Who is the Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists are registered Allied Health Professionals regulated by the Council for the Professions Complimentary to Medicine (CPCM).

Dental hygienists have the responsibilities of educators, clinicians, researchers and administrators.

They are important members of the dental team who work with dentists in the delivery of dental care to clients.

Hygienists use their scientific knowledge and clinical skills to help individuals in attaining and maintaining optimum oral health.

As professional oral health educators they use their skills to help clients develop and practice behaviours that promote better oral health.

In Malta the registered Dental Hygienist is permitted to deliver clinical dental hygiene services under the supervision of a dentist who has examined the patient and has formulated a comprehensive treatment plan.

Dental hygiene offers the following challenges and rewards:

Personal satisfaction:

Personal fulfillment comes from providing a valuable health care service while establishing trusting relationships with clients.

Prestige:

Dental hygienists are valued members of the dental health team.

Variety:

Hygienists have opportunities to work in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, educational and community institutions, form part of research teams, private dental practice and dental corporations.

Creativity:

Because they interact with such diverse population groups, hygienists need to be creative in their approach to client management and oral health education.

Flexibility:

The flexibility offered by full and part time employment options enables dental hygienists to balance their careers and lifestyle needs.