SENATE RESOLUTION 17

(By Senator Taylor)

[Introduced February 27, 2025]

Designating February 28, 2025, as Dental Hygienists’ Day at the Legislature.

Whereas, Dental hygienists are licensed health care professionals who actively promote oral health care through the dental hygiene process of maintenance focused on assessment, dental hygiene diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation of clinical oral health care preventives, and therapeutic services; and

Whereas, Dental hygienists contribute to positive general health of West Virginia residents through prevention and treatment of oral diseases; and

Whereas, Dental hygienists donate their time to provide professional oral health care to individuals in need, which includes children, senior citizens, individuals with low income, and individuals with disabilities.  They also participate in dental health clinics for community groups; and

Whereas, Dental hygienists build relationships with their patients working to learn their concerns and preferences while creating a safe and supportive environment encouraging the patient to continue good oral health; and

Whereas, The professional expertise of dental hygienists is essential in dental offices, public health facilities, schools, private organizations in providing the best possible oral healthcare for all citizens; and

Whereas, The Senate extends its sincere appreciation to all dental hygienists for their professional contributions to the oral health care for all West Virginians; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates February 28, 2025, as Dental Hygienists Day at the Legislature; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate representative of the West Virginia Dental Hygienists’ Association.