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Hygienist Treatments

What is a Hygienist?

A hygienist works alongside dentists to help patients maintain the health of their gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures. Their role involves treating periodontal disease and educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques to prevent dental issues.

Initially, a dentist will refer you to the hygienist for an assessment. Based on the severity of your gum disease, your hygienist will determine what treatments are required and how often visits are needed.


What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, has two main types:

  1. Gingivitis
    Gingivitis is a mild, reversible condition where the gums become inflamed, red, swollen, and sometimes painful. The primary cause of gingivitis is plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Good oral hygiene can prevent gingivitis.

  2. Periodontitis
    If gingivitis goes untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. The inflammation damages the bone supporting the teeth, potentially leading to infection, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss.

How Do I Treat Gum Disease?

  1. Treating Gingivitis
    Gingivitis is fully reversible with proper treatment. The key to prevention is good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and interdental cleaning. Treatment for active gingivitis typically involves a professional cleaning with your hygienist to remove plaque and tartar.

  2. Treating Periodontitis
    The damage caused by periodontitis is irreversible. However, the goal of treatment is to halt its progression. This involves educating patients on effective cleaning techniques for the receding gums and regular deep cleans with the hygienist to remove tartar beneath the gums. Periodontal progression is monitored with measurements of the gums and roots during each visit.

Our hygienists provide professional cleaning, treat gum disease, and educate patients on how to maintain healthy gums and teeth. They also work alongside your dentist to monitor and treat any periodontal disease.

The frequency of visits depends on the severity of your gum disease. For gingivitis, a visit every six months may be sufficient. For more advanced periodontitis, more frequent visits may be required to monitor progress and prevent further damage.

Gingivitis can be fully reversed with proper treatment and good oral hygiene. Periodontitis, however, cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed and prevented from worsening with proper care and regular hygienist visits.

Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing or using interdental brushes, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gum disease. Regular visits to the hygienist are essential for maintaining gum health.