Dental Hygienist West London

What does a Dental Hygienist do?

A Hygienist is specially trained in the prevention and treatment of gum (periodontal) disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. They work closely alongside your dentist and can scale and polish your teeth. Your hygienist will be able to advise on all aspects of oral health. They can provide you with a home care plan and work with you to identify areas where you have difficulty removing plaque.

How often should I see a dental hygienist?

It’s generally recommended to see a dental hygienist for a professional cleaning every six months as part of your regular dental check-up. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings based on your oral health needs.

What can I expect during a dental hygiene appointment?

During a dental hygiene appointment, the hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth, including scaling to remove plaque and tartar, polishing to remove surface stains, and

How long are the appointments?

Your appointment with the hygienist can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Your hygienist is not only trained to clean and polish your teeth but will also be able to take x-rays and provide other treatments.

Will seeing the hygienist hurt me?

Scaling and polishing are usually pain-free. If you do feel any discomfort the hygienist can use anaesthetic creams or solutions to prevent any sensitivity.

Can a dental hygienist provide treatments beyond cleaning?

Yes, dental hygienists can provide additional preventive treatments such as fluoride application, dental sealants, and oral cancer screenings. They also play a role in identifying signs of gum disease and providing early intervention.

Are dental hygienists qualified to take X-rays or diagnose dental problems?

While dental hygienists are trained to perform X-rays, their primary focus is on preventive care and cleaning. Diagnosing dental problems typically falls within the scope of a dentist’s responsibilities.

Do dental hygienists work independently or under the supervision of a dentist?

Dental hygienists typically work under the supervision of a dentist. However, they may also work in independent practice settings such as community clinics or dental hygiene schools.

Why doesn’t the dentist do this work?

A Hygienist is specially trained to carry out this work and can spend longer with each patient. Cleaning teeth is a far more complex and skilled procedure than many people realise and our hygienists will maximise their time spent with you. One of the most important roles of the hygienist at the practice is to give dietary advice on the prevention of dental decay.

Can a dental hygienist help children?

Our hygienists can help children in a number of ways. Firstly and most importantly, they can advise children on helping them get into healthy dental habits through gentle friendly instruction. As well as scaling and polishing children’s teeth, they are also able to apply fluoride gels and lotions to help fight tooth decay. In addition, they can help determine the causes and solutions for symptoms such as grinding teeth.

What can I expect at my first dental hygiene appointment?

The hygienist will examine the gums and take some measurements. This includes ‘disclosing’ the teeth with a special dye to show up the plaque. This will then be cleaned away using hand instruments, ultrasonic scalers and polishing tools.

Can a dental hygienist provide advice on oral hygiene products and techniques?

Yes, dental hygienists are knowledgeable about various oral hygiene products and techniques. They can recommend specific toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and flossing aids tailored to your individual needs.

Is seeing a dental hygienist covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover preventive dental care services provided by dental hygienists, including cleanings and examinations. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Will a dental hygienist fix tooth pain?
Some toothache can be attributed to gum inflammation which can be resolved by deep cleaning of the area. However, the cause of the pain should first be established by a dentist.

Do I need to see the dentist before I see the dental hygienist?
Yes if there is toothache. But otherwise, patients are encouraged to see the hygienist regularly until a dental check-up is due.

How often do I need to see a dental hygienist?

This varies according to the needs of the individual. Heavy smokers or patients with bleeding gums may need to see a hygienist every 3 months. Most other patients would need to see the hygienist every 6 months depending on how well the gums are maintained in between appointments.

What are the benefits of seeing a dental hygienist regularly?

Regular visits to a dental hygienist can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems by removing plaque and tartar buildup. They can also provide valuable education and support to help you maintain optimal oral health.

How can I find a reputable dental hygienist in Bayswater W2, West London?

You can ask for recommendations from your dentist or search online for dental practices in the Bayswater W2 area with qualified dental hygienists. Choosing a practice that prioritises patient comfort, safety, and high-quality care is essential.