Assessment
In order to provide the
necessary treatment for a patient, proper assessments must be completed. These assessments
can include but are not limited to periodontal probing, recession, furcation involvement,
mobility, fremitus, occlusion, x-rays, extra- and intra- oral examination,
Planning
Whether planning
preventative care, non-surgical periodontal therapy, or working with the
dentist to plan restorative care, it is important for the patient to be
involved. With the patient involved in planning, they are more likely to be
compliant and appreciate the care they receive.
Implementation
Assessing
and planning care for a patient is only the beginning. It is crucial for a clinician
to be able to carry out the treatment. Through the course of my education, my
ability to implement has improved and so has the scope of what I have been able
to implement. I am able to provide everything from education and fluoride
varnish to nonsurgical periodontal therapy and laser assisted periodontal
therapy.
Evaluation
After completing the
treatment, it is important to assess how the patient responded to the therapy.
Is the patient implementing the flossing technique demonstrated? Was the
calculus removed? Has the pocketing decreased? These are all questions that
need to be asked before determining if the treatment was a success or if more
treatment or education is required.
Education
Just
because a patient is brushing or flossing, the biofilm may not be getting
disrupted if they are not doing it properly. Some patients need interproximal
aids instead of flossing and need to be shown how to use the properly to not
damage tissue. If a patient understands that bleeding is not ‘normal’ but a
reaction to infection, they may take their oral health more seriously. If I can
develop a relationship with a patient and provide them with the tools and
education they need to keep their mouth healthy, I have succeeded as a hygienist.
Here
are links to a case presentation I prepared for class and some treatment plans
I created and carried out for patients.
