Dental Hygienist Influence

Societal influences in modern America insure a growing demand for dental hygienists, and continue to provide a stable professional opportunity for dedicated, talented and skilled oral care technicians. There are two profound influences which, together virtually assure the necessity of trained professional oral care personnel. The pressure created on society by food service advertisements and the influence of theatrical, movies, and television actors and actresses. These venues portray individuals with impeccable smiles, which include white teeth and healthy gums. These portrayals are powerful influences which affect the personnel expectations of the individual as well as their buying habits. The other strong societal influence is that consumers …show more content…
The services provided are important to the individual and also to society because the high cost of healthcare affects us all regarding the high premiums we pay for medical expenses. Dental out of pocket expenses constituted more than one quarter (27%) (Add reference) of overall healthcare out of pocket costs. The overall average amount of out of pocket healthcare costs per household for medical, prescription, and dental care was 3231$ (what year and reference "fiscal year...") The average for dental out of pocket costs was 873$. Dental out of pocket costs exceeded the average amount of prescription out of pocket costs (700$) For the individuals who maintain good health, oral health is essential and has a much lower cost on society than individuals who are less healthy. In an area where there are definite results and positive health for people who take the time and make the effort to maintain good oral health, the results in lower medical costs are certain. Therefore, the dental hygienist plays an integral role in keeping medical costs at a …show more content…
It is often this professional knowledge usually shared as client advice, often times has a dramatic effect on a personal level. Most changes to society in general begin as individual choices on a personal level. These choices can be influenced to some degree by the dental hygienist due to the respect medically trained personnel have obtained through training and dedication. Professional advice often includes recommendations of which products to use, how to use them, and new techniques for simplifying oral care at home. Beyond this, increasingly diet related advice is also being provided and I believe this to be a key component of the role of the oral