dental hygienist epsom

Our dental hygienists have received specialized training to assist our dentists in caring for you and implementing your treatment plan. They play an essential role in every dental clinic and in preserving your oral health. Their primary goal is to keep your teeth healthy and your gums disease-free.

Most adults should see a hygienist twice a year. However, those who have gum disease or are at risk for developing it should see a hygienist more frequently and for longer amounts of time.

Scaling (the removal of tartar build-up from the teeth and gum line) and polishing the teeth are typical procedures during a dental hygiene appointment (the removal of staining from the surface of the teeth).

To the extent that an adult tooth does not require treatment to the nerve, all of our hygienists are licensed dental therapists who may do operations more generally associated with a dentist, such as fillings and extractions of baby teeth using the same materials as a dentist would. They are unable to fix a tooth in an adult.

Our hygienists are able to provide the following services in addition to scaling and polishing:

Teeth Whitening – to get rid of more stubborn stains or to make your teeth shine.

Non-fluoride alternatives are available

Fluoride varnish

Fissure sealants

Laser Assisted Periodontal Treatment

Many oral health concerns can only be detected through a thorough examination by a trained dentist. Dental check-ups cover oral cancer screenings, digital X-rays to check for hidden issues, and professional cleanings to eliminate plaque, bacteria, and other build-ups that daily brushing and flossing can’t effectively remove.

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, so early intervention is vital. Once gum disease has taken its toll on the tooth and supporting bone, it cannot be restored. Gum disease can only be managed once it has taken hold. Your dental hygienist will use a small ruler to gently measure the gum “pocket” around each of your teeth, making note of areas that you can’t clean with a toothbrush or floss. X-rays are used in combination with these measurements, to identify where bone recession has taken place.

Ideally, dental check-ups are performed every six months. On your first visit to the dentist, they will ask for a full health history to gain an understanding of your past and current health. From there, regular dental check-ups will be used to determine any change in your oral health and keep your teeth and oral health properly maintained.

Most dentists, recommend six months because the maintenance and cleaning provide a level of deep cleanings and preventative care that is not possible at home.

As long as your mouth is free of gum disease and heavy build-up, six months is about the average length of time for tartar and stain to accumulate to where another professional cleaning is required. For individuals with a history of periodontitis, these visits may need to be as regular as every 3-4 months.

We all know brushing and flossing make our mouth feel great. But, brushing and flossing do more than freshen breath – they disrupt the complex network of bacteria called biofilm. It’s important to disrupt and remove the sticky film so diseases like cavities and gum disease are less likely to happen.

And as you know, it is important to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once. Helping and encouraging your child to make brushing and flossing a part of their habits will help them have a healthy smile throughout their life!

Monday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed

Alpers Dental’s primary mission has been to facilitate the provision of comprehensive preventative dental treatment to the residents of Auckland.

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