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The collaborative practice of dental hygiene
Author(s) -
Reitz M,
Jadeja R
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
international journal of dental hygiene
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.674
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1601-5037
pISSN - 1601-5029
DOI - 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2004.00066.x
Subject(s) - medicine , economic shortage , dental hygiene , dental practice , population , hygiene , dentistry , family medicine , nursing , medical education , environmental health , linguistics , philosophy , pathology , government (linguistics)
This paper discusses the collaborative practice of dental hygiene, primarily using examples from California and New Mexico. Several advantages are discussed, including an increased access to all populations and more respect for the field. The earliest roles of a dental hygienist reflect common components of a collaborative practice. Responsibilities of dental hygienists today as educators and preventive dental providers are also tied to this type of practice. Currently, few states in the USA allow such practices; however, benefits are discussed and the positive effects noted. Opposition to these practices exists, although the concerns have not been proven accurate. Collaborative dental hygiene practices are shown to be a positive avenue through which the population can gain access to noted provider shortages, as well as a rewarding option for the field of dental hygiene.