Playing an important part in reducing your oral health problems, during the appointment with your dental hygienist we will remove any plaque, and the odour causing bacteria, behind your teeth for healthy gums and fresh breath. We will also polish the front of your teeth to remove any light stains for a sparkling clean smile. You will also be advised about brushing and flossing techniques so that your oral health between visits can be maintained to ensure harmful bacteria is kept at bay.
Dental Hygiene
For Healthy Teeth and Gums and Fresh Breath
Did you know that long term plaque build-up is one of the most common causes of gum disease (otherwise known as Periodontitis) and eventual tooth loss in the UK? That’s why we recommend regular check-ups with our dentists, and routine dental hygiene appointments at least every six months with one of our friendly and professional hygienists.
What is the role of a Dental Hygienist?
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is inflammation of your gums and affects more than half of adults who have their own teeth in the UK that affects the gums, bone and other supporting tissues of the teeth. If you don't clean plaque off your teeth regularly, your gums will become red and swollen, possibly resulting in them bleeding. This is the early stage of gum disease, but with regular visits to the hygienist to remove the plaque and to improve the health of your gums, it is completely reversible.
Although most individuals suffer gum inflammation from time to time, around 10% of the population appear to suffer from the more severe forms of the disease which cause loss of supporting bone. This group appears to be at greatest risk of losing teeth through periodontal disease. It is caused by the bacteria which regularly collect on the teeth.
How do I know if I have Gum Disease?
The signs and symptoms of gum disease vary significantly but may include gums that bleed when brushing, together with signs of more advanced disease such as movement or drifting of the teeth. However, it is possible to have the disease and not be aware of these signs. It is essential to see your dentist regularly so that special assessment techniques, sometimes including x-rays, can be carried out as part of your routine dental examinations.
Where do I find more information about this?
For more information about how gum disease and how it can affect your oral and general health, please click here »