Dental Hygiene

Professional dental cleaning is usually performed by Dental Hygienists.

We advise our patients to visit the hygienist regularly as part of a preventive treatment plan.

Regular visits to the hygienist play a vital role in the prevention of tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. The hygienist can discuss your diet, suggest ways to improve and maintain your oral health, and even advise you on ways you can give up smoking, a habit that has proven to be very damaging to teeth and gums.

Your hygiene appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

• Removal of Calculus (tartar)
  Calculus is a hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and becomes firmly attached to the tooth. A technique called scaling and polishing is used to remove the calculus above and below the gum line. Calculus can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist using special instruments.
• Treatment of Gum Disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease)
  This is caused by plaque which is a sticky biofilm of bacteria, food debris and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins that cause the gums to become inflamed. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease.
• Teeth Polishing
  Stain and plaque are removed that is not otherwise removed during daily brushing.
• Teaching oral hygiene techniques: Individually tailored to the patient’s needs.

How to brush