With more adult teeth being lost through gum disease rather than tooth decay, regular dental hygiene treatment is essential to keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Regular visits to a hygienist combined with dental check-ups and looking after your teeth and gums at home will greatly improve the appearance of your teeth and your oral health.
What happens at a hygienist appointment?
Hygienists offer a professional teeth cleaning service, a process called scaling and polishing. During the appointment your hygienist will carry out an initial dental hygiene examination. They will then:
Scale your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar build-up in those areas brushing cannot reach
Perform a clean and polish to remove any superficial stains
Offer tailored advice on how to maintain good dental health and demonstrate techniques you can use at home
Your hygienist will also provide advice about diet and preventing tooth decay. They can spot signs of gum disease and will refer you to a dentist or periodontist.
How often should I visit a hygienist?
It may be recommended by your dentist that you visit the hygienist regularly. The frequency of visits will be determined by your clinical needs but also by your own personal desire to have your teeth cleaned and polished regularly.
Your dentist may also recommend that you see a hygienist for a thorough clean before beginning a complex dental treatment such as dental implants.
