Dental hygiene is a critical element of oral and dental health. By brushing and flossing regularly, you can keep tooth decay and bad breath at bay, but it’s also important to visit a dental hygienist in Dublin to reach awkward areas that may have seen tartar or plaque build-up through no fault of your own.
Our periodontists work to prevent gum disease with all our patients but are also on hand to diagnose and treat the early stages of gum disease (or gingivitis) when it happens. If gingivitis is left too long, it can develop into periodontitis, which is irreversible and can result in bone damage and, ultimately, tooth loss.
Scale and polish.
A scale and polish is a routine treatment whereby we will scrape along and below the gum line to remove any tartar or plaque that has built up. After this, we will polish and floss your teeth to ensure they are healthy and clean, and recommend any additional treatments if needed.
Why is this treatment needed?
A scale and polish is a normal, important part of maintaining your oral and dental health. Without it, even though you may be brushing and flossing regularly, you may still experience a build-up of tartar and plaque in areas of your mouth that are tough to get to. Our hygienist in Dublin is best placed to ensure you are getting the care you need.
What happens after the treatment?
Brushing
You should brush at least twice per day, and use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. You should brush at a 45 degree angle where half the brush is on the teeth and the other half on the gums, and only apply light pressure. The same goes for the inside of the teeth, and on biting surfaces. A soft toothbrush is preferable, and when you’re finished spit out the toothpaste and don’t rinse your mouth as this will negate the effects of the toothpaste.
Flossing
To maximise your dental and oral health at home, it is essential that you floss as well as brush your teeth. The floss should be inserted between the teeth and used with a forwards-and-backwards motion, without forcing it. You should curve the floss into a C-shape against the tooth and move it up and down against the tooth. Then do the other side. Continue this for every gap.
At the start it is normal for a little blood to appear, but as you floss you will notice your gums begin to heal and bleeding will stop. Healthy gums are a pale pink colour, rather that deep red.
Gum disease treatment
If you experience a build-up of bacteria in plaque, you could be at risk of developing gingivitis, whereby your gums are irritated, swollen and bleed easily. With the right treatment, this condition is reversible.
Why is this treatment needed?
Even though gingivitis is reversible, if left untreated it can lead to periodontitis. When this happens, the fibres around your teeth are irreversibly affected by the build-up in bacteria, which leads to bone loss and eventually tooth loss. Periodontitis is irreversible, so it is essential that gum disease is diagnosed and treated before it is too late.
If you have periodontitis, we will undertake in-depth cleaning, which may require several appointments and, in some cases, lifelong treatment. We also may use an ani-microbial drug to help soothe pockets affected by the disease. In advanced cases, surgical treatment and the addition of bone supplements may be required. All periodontic treatments are carried out with a local anaesthetic or conscious sedation.
What happens after the treatment?
Following treatment for gingivitis or periodontitis, we will give you detailed instructions on how to maintain your oral and dental health at home. It is important to brush and floss regularly, as well as lead a healthy lifestyle. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
