Oral hygiene

We believe a healthy mouth is the key to a healthier life, and our dedicated dental hygienists are ready to guide you on your journey to a radiant smile and optimal oral health.

Why oral hygiene is important:

Good oral health isn't just important for a confident smile; it also has a proven impact on your overall well-being. Our dental hygienists understand the crucial role a healthy mouth plays in preventing dental problems and maintaining your overall health.

What the dental hygienist does:

Treating gum disease: The dental hygienist's treatments go beyond simply cleaning the teeth. They aim to cure and prevent future inflammation of the gums and underlying bone—a progressive process called periodontitis.

Curing periodontitis is a process that begins with a thorough diagnosis and treatment by a dental hygienist. This process involves taking several steps to reduce gum inflammation and stop the loss of underlying bone tissue. Here's a brief overview of how a dental hygienist can cure periodontitis:

• Diagnosis and Evaluation: The dental hygienist begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the severity of the periodontitis. This includes measuring the pockets around the teeth, taking x-rays if necessary to assess bone structure, and checking the amount of gum bleeding, the amount of plaque and tartar, and any tooth mobility. This is called a periodontal status. A clear plan will be developed for you beforehand, and the costs will be clearly presented in a personalized estimate.
• Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): A key part of the treatment is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. During this procedure, plaque (bacteria) and tartar are carefully removed, even deep below the gum line. This allows the inflamed gums to heal and the pockets to shrink.
• Medication: In some cases, the dental hygienist may prescribe topical antimicrobial medication to fight the bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.
• Oral hygiene instructions: The dental hygienist provides comprehensive instructions on oral care techniques, including brushing, flossing, interdental brushing, and mouthwash. Proper adherence to these instructions is crucial for recovery.
• Reassessment of treatments performed: To objectively assess the effectiveness of the treatment, your gums will be reassessed after the necessary treatments and the results will be recorded in a new periodontal status.
• Regular Check-ups: Patients are encouraged to have regular follow-up appointments with their dental hygienist to monitor progress and perform any additional treatments.
• Lifestyle changes: Addressing risk factors such as smoking and improving diet will aid in the healing process.
• Collaboration with the dentist: The dental hygienist collaborates with the dentist to address dental problems. These are discussed internally, after which the dentist continues to oversee the treatment plan.

Curing periodontitis requires dedication from both the dental hygienist and the individual, but with proper treatment and care, oral health can be restored and further tooth decay prevented.
In addition to treating gum disease, you can also visit the dental hygienist for red and swollen gums, bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth and preventive sealing of teeth and molars.

Why choose our Dental Hygienists?

At Oude Rijn Dentists, we strive for the highest standards in dental care. Our dental hygienists combine expertise with care and understanding, and will always listen to your specific needs and concerns. Some reasons to choose us include:

• Personal Attention: We treat every patient as an individual and provide personal attention and tailor-made care.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: We use advanced dental technologies and equipment to ensure your oral health receives the best possible care.
• Comfortable Environment: Our practice is designed with your comfort and a high level of service in mind, so you feel at ease during your visit.
• Accessibility: We don't have long waiting lists. Unable to make it? No need to wait months for a follow-up appointment!