The value of good oral hygiene cannot be overstated. It is not simply a matter or fresh breath and unstained teeth, it goes much deeper than that, as it is linked to your general health. Good oral hygiene can be the difference between whether or not you experience dental decay and/or gum disease.
For many people, it is believed that following a good oral hygiene routine at home is enough. And while it is imperative that you do so, a professional teeth cleaning by an oral hygienist is still important for all.
The dental team
Your oral hygienist and your dentist work as a team to ensure your overall oral health. Without each member of the team playing a part, your oral health may not be at its best. Oral hygienists play an important part in dental health care and are mainly concerned with preventive dental health from a dietary point of view and helping to treat gum disease. In fact, visiting your oral hygienist regularly can save you a great deal of money at the dentist by helping you keep your teeth healthy and prevent gum disease.
Gum disease is frequently caused by the build-up of tartar on your teeth. Tartar is incredibly difficult to remove at home with your run of the mill toothbrush and toothpaste, but your oral hygienist has all the right tools, skills and equipment to remove the tartar before it begins to affect your teeth and gums. Having tartar present is more likely to lead to decay at gum level. Having the tartar removed, and your teeth polished will not only save you the time, effort (and money!) it will cost for extensive treatment for gum disease and unnecessary decay, but if will also help you stay comfortable – since as you may or may not be aware, tooth decay or loose teeth can be a real pain, (literally!)
Even if you do not have any visible tartar build-up or are under the impression that your teeth and gums are in good shape, a trip to the hygienist is still beneficial as they can detect issues long before you feel any symptoms!
What can an oral hygienist do for you?
Visiting the oral hygienist is not a matter of “just a clean” there are many things that she can do for you. Namely:
Clean your teeth by removing calculus (tartar), plaque and stains.
Monitor the health of the teeth and gums (gum disease).
Give you personalised instructions on how to care and manage your teeth and gums at home as well as start a treatment plan if necessary, for optimal oral health.
Apply fluoride to strengthen the enamel and prevent cavities.
Place fissure sealants in groves of teeth for the prevention of cavities.
Tooth whitening for a brighter smile.
Is it perhaps time for you to make an appointment to see our oral hygienist?
