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Protecting your smile from gum disease

The cleaner your teeth, the healthier your gums. That’s why visits to the hygienist on top of your oral care at home are essential to your gum health. Hygiene appointments involve a deep clean that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, including the areas that are hard to reach with a conventional toothbrush. These appointments are your best defence against the bacteria that causes gum disease.

Hygienist

What is gum disease?

Bacteria in plaque deposits near the gum line causes the tissues to become irritated. This reaction is part of the immune system response, leading to the tissues appearing red and inflamed. This is the telltale sign of gingivitis, the early and reversible stage of gum disease. Other symptoms include bleeding gums when you brush, sensitivity and bad breath.

Hygienists can treat gingivitis through removing the plaque and tartar. As this removes the bacteria, the gums then return to their healthy state.

If gingivitis is left untreated, the gums start to recede as the tissue becomes under attack. This creates pockets between the gums and the tooth, creating space for plaque to develop on the tooth root. This condition, known as periodontitis, isn’t reversible but can be controlled through removing the plaque from the roots. If not controlled, it can lead to further gum recession and eventually tooth loss.

How do hygienists protect me from gum disease?

The main part of any hygiene appointment is the scale and polish. This clean leaves the mouth bacteria-free, preventing and treating gum disease. Using a jet of water, the stubborn tartar deposits are loosened up then are scaled away using specialised tools. The polish then leaves the teeth smooth and clean.

During the appointment, the hygienist will also assess the health of your gums. This check accurately maps out any signs of gum disease. After the scale and polish, you’ll receive handy tips on how to keep your gums healthy at home with flossing and other interdental cleaning techniques.

Hygienist
Hygienist

How often should I see a hygienist?

For us to keep your gums as healthy as possible, we’d like to see you for a hygiene appointment every six months. Some people are more susceptible to gum disease, plaque build up, or have a family history or existing health condition so may need to be seen more often. Your hygienist will advise on when to see you next.

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What our patients say
Dr Hooman Sanaty and his team at Glow Dental in Battersea are brilliant. From the moment you walk into the dental practice you are treated with genuine smiles, warmth and kindness by the reception team which has a calming effect and puts you at ease instantly.- Alia M
Visited Glow Dental for the first time today, and it's been some time since I had a dental check up. Stephen was an excellent dentist, really put me at ease, and I valued that he could not only talk me through - but also show me - the condition of my teeth and gums. He was really helpful with all my questions too.- Felicity B
Just finished my Orthodontist Treatment in this practice. Wonderful service and amazing staffs! Thank you so much for giving me a new smile =) - Connie L
Get in touch with us today

87 Northcote Road
Battersea,
London,
SW11 6PL

Call us today on 0207 223 7096

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Monday:
9:00am - 6:30pm
Tuesday:
9:00am - 6:30pm
Wednesday:
9:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday:
9:00am - 7:00pm
Friday:
9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday:
8:30am - 3:00pm
Sunday:
Closed