At Ten Dental, we believe in the power of preventive care when maintaining a healthy and radiant smile. While regular dental check-ups with your dentist are essential, dental hygiene appointments play a crucial role in preserving your oral health.
In this blog, we’ll delve into why these appointments are so important, how dental hygienists perform cleanings that surpass at-home efforts, and the various treatments they provide to keep your smile in tip-top shape.
The importance of regular dental hygiene appointments
Maintaining good oral hygiene is not just about brushing and flossing at home. Even with the most diligent daily routine, there are areas in your mouth that are difficult to reach and clean thoroughly. This is where dental hygiene appointments come into play. Here’s why they are indispensable:
Prevention over cure
Regular dental hygiene appointments are the frontline defence against common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. They allow hygienists to identify early signs of problems and take preventive measures before they escalate into more significant issues.
Personalised care
Dental hygienists tailor their care to your specific needs. They assess your oral health, discuss your concerns, and create a personalised plan to address any issues or goals you may have for your smile.
Valuable oral health education
While many associate dental hygiene appointments with teeth cleaning, the scope of a hygienist’s work goes far beyond that. They provide education on proper oral care techniques, assess your risk factors, and offer guidance to improve your oral hygiene routine at home.
Save your time and money
By identifying and addressing dental issues early on, dental hygiene appointments can save you from the discomfort of more extensive treatments and the financial burden they may entail.
What happens during a dental hygiene appointment?
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect during a dental hygiene appointment at Ten Dental. We offer a range of treatments to keep your teeth and gums in the best condition possible while educating you about your oral health along the way:
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Scale and polish
One of the primary functions of a dental hygienist is to perform a thorough scale and polish of your teeth. This process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, which cannot be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing alone. The hygienist uses specialised tools to scrape away these deposits, leaving your teeth clean and smooth.
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Fissure sealants
For extra protection against cavities, dental hygienists may apply fissure sealants to your molars and premolars. These are thin, protective coatings that seal the deep grooves and pits in these teeth, making them less susceptible to decay.
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Fluoride applications
Fluoride is a mineral known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and combat tooth decay. Hygienists may apply fluoride treatments to further fortify your teeth, particularly if you are at a higher risk of cavities.
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Air abrasion
Air abrasion is a gentle and precise technique used to remove minor surface stains and spots on your teeth. It’s less invasive than traditional methods, using a gentle stream of powder and water, and can improve the appearance of your smile.
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Oral health assessment
During your appointment, the hygienist will conduct a thorough oral health assessment. They’ll check your gums for signs of inflammation or disease, examine your teeth for cavities, and evaluate your overall oral health.
The Ten Dental difference
What sets Ten Dental apart is our commitment to providing you with comprehensive care in a welcoming and comfortable environment. Our dental hygienists are highly trained professionals who collaborate with our dentists to ensure that all aspects of your oral health are addressed.
We pride ourselves on offering a holistic approach to dental care, recognising that your oral health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Our team is dedicated to educating you about the importance of dental hygiene and helping you establish and maintain excellent oral care habits at home.
Book your next dental hygiene appointment today
Our experienced dental hygienists in Clapham and Balham are here to provide you with the highest standard of care, offering treatments such as fissure sealants, fluoride applications, scale and polish, and more to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Don’t underestimate the power of preventive care. Schedule your next dental hygiene appointment today and protect your teeth and gums for years to come—your smile deserves it!