Dental hygienist in Edinburgh

Bacteria in plaque and tartar deposits cause gum disease to develop. The gum tissue becomes inflamed as the immune system responds to the presence of bacteria. Swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. This stage is reversible and can be treated through visits to the hygienist and a thorough dental cleaning regime at home.

It’s important to get gingivitis treated if you have signs, as if left alone, it can progress to a much more aggressive stage. The later stage of gum disease, periodontitis, is a persistent condition and cannot be cured. It can be maintained and controlled to prevent further problems.

Often, the anticipation of going to the dentist or dental hygienist is much worse than the actual visit. Listening to people with past bad dental experiences heightens anxiety. However, we aim to create a calm and relaxed environment. There can be an element of discomfort, and sometimes tooth sensitivity can be experienced. We will ensure you know what to expect before any treatment. We will also be guided by you, and if you feel any pain, we will stop immediately to give you a break.

The amount of time between appointments for visiting your hygienist is specific to each individual patient. This will be based on the condition of your teeth and gums, the speed at which you build up tartar/calculus, staining, and your susceptibility to periodontitis. For simple tartar/calculus or stain removal, a three-monthly visit is usually enough. If there is any bone loss or unstable periodontal disease present, then more frequent visits may be advised.

The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which can cause gums to separate from the teeth, creating pockets that can get infected. These pockets, over time, will deepen, the gums will continue to recede, and eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

Oral hygienists are specially trained in looking after gum health. Preventing and treating gum disease is the main part of maintaining your periodontal well-being. If left untreated, gum disease can cause receding gums and tooth loss as a result.

A standard hygiene appointment takes around twenty minutes. A large part is taken up with a scale and polish. This thorough clean involves scaling away stubborn tartar from all tooth surfaces, removing bacteria from around the gum line, and treating mild gum disease.

The hygienist will also carry out an assessment of your gums and mouth, looking for any signs of inflammation. They will also provide useful guidance on how to maintain your healthy gums at home with good oral care and interdental cleaning.

At Slateford Dental Care, we can provide airpolishing for a gold standard hygiene service. Airpolishing uses a mixture of air and fine grit to gently polish teeth and break down stains on the surface.