What Is the Relationship Between the Actual Dentist and the RDH?

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When you go to a dentist in georgetown texas, you usually see the RDH, or Registered Dental Hygienist, and then the dentist—and then the RDH again. The RDH does much or all of the cleaning, X-raying and prepping work for a procedure, while the dentist does the procedure itself, usually with the RDH assisting and educating you afterward on maintenance. When the relationship between these two professionals flows well, the one who benefits most is the patient.

Respecting Leadership

While both the dentist and RDH have their own skill set and experience, the doctor is expected to lead the practice. People can check dentist in georgetown texas for the best dental options.

“In a good working relationship, the hygienist recognizes the doctor as the leader,” notes Dianne D. Glasscoe, RDH, BS, in her post for RDHmag.com. “The doctor sees the dental hygienist as a fellow professional who specializes in preventive care. Additionally, a good leader takes a personal interest in all of the staff members’ lives outside the office.”

With mutual respect for each other’s positions and strengths, the dental team can work as a well-oiled machine, which brings us to our next point…

Utilizing Strengths

The dentist and RDH have different educational backgrounds of course, with dentists training for about eight years—completing a bachelor’s degree and four additional years of dental school, plus residency and licensure requirements—and a Registered Dental Hygienist training for two years, though some opt for a four-year bachelor’s degree. At the end of schooling, the two professionals come out with different levels of expertise, and their relationship will thrive or suffer based on how well they use their skills as a team.

When the RDH preps the patient properly, it makes a clear path for the dentist to come in and either examine or perform a dental procedure on the patient. The dentist who does the job well makes a clear path for the RDH to educate the patient on future care.

On the other hand, if the dentist micro-manages, criticizes in front of patients or worse yet, does the hygienist tasks alone, it creates an unbalanced atmosphere without delegation and trust in the other’s abilities. A hygienist who performs unsatisfactory work can also hinder the dentist’s job.

Working Together

The two professions are under the same umbrella, but they have separate jobs. Dental hygiene involves recognizing, treating and preventing oral disease. Sometimes, they also help the doctor in various procedures – for instance, placing veneers. Dentistry involves treating diseases and conditions that affect the teeth and gums, which includes repairing and removing teeth, among other duties. They work together most of the times, for example – during  Invisalign services for teens and many more.

As the American Dental Association notes, “The collaborative relationship between dental hygienist and dentist professionals assures that the comprehensive treatment needs of the patient will be identified, addressed and evaluated.” With their different level of training and leadership, RDHs and dentists who find a working combination for their skills and personalities can grow a successful and satisfying practice.