What to expect at your hygiene appointment.
Your hygienist will go over your medical history. This is to ascertain if there are any changes in your health. You will. be asked if you're taking any new medications and what they are for. Any concerns you have will be discussed. Your hygienist will check your head, neck and jaw for any abnormalities. Your hygienist will also examine your gums and teeth for any problems such as red or swollen gums, chipped or broken teeth etc. This information is written in your chart and passed on to your dentist during your recall examination.
Your hygienist may also take X-rays to determine if there are any issues not seen during a visible examination.
Your hygienist will then begin the process of removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. Removing plaque and tartar from your teeth is essential to preventing gum disease. Your hygienist will use special dental tools that reach specific surfaces of the teeth.
Once all the bacteria, plaque and tartar are removed your hygienist will then polish your teeth. This is done with special toothpaste. This toothpaste is gritty in texture and gently removes any surface stains from your teeth.
Your hygienist will then floss your teeth. This will allow your hygienist to show you proper flossing techniques.
Once your hygiene appointment is complete, your dentist will come into the room and do an exam to further check on any issues found during your hygiene appointment. Your dentist will discuss any findings with you and recommend any treatment necessary.
Most dental exams and cleanings take between 45 - 60 minutes. Not long at all considering the benefits!
Your hygienist will then set up your next hygiene appointment.
After your exam and cleanings are completed, your last stop is at the front desk...
This is where financials will be taken care of and any further dental appointments needed will be scheduled at this time.
That’s it you’re done!
You have now taken the most important steps to ensure that your oral health is at its best.
Practicing proper oral hygiene at home, a healthy diet and regularly scheduled dental exams and cleanings are your best defence against developing gum disease in the future.
See you soon!