Frequently Asked Questions

What is RDHAP?

The Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) is a licensed registered dental hygienist with specialized training and a license to practice in settings outside of the traditional dental office.

The RDHAP is able to provide dental hygiene services directly to patients in varied settings such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior living communities, schools, and private homes.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, caused by poor oral hygiene and irregular plaque removal from teeth. It is characterized by swollen, red and tender gums and it can cause bleeding when brushing. Luckily gingivitis is reversible, and through improving your oral hygiene techniques and visiting your dentist or hygienist for advice on a home dental health care program, you should be able to reverse this process.

What is SDF?

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid medicine used to treat and prevent dental decays and relieve dentinal hypersensitivity. It helps remineralization of the teeth for preventing and arresting dental caries. SDF can be used by licensed dental professionals.

What is (next topic)?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, caused by poor oral hygiene and irregular plaque removal from teeth. It is characterized by swollen, red and tender gums and it can cause bleeding when brushing. Luckily gingivitis is reversible, and through improving your oral hygiene techniques and visiting your dentist or hygienist for advice on a home dental health care program, you should be able to reverse this process.

Is there any difference between in-home and in-office oral hygiene services?

The same services such as oral cancer screening, prophylaxis, periodontal deep cleaning, oral hygiene instruction, and cavity preventative such as fluoride & silver diamine fluoride.

What is periodontitis?

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. The conversion of gingivitis to periodontitis is more common in people who have a family history of gum disease, poor oral hygiene and uncontrolled diabetes. At this stage there will be damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis becomes an advanced stage of gum disease, characterized by significant tissue and bone loss around the teeth. It is not reversible but can be controlled.

What is (next topic)?

Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. The conversion of gingivitis to periodontics is more common in people who have a family history of gum disease, poor oral hygiene and uncontrolled diabetes. At this stage there will be damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Untreated becomes advanced stage of gum disease, characterized by significant tissue and bone loss around the teeth. It is not reversible but can be controlled.

Experience and caring

Providing dental hygiene services directly to patients in varied settings:

Skilled Nursing Facilities
Assisted Living Facilities
Retirement Communities
Hospitals and Clinics
Adult and Special Needs Daycare
Independent Care Facilities
Group Homes