At Greygables Dental, prevention is at the heart of the treatment we provide our patients. This is why advise regular hygiene appointments for all our patients and believe firmly in their benefit.
Seeing one of our skilled team of hygiene therapists has many advantages:
- Dental hygienists perform meticulous cleanings to remove plaque, tartar, and stains that regular brushing and flossing may not effectively address.
- By removing plaque and tartar, dental hygienists help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
- Dental hygienists provide valuable education on proper brushing and flossing techniques, helping patients improve their oral hygiene practices and minimise the risk of future disease.
- Our team will offer personalised recommendations for oral care products based on individual needs, ensuring optimal oral health.
- Dental hygienist appointments provide an opportunity to address any concerns or questions patients may have about their treatments or mouth in general, fostering a proactive approach to dental health.
Our team will usually suggest attending hygiene appointments on a 3 monthly or 6 monthly basis depending on their specific health needs. For our dental plan patients, these appointments are included within their plan benefits.
Air flow polishing and stain removal
Another option for patient’s looking for that extra clean feeling is Air flow polishing. This treatment offers numerous benefits during a dental hygiene appointment. This advanced cleaning technique utilises a combination of water, compressed air, and fine powder particles to remove stubborn stains, plaque, and biofilm from the teeth and gumline. The benefits of air flow polishing include:
- Effective stain removal – Air flow polishing effectively removes surface stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, and other staining substances, resulting in a brighter and more aesthetic smile.
- Gentle on teeth and gums – This technique is gentle on tooth enamel and gums, minimizing the risk of damage or irritation during the cleaning process.
- Enhanced oral hygiene – By removing stubborn plaque and biofilm, air flow polishing helps improve overall oral hygiene, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
In addition, air flow polishing can be very effective at cleaning around older restorations, braces and dental implants. Air flow can be carried out as part of our routine hygiene appointments at patient request. Greygables Dental Plan patients will receive a discount on air flow polishing.
Why oral health matters
We all know that a healthy smile works wonders for our confidence. But with mounting evidence pointing to a link between oral health and general health, maintaining your teeth and gums could be the key to long-term quality of life. Poor oral hygiene is believed to be linked with a host of chronic health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers – so it really does pay to follow a simple yet robust cleaning routine at home, and to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
FAQs
What should I know about plaque and tartar?
Plaque and tartar are the key contributors to gum disease and tooth decay. The root cause of gum disease and tooth decay is bad oral hygiene – when you let your regular brushing and flossing slide, a film of bacteria – plaque – builds up around the gum line. Plaque eventually hardens to become tartar and together they attack the tooth enamel, making gums and teeth vulnerable to disease and decay.
Can I do anything to prevent oral hygiene problems occurring?
Yes! Follow our top tips for enjoying great oral hygiene at home:
- Brush for two minutes, twice a day – it might feel like a lot, but it’s the proven time you need to remove plaque effectively.
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily to remove food and plaque caught between your teeth. Don’t let it fester!
- Eat a balanced diet – it’s not just good for your weight, but your teeth and gums too. Incorporate lots of leafy green veg, packed with tooth-strengthening vitamins and a natural teeth cleaner in the form of fibre.
- Watch what you drink – fizzy drinks provide a double hit of sugar and acid, which attacks your enamel, making teeth look yellow and eventually wear, which makes them vulnerable to cavities. Water is always best!
How can I cure my bad breath?
Bad breath is one of the most common reasons people visit the dentist, and it can usually be cured via your hygienist, who will put in place a tailored plan to help get rid of it for good. The hygienist will refer you to your dentist if the cause of your bad breath requires more in-depth treatment.
How often should I see my hygienist?
If you have good oral health, we generally recommend seeing the hygienist twice a year. If you’ve had dental implants or tooth restorations, you may be required to visit more frequently to ensure plaque is being kept under control effectively around your prosthetic restorations.
