Preventing Gum Disease
Regular dental hygiene is your first line of defence against periodontal disease, which affects not just your mouth but can impact your whole body.
Dental Hygienist & Periodontal in Blackrock, South Dublin
Healthy Smiles All Year Round
Recent research shows greater links between general health & oral health. Our hygiene team will help you keep your teeth & your health in top shape.
Excellent oral health is more important than ever. It helps keep a smile looking great but it also plays a significant role in our overall well-being.
Surprisingly, dental issues can have far-reaching consequences beyond our mouths. Patients who suffer from gum disease may need more intensive treatment following a regular check-up with a hygienist.
Gum disease can become more severe during pregnancy, meaning it’s crucial that pregnant women arrange more regular visits throughout their pregnancy. Evidence has linked gum disease with heart disease and low birth weight in newborn babies.
What to Expect at Your
Hygiene Appointments
We begin by reviewing your medical history and discussing any specific concerns you may have about your oral health. This helps us understand your unique needs and create an appropriate treatment plan.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our comprehensive assessment includes examining your teeth and gums, measuring periodontal health, and conducting an oral cancer screening. We may take digital photographs to track your progress over time.
Pro Cleaning and Care
The professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar, with deep cleaning provided if required. We’ll polish your teeth to remove surface stains and apply fluoride treatment when appropriate.
We conclude by providing personalised oral hygiene instruction and product recommendations. You’ll receive a clear treatment plan and schedule future appointments to maintain your oral health.
After Your
Appointment
You’ll receive clear instructions for post-cleaning care and recommendations for home oral hygiene products. We’ll provide a written treatment plan if needed and schedule your follow-up appointment before you leave.
Comfort Options Available
We understand dental visits can cause anxiety for some patients. We offer various comfort options, including local anaesthetic if required, and you’re always welcome to take breaks during treatment. Our team will work with you to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible.
Free Fluoride Treatment for Children Under 12
As part of our commitment to preventive dental care, we offer complimentary fluoride treatments to children under 12 during their hygiene appointments. This service helps protect developing teeth and establish good oral health habits early.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatment
- Strengthens tooth enamel
- Prevents tooth decay
- Reverses early signs of cavities
- Safe and painless application
- Takes just minutes to complete
Your Questions Answered
Our Hygienist Mollie Whelan answers your dental hygiene and periodontal FAQs.
Dental Hygienist & Periodontal FAQs
What is gum disease?
+
Gum disease (periodontitis) is a leading cause of tooth loss and is prevalent in up to 90% of the population to some degree. Gum disease occurs when bacteria on the teeth and around the gums begin to cause damage to the gum tissues and supporting structures of the teeth.
The teeth are attached to the bone by fibres in the periodontal ligament, which in turn is protected by the gum. Severe gum disease can destroy the gum, the periodontal ligament and eventually lead to tooth loss. As plaque builds up around the teeth, hard deposits (known as tartar) can cause inflammation and bleeding of the gum tissues.
The gum becomes looser around the teeth, allowing plaque, tartar and bacteria to build up beneath the gum to form pockets, which attack the periodontal ligament and bone which support the tooth. Some people are more susceptible to gum disease than others, with it being more difficult to treat in smokers.
What is a hygienist?
+
Dental hygienists are skilled dental professionals who are highly trained to give advice and to help you maintain optimal oral health. Your hygienist will remove plaque, stains & bacteria from your mouth which can put your teeth and health at risk… Typically by seeing the hygienist regularly you will need fewer fillings, your teeth will last longer and your overall health will be improved. We also have some of the best hygienists around so they should be pleasant to visit as well!
How do I know if I have gum disease?
+
Obvious signs to look out for are bleeding gums, bad breath and discomfort. At a more advanced stage, gum disease can cause teeth to feel quite loose. More often than not, people are unaware that they have gum disease and it may only be detected at a dental examination. This is why regular dental appointments are so important as gum disease can be detected and treated early.
How can gum disease be treated?
+
Treatment of gum disease involves a dentist or hygienist cleaning tartar build ups from around the teeth and gums. This enables the pockets to heal and the gum to become healthy.This initial treatment can help control gum disease, but it is vital to keep your gums in a healthy condition by using a good tooth brushing technique twice a day and rinse with mouthwash. Arranging regular check-ups with your hygienist every 6 months will help maintain a healthy gum.
Why is Fluoride Important?
+
Fluoride is present in most toothpastes but the ones dental hygienists use is the best in the business… This high strength fluoride varnish helps strengthen & remineralise your teeth which can help prevent tooth decay & sensitivity. The best time to have fluoride applied is immediately after a dental cleaning. That is the time when there is no biofilm of bacterial present and so the fluoride penetrates the surface of the tooth for maximum benefit.
How is fluroide different to toothpaste?
+
It is much stronger than a toothpaste ever could be & is applied professionally. It also sticks around alot longer allowing it to have a far greater effect. Studies prove that professional fluoride application at each visit helps prevent cavities and make teeth, veneers, crowns and fillings last longer.. Happily we have a range of great tasting flavours available so not only is your mouth more protected than ever but it tastes good too.
How often should I visit the hygienist?
+
For most patients, we recommend visits every six months. However, if you have gum disease or other specific concerns, we may suggest more frequent visits, typically every 3-4 months. Your hygienist will create a personalised care plan based on your individual needs.
Will my cleaning hurt?
+
Most patients find hygiene appointments comfortable. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, we can use local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort. We also offer various comfort options and can adjust our cleaning techniques to suit your needs.
What’s the difference between a regular cleaning and deep cleaning?
+
A regular cleaning (scale and polish) focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gum line. Deep cleaning (root planing) is more intensive, cleaning below the gum line to treat periodontal disease. Your hygienist will recommend the appropriate treatment based on your needs.
Aftercare Instructions
Just had a hygiene visit at Seapoint Clinic? This aftercare guide outlines everything you need
to know following your exam, scale, and polish. Discover how to manage any post-cleaning
sensitivity, protect your gums, and maintain that fresh, polished feel. With expert tips for oral
hygiene, diet, and long-term care, it’s the perfect resource to keep your smile healthy between
visits.
Talk to an Expert
Speak to an Expert like Sonia and Begin Your Journey
Want to know more about dental implants or cosmetic treatments? Have a question about a treatment, need to book an appointment or would just like more information? We have experts ready to answer all your questions.Connect with our treatment coordinators and members of our friendly team now.
