Dental Hygiene

What is the role of a Hygienist?

The Hygienist plays an essential part in the multi-disciplinary team at the Moor Park Specialist Dental Centre. Our role is to educate, motivate and demonstrate the most effective cleaning techniques to help stabilise and prevent the advancement of periodontal (gum) disease. We also educate our young patients in dental health so there is less need for dental treatment in the next generation, promoting a conservative approach by prevention.

What is the importance of regular hygiene treatments?

It is very important to have regular hygiene treatments not only to help maintain healthy teeth and gums but it is also beneficial to attend hygiene visits in support of any dental treatment that the patient may be undergoing at the Moor Park Specialist Dental Centre.

All restorative work both simple and complex including crowns, bridges and veneers need to be maintained and the Hygienist will work with the patient to teach the most effective way to ensure the longevity of the patient’s investment. It is also beneficial to have hygiene advice pre and post implant placement, so that the patient is clear on the importance of a good daily cleaning regime to prevent bone loss around the implant to help in its long term preservation. Also, supporting Orthodontic treatment will help to prevent problems during the course of treatment as poor oral health can lead to gums swelling and growing over braces (brackets) causing the removal of the brace.

The Hygienist is also trained to recognise abnormal changes in the mouth and when overseen by an Oral surgeon can help to spot potential problems, such as oral cancer, which could help save lives. Also, research has shown that inflamed gums (bleeding gums) allow detrimental bacteria to enter the bloodstream from the mouth and this may have links to heart problems. Good plaque removal is essential to help reduce or stop bleeding gums and therefore minimising this risk.