7 Reasons To See Our Dental Hygienist
Why is it important to see a dental hygienist? Good oral hygiene is important, not only for looks but for general health as well. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems such as gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more.
Here are 7 reasons why it is important to see our dental hygienists.
1. To Prevent Gum Disease
90% of the population have had gum disease at some point in their life whether it has been mild, moderate or severe.
Gum disease is an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place it can be painless and many people are unaware of having gum disease, it is one of the main caused of adult tooth loss, If diagnosed early, it can be treated and reversed.
If treatment is not received, a more serious and advanced stages of gum disease may follow.
If you don’t want to wake up one day and find that you have been diagnosed with gum disease, then dental hygiene is important. Ignorance is no excuse. Inevitably, it will be you who pays the price if you do not go to the trouble of maintaining dental hygiene.
Regular visits with our hygienist and check ups with your dentist, flossing daily and brushing twice a day are the main factors in preventing gum disease.
2. To Help Maintain Good Physical Health
Recent studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease, resulting from poor oral hygiene. A dental cleaning regularly helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy and could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.
3. To Keep Your Teeth
Since gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, us at Harwood Dental Care advise regular dental check ups and hygienist visits.
Brushing and flossing are vital to keep as many teeth as you can. Keeping your teeth means better chewing function and ultimately better health.
4. To Detect Dental Problems Early
Your dentist and hygienist will be able to detect any early signs of problems with your teeth and gums. Early detection of cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are easily treated if caught in time. If these problems go untreated, root canals, gum surgery and removal of teeth could become the only treatment options available.
5. To Maintain Good Oral Health
Though we all know the importance of dental hygiene, many of us still fail to take care of our teeth properly. It is seen as a nuisance, one of those things that won’t matter if we miss it once or twice.
At the beginning of the day most people are in a rush to get out the door for work and at the end of a demanding day all you want to do is collapse into bed. This can result in your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash all being left untouched. If this is the case for you, then your teeth could be in a poor state.
Our hygienist will help to ensure that you are maintaining your oral heath by visual examination and comparing your previous visits, If you are falling off track with your oral hygiene then she will put you back on track.
6. To Have a Bright White Smile
Your dental hygienist can remove most tobacco, coffee, tea and red wine stains.
During your cleaning, our hygienist will also polish your teeth to a beautiful shine.
The result? A whiter brighter smile! and a more confident you!
7. To Prevent Bad Breath
Halitosis (bad breath) is an embarrassing condition that can affect anyone at anytime, and is caused by several factors. The most common causes of bad breath are preventable and easily treated. However, certain medical conditions may also cause bad breath.
Bacteria in the mouth cause 90% of bad breath cases.
Major causes of bad breath include different types food, poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, smoking, food impaction, improper or faulty restorations, unclean dentures and excessive bacterial growth on the tongue (post nasal drip).
Our dental hygienist can advise products that can prevent bad breath.
Chronic halitosis may indicate an underlying medical concern that your dentist or medical doctor should address.
Things to Know Before Visiting a Dental Hygienist
Visiting a dental hygienist is an essential part of maintaining your oral health. Preparation can make the experience even more beneficial. Here are a few key things to know before your appointment:
Your Dental Hygienist is Not the Same as Your Dentist
While dentists focus on diagnosing and treating oral health issues, dental hygienists specialize in preventive care and education. They perform professional cleanings, remove plaque and tartar, and provide advice on oral hygiene practices. A visit to the hygienist complements your routine dental checkups and helps prevent issues like cavities and gum disease before they start.
You Don’t Need to Be Nervous
Some people feel anxious before any dental appointment, but a visit to a hygienist is generally a low-stress experience. If you’re nervous, communicate your concerns. Most hygienists are trained to work with patients who feel uneasy. They can adjust their approach to make you more comfortable.
Prepare for Your Appointment
To get the most out of your visit, brush and floss your teeth beforehand. This ensures the hygienist can focus on deeper cleaning rather than removing surface debris. Be ready to discuss your oral health habits. This includes how often you brush and floss and whether you’ve experienced any bleeding gums, sensitivity, or other concerns.
It’s Not Just About Cleaning
Dental hygienists also assess your oral health. They may check for early signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other issues. They might also use tools like X-rays to gather additional information. Many patients don’t realize that hygienists play a critical role in detecting oral health problems early.
Ask Your Dental Hygienist Questions
A visit to the dental hygienist is an excellent opportunity to improve your oral care routine. Don’t hesitate to ask about proper brushing techniques, flossing tips, or recommendations for dental products. Hygienists are there to educate and empower you to take better care of your teeth and gums at home.
By keeping these points in mind, you can approach your appointment with confidence and get the most out of your visit to the dental hygienist. Finally, regular hygiene appointments not only keep your smile bright but also contribute to better overall health by reducing your risk of serious oral and systemic conditions.
If you’d like to book a hygiene appointment at our dentist in Bolton, get in touch with our expert team.
You can also read more about some of the best tips and practices you can do at home for better oral hygiene.
