Ever walked into a dental clinic and wondered why three different people are looking after your smile? You're not alone! Between dental hygienists, dentists, specialists and friendly front-desk staff, a larger dental team can feel like quite the crew.
We believe understanding who's doing what makes your dental visits at our Scarborough dental practice more comfortable. Each team member plays a different role, and working together helps keep your care organized and personalized.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Think of your dental hygienist as your smile's maintenance expert. Registered dental hygienists focus on preventive care, helping you keep your teeth and gums healthy between appointments.
During your visit, your hygienist may:
- Remove plaque and tartar from your teeth
- Assess gum health and look for signs of inflammation
- Provide personalized brushing and flossing advice
- Discuss preventive treatments suited to your needs
Your hygienist may also notice changes that need a dentist's attention. That's where teamwork comes in!
When Does Your Dentist Step In?
Your dentist focuses on diagnosing oral health concerns, developing treatment plans and providing restorative care. At Dentistry at Alton Towers, our dentists assess concerns such as cavities, damaged teeth, toothaches and missing teeth.
Need a filling, crown or another procedure? Your dentist in Scarborough explains the recommended treatment, discusses alternatives and answers your questions. Your hygienist and dentist share relevant findings so your care stays coordinated.
When Might You See a Dental Specialist?
Some dental concerns require additional expertise. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend a specialist, such as an orthodontist for complex tooth alignment or an endodontist for certain root canal treatments.
A referral doesn't mean something has gone terribly wrong! It simply means another dental professional may be better suited to address a particular concern. Your dentist can explain the reason for a referral and how information moves between providers.
How Do Dental Team Handoffs Work?
Picture a relay race, but with dental charts instead of batons. Your hygienist identifies a concern, your dentist evaluates it and a specialist becomes involved when appropriate.
Clear communication helps each provider understand your dental history, treatment needs and next steps. From a routine cleaning to more involved treatment, Dentistry at Alton Towers welcomes Scarborough families with friendly, patient-focused care.
Book Your Dental Check and Cleaning in Scarborough, ON
We invite you to book your next dental appointment with Dentistry at Alton Towers. You’re always welcome to ask us any questions you have about treatments, providers and more.
We look forward to caring for your smile!