A newly hired dental hygienist discovers many patients who have been receiving an adult prophylaxis treatment in fact have active periodontal disease requiring periodontal therapy; however,many patients question why they have not been told this before.What is the BEST way for the hygienist to proceed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best way for the hygienist to proceed is to educate patients on the oral and systemic effects of untreated periodontal disease. This will help patients understand why they need periodontal therapy and why they were not informed previously. Offering financial arrangements or proceeding with adult prophylaxis without addressing the underlying issue is not a long-term solution and may lead to further frustration and distrust from the patients. Asking the dentist to speak with the patients may also be helpful, but ultimately it is the responsibility of the dental hygienist to educate patients on their oral health.

A Newly Hired Dental Hygienist Discovers Many Patients Who Have