The Dynamic Duo: How Dentists and Oral Health Therapists Work Together to Give You the Best Dental Care
Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. That’s why it’s so important to see a dentist regularly – they can help prevent and diagnose dental issues early, saving both time and money down the line.
Good oral health begins with a partnership—and we aren’t just talking about the one between you and your dentist. In today’s age of medicine, dentists work with a team of qualified professionals to deliver quality care. That’s where the Oral Health Therapist (OHT) comes in.
In this article, we will explore what these two professions bring to the table and how they work together to provide superior care for your teeth and gums.
What is an Oral Health Therapist and What is Their Role in a Dental Practice?
Oral Health Therapists work in collaboration with dentists to provide comprehensive care and treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
While dentists focus on diagnosing and treating complex dental issues, Oral Health Therapists primarily concentrate on preventive care. They perform routine check-ups and cleanings, as well as educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices to promote long-term oral health and prevent the development of potential dental issues.
By working together, Oral Health Therapists and Dentists can deliver top-quality dental care that prioritises both patient comfort and oral health.
What Services are Offered by Oral Health Therapists vs Dentists?
When it comes to oral health, there are different types of treatments and procedures available, depending on your needs. Both dentists and OHTs are qualified professionals who can provide services to help you maintain good dental hygiene. And working together, you are in great hands.
Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a range of dental problems from fillings and root canal treatments to extractions, restorative treatments like dental crowns and cosmetic dentistry.
On the other hand, oral health therapists specialise in preventative treatments such as cleaning, scaling and polishing, fluoride applications and providing oral health education to children, adolescents and adults.
How do Dentists and Oral Health Therapists Work Together?
Notably, this collaboration ensures more efficient and personalised care for patients, while also benefitting dental practices.
Let’s delve into the specifics of how this teamwork makes the dream work during a routine check-up and clean appointment:
- The Oral Health Therapist captures the relevant X-rays and photographs
- Your dentist reviews the X-rays and photographs, then examines the teeth and surrounding soft tissues and performs the check-up and clean.
- The OHT checks for gingivitis and other oral diseases.
- The OHT administers a fluoride treatment.
- The OHT discusses and plans for future maintenance appointments.
- The OHT educates patients on home care routines.
In a nutshell, working together like this promotes improved communication within the team, ensuring that patients’ needs are met and enhancing their overall experience in dental care.
To sum it all up, an Oral Health Therapist is a valuable addition to a professional dental office. They provide specialised knowledge on preventive care and are extremely knowledgeable in treatments related to the maintenance of good oral hygiene.
When combined, Dentists and Oral Health Therapists can offer comprehensive dental services designed to promote long-term health for teeth and gums. Despite some common misconceptions, both specialties are important and contribute to the overall well-being of their patients.
Regular checkups from both dentists and oral health therapists can help ensure a mouth remains healthy and free of major problems.
Book an appointment today to see how these two dental professionals can work together for your benefit.
