You’ve got a potential problem with your dental health, but you don’t know who to turn to. Who would be better suited for your appointment, a dentist or a dental hygienist? If only there was a handy guide that could shed some light on which dental professional would be able to help you and your specific worry… Stay tuned, because we’re about to tell you!

I have bad breath

Typically, you’d need to meet with a dental hygienist to improve the odour of bad breath. This is because bad breath is typically a result of improper dental hygiene habits like neglecting to brush or floss often enough. Gum disease is a leading cause of bad breath, for example, because the bacteria in plaque that cause it release foul-smelling toxins when they feed on the sugars on your teeth. A professional cleaning with your dental hygienist will help you fight this.

I think I have gum disease

Again, this is a job gladly undertaken by your dental hygienist. Gum disease is incredibly common, and it can very readily affect your teeth, but the problem resides in your gums and therefore the solution with a dental hygienist. Professional cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar from between your teeth and tooth surfaces, the latter of which can only be removed professionally, which will help to treat gum disease.

I have a cavity and need a filling

This is a job for your dentist. Your dentist will look after all teeth-related health issues like cavities, decay, and needing fillings. Cavities are when your teeth have been worn away by decay and lacklustre care, creating craters, holes, and chips in your teeth that wouldn’t otherwise be there. Your dentist will gladly help you with fillings by using either amalgam or dental composite to restore your tooth to its former glory.

I have a toothache

Because this may be an indication of decay, tooth trauma, or the need for a root canal, you should see a dentist for this. A root canal is necessary when the pulp in your teeth, which is full of nerve endings and connects to your tooth root, because inflamed and infected by bacteria. This is often the result of a cavity or decay being left untreated, progressing into something more painful and in need of attention. If you have a toothache that you keep noticing, seek the advice of your dentist.

My child is getting their first tooth

You should make an appointment for your child with a dentist as soon as their first tooth comes through. Introducing your children to the dentist from an early not only helps us to monitor their dental health and they develop, but also encourages them to foster a positive relationship with their dentist and see that dental care is important. These are lessons they are then more likely to carry through to later life by not neglecting their dental care.

We hope we’ve cleared some of the confusion up between whether you need a dentist or a dental hygienist! If you’re looking for a dental hygienist or dentist in Hardwood, Bolton, then why not visit Harwood Dental Care? Book your initial appointment on 01204 304568 today. Alternatively, check out some of our oral hygiene tips.