Dental Examination
A dental examination is a vital part of maintaining long-term oral health. During your exam, the dentist will thoroughly assess your teeth, gums, and mouth to detect any signs of decay, gum disease, infection, or other oral health concerns at an early stage.
The examination may include checking existing fillings or restorations, assessing your bite, screening for oral cancer, and taking X-rays where necessary to identify problems that are not visible to the naked eye. Early diagnosis allows us to provide effective treatment and prevent minor issues from developing into more complex problems.
Your dentist will also discuss your oral health, answer any questions you may have, and create a personalised treatment plan if required, ensuring your smile stays healthy and functional.
Dental Hygiene
Dental hygiene treatment involves professionally cleaning your teeth, commonly known as scaling and polishing. However, one of the most important aspects of this service is teaching patients the best ways to prevent plaque buildup and maintain good oral hygiene. Additionally, the dentist plays a key role in diagnosing and treating gum disease.
A dental hygienist works alongside the dentist to support patients in maintaining their oral health. Their role combines clinical tasks, such as treating and preventing gum (periodontal) disease and tooth decay (caries), with educating and motivating patients to care for their teeth and gums.
Hygienists undergo specialised training through accredited dental hygiene and therapy programmes, ensuring they are fully equipped for this important work.
As a vital member of our dental team, the dental hygienist plays a crucial role in helping you keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition, working closely with the dentist to deliver comprehensive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does professional scaling and polishing hurt?
For most patients, a scale and polish is a completely pain-free experience. If you have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, you might feel some mild “tickling” or sensitivity. At EA Dental Specialists, our hygienists are specially trained to work gently, and we can apply a numbing gel or use specialized instruments to ensure you are comfortable throughout.
What is the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist?
While your dentist focuses on overall diagnosis and restorative work (like fillings or crowns), the hygienist is a prevention specialist. They spend more time on deep clinical cleaning (removing hard tartar that brushing can’t touch) and provide personalized coaching on the best flossing and brushing techniques for your specific mouth.
Why do I need a professional clean if I brush twice a day?
Even with excellent brushing, plaque can harden into calculus (tartar) in hard-to-reach areas, especially behind the lower front teeth. This tartar acts like a magnet for more bacteria and cannot be removed by a toothbrush alone. A professional scale and polish is the only way to remove these deposits and prevent them from causing gum disease or decay.
Can a hygienist help with bleeding gums or bad breath?
Absolutely. Bleeding gums are often an early sign of gingivitis (gum disease), and bad breath is frequently caused by bacteria trapped in tartar. By professionally cleaning above and below the gum line, the hygienist removes the source of the infection, helping your gums heal and instantly freshening your breath.
How often should I see the dental hygienist?
For a healthy mouth, we generally recommend a visit every 6 months. However, if you are prone to rapid tartar buildup, have a history of gum disease, or have orthodontic braces, we may suggest coming in every 3 to 4 months to keep your oral health in optimal condition.