We want to help you achieve the best possible dental health. That’s why we have introduced hygiene treatments at Deptford Dental. A visit to the hygienist combined with your oral care routine at home provides the best way to keep your gums healthy and stop plaque from building up on your teeth. Hygienist appointments will help prevent gum disease from forming in your mouth.
What is gum disease?
If build-ups of plaque on the teeth aren’t removed, the bacteria it carries can cause the gum tissue to become irritated. The gums then appear red and inflamed, a telltale sign of the early, reversible stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis. Other symptoms include bleeding gums when brushed, sensitivity and bad breath.
Hygienists can help reverse gingivitis by removing the plaque and tartar build up, removing the bacteria and allowing the gums to return to their healthy state.
If left untreated, gingivitis can cause the gums to begin to recede and create pockets between the gums and the tooth, allowing plaque to form on the tooth root. This condition is known as periodontitis, which is not reversible but can be controlled. If not managed, it can eventually lead to tooth loss.
What will happen at my appointment?
Your hygiene appointment will last approximately 30 minutes. Initially, the hygienist will ask a few questions about your medical and dental history, your current oral health regime and if you have any concerns with your teeth or gums. This ensures that the treatment is tailored to your needs.
The main part of your hygiene appointment will typically be the scale and polish – a thorough clean of your teeth which will leave them bacteria-free, with plaque and tartar removed, preventing and treating gum disease. The professional polish will leave your teeth feeling smoother and cleaner.
In some cases, you may need a deeper clean to remove stubborn plaque and tartar deposits and improve the health of your gums. Using local anaesthetic to numb the area, deep cleaning below the gumline will stop gum disease advancing any further. It therefore protects the roots of your teeth and helps to prevent tooth loss in the future.
The hygienist will also give you advice on how to properly care for your teeth and gums to maintain good oral health.
Hygienist fees are charged per appointment. More information on our fees can be found here:
View our fees page
