More than a polish
Many people think of a hygiene appointment as a nice extra: a clean and polish that leaves your teeth feeling smooth. That's part of it. But the real value of a hygiene visit is what it does for your gums, and through them, for your health more widely.
Why gums matter
Gum disease is very common, and in its early stages it's usually painless. Signs can be as small as gums that bleed when you brush. Left alone, it can slowly damage the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place.
There's also growing awareness of the link between oral health and general health. Keeping your gums healthy is one of the simplest things you can do to look after your wellbeing as a whole.
Brushing and flossing at home are essential, but they can't remove hardened deposits (tartar) once they've formed. That's where your hygienist comes in.
What happens at a hygiene visit
A typical appointment includes:
- A gum health check
- An ultrasonic clean to remove plaque and tartar, above and just below the gum line
- Polishing to remove surface stains and leave your teeth smooth
- Advice on brushing, cleaning between your teeth and anything else that will help at home
We'll always go at a pace that's comfortable for you.
Which appointment is right for you?
We offer three hygiene appointments, so you get the time you need:
- Fresh (£82) keeps healthy gums healthy. It's ideal if you see a hygienist every three to four months.
- Clean & Fresh (£130) adds Airflow, an air polish that uses air and bicarbonate powder to lift stubborn stains from tea, coffee, red wine and curry. It suits you if it's been more than six months since your last visit.
- New Patient Double Fresh (£164) is our most extensive clean. It's the right choice for new patients, or if it's been 12 months or more since you last saw a hygienist.
If you're not sure which to book, our team will help you choose.
How often should you go?
It depends on your gums. Many people do well with a visit every six months; others, especially those prone to gum problems, benefit from more frequent care. Our Perio Plan includes four hygiene therapy treatments a year for exactly this reason.
Look after your smile between visits
Brush twice a day for two minutes, clean between your teeth daily, and cut down on sugary snacks and drinks between meals. Small habits, done consistently, make the biggest difference.
Find out more about our hygiene appointments or book your next visit.
Written and reviewed by Dr Colin Houston, BDentSc (Dublin 1992), GDC 68287. Last updated .
