist (General Term):
- Definition: The term "Hygienist" is a broad term that can refer to various healthcare professionals involved in promoting and maintaining health in different fields. In some cases, it may refer to Registered Dental Hygienists. However, in other contexts, it could encompass health professionals in related fields such as dental therapy, public health, or environmental health.
In essence, the term "Registered Dental Hygienist" is specifically used to describe licensed dental professionals who have received formal education, passed board exams, and are qualified to perform dental hygiene procedures within their state or country's regulatory framework.