What Happens During a Dental Hygiene Visit in Penge? A Step-by-Step Guide
A regular visit for Dental Hygiene in Penge is one of the most important ways to protect your smile. At Green Lane Dental Centre, we offer comprehensive hygiene services that go beyond a simple clean — our goal is to prevent problems before they begin and help you enjoy lifelong oral health.
If you’re wondering what to expect during your next dental hygiene visit, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process and help ease any concerns.
Why Dental Hygiene Matters
Maintaining good dental hygiene isn’t just about having fresh breath and white teeth — it’s a vital part of your overall health. Gum disease, plaque build-up, and oral bacteria can all contribute to serious medical conditions if left untreated. That’s why your dentist in Penge will always emphasise the importance of regular hygiene appointments.
Step 1: Medical & Dental History Review
Every visit starts with a quick chat. Your hygienist will ask about:
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Any changes in your general health
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New medications or allergies
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Concerns about bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth sensitivity
These details help tailor your hygiene care to your specific needs. If you’re a new patient at Green Lane Dental Centre, your first appointment will be a little more detailed to ensure we understand your full dental history.
Step 2: Examination of Teeth & Gums
Before any cleaning begins, your Penge dentist or hygienist will examine your teeth and gums. They’ll look for signs of:
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Plaque and tartar build-up
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Gum inflammation or bleeding
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Receding gums
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Signs of cavities or early decay
If anything unusual is found, they may call in the dentist for a closer look. This is a great time to raise any issues you’ve been noticing, such as bad breath or a metallic taste in your mouth.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Polishing)
This is where your mouth gets its spa day. Using special tools, your hygienist will remove built-up tartar from above and below the gum line — a process known as scaling. This step is especially important, as tartar cannot be removed by brushing at home.
After scaling, they will polish your teeth using a high-powered brush and a gritty toothpaste to smooth the enamel and remove stains.
Step 4: Gum Health Assessment
Gum disease can creep in silently. That’s why a detailed gum health check is part of every Dental Hygiene in Penge visit. Your hygienist will measure the depth of the space between your gums and teeth (called periodontal pockets). Healthy gums usually have pockets no deeper than 3mm.
If signs of early gum disease (gingivitis) are present, your hygienist will recommend a tailored treatment plan, which may include more frequent hygiene visits or advanced periodontal therapy.
Step 5: Oral Hygiene Advice & Education
One of the most valuable parts of your hygiene appointment is the advice you receive. We believe prevention is better than cure, so your dentist in Penge or hygienist will show you:
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The best brushing technique for your teeth
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How to floss or use interdental brushes effectively
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Whether you might benefit from a fluoride rinse or prescription toothpaste
We may also discuss lifestyle habits like smoking or sugar intake that can affect your oral health.
Optional: Fluoride Treatment
For patients at higher risk of decay, we may recommend a professional fluoride treatment. This involves applying a concentrated fluoride gel or varnish to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. It only takes a few minutes but can make a big difference in maintaining long-term oral health.
Step 6: Review & Next Steps
Your Penge dentist or hygienist will discuss their findings, any issues noted, and the recommended schedule for future visits. Most patients benefit from a hygiene appointment every six months, but if you have a history of gum disease, you may be advised to attend more frequently.
You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions and discuss cosmetic treatments or restorative work if needed.
When Should You Book Your Next Hygiene Visit?
If it’s been over six months since your last clean, it’s time to book your next Dental Hygiene in Penge appointment. Early signs of gum disease or enamel erosion can go unnoticed at home — but not by our trained professionals at Green Lane Dental Centre.
Nervous About Seeing the Dentist?
We understand that dental anxiety is common. Our friendly team at Green Lane is experienced in treating nervous patients. We’ll walk you through each step, take breaks if needed, and ensure you feel calm and in control.
What to Expect During a Hygiene Visit?
Here’s a quick summary of what’s included in a standard hygiene appointment:
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Medical and dental history update
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Full-mouth examination
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Professional scaling and polishing
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Gum disease assessment
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Tailored oral hygiene advice
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Optional fluoride protection
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Review and treatment planning
Your Smile Starts with a Clean Foundation
Keeping your teeth clean isn’t just cosmetic — it’s essential. A regular visit to your Penge dentist helps you maintain healthy gums, fresh breath, and a confident smile. Ready to take the next step in your oral care journey?
Contact Green Lane Dental Centre today to book your next hygiene appointment with our experienced team.
What is included in a dental hygiene visit?
A typical dental hygiene visit includes a full assessment of your gum and tooth health, removal of plaque and tartar, and personalised oral hygiene advice. Depending on your risk level, fluoride treatment may also be offered.