When it comes to looking after your dental health, regular dental visits are essential. While many people are familiar with dentists, the role of dental hygienists is equally important in ensuring great oral hygiene.
Dental hygienists play a crucial role in preventive dental care, focusing on the prevention and treatment of gum diseases and promoting overall oral health. Let’s take a look at how dental hygienists can improve your oral health and contribute to a healthier smile.
Professional teeth cleaning
One of the major responsibilities of dental hygienists is performing professional teeth cleaning. During this procedure, they use specialized tools to get rid of plaque and tartar that builds up on your teeth and along the gumline.
By eliminating these harmful substances, dental hygienists help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Professional teeth cleaning also leaves your teeth feeling clean and refreshed, improving your overall oral health and appearance.
Gum disease prevention and treatment
Gum disease is also known by its official term, periodontal disease. This is a common oral health condition that can lead to issues such as the loss of teeth.
In fact, the oral health concerns of gum disease can be more far-reaching than just losing a tooth. Dental hygienists are pivotal in preventing and treating gum disease.
One of their roles is to assess the health of your gums, measure the depth of periodontal pockets, and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques.
Dental hygienists also perform deep cleaning procedures like root planing and scaling which removes tartar and plaque from areas below the gums. This promotes gum health and prevents the progression of gum disease.
Oral health education
Education is a key aspect of dental hygiene. Dental hygienists provide valuable information and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices.
They educate patients on the correct techniques for brushing and flossing, the importance of regular dental visits, and the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on oral health.
Whether you’re an adult or a child, there is always something you can learn about looking after your teeth and gums. By sharing knowledge, dental hygienists help you make the right decisions and take proactive steps toward a bright, beautiful smile.
Dental examinations
Dental hygienists perform comprehensive dental examinations to assess the overall health of your mouth. They examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, looking for signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other abnormalities. They can also take dental X-rays for an even better view of your oral structures.
These examinations help identify potential issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. The huge benefit here is that you may avoid minor issues turning into costly and painful problems down the track.
Application of preventive measures
As they often say, prevention is better than the cure. This is certainly true when it comes to looking after your dental health. Dental hygienists help you apply these preventive measures. They may apply dental sealants, a protective coating that helps prevent tooth decay, especially in vulnerable areas such as the molars.
Dental hygienists can also provide fluoride treatments to strengthen your tooth enamel, reducing the risk of cavities. Incorporating these preventive measures into your dental care routine can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing dental problems.
Now that you understand the vital role dental hygienists play in improving your oral health, you can make your first appointment.
Regular visits that include professional teeth cleaning and examinations by dental hygienists can save you a lot of money on potential health problems. By using the skilled services of dental hygienists and dentists, you can achieve and maintain a healthy smile for years.
