DENTAL HYGIENE

Many people understand the importance of seeing a dentist on a regular basis, but did you know it is just as important to have regular hygiene appointments? Hygienists can identify what are often symptomless problems that may go unnoticed by the patient. Not only does the hygienist remove any build-up and stain on your teeth but they also complete oral cancer screenings and give patients oral health advice to help them maintain good oral health at home.

During your hygiene appointment, your hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar which has built up around your teeth and gums. Tartar is plaque which has hardened on your teeth. It can also form underneath the gums and if not removed, it can irritate the gums. Tartar gives plaque a larger surface area to grow and a stickier surface to adhere to which can lead to more serious conditions such as cavities and gum disease.

Patients who have been treated for gum disease and are stable may need to be seen more frequently, to help keep any pockets around the teeth clean and free from bacteria. This will help prevent gum disease from progressing.

Your dentist and hygienist will liaise to decide how often you should be seen, depending on your oral health, oral hygiene and the rate in which tartar forms. – Please contact the Riverside Dental Team, if you are interested in finding out more.

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