Why are visits to the dental hygienist so important?
Dental hygienists are specially trained to work with the dentist and they play an important part in dental healthcare. Hygienists are mainly concerned with gum health and prevention of dental disease. Part of their role is to train patients and educate them on how to prevent dental disease with the correct home care and dietary advice for a lifelong healthy mouth. Poor oral health has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and pre-term births.
How often should I visit the hygienist?
Most patients are recommended to see the hygienist every 6 months, however, some patients require more care whilst undergoing implant treatment. Some patients may have a history of advanced gum disease and thus may need to be seen more frequently i.e. every 3 months.
To book our dental hygiene services contact us on 045 888218.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Diseases)
Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are bacterial infections that can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease has shown to increase the likelihood of stroke, heart disease, pre-term low birth weight babies and respiratory disease. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth.
It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed. In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort.
Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care. Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response which causes the tissues and bone that support the teeth to be broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.
To book our dental hygiene services contact us on 045 888218.
