Scope of Dental Hygiene Practice
The scope of practice for dental hygiene is set out in the documented “Detailed Scope
of Practice for Dental Hygiene Practice” produced and published from time to time by
the Dental Council.
Dental hygiene practice is a subset of the practice of dentistry, and is commensurate
with a dental hygienist’s approved education, training and competence.
A dental hygienist’s major role is in the provision of oral health education and the
prevention of oral disease to promote healthy oral behaviours. A dental hygienist’s
primary task is in prevention and non-surgical treatment of periodontal diseases. A
dental hygienist guides patients’ personal care to maintain sound oral tissues as an
integral part of their general health.
Dental hygienists practise in a team situation with clinical guidance provided by a
practising dentist or dental specialist1
, though some aspects of the scope of practice
are provided under direct clinical supervision2
Detailed Scope of Practice for Dental Hygiene Practice
The Dental Council defines the practice of dentistry as the maintenance of health
through the assessment, diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of any
disease, disorder or condition of the orofacial complex and associated structures.
Dental hygiene practice is a subset of the practice of dentistry, and is commensurate
with a dental hygienist’s approved education, training and competence.
A dental hygienist’s major role is in the provision of oral health education and the
prevention of oral disease to promote healthy oral behaviours. A dental hygienist’s
primary task is in prevention and non-surgical treatment of periodontal diseases. A
dental hygienist guides patients’ personal care to maintain sound oral tissues as an
integral part of their general health. Dental hygienists practise in a team situation with