October is Dental Hygienist Month, an opportunity to celebrate the dedicated professionals who help bring brighter smiles and better oral health to our community.

Dental hygienists do so much more than just clean teeth. They are a crucial part of a patient’s care team, providing preventive services, patient education, and often spotting the early signs of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. In Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), their role is even more vital because the patients served may not otherwise have access to consistent or affordable dental care.

Preventive services and education are at the heart of our dental hygienists’ efforts to champion health equity. Preventive dental services, including fluoride treatments, sealants, and routine cleanings, are essential for early detection and prevention of conditions like cavities and gum disease, which disproportionately affect low-income populations. A recent study in the Journal of Public Health Dentistry highlights how increasing the dental hygienist workforce significantly enhances FQHCs’ ability to deliver preventive services. Their findings underscore what we know to be true at Whittier: dental hygienists drive whole-person care by collaborating with our nurses, care coordinators, and other providers to catch health conditions early, before they become chronic or even life-threatening.

Within the Dental department, our hygienists and dentists work together to provide a full range of preventive and restorative services, from routine cleanings and sealants to oral surgery, prosthetics, and mobile outreach. By offering care in multiple languages and through community-based programs, Whittier is committed to breaking down barriers and making quality dental care accessible to all.

This month, we honor our hygienists for their expertise, compassion, and dedication to advancing both oral health and overall well-being. To book an appointment with our Dental department today, please call (617) 989-3240 or 617-989-3181.