How often should I see the hygienist?

For most adults every 6 months is ideal. If you have gum disease, smoke or wear orthodontic appliances, every 3–4 months is often better.

Modern hygiene is very comfortable. If your gums are inflamed there may be some short-lived sensitivity — we can use topical anaesthetic if needed.

What's the difference between a hygiene visit and a check-up?

Your check-up is with the dentist and focuses on diagnosis; the hygienist focuses on professional cleaning, gum health and prevention. They work hand-in-hand.

Will my teeth look whiter afterwards?

Hygiene removes surface staining, so teeth often look noticeably brighter. For deeper whitening we offer professional take-home whitening.

General Dentistry

Dental Hygienist in Surrey Quays

Regular hygiene appointments are the foundation of a healthy mouth — and the single most effective way to prevent gum disease, decay and tooth loss. Our hygienists at Surrey Quays Dental Practice combine a thorough professional clean with practical advice tailored to you.

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Dental hygienist visit at Surrey Quays Dental Practice

01 — Overview

What is Dental Hygienist?

A hygiene appointment removes the plaque, tartar and surface staining that brushing alone cannot reach. Our hygienists also check your gums, assess your brushing technique and recommend products and habits that suit your mouth.

It's also a chance to spot the early signs of gum disease, sensitivity or wear — so we can step in before bigger problems develop.

02 — Benefits

Benefits of Dental Hygienist

What patients tell us they value most about this treatment.

01Removes plaque, tartar and staining for a fresher, brighter smile
02Reduces bleeding, redness and bad breath
03Prevents and manages gum disease
04Personal brushing, flossing and product advice
05Lower long-term dental costs through prevention

03 — Your appointment

What happens during treatment

A calm, step-by-step approach so you always know what to expect.

Step 01

Gum assessment

We measure pocket depths and look for early signs of gum inflammation or disease.

Step 02

Professional clean

Gentle ultrasonic and hand instruments remove tartar and plaque above and below the gum line.

Step 03

Stain removal / polish

Where appropriate we use AirFlow® or polish to lift coffee, tea, wine and tobacco staining.

Step 04

Personal plan

Brushing demo, interdental advice and a recall interval that fits your needs.

04 — Suitability

Who is Dental Hygienist suitable for?

Most adults are suitable, but a friendly assessment is the safest place to start. Speak to our team if any of the following apply:

—Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
—Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
—Visible tartar or staining on your teeth
—A history of gum disease or smoking
—Anyone who simply wants the cleanest, healthiest mouth possible

020 7231 7912

05 — Local to you

Dental Hygienist near Canada Water and Rotherhithe

Hygiene patients travel to us from Surrey Quays, Canada Water, Rotherhithe and across SE16 and SE8. Many of our patients book their hygiene visits 6 months ahead so they never get out of routine — we're happy to do the same for you.

06 — What's next

What happens next

If it's been over a year since your last hygiene visit — or you've noticed bleeding, staining or bad breath — book a hygiene appointment. We'll get you back on track and design a maintenance plan that's easy to stick to.

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