Which of the following accurately characterizes the role of a dental hygienist in a community health setting?

A dental hygienist plays a significant role in promoting oral health within community settings, and focusing on preventive care is a central aspect of this role. In community health, dental hygienists engage in various preventive practices, including educating the public on oral hygiene, conducting screenings, and applying fluoride treatments or sealants to prevent dental issues. Their emphasis on prevention aims to reduce the incidence of oral diseases, promote access to care, and improve overall community health outcomes.

In contrast, performing restorative procedures is typically not within the scope of a dental hygienist's practice, as these duties are generally reserved for dentists. Unrestricted practice authority would imply that they do not require any supervision or collaboration with other healthcare providers, which is not the standard in Washington State as dental hygienists often work under the supervision of licensed dentists. Furthermore, working only under direct supervision does not account for the independent practice opportunities that some dental hygienists have in specific settings, especially when they have met certain criteria to provide care without a dentist present.