You can see a Dental Hygienist at Blueberry Dental Surgery without registering with a Dentist – it is possible due to changes in the regulations. Previously, a dentist had to see a patient prior to prescribing hygiene treatment. This meant that you would have been examined to see whether you had oral problems that warranted further treatment or investigation.
Dental Hygienists – what do they do?
A Dental Hygienist is specially trained in the prevention and treatment of gum disease, which is the main cause of adult tooth loss. Regular professional cleaning combined with looking after your teeth and gums well at home will help keep your mouth healthy. A clean and healthy mouth will improve your appearance, help you to keep your teeth and give you fresh breath.
The Dental Hygienist will:
Check the appearance of your gums, see if there is any plaque or bleeding
Remove any hard deposits (calculus) and stains by scaling your teeth
Polish your teeth
Reinforce the tooth brushing and flossing technique
What should I know before booking a Direct Access Hygiene Appointment?
Dental hygienists can’t diagnose or give the prognosis (the likely outcome) of diseases such as decaying and broken teeth or prescribe antibiotics, painkillers or any other drugs to alleviate symptoms. Visits to hygienist are not a substitute for full dental examinations.
If the hygienist advises you to see a dentist, it is because they feel that it is in the interests of your health, it is outside the scope of what they are allowed to do, or they are uncertain about treating you without further advice.
There are very rare circumstances when a hygienist can’t start treatment, and before they are prepared to continue, insist that a dentist assesses you. These may relate to your medical history and general health, or condition of your mouth, which gives the concern.
If you would like to book in for a direct access appointment with Hygienist please give us a call on 01344 483220 or email us at info@blueberrydental.co.uk