Blog

Dental hygiene therapy at your Chiswick dentist can add some sparkle to your smile

08-09-2012

Everyone knows the importance of visiting your Chiswick dentist twice a year for check-ups – but fewer people visit a dental hygienist for the range of services they offer.

What services do they provide?

Usually a dental hygienist works for a dentist and can be licensed to administer local anaesthetic. Their primary job is to maintain healthy oral health for patients and prevent any future dental health risks. Many national oral health boards are now urging people to visit a dental hygienist as often as they visit their dentist, to receive a professional and thorough clean which can’t be achieved by simply brushing and flossing at home.

Scale and polish

Dentist cleaning is largely done through a scale and polish of teeth. It is mainly performed to help prevent, detect and treat conditions such as periodontal disease, by applying prophylactic and antimicrobial materials. The cleaning is exceptionally thorough, removing plaque, tartar and stains brought on by coffee, tea, tobacco and other staining foods and substances. Your dental hygienist may also need to delve beneath the gum line on occasion, in order to find and purge the mouth of uncleanliness. They can also help with restorative and cosmetic dentistry, such as placing dental crowns.

What else do they do?

As well as having a practical role, a dental hygienist or dental therapist often acts as a motivator, encouraging patients to reach high qualities of oral health in their own home and maintain it.