We all know prevention is better than cure. This is particularly true when it comes to oral health. This makes the role of a dental hygienist crucial as part of your dental care.

Gum disease is a very common cause for tooth loss. If left untreated, your gums gradually detach from your teeth and the bone holding the teeth is resorbed. When a certain amount of bone has been lost, your teeth becomes loose and may be painful to bite on.

At London Road Dental Practice in Chippenham, our hygienists are highly-trained professionals who act as the first line of defence in the fight against gum disease.

As part of the dental team, the role of the hygienist is to prevent tooth decay, gums disease, bad breath and other oral health problems.

Your dentist will be able to repair your teeth if necessary, but regular visits to a hygienist will help prevent damage to your teeth and gums in the first place. Regular professional cleaning by a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar, keeping your mouth clean and healthy. This not only improves your appearance and ensures a brilliant smile, it also helps keep your teeth and gums in good condition as you age.

Regular cleaning by a hygienist is also vital in maintaining dental work such as crowns, bridges and implants within your mouth. Ensuring they last as long as possible.

Apart from cleaning, hygienists are also educators, playing an important role in teaching patients how to look after their mouths at home using the most appropriate tools and methods. This includes guidance on toothbrushing techniques, dietary advice, smoking cessation advice and other important information that impacts on the health of your teeth and gums.

Our hygienists are qualified to recognise and monitor gum disease, apply fluoride and fissure sealants, take dental x-rays, and carry out teeth whitening.

Our dental hygienists work in partnership with our dentists to keep you smiling!