Professional Cleans

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Hygienist Examination

When a patient visits our hygiene department a thorough examination of the gums is completed by gently probing pocket depths around each tooth.
Gum health is also assessed by looking at the co lour and presence of any puffiness or bleeding of the gums. X-rays are also used as an aid to check bone levels around the teeth.
Questions about a patient’s brushing and flossing habits and any health related issues will be asked to assist the hygienist in devising a treatment plan for each patient. After a thorough examination the hygienist will discuss the treatment required and can answer any questions patients may have.

The professional clean is a vital part of our oral health maintenance. Dental cleanings involve removing plaque (soft, sticky, bacteria infested film) and tartar (calculus) deposits that have built up on the teeth over time. Your teeth are continually bathed in saliva which contains calcium and other substances which help strengthen and protect the teeth. While this is a good thing, it also means that we tend to get a build-up of calcium deposits on the teeth. This chalky substance will eventually build up over time, a bit like barnacles on a boat. Usually it is tooth coloured and can easily be mistaken as part of the teeth, but it also can vary from brown to black in colour. The dental hygienist will use specialized instruments to gently remove these deposits without harming the teeth.
If the calculus is allowed to accumulate on the teeth it will unfortunately provide the right conditions for bacteria to thrive next to the gums. The purpose of the cleaning and polishing is to leave the surfaces of the teeth clean and smooth so that bacteria are unable to stick to them and you have a better chance at maintaining this environment during your regular routine at home.
Most people find that cleans are painless, in some cases there can be some sensitive so be sure to let your hygienist know if you find things are getting too uncomfortable for your liking. There are various options available to make the treatment more comfortable.

Your hygiene appointment includes:

• professional cleaning
• comprehensive assessment of your gum and jawbone health
• oral cancer screening
• x-rays if necessary
• discussion of any current concerns

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Gingivitis (gum disease) and periodontitis (jawbone disease) are chronic bacterial infections that can affect the gums and jawbone supporting the teeth. These diseases can affect one or many teeth and occur when bacteria in plaque causes the gum to become inflamed. Over time bacterial-plaque can spread underneath the gum, causing the gum tissue and bone to be broken down and destroyed. This causes teeth to become loose and potentially tooth loss can occur.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are referred to as ‘silent diseases’ as they are often painless so individuals do not realise there is a problem until it is too late. It is important to have regular 6 monthly appointments with our hygienist to assess and evaluate the health of your teeth, gums and jawbone. Our hygienist can removal bacterial-plaque that causes gingivitis and periodontitis, and tailor appropriate home care regime to help your prevent and maintain the health of your mouth.


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