Maintain a beautiful smile with clean and healthy teeth

The role of a dental hygienist is to keep your gums and teeth clean and healthy to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in the U.K.

Just as our dentists encourage a preventative approach, so do our dental hygienists.

Some patients don’t understand why they must see a hygienist in addition to seeing the dentist. Your hygienist will focus on your oral hygiene and by helping you to keep your teeth and gums clean, this may mean the difference between costly and preventable treatments in the future.

Signs of a poor oral hygiene include:

  • Bleeding gums when you brush
  • Stained teeth
  • Furry tongue
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • Receding gums
  • Infections

Regular appointments with your dental hygienist will deal with any of these issues and help prevent them from occurring in the future. Our hygienists welcome patients from Dunstable, Houghton Regis and throughout Bedfordshire.

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Which dental hygiene services are available at Dunstable Dental Practice?

Our dental hygienists at Dunstable Dental Practice offer the following services to ensure your mouth, teeth and gums remain healthy:

Scaling and polishing

Plaque bacteria will develop on and around your teeth in places that are difficult to reach with a typical toothbrush. If left, this will harden to form tartar and can only then be removed by a dentist or hygienist.

If plaque develops near your gum line, this can lead to gum disease. Your hygienist will remove the tartar with a special dental tool and then polish your teeth which smooths the teeth to a lovely shine.

Treat gum disease

The first sign of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gums may appear red or swollen and they may bleed when you brush your teeth. If your hygienist spots signs of gingivitis, they will clean the gums and help prevent it from developing further.

The second stage of gum disease is called periodontitis. The gums start to recede, and pockets may develop which can cause teeth to become loose.

If caught early on, your hygienist will treat periodontitis with a thorough oral clean and a plan for you to follow at home. You may be given a course of antibiotics.

Hygiene and lifestyle advice

Your hygienist can provide tips and show you the most effective way to brush, floss and use interdental toothbrushes if required.

Your hygienist will also give good advice about other factors which affect your oral hygiene including diet, smoking and your general health.

Benefits of seeing a hygienist in Dunstable

Patients from Sewell, Dunstable and throughout Bedfordshire are choosing to see a dental hygienist because:

 

  • Hygienists help your teeth, gums and mouth look and feel their best
  • A good oral hygiene prevents problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath and possible tooth loss
  • Your hygienist will give your mouth and teeth a thorough and deep clean which is more effective than brushing – giving you a noticeably brighter smile
  • Hygienists work with you to prevent gum disease – the number one reason for tooth loss

FAQ's for Hygienist

Does the NHS cover a visit to the hygienist?

Yes, the NHS does cover a visit to your hygienist, but like other general dentistry services, you will be required to pay a contribution. A simple scaling is included within Band 1 of the NHS. More complex treatments for gum disease may fall within Band 2.

How often should you see a dental hygienist?

In most cases, we recommend that you see a hygienist every 6 to 12 months. If any issues arise, your hygienist may want to see you more regularly.

Should I use mouthwash as part of my oral hygiene?

Mouthwash can help in the fight against plaque, but it should not be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing.

Our Reviews

Andrew L.
Excellent thanks
Malcolm D.
Had appointment today. And treatment done
Excellent service I would recommend Dunstable dental practice.
sandra K.
I'd had a fear of dentists ever since an accident decades ago. I didn't go for decades. But wow. Kind, caring patient people. From the receptionists to the orthodontist. Especially Adam....I can't praise this place more
Margaret K.
I once again have nothing but praise for Mr Shah who was empathetic and understanding in his treatment of me as an elderly, nervous patient. Reception staff were courteous and helpful as always.
Sandra W.
Excellent service from Dr Shah. Very professional, attentive, and clearly uses the latest technology. I always feel in safe hands. Highly recommend.
Sharon
Very nice practice my dentist is very supportive and very good
Dick S.
Another very good trip to the dentist today. All very quick and efficient. Thank you.
Stacey B.
Fantastic dentist , they are very patient and friendly
Isabel R.
Excellente experience!
Taneisha J.
I got a quick appointment and the chip tooth was fixed very well. Happy customer.
luke K.
Great experience considering I hate dentist very very happy now really nice bloke thank you
life as R.
The staff at Dunstable dental practice are always very welcoming and professional, the process of booking an appointment is brilliant and carried out in a timely manner. My dentist is Adam he is always professional and carries out all treatment to a very high standard. I fully recommend Dunstable dental practice. I have now booked to see a hygienist and have teeth whitening privately through the practice.
trudy G.
Excellent Dental Practice... always friendly and helpful. Service is amazing and my Dental Physician is fantastic...spoken by a very nervous patient, who has now rebuilt my 'faith and nerves'. Can't speak high enough about the whole team!
Cristina B.
Very nice staff,the doctors are very nice and they’re very friendly with the kids
Wendy H.
I have used this practice for 30 years and have always been happy with the service and treatmet given. The staff are always friendly helpful. The treatment is explained fully.
Carol B.
Had a appointment for the hygiene today and it was brilliant my teeth felt so clean and fresh. Thank you .
John K.
A good and competent practice, quick and efficient when required as I needed yesterday
Jackie F.
Dentist and assistant(Heena&Adriana) very caring and professional. Prompt service, confirming I was okay during procedure. Explained everything being done and what to do for aftercare. I was especially pleased to find that the filling was guaranteed for a year also.
Philip H.
Have been a patient for many years. Always helpful and pleasant staff. Appointment times are always on schedule.
Monica S.
I would like to rate my recent experience with Mr. Adam Mulji and the team with 5 stars—an excellent one.

I had an extraction and I'm a very anxious person. Mr. Adam was so patient and explained the steps and the follow-up aftercare to avoid complications. The assistant was wonderful as well.

The reception team are always so nice and keen to help.

Overall, it's a wonderful team. Thank you for being here for us!"
dave C.
I have always found the practice to be helpful, friendly and very professional
M C.
Always professional and honest highly recommended
Ruth B.
Seen on time, good service
Brian C.
As always The customer service from Dunstable Dental Practice is second to none.
wendy H.
This was a great check up
elizabeth M.
I have given five stars for the treatment that I received from my dental practice. I was seen by a new Dentist, his name is Adam, and he was very informative and we came to a decision together regarding a tooth that is loose. He is attentive, he actually listened to me and my situation. Thank you very much, Adam. Look forward to seeing you next Monday take care Libby.
The Allen Family Boys Fun and R.
We’ve been lucky enough to have thr same dentist for nearly ten years. My boys have grown up going and feel
Comfortable. What you get at the visit (no cleaning ) has dropped to just a basic check up now - but I think that’s all dentists!
Luena C.
A very positive experience. The dentist was patient and caring, and explained everything during the treatment. I felt safe and well looked after. I would definitely recommend.
Fouzia F.
Very professional. Timing is always perfect. They are willing to answer any questions. Always helpful.
Chris R.
I visited the dentist yesterday and, as always, was treated in a very friendly and efficient manner by the reception staff. Appointment was delayed by about 10 minutes because Mr Shah had to fit in an emergency, but it's good to know he would do that. Treatment by Mr Shah was excellent, he showed knowledge of my rare disease and made allowances for my requirements.
Keith M.
Everything about this surgery is excellent. The front desk staff are always courteous and helpful and the excellent dentistry is delivered in a friendly and professional manner. I have been a patient of Danyel for many years and after moving to Cornwall, I now make 600 mile round trips rather than changing to another surgery or dentist.
Mike C.
As usual staff were efficient on arrival,, waiting room very calm ,mags to read, and tv to listen. Shown to my dentist, miss Tanner who is as always brilliant.
Russell S.
Friendly & accommodating. I’ve been coming here for years and always happy with the level of care & professionalism.
Yasmin B.
Adam Mulji is a great dentist, always make you at ease and explains everything before continuing.
Annie
No one likes the dentist but I feel happy and confident with Mr Shah at this practice
Stephen R.
As always, the reception was warm and cheerful, and the treatment likewise. Never left in doubt as to what had been undertaken, and always left with a clear picture of what is required of me as the patient, and what future care was needed.
Susan G.
Always have good service and the staff are very helpful
Charmaine B.
Very caring and professional as always
Diana B.
My son is attending this Dental Practice, and staff is very friendly and helpful at any meeting that he had.