This text covers the prevention of disease transmission, with step-by-step procedures for assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation. It also deals with root morphology, and dental hygiene care for individuals with special needs. The book includes a behavioural science foundation, including knowledge about how cultural variations can influence dental care and a classification system for professional mechanical dental hygiene procedures. It stresses care as a process, rather than as a list of duties, so hygienists can feel ownership of the care of their patients, rather than trying to remember and implement a vast body of abstract steps. In addition, the book provides guidance with regard to computer applications, leadership and management, legal and ethical decision making, and research.