Hygiene Treatment

The length of time you should leave between your hygienist appointments depends on your individual needs and your oral health. We recommend that most patients see their hygienist every six months, in order to maintain long-term excellent oral health. However, if you have a history of gum disease or other specific concerns, we may suggest more frequent appointments to ensure your gums and teeth stay healthy.

During your appointment, our dental hygienist will gently and thoroughly remove any plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, both above and below the gum line. They will also polish your teeth to remove stains and leave them feeling smooth and clean. You will also receive personalised advice to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy between your appointments.

The best way to maintain good oral hygiene at home is to make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, using interdental brushes or floss to reach between the teeth. It is also helpful to limit the amount of sugary snacks and drinks you consume. Please ask your hygienist for some personalised advice.

If plaque builds up around the teeth and gum line, the gum tissues can become inflamed. The irritated gums often bleed while brushing, making them susceptible to the bacteria in the mouth. Swollen, red gums are often one of the first signs of the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis. Other symptoms include tooth sensitivity and bad breath. If left untreated, this gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of the condition, periodontitis. This isn’t reversible but is manageable with effective treatment.

You can prevent gum disease by keeping up with a good oral hygiene routine at home, including brushing twice a day and using floss or interdental brushes. It is also important to visit your hygienist for regular appointments so they can deep clean your teeth and spot and treat any early signs of gum disease. Routine check-ups with your dentist also play a role in preventing gum disease.

Dental hygiene treatment shouldn’t hurt. We always make sure you are feeling relaxed and ready before we begin, and let you know what to expect during the cleaning. There can be an element of discomfort, and sometimes tooth sensitivity can be experienced. We will also be guided by you and if you feel any pain, we will stop immediately to give you a break.