Visiting a hygienist, is this necessary for everyone?

Oral hygiene is of the utmost importance at any age and a necessity if one wants to maintain healthy teeth and gums. When a person cuts themselves the blood is not ignored and yet all too often those suffering from conditions such as bleeding and inflammation of the gums, typically known as gingivitis, is just brushed aside as unimportant or a condition that can be dealt with at a later date. Unfortunately the impact of leaving the condition on an ongoing basis can result in tooth loss, receding gums and potentially other dental issues. By attending a dental hygiene appointment regularly and working as a team with a hygienist in Richmond, the patient’s oral hygiene can be kept at a very high standard which in turn will reduce the need for treatments and procedures further down the line.

What typically happens during a dental hygiene appointment?

Plaque and calculus build-up is a common occurrence within the mouth and therefore it is necessary to have a thorough dental clean, which removes any unwanted build-ups and addresses all potential problems including stained teeth.

To begin with an assessment will take place, so that the treatment plan can be discussed with the patient and a plan of action can be decided on the amount of plaque to be removed and potential risks can be highlighted. Once the assessment has been completed a deep, thorough clean using specialist dental equipment and pastes will be carried out. Whilst this clean, known as ‘scaling and polishing’, is carried out minimal discomfort may occur, but should not cause severe pain during or after the treatment.

Once the scaling and polishing has been carried out, the hygienist will discuss and educate the patient in various ways regarding the best methods to approach oral hygiene at home. Whilst hygiene appointments are important, teamwork is required by the patient, as the majority of dental care is provided by the patient at home. Therefore advice on the most beneficial brushing techniques will be given, along with tips on flossing and using interdental brushes. When necessary, toothbrush advice may be given, as some patients brush too hard with a manual toothbrush and therefore an electric toothbrush would be more beneficial. As with all advice given it is up to the patient, whether in the early stages or later stages of life, to follow the guidelines given. After all, it is in the patient’s best interests to adopt practices which will ensure they retain their teeth for life.

How beneficial is it to attend dental hygiene appointments?

Attending regular hygiene appointments carries many long-term benefits, particularly when combined with a high standard of oral hygiene carried out in daily life. For instance, tooth loss is reduced dramatically which can leave the patient with a confident smile. The risk of fillings and tooth decay problems are minimised, allowing the patient to keep their natural teeth and a fresh breath is consistently maintained when there is a good oral hygiene routine in place. 

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