Keeping your smile healthy between visits
Oral health is about more than just having a clean mouth and a sparkling smile – it’s closely tied to our overall wellbeing. In fact, the health of our teeth and gums can influence other parts of the body.
Maintaining our health becomes more important than ever as we age. Regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist become essential in preserving your natural teeth and preventing serious issues like gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss.
So, how often should you see a dental hygienist? And why is it so important to make these appointments part of your healthcare routine?
What is a dental hygienist?
A dental hygienist plays a vital role in keeping your smile healthy and bright. Working closely with your dentist, they focus on the prevention and care needed to maintain excellent oral health. While your dentist diagnoses and treats issues like cavities and gum disease, the dental hygienist specialises in cleaning your teeth and gums, helping to prevent problems before they start.
These professionals are experts at spotting the early signs of gum disease and providing tailored advice on how to care for your teeth at home. As we age, oral health challenges such as receding gums and dry mouth become more common, making regular visits to the dental hygienist an essential part of preserving your smile and overall wellbeing.
What do dental hygiene appointments involve?
At our private practice in Lancashire, our dental hygiene treatments range from a simple scale and polish to more advanced interventions for all stages of gum disease. Regardless of the complexity of the treatment, our dental hygienist prioritises your comfort and carries out each procedure with the utmost care.
Over time, everyday brushing and flossing may not be enough to remove all the debris and stains from your teeth, especially if you consume drinks like coffee or red wine. During a typical appointment, our hygienist will:
- Examine your mouth for any signs of gingivitis or gum disease.
- Remove plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth. This is especially important because tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone.
- Polish your teeth to remove stains and give your smile a refreshed look.
- Offer tailored advice on maintaining good oral hygiene.
For more advanced cases, such as patients dealing with gum disease, additional treatments may be required. These can include root surface debridement (deep cleaning under the gums) and more frequent visits to manage the condition effectively. After just one visit, you can expect your smile to feel cleaner and look brighter.
Signs you need a dental hygiene appointment
There are certain signs that should prompt you to make an appointment with our dental hygienist sooner rather than later:
- Bleeding gums. This is a key sign of gingivitis or gum disease, and it’s essential to get it checked.
- Persistent bad breath. Bad breath can indicate plaque buildup or other oral health issues.
- Tooth sensitivity. This can suggest receding gums or other dental issues that a hygienist can help manage.
- Loose teeth. A more serious sign that gum disease may have progressed.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more advanced stages of gum disease, which could result in tooth loss and other complications.
Why is routine cleaning important and recommended?
Routine cleaning goes far beyond just maintaining a bright smile. Gum disease, for example, is linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke. By maintaining regular hygiene appointments, you’re taking care of your teeth and also reducing your risk for these serious health conditions.
As we age, our teeth and gums become more susceptible to damage. Natural wear and tear, along with lifestyle factors, can take a toll on your oral health. Routine dental hygiene visits help to:
- Prevent gum disease.
- Remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach.
- Detect early signs of decay or other oral health issues.
- Keep restorations such as crowns and implants in good condition.
How often should I see a dental hygienist?
For most adults, we would recommend seeing our dental hygienist every six months.
However, some individuals may need to visit more or less frequently. If you have gum disease, we may recommend appointments every three months. This ensures that any buildup of plaque or tartar is removed before it can cause further damage.
What is gum disease?
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, often caused by poor oral hygiene. It occurs when plaque builds up around the gum line, leading to inflammation. The condition is often reversible with good oral care and regular hygiene appointments. If left untreated, however, gingivitis can progress to more severe gum disease, known as periodontitis, which can cause permanent damage to your gums and supporting bone structure.
Some common signs of gingivitis include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath.
Addressing these symptoms early on by visiting your dental hygienist can prevent more serious issues from developing.
Don’t wait for a problem to arise
At Staina House Dental Practice, we are committed to helping you maintain excellent oral health, especially as you age. Our experienced dental hygienist is here to provide the gentle and thorough treatment you deserve. Don’t wait for a problem to arise – book an appointment at our Garstang practice today.
By making dental hygiene visits part of your routine, you’re investing in your long-term health. Call our friendly team on 01995 605707 now.
