Dental Hygiene

The main aim of the hygienist is to help you get your mouth really healthy, to try and prevent any dental problems returning. In a healthy mouth it is unlikely that decay or gum disease will continue to be a problem.

• The hygienist will thoroughly ‘scale and polish’ your teeth.
• The hygienist will show you the best methods of brushing and flossing to remove the bacterial ‘plaque’ which forms constantly on your teeth and gums. Plaque is an invisible film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums. When you eat or drink something sugary, the plaque turns the sugar into acid, which will cause tooth decay. Plaque will also cause gum inflammation if it is not regularly and thoroughly removed. The hard tartar (calculus) which builds up on the teeth also starts off as plaque.
• You will be advised which oral care products are the best ones for you to use.
• The hygienist will probably discuss diet and any habits such as smoking and drinking with you.
• Your dentist will also make sure that all your fillings are in good repair and there are no rough edges to make cleaning difficult.