Dental Hygienist in Dublin

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that continually forms on teeth and around the gumline. Careful brushing and cleaning between the teeth can remove much of it, but areas that are crowded, difficult to reach or close to dental work may still collect deposits. If plaque remains, minerals in saliva can harden it into tartar, also called calculus.

Unlike soft plaque, tartar cannot be removed safely with a toothbrush or floss. Its rough surface can hold more plaque close to the gums, contributing to inflammation. Gums may become red, swollen or bleed when brushing. If this is not addressed, gum disease can progress and affect the tissues and bone supporting the teeth, although the rate and severity vary between people.

A professional cleaning removes deposits from accessible tooth surfaces and gives the clinician an opportunity to identify areas where home cleaning could improve. It complements daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and interdental cleaning; it does not replace either, and it cannot repair decay or reverse advanced gum damage on its own.

The appointment begins with a review of your oral health and any concerns, such as bleeding gums, sensitivity, dental work or medicines that may affect treatment. The hygienist examines the gums and deposits before using appropriate instruments to remove plaque and tartar from around the teeth and gumline. The tooth surfaces are then polished to smooth them and remove some superficial staining.

You may notice scraping sounds, water and vibration during cleaning. Most people tolerate the procedure well, but inflamed gums, exposed roots or sensitive teeth can make parts of it uncomfortable. Tell the hygienist if you need a pause. Local anaesthetic or a different treatment approach may be discussed when clinically appropriate; any price not listed is confirmed at consultation before proceeding.

Minor gum tenderness, slight bleeding or temporary sensitivity to cold can occur afterwards, particularly when there was considerable tartar or existing inflammation. These effects usually settle, but contact the clinic if pain is severe, swelling develops or symptoms persist. The cleaning may reveal areas that need dental assessment, and further treatment is recommended only after examination.

Airflow directs a controlled stream of air, water and fine powder at the teeth to remove suitable surface deposits and staining. It can improve the removal of external stains associated with coffee, tea and smoking, but it does not bleach the natural tooth colour or change the colour of fillings, crowns or other restorations. Deep or internal discolouration needs a separate assessment.

It can also be useful around brackets and other areas that may be harder to clean during orthodontic treatment, provided it is appropriate for the patient's mouth and appliance. The clinician will check for sensitivity, gum condition, restorations and relevant medical factors before recommending it. Some people notice brief sensitivity or gum irritation, and not every type of stain can be removed.

Airflow costs €60 when added to a scale and polish, or €100 as a standalone service. A scale and polish may still be needed where hard tartar is present because Airflow is not a substitute for removing calculus with scaling instruments.

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attack. Professional fluorisation may be advised for people whose examination suggests a higher risk of decay, including those with exposed root surfaces, areas that are difficult to clean, orthodontic appliances or a history of repeated decay. Suitability depends on individual assessment rather than age alone.

Fluorisation at the clinic costs €120 for 2 sessions. The clinician applies the treatment and provides specific instructions about eating, drinking and brushing afterwards according to the product used. Fluoride treatment adds to, rather than replaces, twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth and limiting frequent sugary food and drinks.

As with any dental material, temporary taste, mild irritation or sensitivity may occur. Tell the clinician about allergies, mouth sores, pregnancy, medical conditions and any previous reaction to a dental product. If fluoride is not suitable or is unlikely to add benefit, an alternative preventive plan can be discussed.

Many people are advised to attend every 6 to 12 months, but there is no single interval that suits everyone. The appropriate timing depends on gum health, how quickly tartar forms, smoking, diabetes, orthodontic appliances, dental restorations and how effectively plaque is controlled at home. People with active or previously treated gum disease may need closer monitoring or more frequent care.

Eligible workers in Ireland may have an examination covered under the PRSI Treatment Benefit Scheme; an examination under PRSI is free at the clinic. Eligibility and the available benefit should be checked when booking. The first dental consultation is also free. These examinations help identify whether routine hygiene care is suitable or whether gum measurements, X-rays or other treatment should be considered; the price of anything not listed is confirmed at consultation.

Between appointments, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between the teeth using floss or interdental brushes suited to your spaces. Persistent bleeding, bad breath, gum recession or loose teeth should not simply wait for the next routine cleaning. Seek prompt dental advice for increasing facial or gum swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain; breathing or swallowing difficulty requires urgent emergency care.