A third of adults in the UK have never sat in the hygienist’s chair, demonstrating that we still have a lot to learn about the role of a hygienist and how important they are when it comes to maintaining long-term gum health and avoiding serious forms of gum disease. Neglecting to look after your gum health – synonymous with skipping visits to the hygienist – means that you could face various wider health issues such as diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s.
Hygienist appointments and their preventative role
Much like regular general check-ups ensure the detection of any problems early, regular hygienist appointments fulfil the same purpose but more specifically for your gum health. Hygienists possess specialist knowledge when it comes to your gums and can identify any inflammation and anomalies that you would not necessarily be able to spot at home in front of the mirror. You gum health is a determining factor in your overall health and maintaining this will ensure you are less likely to be exposed to more serious associated health problems.
Scale and polish – the definitive treatment associated with the hygienist
One of the major roles of a hygienist is to perform a scale and polish treatment, which is essentially a deep clean of your teeth. Over time, everybody’s teeth collect small quantities of bacteria and food debris, which if left untreated, can turn into a hard substance known as plaque. Unfortunately, plaque cannot be removed through brushing and flossing alone, and this is where a hygienist comes in. Regular scale and polish treatments will ensure that the build up of plaque on your teeth does not evolve into gum disease and expose you to the need for more serious intervention down the line.
An educational role in your oral and dental health
Many people brush and floss for the recommended time but still experience problems with their oral and dental health. This is often down to technique, which is something a hygienist can demonstrate for you during your appointment. A hygienist understands that everyone’s tooth structure is different and the type of brush needed for one person may be different to another (smaller teeth may need a brush with a smaller head, etc). By visiting the hygienist, you can make sure you’re using the correct tools to keep your smile healthy and clean in the long-term.
If you haven’t yet booked yourself in for a routine hygienist appointment this year, please do not hesitate to contact us here at our Norwich practice and we can fit you in at a time that suits you.
