Why is Visiting a Dental Hygienist Annually Important?

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why is visiting a dental hygienist annually important

Just like any other type of hygiene, oral hygiene is incredibly important for one’s health and wellbeing. One way to ensure your dental health is the best it can be is to regularly visit a dental hygienist. While many people may think that skipping their check-ups is not a big deal, this is a big mistake. Visiting a hygienist at least once a year is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

In case you are not completely clear on the difference between a dentist and dental hygienist, here are a few differentiating factors. The biggest difference is the amount of schooling each must complete. In order to practice, a hygienist only needs a two-year Associate’s degree whereas a dentist must have a Bachelor’s degree and four years of dental school. However, both must pass extensive exams before they can work in the field.

While dentists are more knowledgeable, hygienists still provide invaluable information about tooth care. When you take a trip to the dentist, you will usually see the hygienist first who will do the cleaning. They are also usually trained in taking x-rays and other simpler tasks. Afterwards, the dentist will come in to diagnose any issues and perform more complex procedures such as fillings.

It also important to note that dentists are paid much more than hygienists because of the education they have received. As a result, seeing a dentist is much costlier for the patient than it is to see a hygienist. If you are strapped for cash but still value your oral health, then you can certainly consider just seeking the services of a dental hygienist.

What Can a Dental Hygienist Do for Me?

Seeing a dental hygienist is an affordable and accessible alternative to consulting with a dentist. If you still aren’t convinced, then consider these reasons why a hygienist would be good to see:

1. More Thorough Cleaning

While many of us may think that we are brushing our teeth sufficiently, many are actually missing the mark. Dental hygienists have the tools and expertise to ensure a much deeper clean than ordinary people can muster on their own.

People cannot easily see their inside their own mouths, but hygienists have a much better vantage point to ensure that everything is as clean as possible. Hygienists can also give patients tips on how to better clean their teeth because they notice areas that are not receiving proper attention and diligence.

2. Prevent Future Oral Problems

Regular cleanings can ensure that small problems do not grow into large, unmanageable ones. When you don’t go to the hygienist for long periods of time you may allow dental issues to go undetected.

Oral problems can quickly move from something that is not a big deal to catastrophic if left untreated. While that may be daunting, it is comforting to note that almost all dental issues are completely treatable and preventable if proper care is taken at the right time.

3. Save Money

While preventing future problems is great for your health, it is also wildly beneficial for your wallet. Complicated dental procedures are not cheap to have done. If you can avoid them, you can save so much money that can be used on many much more enjoyable activities.

With an extra few thousand dollars in your pocket, you could easily go on more vacations or get that new gadget you always wanted, just because you took an hour out of your year to pay the hygienist a visit.

4. Remove Stains

In addition to improving the health of your mouth, regular visits to the hygienist can help enhance its appearance as well. A smile is one of the first things someone will notice about you, so you want to make sure that it makes a stellar first impression. Hygienists are trained in teeth whitening and can help your pearly whites to shine brighter than ever.

Even if you don’t want to artificially whiten your teeth, the deep cleaning they provide improves the looks of teeth dramatically.

5. Reduce Pain

If your gums are inflamed, they can often be uncomfortable. Going to the hygienist can reduce this irritation and the onset of gingivitis.

In addition to gum problems, other tooth pain from time to time is common; but if you go to the hygienist, they can generally get to the root of the issue quickly. Their procedures will also help to prevent future pain by making sure that developing problems do not fully coalesce. Their fast support will help you to get back to living your life to the fullest right away.

6. Set a Good Example for Your Children

Your kids watch your every move and they want to be just like you. If you show them how important paying attention to your dental health is then they will follow suit.

Leading by example is one of the best ways to help your kids to understand what they should do in their lives. If you go to the hygienist every year and show your kids that you care about keeping your teeth clean, then they will be much more likely to do the same as they get older.

Visit our Highly Trained Hygienists Today

Oral health is not something that can be ignored, and we sincerely hope that you take the time to address it at least once a year by seeking the help of a licensed, professional hygienist.

We at Vellore Woods Dentistry have highly trained hygienists that will make your yearly check-up enjoyable so that you will actually want to get your teeth cleaned without it being a chore. Learn more about our expert teeth cleaning services here. We offer them year-round and on your schedule to make the process as streamlined as possible.

While teeth cleaning is one of our specialties, we also perform many other oral health services such as dental implants, whitening, and more. To learn about some of our other dental services please have a browse of our website!