Hygiene Bedford - Kemspton Dental

Hygiene

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and other structures supporting the teeth. It ranges from simple gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more serious forms (periodontitis) that can result in damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss if untreated.

Causes of Gum Disease:

Plaque Buildup: The primary cause of gum disease is the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to harden into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: These can significantly increase the risk of gum disease.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can make gums more sensitive, increasing the risk of gingivitis.
Medical Conditions: Diseases like diabetes can affect gum health.
Medications: Some medications can reduce saliva flow, leading to a higher risk of gum disease.
Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gum disease due to hereditary factors.

Symptoms of Gum Disease:

Red, swollen, or tender gums.
Bleeding during brushing or flossing.
Persistent bad breath.
Receding gums (gums pulling away from the teeth).
Loose or shifting teeth.
Painful chewing.
Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums.

Treatment:

Professional Cleaning: In the early stages, professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar build up.
Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces.
Medications: Antibiotics or antiseptic mouthwash may be prescribed to control infection.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgical treatments such as flap surgery or bone grafts may be needed to restore supportive tissues.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking early treatment can help prevent gum disease or stop it from progressing.

Kempston Dental Practice offers a variety of hygienist services, including scale and polish treatments, preventative fluoride applications, AIR-FLOW therapy, and cosmetic treatments to remove stains and brighten your smile.**

What to Expect from our award winning Hygienists:

Our hygienists will provide professional teeth cleaning, known as scaling and polishing. During your appointment, the hygienist will:

Conduct an initial dental hygiene examination.
Scale your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup in areas that are difficult to reach with brushing.
Clean and polish your teeth to remove superficial stains.
Offer personalised advice on maintaining good dental health, including techniques to use at home.
Choose to have an extra sparkly smile and get rid of any stubborn staining by asking for Airflow

Additionally, your hygienist will provide guidance on diet and tips to prevent tooth decay. They can identify early signs of gum disease and refer you to a dentist or periodontist if further treatment is needed.

How Often Should You Visit a Hygienist?

Your dentist may recommend regular visits to the hygienist based on your clinical needs and personal preference for keeping your teeth clean and polished. It’s also common to see a hygienist for a thorough cleaning before starting complex dental treatments, such as dental implants.

“Protect your teeth and gums from disease—schedule regular hygienist visits for a deep clean and to maintain your oral hygiene.”

Advanced Specialist Periodontal Care at Our Practice

We provide comprehensive periodontal treatment for patients requiring specialist care—all conveniently under one roof. Our in-house Periodontal Specialist, Dr. Avinash Patel, is dedicated to delivering the highest quality care without the to be referred out.

Dr. Patel, a graduate of King’s College London, has received multiple commendations for his achievements and professionalism. As a registered specialist, he is skilled in all aspects of periodontal therapy, including non-surgical treatments, pocket reduction surgery, regenerative procedures, muco-gingival surgery, and implant therapy.

For more information, ask your dentist or hygienist about our advanced periodontal services.

I’m not registered but would like to see your amazing hygienist

If you are not currently registered but would like to schedule a clean-only appointment with our Hygienist, you are still welcome to do so. We recommend having a dental check-up first to ensure you receive the best care possible so the dentist can relay important information to the hygienist. However if you do not wish to have a dental check up, you can book a one-hour hygiene appointment with our hygienist at any time. During this appointment, our hygienist will focus on providing you with a thorough clean as well as offering guidance on how to effectively clean your teeth and improve your gum health.