If you are overdue for a dental hygiene checkup, the team at Preston Circus Dental Practice will be glad to assist you. There is now increasing evidence linking gum disease with heart disease and strokes. It is also the main reason for tooth loss and, as such, we take the treatment of gum disease very seriously. Book an appointment with our dental hygienists in Brighton today by calling our reception.
Our dental hygienists have three main roles:
- Removing calculus (tartar from teeth), this is done by a technique called scaling and polishing.
- Treating gum disease (also known as gingivitis or periodontal disease), this is caused by plaque which is a sticky film of bacteria. If left untreated your gums will start to swell and bleed and will ultimately result in tooth loss. Tooth loss is not through age – it is because of gum disease.
- Teaching patients good oral hygiene techniques – individually tailored to specific needs.
Common dental related issues to discuss with your dental hygienist:
Bad Breath
Halitosis, or bad breath, is one of the most frequent reasons for visiting the dentist. Causes include infrequent brushing and flossing, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking and diet. Your hygienist may suggest using a tongue scraper, chewing sugarless gum, gargling with mouthwash and drinking lots of water.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
Periodontal disease is an infection caused by bacteria found in plaque. As the bacteria spread below the gum line, the gums and bone around the teeth begin to break down and can lead to loose teeth. Quite often, symptoms do not appear until the late stages, which is one reason why regular hygiene visits are encouraged. Possible early signs include: receding gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, bad breath, sores in your mouth or loose or separating teeth.
By examining your X-rays and probing, your hygienist can tell how much bone loss your periodontitis has caused. Once your stage of the periodontal disease has been determined, your hygienist will work with your dentist to personalise a treatment plan, which may include home care, Soft Tissue Management or a referral to a periodontist.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a very common concern. Symptoms often arise after drinking hot or cold drinks or foods and sweets. Sensitivity is easily treated with fluoride. Your hygienist will often suggest using a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common side effect of many prescription and nonprescription drugs, certain diseases and infections and medical treatments. It can also be a result of nerve damage, dehydration and lifestyle (smoking or chewing tobacco).
Symptoms include frequent thirst, dryness in the mouth, sores in the mouth, cracked lips, dry and red tongue, problems speaking or trouble tasting, sore throat and bad breath.
Your hygienist will discuss home care solutions to help combat dry mouth.
To book an appointment with one of our dental hygienists in Brighton, please contact our friendly reception team today.
If you are looking for a dental hygienist in Brighton, Preston Circus Dental Practice offers professional dental hygiene care to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Our friendly team can help with the removal of plaque and tartar, gum health and personalised advice on looking after your teeth at home.
Regular dental hygiene appointments can help keep your mouth clean, identify potential gum problems and support your ongoing oral health. Whether you are due for a routine scale and polish or have concerns about bleeding gums or bad breath, our team can advise you on the most appropriate care for your needs.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Our dental hygienists have three main roles: cleaning the teeth, helping manage gum disease and providing advice on effective oral hygiene.
Teeth Cleaning, Scaling and Polishing
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. If it is not removed effectively, it can harden into tartar (also known as calculus), which cannot be removed through normal brushing alone.
A professional dental hygiene appointment may include scaling to remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing where appropriate. Your hygienist can explain how to maintain the results and reduce the build-up between appointments.
Gum Health and Gum Disease
Gum disease can develop when plaque builds up around the teeth and gums. Early signs may include bleeding when brushing, swollen gums or persistent bad breath. If gum disease progresses, it can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
Your hygienist can assess your gum health and work with your dentist to recommend suitable care. Depending on your needs, this may include professional cleaning, improved home-care techniques, further periodontal treatment or referral to a specialist.
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Personalised Oral Hygiene Advice
Good oral hygiene at home is an important part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Our hygienists can offer advice tailored to your needs, including brushing techniques, cleaning between your teeth and choosing suitable oral care products.
If you find it difficult to keep certain areas clean, your hygienist can demonstrate techniques and recommend appropriate tools, such as interdental brushes.
Dental Concerns to Discuss With Your Hygienist
Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can have several causes, including plaque build-up, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking and diet.
Your hygienist can help identify whether oral hygiene may be contributing to the problem and recommend suitable steps to improve your daily routine. If necessary, they may suggest that you see your dentist for further assessment.
Tooth Sensitivity
Some people experience discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks. Tooth sensitivity can have different causes, so it is worth discussing persistent symptoms with your dental team.
Your hygienist may recommend changes to your oral care routine or a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. If further investigation is needed, your dentist can assess the cause and advise on suitable treatment.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can make your mouth feel uncomfortable and may contribute to difficulties with speaking, eating or tasting. It can be associated with certain medicines, medical conditions, dehydration and lifestyle factors.
Your hygienist can discuss ways to manage dry mouth and help you maintain your oral health. If you have persistent symptoms, speak to your dentist, particularly if you think medication may be contributing.
How Often Should You Visit a Dental Hygienist?
The ideal frequency of dental hygiene appointments varies from person to person. Your gum health, plaque and tartar build-up, medical history and home-care routine can all affect how often you may benefit from professional cleaning.
Some patients may benefit from appointments every six months, while others may need more frequent visits. Your dentist or hygienist can recommend an interval based on your individual needs.
Book a Dental Hygienist Appointment in Brighton
Looking after your teeth and gums involves a combination of good daily habits and professional dental care. At Preston Circus Dental Practice, our team can help you understand your oral health needs and build a routine that works for you.
