Hygienist

When you are in the surgery and comfortably seated in the dental chair, the dental hygienist will ask you some questions regarding your daily oral care routine.

The chair will recline and the dental hygienist will carry out a full assessment of your gums, which is recorded by the dental nurse. The dental hygienist will discuss their findings with you and explain what improvements they recommend and how you can maintain good oral health.

The dental hygienist will clean your teeth with a range of tools. Initially, they may use an ultrasonic scaler which uses vibration and water to remove plaque and calculus. The water is aspirated (sucked) from the mouth using a special machine. Following this, a fine-hand scale may be required using a hand scaler which does not use water. The dental hygienist will finish the treatment with a polish using a dental hand piece (similar to an electric toothbrush) and dental polishing paste.

After your clean, you will be given bespoke oral hygiene instructions to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

No, you do not need a referral for a dental hygienist appointment.

An experienced dental hygienist.

No preparation is required. You may like to bring in the oral care products you use at home to show the dental hygienist, however this is not essential.

Your dental hygienist may ask to see you again in a few weeks/months’ time so that they can assess how you are getting on with your new cleaning routine.

Yes.

Yes, a friend or family member may attend the appointment with you.