There are several areas in your mouth that are ‘hard to reach’. Because of this, plaque can build up and harden, making it impossible for you to remove at home. Your hygienist can access all of these hard to reach areas. They have special tools and training allowing them to remove hardened plaque safely.

If the hardened plaque or calculus isn’t removed it can lead to advanced gum disease. As gum disease advances it can begin to destroy your tooth’s supporting structures – which will eventually lead to wobbly teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults which is why we believe in a preventative approach to dentistry. Routine hygienist visits should be a part of your dental routine to protect your teeth and gums and help prevent the need for dental treatments.

Maintaining good oral health is also very important to your overall health and wellbeing. Studies have shown that poor oral health and chronic gum disease can be linked to dementia, inflammatory disease and pneumonia.

Not any more. You can book to see a hygienist without being referred by your dentist. Our hygienists will see you as a new patient and provide you with a tailored hygiene regime and recall interval. We, of course, recommend that you see a dentist regularly too to keep an eye on the health of your teeth and soft tissues, but you can have your teeth cleaned without the say so of a dentist under what’s called ‘direct access’.

As well as scaling and polishing teeth, your dental hygienist will provide you with a tailored oral hygiene regime. The correct techniques for cleaning between your teeth, with the appropriate tools will be discussed and demonstrated. enabling you to maintain outstanding cleaning at home.

If you’re a smoker your hygienist will also be able to provide you with smoking cessation advice, if you’d like it.

Stain removal is also a dental hygienists forte. Stains from daily indulgences like tea, coffee and red wine can be removed by a hygienist – instantly brightening your smile.

Scaling and polishing are generally pain-free. If you have particularly sensitive teeth your dental hygienist will do everything they can to ensure your appointment is as comfortable as possible. If you have major discomfort they can provide local anaesthetics to ensure you benefit from a thorough clean.