DENTAL HYGIENIST
    "During my third pregnancy I noticed that my gums had deteriorated and were causing me great pain when brushing. After one visit to Duxton Dentals hygienist the difference was amazing. No more swollen gums, bleeding or pain when cleaning my teeth."
    Amanda Cherry

    Dental Hygienist Christchurch

    Our friendly non-judgemental team of professional hygienists at our Christchurch Dental Clinic guide our patients to become healthier and happier. They do this by raising awareness of the links between the mouth and the body.

    Hygienists encourage and motivate their patients to reach the best oral health they can achieve. They will also keep a watchful eye on any potential health risks.
     
    1. Monitor your oral health
    2. Identify your risk factors
    3. Treat disease and maintain your health

    Dental Hygienist FAQs

    Got a question? We’re here to help.
    • What is a Dental Hygienist

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

    • Difference between a Dentist and Hygienist

      A dental hygienist’s role is to maintain healthy gums and teeth in order to maintain an overall healthy mouth. Hygienists generally have two to three years University education in order to specialise in the area of gum care. A dentist on the other hand, does not receive the same training in gum care.

    • Why see a Hygienist?

      If you are not regularly seeing a dental hygienist, your gums will not be as healthy as they could be and you have a build-up of plaque (soft deposits) and tartar (hard deposits) on your teeth. A hygienist is a specialist in removing these deposits, maintaining healthy gums and educating you to maintain a good standard of dental health, so it is important to visit a hygienist on a regular basis. The frequency is based on your individual needs.

    • Hygienist Appointment

      At your 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 and tartar you have on your teeth and under your gums and then remove the tartar, as well as any stains and left-over plaque that remain by polishing your teeth. When the deposits are completely removed, she will educate you on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

    • Regular Visits

      Gum disease and incorrect tooth brushing techniques can also lead to gum recession. Gum recession can cause painful sensitivity from exposed root surfaces. Regular visits to Duxton Dental’s hygienists will prevent this by helping you maintain healthy gums and encouraging correct brushing and flossing techniques. In addition to maintaining healthy gums, correct brushing and flossing techniques also reduce the occurrence of tooth decay and promotes general well-being. Often patients are aware that there is something wrong in their mouth but are unsure of what to do.

    • Common Cause

      Another common cause of gum problems is pregnancy, as hormonal changes exaggerate any existing gum disease. A Duxton Dental patient wrote this letter about her experience: "During my third pregnancy, I noticed my gums had deteriorated and were causing me great pain when brushing. After one visit to Duxton Dental’s hygienist, the difference was amazing. No more swollen gums, bleeding or pain when cleaning my teeth!

      - AMANDA CHERRY

    What happens at an initial hygienist visit with Duxton Dental?

    At your hygiene appointment, the hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of disease and assess the severity of the disease. This thorough periodontal (gum) assessment will include measurement of any gum recession, bleeding, gum pocketing and tooth mobility present. They will assess how much plaque (soft deposits) and tartar (hard deposits) you have on your teeth and under your gums. The hygienist will discuss your gum condition and how best to look after your teeth and treat any gum disease present.

    Teeth Cleaning

    They will remove tartar deposits using special instruments, as well as any stains and left-over plaque that remain by polishing your teeth. When the deposits are completely removed, they will educate you on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

    Preventative Dental Care

    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 you visit a hygienist on a regular basis. Your hygienist will advise you how frequently you should return for a maintenance visit in order to maintain optimal oral health.
     
    After visiting the hygienist your mouth will feel fantastic, totally clean and fresh!
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