Dental hygiene appointments in Bristol

At Stoke Bishop Dental Centre, we believe that healthy teeth start with healthy gums. That’s why regular dental hygiene appointments are an essential part of your overall oral health routine.

While your dentist focuses on diagnosing and treating oral health issues, your hygienist plays a vital role in preventing them by helping you keep your teeth and gums clean, healthy and looking their best.

Dental hygiene appointments in Bristol

What to expect during a visit to the hygienist

During your hygiene appointment, you’ll receive more than just a cleaning. Our experienced hygienists will:

  • Examine your gum health and screen for signs of gum disease
  • Remove plaque and tartar build-up, especially in hard-to-reach areas
  • Gently remove surface staining for a fresher, brighter smile
  • Offer air-powered tooth polishing – a state-of-the-art alternative to traditional scraping, providing a comfortable, effective clean
  • Provide personalised advice on brushing, flossing and oral hygiene habits tailored to your needs
What to expect during a visit to the hygienist

Why do I need to remove plaque often?

You need to remove plaque often because it plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. Plaque is a sticky, colourless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and gums.

Here are the primary reasons why it’s essential to remove plaque regularly:

Preventing tooth decay

Plaque bacteria feed on sugars from the food you eat and produce acids as a byproduct. These acids can erode your enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay. By removing plaque through regular brushing and flossing, you minimise the risk of tooth decay.

Gum health

Plaque accumulation at the gumline can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is characterised by redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe forms of gum disease, which can result in tooth loss.

Bad breath

Plaque buildup on your teeth and tongue can produce unpleasant odours. By removing plaque through proper oral hygiene, you can combat bad breath and maintain fresh breath.

Preventing tartar formation

When plaque is not removed promptly, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dental professional during a professional cleaning. Regularly removing plaque helps prevent tartar buildup, reducing the need for frequent dental cleanings.

Overall health

Emerging research suggests a link between oral health and overall health. Poor oral hygiene and gum disease have been associated with various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

To effectively remove plaque, it’s essential to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily to clean between teeth, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.

Additionally, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial for addressing any plaque or tartar buildup that may have occurred despite your best efforts.

Do hygiene appointments hurt?

For most patients, hygiene appointments are comfortable and pain-free. However, if you have sensitive teeth or dental anxiety, we’ll take extra care to ensure your comfort.

Options like topical anaesthetic gel can be used to numb sensitive areas, and we’re always happy to adjust our technique based on your needs.

Do hygiene appointments hurt?

The benefits of regular hygienist appointments

  • Learn how to care for your teeth and gums based on your personal needs
  • Keep plaque and tartar under control
  • Enjoy fresher breath and a cleaner mouth
  • Reduce your risk of gum disease, decay and even more complex dental issues
  • Protect your overall health by reducing risks linked to gum inflammation
The benefits of regular hygienist appointments

5 reasons you should see a hygienist regularly

  • Prevent gum disease
  • Stop gums bleeding
  • Keep breath fresh
  • Reduce your risk of conditions related to poor gum health, such as heart disease
  • Teach you how to keep your teeth healthy for life
5 reasons you should see a hygienist regularly

What happens during a hygiene session?

Our hygienists will assess your current level of oral hygiene and carry out a full scale and polish, as well as demonstrating oral care techniques such as flossing and brushing.

How often should I see a hygienist?

This will depend on your risk of gum disease. Risk factors include having a personal susceptibility and having had restorative treatments. We will advise you how often you should have a hygiene appointment, which can range from every three months to once a year.

Do I need to see a dentist first?

No. Since a change in the law (in 2013), patients can now see a dental hygienist without being referred by a dentist.

Take the next step towards a healthier smile

Keep your teeth and gums in top condition with professional hygiene care at Stoke Bishop Dental Centre in Bristol. Book your appointment online today for a thorough, refreshing clean and personalised advice to maintain lasting oral health.

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