Putting a Smile on Everyone's Face |
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September 26, 2006
by AJ Fanter
aj.fanter@healthcare-programs.com
Healthcare-Programs Columnist
Ask any dental hygienist and he'll tell you that there are some dental hygiene jobs, such as periodontal charting, that require more than a degree or a whole lot of training at school. Tasks like this are difficult and time-consuming, and can be a challenge for new hygienists.
Soon, however, thanks to a former dental hygienist who figured there had to be a better way, the old method of periodontal charting is unlikely to be taught at dental hygiene school much longer.
Dental Hygienist School & Periodontal Charting
One of the many important skills dental hygienists learn at school is periodontal charting. This procedure, which tracks the detachment of gums from the teeth, is an important part of overall dental care. At dental hygienist training programs, future dental hygienists learn how to probe a patient's gums with a special measuring device and record the information, usually with the assistance of a coworker. However, these days there's a whole new method.
The Dental RAT
Armed with her dental hygiene degree, years of experience and a creative solution, Idaho dental hygienist Becky Logue invented the Dental RAT. The RAT, which functions like a large computer mouse, helps the dental hygienist to record the data obtained from the periodontal charting, without additional assistance. Instead of telling an assistant the numbers, dental hygiene specialists simply record the information directly onto a computer screen.
Attending Dental Hygienist School
Thinking about getting your dental hygiene degree? While using the Dental RAT is likely to be taught in the distant future, those currently enrolled in dental hygienist school learn the more traditional methods of periodontal charting, as well as how to properly do cleanings and instructing patients in good oral health care.
If you're looking for a great career that offers excellent growth opportunities, as well as a chance to put fabulous smiles on people's faces, getting your dental hygiene degree is a great place to start.
Sources
About the Author
AJ Fanter is a freelance writer based in Reno, NV.
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