What's the Difference Between a Dentist and a Dental Hygienist?

If you have ever wondered whether you need to see a dentist or a dental hygienist for your next appointment, you are not alone. Both oral health care professionals have different roles and responsibilities, while each plays an important role in maintaining oral health.

Dentists and dental hygienists often work together to support healthy teeth and gums. For people looking for a general dentist in Saskatoon, understanding the difference between these two professionals can help them know which type of dental care they may need.

What Does a Dentist Do?

A dentist is an oral health professional who has completed the required education and training to examine, diagnose, prevent, and treat conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and mouth. The general dentist offers a broad scope of services and can determine when a patient needs to see a specialist for appropriate diagnosis or therapy.

A dental examination may include taking your dental and medical history, an oral and periodontal examination, and diagnostic tests such as digital x-rays. Based on the results of these examinations and diagnostic tests, a dentist can recommend appropriate preventive, restorative, or periodontal care, which may include fillings, crowns, extractions, or other treatments.

For patients looking for dentists in Saskatoon, an important distinction is that a dentist evaluates overall oral health and determines whether further dental treatment or assessment is needed.

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

For patients searching for dentists in Saskatoon (SK), the important distinction to make is that a dentist is responsible for evaluating the patient and deciding what, if any, dental work they need

According to the College of Dental Hygienists of Saskatchewan, dental hygienists may assess oral tissues and periodontal conditions, provide periodontal care, remove plaque and calculus, offer oral hygiene instruction, and apply fluoride. Moreover, a dental hygienist may perform other procedures allowed by the regulatory authority in the province.

Dental hygiene is a regulated profession in Saskatchewan. Only registered professionals who meet the applicable provincial requirements may practise as dental hygienists.

This means that a dental hygienist’s role extends beyond routine teeth cleaning. A dental hygienist may also assess gum health, monitor changes in oral health, and provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene. When appropriate, they can communicate findings to the dentist for further assessment.

Dentist vs Dental Hygienist: What's the Difference?

The key differences between dentists and dental hygienists can be understood by looking at their primary responsibilities:

Dentist

• Diagnoses dental conditions

• Develops complete treatment plans

• Treats decay and damaged teeth

• Performs restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns

• Performs or evaluates the need for extractions

• Evaluates oral conditions that may require further diagnosis or treatment

• Refers patients to specialists

Dental Hygienist

• Assesses oral hygiene and periodontal health

• Removes plaque and calculus

• Provides professional teeth cleaning

• Performs periodontal hygiene procedures within their scope

• Provides oral hygiene instruction

• May provide fluoride treatments and other preventive careMonitors gum health and communicates concerns requiring further dental assessment.

The scope of practice for dental hygienists varies across Canadian provinces and territories. In Saskatchewan, dental hygienists may practise independently within the scope permitted by provincial legislation and regulatory requirements.

Do You Need Both a Dentist and a Dental Hygienist?

For many patients, both a dental hygienist and a dentist can contribute to their overall dental care. A dental hygienist can provide preventive and periodontal care within their scope of practice, while a dentist evaluates the overall condition of the teeth, gums, and mouth and determines appropriate treatment options.

These roles complement each other rather than replace one another. Depending on the patient’s needs, a visit may include an assessment and cleaning with a dental hygienist, along with a dental examination when appropriate.

This collaborative approach is reflected in the services provided by AspenGreen Dental in Saskatoon, including general dentistry, dental examinations, hygiene services, preventive dentistry, periodontal assessment and treatment, and restorative dentistry.

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should consider scheduling a dental appointment if you have a specific oral health concern, need an examination, or require care beyond routine hygiene services. A dentist can assess whether further testing, restorative treatment, periodontal care, or a specialist’s opinion may be appropriate.

If you are looking for dental services in Saskatoon, choosing a clinic that provides both preventive and restorative care may allow you to access a range of dental services in one location.

The Bottom Line

The main difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist is the scope of practice. A dentist diagnoses and treats diseases, while a hygienist provides preventive and periodontal care. The two work together to help patients maintain good dental health.

For patients looking for a general dentist in Saskatoon or dental services in Saskatoon, AspenGreen Dental provides preventive and restorative dental care based on each patient’s examination and oral health needs.

Book an assessment with AspenGreen Dental in Saskatoon to discuss your oral health needs and explore the dental care options that may be appropriate for you.