What Is Dental Hygiene Therapy & Why It Matters for Your Smile

If you have ever visited a family dentist, then you are aware of dental cleanings. That procedure where you get your teeth cleaned, polished and fluorided. But did you know that professional dental hygiene treatments and services can go much deeper?

Here at Parkway Smiles, your trusted dental hygiene clinic in Calgary, we know that dental needs vary from person to person and only having a standard dental cleaning is not enough.

Due to the need of determining appropriate treatment on a case by case basis and our goal of offering you the best personalized dental care, we prefer using the term: Dental Hygiene Therapy.

What Exactly Is Dental Hygiene Therapy?

It is a general term that we use to encompass all of the necessary treatments that you might need to maintain good dental hygiene and stop any preventable illnesses from developing down the line.

With Dental Hygiene Therapy we strive to reach deeper than what’s humanly possible from regular flossing and brushing. For example, we can focus on what’s below your gum line, which is usually a place where bacteria and tartar build up because it is hard to reach with a toothbrush.

If these areas of your mouth are kept unchecked, then bad things can happen, such as, our gums getting inflamed, start bleeding and you developing chronic gum disease.

So, by coming in to your regular appointment, we can help your gums be plaque-free and allow them to heal. Thus, protecting your smile and oral health. However, let us be clear; it is not that Dental Hygiene Therapy replaces dental hygiene at home, but rather they complement each other. 

Your First Dental Hygiene Therapy: What to Expect

We understand that a visit to the dental hygiene clinic can be a stressful event for many people.  To ease your fears, we want to inform you on what to expect when coming in to your first Dental Hygiene Therapy appointment at Parway Smiles:

  1. Gum Health Assessment: We’ll begin by thoroughly examining your current gum health. This initial step is crucial for us to recommend the most compatible treatment for your specific needs.
  2. Taking Measurements and Intraoral Photos: Utilizing the latest technology we will take intraoral photos of your mouth. This way we can show a live view of what’s going on and keep you fully informed on your health.
  3. Oral Health Education: We will discuss with you our findings or concerns we have, allowing you to adapt your at home dental hygiene habits according to your unique case.
  4. Personalized Treatment Plan: Once we are all on the same page on the current state of your oral health, we’ll recommend and perform any necessary treatment. This could include customized dental cleanings, recommendations for braces, provide relief for other oral illnesses, addressing cavities, and more.

How Often Should You Come in

It greatly depends on your own dental needs, but as a general rule, we recommend coming at least once every six months to get a deep cleaning and support at home habits.

Worried about how long the appointment will be? Let us fill you up on that too. Dental Cleanings usually last about 3 to 4 scaling units, or around 45 minutes to an hour. However, this can vary if you have any other dental conditions such as periodontal disease which might take longer sessions. We will let you know as soon as possible during your visit so that you know what to expect.

Want to Explore Dental Hygiene Therapy in Calgary?

Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health!

Experience the difference that professional and personalized dental hygiene therapy can make. Contact Parkway Smiles today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile! We look forward to seeing you soon.