Have you ever wondered: What’s the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist? They both wear scrubs, peer into your mouth, and help keep your smile healthy, but their roles are not the same.
Let’s break down the key differences between dentists and dental hygienists, how they work together at our Saskatoon dental office, and why it matters to you and your family.
The Big Picture: Dentist vs Dental Hygienist in Saskatoon
Both dentists and dental hygienists play essential roles in oral health care. At Boulevard Dental, conveniently located near Lakeview, Lakewood, and The Meadows, we believe understanding these roles empowers our Saskatoon patients to take control of their health.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Role | Dental Hygienist | Dentist |
| Education | 2–3 years (diploma or degree in dental hygiene) | 7–8 years (DDS or DMD degree) |
| Focus | Preventative care | Diagnosis and treatment |
| Services | Cleanings, x-rays, fluoride, sealants | Fillings, extractions, crowns, root canals |
| Licensure | College of Dental Hygienists of Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan Dental Surgeons Association |
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Dental hygienists are your front line in the battle against plaque and tartar. If you’ve ever visited Boulevard Dental for a cleaning, you’ve likely met one of our fantastic dental hygienists.
Their core responsibilities include:
- Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleanings)
- X-rays and digital imaging
- Oral hygiene education
- Fluoride treatments
- Sealant applications
- Periodontal maintenance
Hygienists are trained to assess your gum health, measure periodontal pockets, and help prevent gum disease before it becomes a bigger issue.
Think of your hygienist as the preventative partner in your oral health journey.
What Does a Dentist Do?
Your dentist is the one who creates your overall treatment plan, performs advanced procedures, and handles the big stuff.
At Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon, our dentists handle everything from routine exams to complex restorative procedures like:
- Dental fillings
- Crowns and bridges
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions
- Dental implants
- TMJ treatment
- Cosmetic dentistry (whitening, veneers, etc.)
- Oral cancer screenings
Dentists are also the ones who diagnose issues such as cavities, abscesses, jaw disorders, and signs of systemic diseases that may show up in the mouth. So if your hygienist finds something that looks suspicious, your dentist in Saskatoon will step in for a full diagnosis and treatment.
Education and Training Differences In the Dental World
To become a dental hygienist in Saskatchewan, students typically complete a two- or three-year diploma or degree program in dental hygiene. Once they graduate, they must pass a national certification exam and register with the College of Dental Hygienists of Saskatchewan.
Dentists take a longer route, usually completing a four-year undergraduate degree followed by four years of dental school, earning either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) designation. After graduation, they’re licensed through the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan.
This difference in training reflects the scope of each profession. While dental hygienists are specialists in disease prevention and maintenance, dentists in Saskatoon like those at Boulevard Dental are trained in comprehensive diagnosis and complex treatment, including surgical procedures and prescription medications.
How Dentists and Hygienists Work Together at Boulevard Dental
Here’s where the magic happens.
At Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon, our team-based approach ensures that your care is seamless and well-rounded. Our hygienists and dentists collaborate on every treatment plan.
- Your dental hygienist starts with a comprehensive cleaning and assessment.
- They update your records, flag any concerns, and prep you for your dentist exam.
- Your dentist then reviews those notes, checks for cavities, performs an oral cancer screening, and recommends any needed treatment.
- You leave with a clean smile and a clear path forward.
It’s a one-two punch that keeps Saskatoon smiles healthy.
Common Myths: Dentist vs Hygienist
Myth #1: Dental hygienists just clean teeth.
Reality: They’re trained to assess gum disease, administer local anesthesia, and even help monitor systemic health issues.
Myth #2: You only need a dentist if something hurts.
Reality: Preventative care from your hygienist often catches problems early, before they become expensive or painful.
Myth #3: Hygienists and dentists compete.
Reality: The best care happens when they collaborate, as we do at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon.
Why Do Dental Patients in Saskatoon Need to Know?
Knowing the roles of your dentist and dental hygienist helps you make smarter choices, especially for families in Saskatoon Rosewood and beyond.
- Have young kids? Your hygienist will teach them how to brush better and monitor development.
- Nervous about pain? Your dentist can walk you through sedation options or long-term care plans.
- Curious about cosmetic dentistry? Your hygienist might be the first to suggest whitening or veneers, then your dentist brings it to life.
The takeaway? Regular visits to both are key. That’s why we recommend dental cleanings and checkups every 6 months at Boulevard Dental.
Real-Life Example: A Routine Visit in Saskatoon
Imagine you’re from Lakeview, and it’s time for your regular dental check-up. You walk into Boulevard Dental and are greeted by your friendly hygienist, who:
- Reviews your health history
- Takes digital x-rays
- Performs a full cleaning
- Assesses your gum pockets
Then the dentist comes in to:
- Examine your x-rays
- Check for cavities
- Conduct an oral cancer screening
- Discuss any needed follow-up
You’re in and out with a fresh smile and peace of mind, thanks to the combined care of your Saskatoon dental team.
How to Choose the Right Saskatoon Dental Office
What makes Boulevard Dental the go-to destination for residents of Lakeview, Lakewood, The Meadows and beyond?
It’s not just our technology or our convenient Rosewood location, it’s our belief in teamwork. Our dentists and hygienists don’t just work alongside each other; they work with each other, making your appointment more efficient, more comfortable, and more effective. We offer:
- Consistent communication between providers
- Easy booking and friendly reminders
- Support for direct billing, including CDCP eligibility
- A welcoming environment for families, seniors, and new patients
From your child’s first cleaning to your next whitening consult, we’re proud to be your full-service Saskatoon dental clinic.
When to See a Dental Hygienist versus a Dentist
While dental hygienists and dentists work as a unified team at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon, knowing who to book with—and when—can make your visit smoother and more effective. It’s not just about who’s available on your preferred date; it’s about getting the right care at the right time.
Book with a Dental Hygienist when:
- You’re due for a routine cleaning
- You want advice on brushing, flossing, or diet
- You need fluoride or sealant treatments
- You want to prevent gum disease
Book with a Dentist when:
- You have tooth pain or sensitivity
- You need a filling, crown, or root canal
- You’re interested in cosmetic improvements
- You’ve noticed swelling, bleeding, or changes in your mouth
Ready to Book? Visit Boulevard Dental in Rosewood, Saskatoon
If you’re in Rosewood, Lakewood, The Meadows, Lakeview, or Lakeridge and looking for a dentist or dental hygienist who understands your needs, Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon is here for you.
Whether you’re due for a cleaning or need to discuss a treatment plan, our friendly Saskatoon dental team is ready to help you take the next step toward a healthier, happier smile. Contact us today or book your appointment online, now.