Get more out of your smile
As we leave behind what was, for many of us, one of the most testing and trying years to date – hopefully we may have more to smile about.
However, because of the circumstances the last year placed upon many people, smiling may seem to be a challenge, as people are concerned about how their teeth look if they have not had access to a dentist.
Anyone who feels that they are actively and continuously hiding their smile behind a facemask out of embarrassment about the condition of their teeth should reach out to a trusted dentist and begin to get their smiles back on track.
What can a dentist do for me?
When we consider dentistry, there is a tendency to think of it purely within a responsive context – such as dealing with problems like traumas or infections, after they have happened.
However, this is merely one aspect of dentistry, which – as a field of medical science – encompasses far more than you may think.
One of the dental services which has continuously been in high demand is that of a dental hygienist. Rather than working in a responsive way, a hygienist works in a preventive sense, by making sure your teeth are as healthy and clean as they possibly can be.
What does a hygienist do?
The primary aim of a dental hygienist is to keep your teeth healthy and clean. They go about this through a number of means, ranging from education of both young and old patients about good tips and oral hygiene to a professional deep cleaning known as a ‘scale and polish’.
Part of what makes a dental hygienist such an important role in a dental practice is that they believe firmly that every patient has the potential to have a beautiful, healthy smile – without the need for any cosmetic treatments – and that it is their job to help them find it.
What is a ‘scale and polish’?
One of the most popular procedures which a dental hygienist regularly carries out is a professional deep-clean known as a ‘scale and polish’. This is designed to remove any and all build-ups of tartar, plaque and harmful bacteria to leave the patient’s teeth fresh and healthy.
Typically, the two-step process goes as follows:
- Initially, the hygienist uses an ultrasound scraper tool – alongside hand-held equipment – to scrape off any build-ups of plaque and tartar from throughout the patient’s mouth. This is particularly effective in removing any build-ups in the harder to reach spots, such as between teeth or at the back of a patient’s mouth
- Following this, the hygienist then uses a polishing tool to buffer and shine all throughout the patient’s mouth. This helps to rid their teeth of any residual bacteria, and also gives them a visibly fresher and cleaner look to their smile.
If you are concerned about your existing oral health and are looking to make a positive, lasting change – beyond the purely cosmetic – then simply arrange to have your teeth looked at by a hygienist at your next possible convenience.
Doing so will mean that your oral health gets a professional once-over and that all measures possible will be taken to get your smile confident and beaming once more.