Dental Hygienist

If you’ve never visited a dental hygienist before, you might be wondering what they do and why regular teeth cleaning appointments are important. A dental hygienist plays a key role in maintaining your oral health, preventing issues like gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. This guide will walk you through what to expect during a teeth cleaning, the benefits of seeing a hygienist, and how it can help keep your smile healthy and bright.

Why Is Professional Teeth Cleaning Important?

Even with good brushing and flossing habits, plaque and tartar can build up over time, leading to oral health problems. Regular visits to a dental hygienist help:

• Prevent Gum Disease – Plaque buildup can cause inflammation, bleeding gums, and eventually lead to tooth loss if untreated.
• Reduce Cavities – Removing plaque helps prevent decay and the need for fillings.
• Remove Stains – A hygienist can polish your teeth, removing surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and smoking.
• Improve Bad Breath – A deep clean removes bacteria that cause persistent bad breath.
• Protect Overall Health – Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues—keeping your gums healthy benefits your entire body.

Does a Hygienist Appointment Hurt?

For most people, teeth cleaning is painless. If you have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, you might feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually mild. Let your hygienist know if you have any concerns—they can adjust their approach to make you more comfortable.

Dental Hygienist Links

British Society of Dental Hygiene & Therapy

The British Association of Dental Therapists