Hygienist
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?
Scaling and polishing
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 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.