Even if you’re great at brushing and flossing, seeing your dental hygienist regularly is key to maintaining optimal oral health and preventing issues such as tooth decay.
So, you have already taken the first step and made your dental hygiene appointment. Now, you may be wondering what you can expect and how to prepare.
Proper preparation can go a long way in ensuring you feel comfortable and well-informed during your dental hygiene appointment.
In this blog, we’ll explain what to do before a dentist appointment, what you can expect when you’re there, and how to look after your teeth after the appointment.
About the treatment
Your dental hygienist visit is an effective way of maintaining a good level of oral hygiene and oral.
While many people avoid going to the dentist, a dental hygienist appointment is a very straightforward experience.
So, what happens in a dental hygiene appointment?
At your dental hygienist appointment, you can expect a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup. The hygienist will also examine your mouth for any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues.
Additionally, the dental hygienist will provide education on proper oral hygiene techniques and may offer recommendations to improve your dental care routine.
Steps to prepare for the treatment
Preparing for your hygienist visit is simple. To ensure a good experience, we recommend you take these five steps:
Confirm your appointment details
We’re only human, and mistakes are bound to happen. That’s why it’s important to confirm and make a note of your appointment details. This will help to avoid confusion and ensure you arrive with plenty of time to spare, ready to get the most out of your dental hygienist appointment.
Practice good oral health
Practising good oral health before your appointment ensures that your teeth and gums are in the best possible condition. This can make the cleaning process more efficient and effective and allows your hygienist to give you personalised advice, tips, and recommendations based on your specific needs.
Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, can also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, making the hygienist’s job easier and potentially less uncomfortable for you.
Additionally, showcasing good oral health habits before your appointment demonstrates your commitment to taking care of your teeth and gums.
Review your diet and habits
Reviewing your diet and habits before your dental hygiene appointment allows you to understand how your lifestyle habits are directly impacting your oral health. By reviewing your diet, you can identify any areas where improvement can be made.
For example, certain foods and drinks, especially those high in sugar, can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Similarly, habits such as smoking or using tobacco products can have negative effects on your oral health.
By taking this proactive approach, you can adjust your diet and habits to improve your dental hygiene and oral health to ensure your dental hygienist appointment is as effective as possible.
Bring your dental tools and appliances
If you use dental tools and/or appliances, including a retainer, mouth guard, or dentures, make sure you bring them to your appointment. While you are there, your hygienist will check to see if they need any adjustments or repairs.
Having your dental tools and appliances with you also provides a great opportunity for you to highlight any questions or issues during your appointment, whether that be discomfort with your appliances or about their care.
With your nightguard, orthodontic aligners, or other dental appliance present, the hygienist can provide guidance and solutions tailored to your specific concern.
Make notes
If you have questions, concerns, or symptoms to discuss with your dental hygienist, make a note of them before your appointment. You may think you’ll remember, but just in case your mind goes blank, it’s best to have them written down.
Having written notes ensures you get all the answers you need and that you get the most from your dental hygienist appointment.
What to expect from the treatment
From your dental hygiene appointment, you can expect fresher breath, whiter teeth, and several additional benefits, including prevention of gum disease and early detection of dental issues.
You will also come away with personalised advice on how to maintain good oral health at home and the hygienist may even demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.
At the end of your appointment, your hygienist will also mention and explain any follow-up treatment they recommend based on their assessment.
How to maintain dental hygiene after the appointment
Even after your dental hygiene appointment, it is important to continue practising good oral hygiene habits. Remember the advice that your dental hygienist provided and put proper brushing and flossing techniques to work.
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is recommended to prevent cavities and gum disease. Drinking water throughout the day can also help rinse away food debris and keep your mouth hydrated.
Don’t forget to schedule regular dentist check-ups and hygiene appointments every six months or as recommended by your hygienist at your appointment. Regular appointments allow your hygienist to monitor your oral health and spot issues such as cracked teeth, cavities, and tooth decay in their early stages.
Why choose Beaulieu Dental?
Whether you live in Chelmsford or the surrounding area, Beaulieu Dental is here to help you smile with confidence and maintain your oral health for the long term.
From deep cleaning to personalised guidance, our team of highly experienced dental hygienists are dedicated to keeping your smile bright and healthy.
We also offer direct access appointments with our dental hygienists, so you can book without first seeing one of our dentists.
Get in touch today to find out more and book your next dental hygienist appointment.
