Have you recently been told by your dentist that you need to visit the dental practice hygienist or you have never visited one and wondered what their role is and why your dentist can’t do this?

The role of a dental hygienist

The hygienist’s main work is to prevent and treat gum disease including professionally cleaning your teeth. This is usually called ‘scaling and polishing’. Their most important role is showing you the best methods of keeping those teeth looking healthy and plaque free. Plaque is a sticky coating that forms constantly on your teeth. If it is not brushed away properly, this hardens to form tartar which you cannot remove yourself. Hygienist’s also provide you with advice on diet and preventing dental decay.

Dental hygienists are also trained to take dental x-rays. The dentist will use these to help diagnose problems and decide on the possible treatment. All hygienists that take x-rays should have had proper training and will hold a certificate.

If the dentist suggests that you or your child have fissure sealants or fluoride varnishes, they may refer you to the dental hygienist because these are treatments they are trained to carry out.

You may also be surprised to know that tooth whitening is also often carried out by the dental hygienist under the prescription of your dentist.

How you can benefit from a visit to a dental hygienist

You can benefit from your hygienist visit by getting your teeth professionally cleaned as well as advice on how you can look after your teeth and gums at home. By applying the advice given you will be able to maintain a fresh healthy mouth as well as the perfect smile allowing you to maintain your health and wellbeing.

Your Children can also benefit from a trip to the hygienist who can polish their teeth and apply fluoride varnished to help prevent decay.
Children’s teeth can benefit from having the back teeth biting surfaces sealed. This is done by applying a special plastic coating to the biting surface soon after the adult teeth come through.

 

It’s important for patients to visit a dental hygienist in Solihull as they are key members of the Paul Lowe Dentistry team. Their role is to professionally clean teeth and gums and provide individual advice to enable all patients to keep their mouth in great health. They will also work closely with your dentist to give you a tailor-made preventative and maintenance programme.

If you live in Solihull or the surrounding area book an appointment with a hygienist on 0121 711 2424.