Why see a dental hygienist?
Dental hygienists play an important part in dental health care and are mainly concerned with preventive dental health and treating gum disease — showing you correct home care and helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
During a visit to our hygienist, the bacterial plaque that builds up between visits — which contributes to decay, gum disease and bad breath — is removed, leaving your mouth healthy and fresh.
We recommend a visit to the hygienist each time you visit the dentist for your regular appointment, to ensure that your oral health is maintained.
What happens at a hygienist appointment?
The hygienist will focus on removing the plaque and tartar on your teeth which, if left, can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and potentially tooth loss. They can also provide an individually tailored oral hygiene plan, so that you have the right tools and techniques to care for your teeth between visits.
The hygienist may also give advice on lifestyle changes that could help improve the health of your teeth and gums:
- Smoking has a detrimental effect on your teeth, increasing the risk of gum disease and staining.
- Diet — advice on reducing the number of times you have sugary food and drink throughout the day.
See our fee guide for the cost of a routine hygienist visit, or read about dental check-ups.