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Duties and Responsibilities

Contact
Miranda Stewart, CDA, CRDH, MS
Dental Hygiene Coordinator
mstewart@gulfcoast.edu

Role of the Dental Hygienist

The Dental Hygienist is a licensed member of the dental health team, dedicated to helping patients maintain good oral health and preventing dental disease. Although the tasks performed by a hygienist vary from state to state, the primary functions are:

  • remove calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits) above and below the gum line

  • assess and chart the teeth and oral structures

  • expose, process and label dental radiographs

  • provide oral hygiene instructions

  • provide dietary analysis and counseling services

  • apply cavity-prevention agents, such as fluoride and sealants

  • design and implement community dental health programs

  • work with special population groups such as the elderly, mentally/physically handicapped, or minority groups

  • perform the Expanded Functions legally allowable in Florida

Gulf Coast State College does not discriminate against any person in its programs, activities, policies or procedures on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, marital status, religion, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. All questions or inquiries regarding compliance with laws relating to non-discrimination and all complaints regarding sexual misconduct or discrimination, may be directed to Lee Wood, Executive Director, Human Resources/Title II/504/Title IX Coordinator and Employment Equity Officer, Gulf Coast State College, 5230 W. US Highway 98, Panama City, FL 32401.