Prevention Better Than Cure

We encourage all our patients to look after their teeth because we know healthy teeth and gums are vital to our wellbeing. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy and disease-free has real benefits for your quality of life. Medical studies have found an association between oral health diseases and several serious health conditions, including heart disease. Oral diseases can be debilitating, unsightly and, ultimately, can cost you your teeth.

A very common oral disease is gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue, caused by plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which affects the tissue supporting the teeth.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory infection that involves progressive loss of bone beneath the teeth. Left untreated, this causes the affected teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

For these reasons we strongly recommend you see our dental hygienists regularly. Everyone needs a good clean, usually every six months, but some of us need to go more often.

Our oral health advice will include the following:

• The right toothbrush for you, plus brushing techniques and tips
• Flossing and interdental brushing techniques and tips
• Types of dental hygiene products and techniques for eg. implants, bridges, dentures and braces.
• Care for teeth after oral surgery
• Tips for fresh breath

What can I expect at my hygienist appointments?

There are three stages of hygiene therapy:

Stage 1:- Education in oral hygiene

Initial cleaning to begin removal of hard deposits of tartar above and below the gum line. Your hygienist will begin to show you the skills and techniques used to achieve a healthy mouth.

Stage 2:-Further removal of all deposits under gum line and around tooth margins

Periodontal aids may be prescribed and used, e.g. floss, tapes or interspace brushes. Your hygienist can also assess plaque control and improve your daily oral hygiene routine if necessary.

Stage 3:-Maintaining oral health

At this stage you should now have achieved good oral health, and if this is maintained, you will retain healthy teeth and gums for life. Your hygienist will still remove any hard and soft plaque deposits and help refine the skills you have acquired.

Contact the practice to book an dental hygiene appointment : 020 8840 5651.