Your dental hygienist performs an important role, not only to keep your smile bright and clean but also to keep your mouth healthy by identifying potential problems in their early stages when they may still be symptomless.
With the busy lives we all lead today, it can be easy to put off or forget your regular visit. Some people even skip their appointment with their hygienist altogether and only visit their dentist’s office when a problem arises. In fact, research shows that seven out of ten people do not regularly pay a visit to their dentist or hygienist, putting the health of their teeth and gums at risk and in many cases needing more treatment in the long run.
If you are someone who waits for a problem such as bleeding gums or a toothache to arise before making their dental appointment, here are ten reasons why you may want to start a new, healthy habit of preventative care by visiting your hygienist regularly.
1. Prevent tooth decay and cavities
Even if you have an excellent oral hygiene routine and clean and floss regularly, your hygienist will be able to reach areas in your mouth that you can’t to make sure your teeth are spotlessly clean. Your hygienist will have a range of instruments which are all designed to reach places you cannot and will also have had expert training in spotting even hidden tartar and plaque. A regular, thorough clean by your hygienist will be far more effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities than even the most diligent of cleaning routines at home.
2. Prevent Gum disease
Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss. Symptoms can include painful or bleeding gums, bad breath and, as the gum disease progresses the teeth can begin to loosen and eventually fall out. The good news is that your hygienist will have received training in how to spot and treat gum disease. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, gum disease can be stopped. Your hygienist will also be able to give you advice on the best products and cleaning methods to control and prevent gum disease at home.
3. Prevent or Treat Bad Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is commonly caused by dental problems, your hygienist can thoroughly clean your teeth and mouth, including below the gum line, a common area for trapped bacteria to cause problems with halitosis. If you are experiencing bad breath, you may feel a little self-conscious about visiting the hygienist, but remember they are a professional who will deal with these sorts of problems on a daily basis, so there is no need for embarrassment.
4. A whiter brighter smile.
A thorough cleaning from a hygienist will be far more effective at removing stains than any products or techniques used at home. You will leave the hygienists office ready to face the world with a more confident, brighter smile.
5. To Prevent and Spot the First Signs of Oral Cancer
As well as giving your mouth a thorough clean, your hygienist will also have received full training in how to screen you for oral cancer. If spotted early, oral cancer is highly treatable. Your hygienist will also be able to give you further information on how to reduce the risk of developing oral cancer.
6. Spot Problems Early
Your hygienist will be able to identify the early onset of problems such as loose fillings, early decay or the beginning of an infection that would otherwise not be noticed until the problem became more advanced or began to cause pain. Spotting these problems early means that treatment can be given swiftly avoiding more serious problems further down the line.
7. Expert Advice
As a highly trained professional, your hygienist will be able to give you advice on a range of subjects related to oral health from how to best clean your teeth and gums to the newest and best oral hygiene products available.
8. Boost Your Confidence
After a visit to the hygienist, you can be confident that your breath is fresh and your smile is clean and bright. Having fresh breath and a great smile not only makes you feel great but also makes you more confident when talking to others.
9. Improve General Health
It can come as a surprise to many people to hear that the health of your mouth can affect the health of your whole body. Poor dental hygiene is linked to a number of serious health conditions including respiratory problems, heart disease and diabetes. So, taking good care of your mouth can help you take care of your general health too!
10. Keep Your Teeth.
Everything that your hygienist does is designed to keep your gums and teeth healthy. Healthy teeth and gums mean that you will keep your smile for years to come.
