Two roles, one goal: your healthiest smile.
When you visit the dentist, chances are you’ll see more than one dental professional during your appointment — usually a hygienist first, followed by the dentist. But what exactly is the difference between these two roles?
Both dental hygienists and dentists are essential to your oral health care team, but they focus on different aspects of care. Here’s how they work together — and what makes each role unique.
👩⚕️ What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Dental hygienists focus on preventive care and oral health maintenance. Their main goal is to help you avoid dental problems like cavities and gum disease through regular cleanings, education, and early detection.
🧼 A dental hygienist may:
- Perform routine cleanings (remove plaque, tartar, and stains)
- Take X-rays and assess your gum health
- Apply fluoride treatments or dental sealants
- Educate you on brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene techniques
- Monitor for early signs of issues and refer to the dentist if needed
In Canada, dental hygienists must complete an accredited program and be licensed through their provincial regulatory body (such as the CDHO in Ontario).
🟢 Think of your hygienist as your first line of defence in keeping your smile healthy.
👨⚕️ What Does a Dentist Do?
Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of dental conditions, from routine issues to complex oral health problems. They also perform more in-depth procedures and treatment planning.
🦷 A dentist may:
- Conduct full oral exams and diagnose issues (cavities, infections, jaw problems, etc.)
- Create treatment plans tailored to your needs
- Perform procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, implants, and more
- Monitor overall oral and jaw health
- Screen for oral cancer or signs of systemic health issues
Dentists in Canada hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and must be licensed by a provincial dental regulatory authority (like the RCDSO in Ontario).
🟢 Think of your dentist as the oral health physician — there when you need diagnosis, treatment, or long-term planning.
🤝 How They Work Together
Your dentist and hygienist work as a team to give you comprehensive care:
- The hygienist helps you prevent problems and keep your mouth healthy
- The dentist steps in when treatment or further diagnosis is needed
Together, they help you maintain your smile — and prevent small problems from becoming big ones.
🦷 Final Thoughts
While dental hygienists and dentists have different roles, they share the same goal: supporting your oral health and overall wellness. When you understand who does what, you can feel more confident and comfortable during every visit.
Have questions about your care team? Contact us today — we’re always happy to explain what to expect, and how we work together to keep your smile in top shape.