MODEL RELEASED. Dental hygienist. Dental hygienist in consultation with a female patient. In addition to cosmetic work, the hygienist will remove the build-ups of plaque and tartar that cause gum disease and may lead to the loss of teeth. Also, the removal of plaque and stains allows the dentist to make a clearer evaluation of the type of treatment required. The hygienist plays an important educational role in teaching patients the correct techniques for cleaning and flossing their teeth.