As a dentist with almost three decades of experience in the UK, I’ve witnessed countless patients transform their oral health through regular visits to the dental hygienist.
These skilled professionals play a crucial role in maintaining your teeth and gums, complementing the care provided by your dentist.
With the cost of living on the rise, you might be wondering: Is it really worth the time and expense to see a hygienist regularly?
The short answer is a resounding yes, and I’m here to explain why.
In this article, we’ll explore seven compelling reasons why investing in regular hygienist visits can pay dividends for your oral health, overall wellbeing, and even your wallet in the long run.
1. Prevention of Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, affecting over 45% of UK adults over the age of 30.
During your appointment, the hygienist will perform a thorough clean of your teeth, removing plaque and tartar build-up that your regular brushing and flossing might miss. This deep cleaning, known as scaling and polishing, is crucial in preventing the progression of gum disease.
The hygienist uses specialised tools to clean below the gum line, reaching areas that are impossible to clean at home. This process removes harmful bacteria that can lead to inflammation and, eventually, tooth loss.
Hygienists are trained to spot early signs of gum issues, such as bleeding or receding gums, allowing for prompt intervention.
In my experience, patients who see a hygienist regularly are far less likely to develop severe gum disease, saving them from painful and costly treatments down the line.
2. Professional Cleaning for a Brighter Smile
Professional cleaning can remove surface stains caused by foods, drinks, and habits like smoking, resulting in noticeably brighter teeth. The hygienist uses a combination of ultrasonic cleaning and hand scaling to remove tartar, followed by polishing to leave your teeth gleaming.
Also, the hygienist uses air polishing to tackle stubborn stains that regular brushing can’t, such as those caused by tea, coffee, or red wine.
Many of my patients report feeling a renewed confidence in their smile after a hygienist appointment. This professional clean can make a significant difference to the appearance of your smile, boosting your self-esteem.
In fact, many patients find that regular hygienist visits reduce their need for cosmetic treatments, saving them money in the long run.
3. Personalised Oral Care Advice
Hygienists provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
They can demonstrate effective brushing and flossing techniques, recommend appropriate oral care products, and offer advice on diet and habits that affect your oral health. For example, they might show you how to use interdental brushes to clean between your teeth more effectively, or suggest a specific type of toothbrush that suits your gum sensitivity.
They can also provide guidance on caring for dental work like implants, crowns or bridges, ensuring these investments last as long as possible.
Patients who receive and follow this personalised advice often see significant improvements in their oral health over time. This tailored guidance can help optimise your daily oral care routine, potentially reducing the need for dental treatments in the future.
4. Fresher Breath and Improved Confidence
Bad breath, or halitosis, affects approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK on a regular basis.
Regular hygienist visits can effectively combat this issue by removing built-up plaque and tartar, which harbour odour-causing bacteria.
Hygienists can identify underlying causes of persistent bad breath, such as gum disease or dry mouth, and provide targeted solutions. They might recommend changes to your oral care routine, suggest specific mouthwashes, or refer you to your dentist if they suspect a medical cause.
I’ve seen patients whose lives have been transformed by addressing their bad breath issues through regular hygienist care.
The boost in confidence that comes from knowing your breath is fresh can have a positive impact on your personal and professional relationships.
5. Long-term Cost Savings
Regular hygienist visits are an investment that can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. Preventing dental problems and catching issues early can help you avoid more expensive treatments later on.
For perspective, treating severe gum disease can cost upwards of £1,000, while a single dental implant to replace a lost tooth can cost between £2,500 and £3,500.
In contrast, a hygienist appointment typically costs between £84 and £104, depending on the specific treatments needed.
Over my career, I’ve seen countless cases where patients who invested in regular hygiene appointments saved thousands of pounds by avoiding major dental work.
Good oral health can also save you money on overall healthcare costs, given the links between poor oral health and conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
6. Overall Health Benefits
The benefits of seeing a dental hygienist extend beyond your mouth, with strong links between oral health and overall health.
Poor oral health has been associated with various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s Disease and respiratory infections.
For example, the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream and potentially contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, increasing your risk of heart disease.
Similarly, gum disease can make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels.
Hygienists can also spot signs of systemic health issues during their examinations, such as symptoms of nutritional deficiencies, eating disorders, or even certain cancers that manifest in the mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Happens During a Dental Hygienist Appointment?
A typical hygienist appointment includes a review of your medical history, a thorough examination of your mouth, professional cleaning and personalised oral care advice. The entire appointment typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your individual needs.
How Often Should You See a Dental Hygienist?
For most people with good oral health, visiting a hygienist every six months is sufficient. However, some individuals may need more frequent visits, such as those with a history of gum disease, heavy tartar build-up, or certain medical conditions like diabetes. Smokers and pregnant women may also benefit from more frequent hygienist appointments. Your hygienist will assess your needs and recommend the best schedule for you.
Is It Too Late to Start Seeing a Dental Hygienist?
It’s never too late to start taking better care of your oral health! Whether you’re 8 or 80, you can benefit from seeing a dental hygienist. Even if you’ve neglected your oral health for years, a hygienist can help improve your oral health and prevent further issues. Your hygienist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses any existing issues and helps prevent future problems.
Do Dental Hygienist Appointments Hurt?
Most patients find hygienist appointments comfortable and pain-free. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, inform your hygienist before the treatment begins. They can use gentler techniques or provide numbing options to ensure your comfort. Modern hygienist tools, like ultrasonic scalers and air polishers, are designed to be more comfortable than traditional hand tools. Any minor discomfort during the appointment is far outweighed by the long-term benefits to your oral health.
Investing in Your Oral Health
After almost 30 years in dentistry, I can confidently say that seeing a dental hygienist regularly is indeed worth it. The benefits far outweigh the cost and time investment.
From preventing gum disease and detecting issues early to providing you with a brighter smile and fresher breath, hygienists play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health.
The potential cost savings from avoiding major dental work in the future make regular hygienist visits a sound financial decision. Moreover, the positive impact on your overall health and confidence is immeasurable.
Don’t wait to invest in your smile. Book your hygienist appointment today and take the first step towards optimal oral health. Your future self (and your teeth!) will thank you.
