Dental Hygiene | Hygienist Nottingham

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What to Expect During Your Dental Hygiene Appointment at Campbell Clinic

At Campbell Clinic, our primary goal is to ensure that our patients understand how to care for their own oral health. A dental hygiene appointment is an essential part of this process, helping to review and improve your at-home oral care routine.
 
Initial Review
Medical History Update:
  • Your appointment will begin with a review of your medical history. This is crucial because certain medications and general health conditions can impact your gum health. Understanding your medical background helps us provide the best possible care.

Oral Health Assessment
Plaque and Bleeding Score:
  • We assess the amount of plaque on your teeth and check for any bleeding from the gums.
  • A low plaque score (under 15%) and no gum bleeding are indicators of good oral health.
  • Bleeding gums signal inflammation, which is the first stage of gum disease.

Personalised Oral Hygiene Advice:
  • Based on the plaque and bleeding scores, we’ll explain where plaque is accumulating and how you can improve your brushing and interdental cleaning techniques at home.

Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE)
BPE Scoring:
  • Your mouth is divided into six sections (three on the top, three on the bottom), and each section is scored from 0 to 4 based on gum health.
  • Scores of 0-2 indicate healthy gums or mild issues, while scores of 3-4 suggest the presence of gum disease.
  • A score of 4 requires further investigation with a detailed six-point pocket chart.

Six-Point Pocket Chart:
  • This involves measuring six points around each tooth to assess the severity of gum disease.
  • Healthy measurements are between 0-3 millimetres.
  • Measurements of 4-5 millimetres indicate the early stages of gum disease, which can be reversed with improved home care and professional cleaning.
  • Measurements of 6 millimetres or more signify advanced gum disease, requiring more intensive treatment.

Professional Cleaning
Plaque and Calculus (hard deposits) Removal:
  • We use ultrasonic and hand instruments to perform professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR), which involves thoroughly cleaning all plaque and tartar deposits from your teeth.

Personalised Care Plan
Tailored Treatment:
  • Based on your plaque score, bleeding score, and BPE results, we’ll determine the best care plan for you.
  • Our aim is to maintain your oral health with regular hygiene maintenance appointments.

Schedule Your Appointment
Maintaining regular dental hygiene appointments is vital for your overall health. Schedule your next visit with us today to keep your smile healthy and bright!

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I attend hygiene appointments?

Attending hygienist appointments is a personalised experience tailored to your specific needs. During your initial visits, the hygienist will assess your oral health by conducting plaque and bleeding scores to evaluate how well you're cleaning your teeth and to detect any signs of inflammation that could lead to gum disease. Based on these assessments and your oral hygiene practices, the hygienist will determine the frequency of your appointments.

Visits are typically recommended every six months for patients with excellent oral health and no gum issues. However, if you have gum problems or other health issues, or if your oral hygiene needs improvement, the hygienist may suggest more frequent visits, such as every month or every four months.

The key is to follow the hygienist's advice and recommendations based on your initial assessments to maintain optimal oral health.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, characterised by inflammation of the gums. This condition is primarily caused by inadequate brushing, which accumulates plaque bacteria that inflame the gums. Fortunately, gingivitis is completely reversible with improved oral hygiene. By brushing thoroughly, using interdental brushes, and following the guidance of your dental hygienist, you can effectively eliminate gingivitis and restore your gum health.

What is periodontitis?

Periodontal disease, or periodontitis, occurs when gum inflammation extends into the bone that supports the teeth. This condition leads to the formation of pockets between the gum and the tooth surface. If untreated in its initial stage, gingivitis, the inflammation progresses, causing the bone that supports the teeth to deteriorate. As periodontal disease advances, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage. When the inflammation reaches the bone, the support for the teeth is compromised, leading to tooth mobility and potential tooth loss. Prompt treatment and proper oral hygiene are essential to prevent and control periodontitis.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

In the initial stages of gum disease, you may notice bleeding from the gums when brushing your teeth or using interdental brushes, as well as some sensitivity. Bad breath is also a common early symptom. As gum disease progresses and the bone supporting the teeth is lost, symptoms can become more severe. These include teeth appearing longer due to gum recession, increased sensitivity, and eventually, tooth mobility as the bone support diminishes. Detecting these symptoms early and seeking treatment can prevent further progression and maintain your oral health.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Preventing gum disease primarily involves maintaining good oral hygiene and following the recommendations of your dental hygienist. This includes using an electric toothbrush, interdental brushes, or dental tape, as advised. Since gum disease can have a genetic component due to the transmission of bacteria within families, it’s important to be vigilant. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to other health issues, such as Alzheimer's and heart disease, making overall health care crucial. To help prevent gum disease, prioritise both your oral hygiene and your general health.