A dental hygienist in South East London can aid the health of your smile
24 / 04 / 2012
A dental hygienist is adept in the prevention and treatment of oral health problems. Most oral health diseases are a result of a build-up of bacteria in the mouth and oral hygiene treatments can help to prevent plaque and tartar development and subsequently keep oral diseases at bay. Dentists are most often associated with treating developing and existing problems, while hygienists are focused on the prevention of diseases and infections.
Why would I need to see a hygienist?
There are many reasons why you may wish to see a dental hygienist. Hygienists offer intensive cleaning treatments, which are much more effective than brushing and many people enjoy the feeling of a deep clean, as it makes the mouth feel fresh and the teeth look and feel smooth and glossy. You may be advised to see a hygienist if you have plaque or tartar, you are prone to decay or you suffer from bad breath. Hygienists can also play an important role in treating gum disease.
Hygienists often provide preventive treatments for children, who may be advised to have fluoride varnish treatments or sealants to reduce the risk of decay.
What services does a hygienist offer?
Hygienists offer a range of services, including:
• Bad breath clinics
• Fluoride varnish treatment.
• Sealants
• Scale and polish
• Oral hygiene advice (including oral hygiene instruction and advice about oral hygiene products).
• Gum disease prevention and treatment.
• Advice about healthy eating, giving up smoking and other lifestyle factors associated with oral health.
• Tooth polishing to prevent staining.
Finding a hygienist
Hygienists predominantly work in dental practices. Ask your dentist about the dental hygiene services available at a South East London dental practice.
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