We know that looking after our oral health is important, but you may have some questions that you’ve always wanted to find out the answers to and haven’t had the chance. We sat down with our Dental Hygienist, Charlotte, to find out about how our habits can impact on our teeth, how often we should come for a hygiene appointment, and just what causes plaque in the first place. Read on to find out more.
How often should I visit the hygienist?
Everyone’s oral health needs are different. During your appointment, the hygienist will assess your gum health using a range of indices, as well as current and past X-rays, to monitor any bone loss over time. They will discuss these findings with you, explain your periodontal diagnosis, and recommend a personalised treatment plan — including how often you should return for hygiene visits.
How do diet and lifestyle affect my oral health?
The link between frequent sugar intake and tooth decay is well documented. Plaque left on the teeth and roots accelerates this process. Try to watch out for “hidden sugars” in foods and drinks — the traffic light system on food packaging can help you spot them more easily.
To protect your teeth and gums:
- Brush twice daily for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste
- Clean interdentally every day
- Do not rinse with water or mouthwash after brushing, as this washes away fluoride
What causes plaque and calculus build-up?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. It requires thorough twice daily brushing and daily interdental cleaning to remove. A toothbrush alone is not enough.
If plaque is not removed, it can lead to:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Dental caries (tooth decay)
Over time, if not removed plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). This is a mineralised, rough, often discoloured deposit that continues to attract more plaque. When calculus forms under the gum line, it can trigger inflammation and bleeding. If left untreated, ongoing inflammation can lead to further tissue and bone loss.
What are the early signs of gum disease?
The earliest and most common sign of periodontal disease (gum disease) is bleeding when brushing. Healthy gums do not bleed, and this is your body’s way of signalling that something is wrong.
You may also notice:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Red or swollen gums
- Occasional tenderness
We will be able to advise you on the steps you can take at home and may recommend more frequent visits — often every 3 months instead of 6 — to help bring your gum health back under control.
If you’d like to book a hygienist appointment with Charlotte, get in touch today via our website or call 01386 442207 to speak to our team.