Role of the dental hygienist in the prosthodontic practice.

Prosthodontic practices can benefit from the inclusion of a dental hygienist on the dental team. The dental hygienist can successfully complete procedures traditionally performed by the dentist. Delegation of these duties permits the dentist to spend time and energy on intricate procedures for which he or she has special expertise. The major modalities of responsibility that can be delegated include diagnostic data collection, educational and preventive services, and corrective therapy. It has been suggested that there is a need for expanding the duties of auxiliaries for prosthodontics in the future. It is our recommendation to use effectively the important auxiliary, the dental hygienist, in prosthodontic practice. For prosthodontic patients, the importance of the dental hygienist can be supported from two perspectives. First, the dental hygienist is formally educated in the oral and basic sciences and is qualified to perform intraoral procedures. Second, the dental hygienist is able to educate patients in regard to diet and oral hygiene habits. The dental hygienist's role in the prosthodontic practice has a potential that must not be overlooked. This opportunity, when provided, can be challenging, successful, and beneficial to the dentist, the patient, and the practice of prosthodontics.