When many people hear the term “dental hygienist,” they assume that this profession primarily revolves around teeth cleaning. Although cleaning teeth and removing plaque is a key part of a dental hygienist’s job, this isn’t all they do. For instance, did you know that your dental hygienists will also check on the health of your teeth and gums as they carefully polish each tooth? Once the dental hygienist has finished cleaning your teeth, they’ll leave notes for the dentist and alert them of any potential issues, such as gingivitis.
Gingivitis refers to mild bacteria buildup beneath the gums. If it’s left untreated for too long, gingivitis may become more severe and lead to periodontal disease. During a routine cleaning, your dental hygienist can examine your mouth, the buildup of bacteria, and spot any possible infections. They will check for pockets around the teeth and areas within the gums that can trap bacteria and release acids that attack your enamel. Over time, this can result in decay of the tooth and possible bone deterioration under the gumline.
Thankfully, a good dental hygienist will be able to clean out the infection and bacteria buildup, and then provide you with an ongoing treatment plan to help you maintain better oral health. Here at Dental Oasis of Clayton, each dental hygienist on our team will be more than happy to provide a thorough cleaning and give you the tools you need to improve your dental hygiene.
If you haven’t had your teeth professionally cleaned in a while or haven’t had a routine dental exam this year, we encourage you to give us a call. Our compassionate team members are here to provide the high-quality dental care you need while minimizing any anxiety or fear you may feel about the dentist. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit.