Hygienist Visit (Gum Disease Care / Periodontal Treatment)

Healthy gums provide the essential foundation for proper tooth alignment and function. Neglecting gum health can have detrimental effects on your overall oral well-being. Timely intervention plays a pivotal role in reversing gum disease, including gingivitis.

Key Information on Gingivitis and Periodontitis:

Gingivitis, an initial stage of gum disease, can often be identified by dental professionals and is generally reversible with appropriate treatment. When left unaddressed, it can progress into Periodontitis, causing irreversible damage. This escalation results from the accumulation of plaque and calculus around the teeth and gums, leading to chronic gum inflammation.

Regular dental check-ups and diligent oral hygiene practices are instrumental in preventing the advancement of gum disease.

Recognising the Symptoms:

Gum disease manifests through various symptoms, which may include:

• Swollen or tender gums
• Gums appearing bright red or purple
• Gums bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Gum recession
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Formation of pockets between teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Alterations in the way teeth align when biting
• Discomfort when chewing
• Changes in the fit of partial dentures

It's important to note that these symptoms may not always be simultaneously present, and they could potentially indicate other oral health issues. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us. We can provide a thorough assessment, offer clarity on your condition, and provide the necessary treatment to address the issue.

The Role of a Dental Hygienist and Oral Health Therapist

Dental hygienists and oral health therapists play a crucial role in the prevention of oral diseases and treatment of gum disease. They collaborate with dentists to achieve your best oral health outcomes.

• They act as a dental coach by educating you on proper home care practices like brushing and flossing. They empower you with personalised advice to promote healthy teeth and gums
• Evaluate gums and teeth-supporting structures
• Assess medical history, x-rays
• Screening for oral lesions and thorough examination of the head and neck to detect any signs of oral cancer or abnormalities
• They perform professional teeth cleanings to remove plaque/tartar build-up above and below the gumline that regular brushing and flossing cannot. If left untreated, it can lead to gum disease – gum inflammation, bone damage and tooth loss
• Advise on diet affecting dental health
• Apply preventatives (e.g. fluorides) to prevent decay, gum disease
• Teeth whitening

‍What to Expect

Hygiene appointments are essential for maintaining good oral health. In these appointments, they assess the overall condition of the teeth and gums, identify potential issues including early signs of cancer, and provide preventive measures.

Our dental hygienists and oral health therapists are highly skilled in Guided Biofilm Therapy using state-of-the-art AIRFLOW®, PERIOFLOW® and PIEZON® technologies. A key feature of this approach is being able to make the plaque/bacteria visible by highlighting problematic areas and guiding effective removal. Ultimately, our treatment prioritises minimal invasiveness while ensuring the utmost comfort, safety, and efficiency.

After Your Visit

Routine appointments facilitate early detection of dental problems, enabling prompt treatment and minimising the risk of severe complications.

The frequency of hygiene appointments can vary depending on individual oral health needs. Some patients may require more frequent visits, such as every 3-4 months, especially if they have a history of gum disease or other dental concerns. This is determined based on the patient's oral health condition, risk factors, and personalised requirements. Maintaining regular appointments ensures optimal oral health.

Missing or not having regular dental appointments can have repercussions on oral health. Without professional cleanings and dental check-ups, plaque and tartar accumulation increases the risk of gum disease and cavities. Undetected oral health issues may progress unnoticed, potentially needing extensive and costly treatment in the future.