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Dental hygiene for a clean smile and fresh breath
Healthy gums start with great routines. Our hygienist will give you the skills, tools and techniques for prevention so you can get a clean bill of dental health.
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Looking after your dental hygiene at Floss and Smile
At our Dunstable practice, we provide two levels of dental hygiene treatment.
1. Routine Prevention & Plaque Control
- Suitable for patients who regularly visit our hygienist
- Focuses on minor scale build-up, typically behind the lower front teeth
2. In-Depth Scale Removal
- For patients who haven’t seen a hygienist in 12 months or longer
- Offers a more thorough cleaning with extra time and attention
Gum treatments are generally performed by our therapist or dentist.
Good dental hygiene can help prevent a number of dental conditions including gum disease and decay – book in today to take a step towards a healthier mouth.
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What happens at a dental hygiene appointment?
Our friendly and experienced dental hygienist will give your teeth and gums a thorough cleaning and scaling to remove trapped food and plaque, while also checking for early signs of decay.
We’ll also polish your teeth, so you’ll leave with a bright, spotless smile and fresh breath.
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Spotting the signs of gum disease early
Early tooth decay can be tricky to spot, but we can catch it during a thorough exam and X-ray, which is why we recommend regular dental check-ups.
Detecting gum disease early prevents damage to your teeth, making it easier and less expensive to treat.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, causing red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, an infection that causes discomfort, difficulty eating, and eventually tooth loss. While we can replace missing teeth with cosmetic dentistry, the best approach is to catch gum disease early.
Mrs Rajas Prasad will treat you gently
Our dental hygienist, Mrs Rajas Prasad, has many years of experience treating children and nervous patients, so you can rest assured that you are in safe hands.
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New patient dental health
Meet our clinicians in a relaxed and informative initial visit. At this consultation you will be able to discuss your oral health and any concerns you may have.
Meet our clinicians in a relaxed and informative initial visit. At this consultation you will be able to discuss your oral health and any concerns you may have.A thorough treatment plan will be discussed and agreed – including associated costs.You will be given time to ask questions and we will discuss all options available to you within your budget.
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Dental hygiene at Floss and Smile
How often should I visit a dental hygienist?
At Floss and Smile we generally recommend visiting our dental hygienist every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. However, depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
Does a dental hygiene appointment hurt?
Our dental hygienist is highly skilled and experienced in treating patients gently. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the cleaning, especially if there’s significant plaque buildup or if your gums are sensitive. Your hygienist will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the process.
Can a dental hygienist help with bad breath?
Yes, our dental hygienist can help identify the cause of bad breath and provide effective treatments. Often, bad breath is caused by plaque buildup, gum disease, or other oral health issues. Regular cleaning and proper oral hygiene can significantly reduce bad breath and improve your overall oral health.
Can a dental hygienist detect oral cancer?
Our dental hygienist is trained to spot early signs and symptoms of mouth cancer during a routine examination. If they notice any suspicious areas or changes in your mouth, they will refer you to a dentist or specialist for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, so regular visits to your dental hygienist play a vital role in maintaining your overall oral health.
How often should I visit a dental hygienist?
At Floss and Smile we generally recommend visiting our dental hygienist every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. However, depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
Does a dental hygiene appointment hurt?
Our dental hygienist is highly skilled and experienced in treating patients gently. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the cleaning, especially if there’s significant plaque buildup or if your gums are sensitive. Your hygienist will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the process.
Can a dental hygienist help with bad breath?
Yes, our dental hygienist can help identify the cause of bad breath and provide effective treatments. Often, bad breath is caused by plaque buildup, gum disease, or other oral health issues. Regular cleaning and proper oral hygiene can significantly reduce bad breath and improve your overall oral health.
Can a dental hygienist detect oral cancer?
Our dental hygienist is trained to spot early signs and symptoms of mouth cancer during a routine examination. If they notice any suspicious areas or changes in your mouth, they will refer you to a dentist or specialist for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, so regular visits to your dental hygienist play a vital role in maintaining your overall oral health.
I’m interested in getting dental implants, what should I do?
The first thing to do is to book a consultation with us here at Floss and Smile! At your consultation we will answer any questions you may have. Based on a comprehensive examination we will plan the best treatment for you and walk you through all the costs involved. Our patients get extra reassurance by having access to a text mobile 24/7 during and after the treatment.
I have a loose denture. Can dental implants help me?
Yes they can. Dental implants are an excellent solution for the millions of people who have loose dentures and offer many advantages over conventional dentures. Conventional dentures are often uncomfortable and, due to the movement, limit a person’s ability to speak and eat normally. Because of this, many people feel self-conscious wearing their dentures.The dentures can be secured into place by locking on to 2-4 implants.Implants are commonly used to replace individual missing teeth, but they can also be used to secure or stabilise loose dentures in either the upper or lower jaws. Instead of having a crown (cap) fitted to the top of the implant a precision-made attachment is fitted which inserts into the underneath surface of the denture, securing the denture to the implant. In the lower jaw this can be achieved with as few as two implants.If there is sufficient bone available and you are willing to have more implants inserted then you can often be fitted with a completely solid set of teeth attached to the dental implants (a full-arch bridge). This set of teeth would stay in permanently and would look and feel very similar to a natural set of teeth.
Is dental implant placement painful?
Dental implants are typically placed under local anaesthetic to ensure you are comfortable throughout the treatment. If you are very nervous or suffer from dental phobia we can offer you sedation. Our whole team has trained extensively in caring for nervous patients, and over the years, we've successfully treated many people with high levels of anxiety. We've not only transformed their smiles and improved their oral health but also significantly reduced their dental treatment-related anxiety.
How long does it take to place dental implants?
Your dental implants may be placed in as little as 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the location and the number of implants being placed. Your dentist will be able to give you a clear idea of the treatment time during your first appointment with us.
When will I receive my new teeth?
Treatment time varies for each patient. Typically, you will have some type of temporary teeth until your implants bond to the bone. We can provide a time estimate based on your treatment needs, during your initial consultation here in Dunstable.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Home care for your implants consists of brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits are required for long term health and success.
How long can dental implants last?
Implants can last many years if cared for properly. Many implants have been in place for more than 40 years.
How does the long term value of dental implants compare to other options?
Dental implants are low maintenance and provide stability and confidence in your smile. Therefore, the long term value of dental implants far exceeds conventional treatment options.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are considered a safe and effective treatment option for replacing missing teeth. At Floss and Smile, our dentists have a special interest in dental implant surgery and have restored hundreds of smiles over the years, using gold standard implants.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
The journey to receiving dental implants varies based on personal factors like oral health, potential need for procedures such as bone grafting, and the body's healing response. Typically, from the first consultation to achieving a complete restoration, the process spans several months. This period allows for the implant to fuse securely with the jawbone (known as osseointegration), a critical phase lasting approximately 3 to 6 months.
Book an appointment
We’ll take care of the dental needs of you and your family.
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