What is a dental hygienist's role when it comes to excess cement on dental appliances?

The role of a dental hygienist when dealing with excess cement on dental appliances primarily involves the use of hand instruments. Dental hygienists are trained to perform a variety of procedures that contribute to patient care and oral hygiene, and the careful removal of excess cement is one of those responsibilities.

Using hand instruments allows for greater precision and control, which is crucial in ensuring that the integrity of the dental appliance and surrounding tissues is maintained. The hand instruments are designed to allow the hygienist to effectively remove the excess material without risking damage to the dental work or causing discomfort to the patient.

The other methods, such as using ultrasonic instruments or drills, may not align with the hygienist's scope of practice in many jurisdictions, as these often fall under the responsibilities of dentists. Therefore, relying on hand instruments aligns with the training and legal framework defining a hygienist’s practice, making it a practical and acceptable approach for this task.