Looking after your gums is one of the cornerstones of preventative oral care. 50-90% of the population will suffer from some degree of gum disease in their lifetime. Sadly gum disease is one of the biggest causes of tooth loss in the UK. There is also evidence of links between gum health and other general diseases such diabetes, heart disease and dementia.

Our hygienists can help you achieve the best gum health possible for you. Here’s what you can expect at your hygienist visit:

Plaque is the soft sticky substance that builds up on the surface of the teeth and gums. It is full of bacteria and if left in place causes gum bleeding, swelling and gum recession. Removing the plaque is an essential part of keeping your mouth healthy.

Cleaning your own teeth is a skill that takes time and practice to master. It’s one of those life skills which people are expected to do from childhood, but often without any guidance. Our hygienists can advise on the best cleaning aids for your needs and demonstrate how to use them. Mouths come in all shapes and sizes so we personalise the advice to the individual!

Early intervention is key – catching issues like gingivitis in their initial stages means they’re often completely reversible with proper care. This preventive approach not only saves you from discomfort but also helps avoid more complex and costly treatments later on in life.

If plaque is left on the teeth it can slowly harden to form tartar (or scale as it is sometimes known or calculus as dentists call it) Once the tartar has stuck to the teeth, it can’t be removed with a toothbrush alone. Bacteria then stick to the tartar and hide underneath it, steadily multiplying. Even with a good toothbrushing technique, the bacteria can’t be removed and this speeds up the gum disease process.

Your hygienist can break this cycle by removing the tartar enabling you to clean around the gum properly again. This can be done with a small hand instrument or with a vibrating tip and waterjet.

Another immediate benefit you’ll notice after a hygienist appointment is fresher breath. We eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath, targeting areas your regular brushing might miss. Additionally, professional cleaning removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and other dietary factors, helping restore your teeth’s natural brightness and giving you confidence in your smile.