Dental Hygiene

A dental hygienist can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Here you can learn what a dental hygienist does and why you may benefit from seeing one.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

A dental hygienist is a dental professional that works together with the dentist and specialises in the detection and prevention of gum disease and tooth decay and the treatment of gum disease.

What is the difference between a dental hygienist and a dentist?

Dental hygienists and dentists are both highly trained specialists who work together to maintain a healthy mouth for their patients/clients. The hygienist's focus is on the gums and helping people learn how to take care of their teeth and gums which leads to good oral and general health. Hygienists generally have 2-3 years university education in order to specialise only in this area of dental care. A dentist does not have the same training so employs a hygienist to provide this service to patients/clients.

Why do I need to see a dental hygienist?

When you saw the dentist for your exam he or she discovered that your gums were not as healthy as they should be and you had a build up of plaque (soft deposits) and tartar (hard deposits) on your teeth. As a hygienist is a specialist in removing these deposits, maintaining healthy gums and educating you to maintain a good standard of dental health it is important that you visit a hygienist on a regular basis.

What will the dental hygienist do at my appointment?

At you hygiene appointment, the hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of disease and assess the severity of the disease. She will assess how much plaque (soft deposits) and tartar (hard deposits) on your teeth and under your gums. She will then remove the deposits using special instruments. After she removes the tartar, she will remove any stain and left over plaque that remains by polishing them. When the deposits are completely removed she will educate you on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

If you would like to learm more about our dental hygiene services and how we can help you please contact our clinic today.