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Working with a dental hygienist in Ireland
1School of Dental Science, Trinity College, Dublin 2.
Summary
Dental hygienist services in Ireland, established in 1990, are guided by the Dental Council
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Healthcare Regulation
- Professional Practice Standards
Background:
- The dental hygienist role was established in Ireland in 1990.
- This followed the Dentists Act of 1985 and a scheme by The Dental Council [An Chomhairle Fiacloireachta].
- Current regulations govern the employment and supervision of dental hygienists and dentists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline and discuss the Dental Council's current instructions for employing and supervising dental hygienists and dentists.
- To analyze the present status of dental hygienist practice within the Irish dental team.
- To consider future developments in dental care delivery involving dental hygienists.
Main Methods:
- Review of current Dental Council guidelines and regulations.
- Analysis of the legal framework provided by the Dentists Act 1985.
- Discussion of the practical implications for dental professionals and patient care.
Main Results:
- The paper details the specific instructions from The Dental Council regarding the roles and supervision of dental hygienists.
- It examines how these instructions are applied in contemporary dental practice.
- The current scope of practice and supervisory relationships are clarified.
Conclusions:
- The established framework provides clear guidelines for dental hygienist employment and supervision.
- Understanding these regulations is crucial for effective dental team collaboration.
- Future developments may further integrate dental hygienists into patient care delivery models.
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