Have you ever wondered if you were getting the best cleaning possible when you visit the dental hygienist? Here are a few things to look for the next time you go in for your cleaning to ensure you are getting the best care possible.
How many dental instruments does your hygienist use?
Ask your hygienist how many different instruments they use for your exam and cleaning. If they only say only 3 or 4 you are likely not getting the best cleaning possible. As dental hygienist Maggie Burkhart explains, “Dental anatomy is surprisingly complex and hygienists should utilize exact instruments for specific areas of the mouth. At our office we often utilize up to 10 different instruments during a cleaning to ensure our patients have the most comprehensive cleaning possible.”
How often are the dental hygiene instruments replaced?
Dental instruments known as scalers and curettes have an active surface used in the removal of tarter and calculus and should be replaced approximately every 24 months. Dental instruments are like any other tool and wear out over time and use and should be regularly updated.
As Dr. Gina Joshua-Wright explains “A dental instrument that is in poor condition often fails to detect calculus buildup, let alone remove it.”
Does your hygienist use magnification loupes?
Loupes have long been the standard of care for dentists allowing them to magnify the smallest part of tooth anatomy and they are now quickly becoming the standard of care for the hygiene team too. As dental hygienist Katie Mercado explains, “Not only do loupes make my work easier they also allow me to give my patients a higher quality of care allowing me to spot the smallest deposits of tarter and calculus buildup.”
Meet Our Hygiene Team!
Katie Mercado and Maggie Burkhart are the dynamic duo that make up the heart and soul of the hygiene department here at Cornerstone Dental. Their passion and commitment to the care of their patients shines through every appointment, every day!
Katie Mercado earned her degree in Dental Hygiene from the inaugural class at Hagerstown Community College; Katie started her career with Cornerstone Dental in July of 2016. She strives to give her patients the very best of care and help them achieve optimal oral health for a lifetime. In her free time, Katie enjoys everything outdoors and spending time with family and friends – especially her husband and two pugs!
Maggie Burkhart is a native of West Virginia and graduated from Martinsburg High School. After high school she joined the West Virginia Air National Guard and enrolled in the dental hygiene program at West Liberty University. Maggie is dedicated to providing not only the best care but utilizing the best equipment for the individual needs of her patients. She is an avid animal lover especially her cats Cletus and Gibbs.
Get yourself ready for 2018 and give yourself the gift of good oral health! Call our office at 304.267.6059 to schedule an appointment today.
Are You Searching For A Martinsburg Area Dentist For You Or Your Family?
If you’re searching for an experienced dentist please feel free to contact us online or call our Martinsburg, West Virginia dental office directly at 304.267.6059 to schedule your appointment. We provide a wide range of general dentistry care as well as more involved dentistry services for patients throughout the Martinsburg area and look forward to you joining the Cornerstone Dental family.
