with a dentist in order to review patient records and establish emergency protocols. Hygienists need to apply to the state department of community health for grantee status. Washington 1984 - Unsupervised practice: dental hygienist practice without the supervision of a dentist is allowed in hospitals, group homes, nursing homes, home health agencies, Health and Human Service state institutions, jails, and public health facilities as long as the hygienist refers their patients to a dentist for treatment. Hygienists must have at least two years of work experience within the last 5 years. Notable dental hygienists Janet Gardner Esther Wilkins See also Dentist Dental therapist Dental nurse Dental assistant Periodontal disease Gingivitis Periodontitis Further reading Mueller-Joseph, L., & Petersen, M. (1995). Dental Hygiene Process: Diagnosis and Care Planning. Albany, NY: Delmar. Dental Hygienists' Association of Australia Inc. (2014). "What is a Dental Hygienist?" Retrieved from Information Brochure - DHAA: Dental Hygienists' Association of Australia Inc. Supporting uniformity of Practice & growth of the dental hygienist profession References External links Important Facts About Dental Hygienists on American Dental Hygienists' Association Dentistry occupations pl:Dentysta