I am Neve Fielding, a second year Hygiene and Therapy student and the Hygiene and therapy representative for Open Wide.

 

Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists can work in all sectors of dentistry including community dental services, general practice, hospital services and more. As of 2013 dental hygienist and therapists are able to have direct access with their patients, this means providing treatment within your scope without a prescription from a dentist.

 

They have both clinical and health promotional responsibilities. Clinically dental hygienists focus on the prevention and treatment of gum disease by a combination of oral hygiene education, scaling the tooth and root, as well as polishing of the teeth. Dental therapists focus on the treatment of patient's who have decay, by removing the decay and filling cavities. They play a key role in the treatment of children, performing procedures such as extractions and the removal of diseased nerves on primary teeth. ​

 

There is a big focus within dental hygiene and therapy on prevention. This means educating the patient in methods to maintain good oral hygiene and discussing the importance of this on both their oral and general health. This includes providing the patient with oral hygiene advice, such as tooth brushing information, diet advice and brief smoking and alcohol cessation advice.

 

University of Leeds currently offer a three year degree programme in Dental hygiene and therapy. To apply you need ABB at A levels including biology. You can also enter via the alternative entry scheme and through access to Leeds if you have the required personal circumstances.