---
title: "What Is Dental hygienist? Dental Practice Glossary"
description: "A licensed oral health professional who provides preventive care, such as cleanings, and examines patients for signs of oral disease, working under the..."
url: https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-hygienist
publisher: Copeland Consulting Services
email: drcopeland@joncopelanddds.com
contact: https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/contact
---

Team and HR

# Dental hygienist

A licensed oral health professional who provides preventive care, such as cleanings, and examines patients for signs of oral disease, working under the supervision rules of the state.

A dental hygienist is a licensed oral health professional. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says dental hygienists examine patients for signs of oral diseases, such as gingivitis, and provide preventive care, including oral hygiene.

Hygienists work as part of the [dental team](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-team) with dentists and assistants. What they may do depends on state law. Missouri's dental practice act says a hygienist shall only practice under the supervision of a licensed dentist, with limited exceptions, which ties to [dental hygiene supervision](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-hygiene-supervision).

Hygienists must hold a state license, so rules on duties differ by state. Employers should check the dental board for current requirements. This entry gives a general definition only.

[Next stepPractice consulting with Dr. Copeland](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/contact?topic=consulting)

## Related terms

-   [Dental team](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-team)
-   [Dental hygiene supervision](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-hygiene-supervision)
-   [Scope of practice](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/scope-of-practice)
-   [Dental therapist](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-therapist)
-   [Dental assistant](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/glossary/dental-assistant)

## Sources

1.  [BLS, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Dental Hygienists](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm)
2.  [Missouri Revisor of Statutes, Section 332.311 RSMo](https://revisor.mo.gov/main/PageSelect.aspx?section=332.311&bid=17691)

## Talk with Dr. Copeland

[Contact Dr. Copeland](https://joncopeland.multisites.ai/contact)[Email](mailto:drcopeland@joncopelanddds.com)