A Simple Guide for Selly Park Patients
Many people in Selly Park and the surrounding Birmingham areas ask how often they should be seeing a dental hygienist. It is a fair question because most of us only visit when something feels wrong. Regular hygiene appointments make a bigger difference to your oral health than most people realise, so getting the timing right matters.
What a dental hygienist actually does
A hygienist focuses on the health of your gums and the prevention of future problems. While the dentist checks your teeth and overall oral health, the hygienist works on removing plaque and tartar, cleaning around the gum line and giving personalised advice to help you look after your mouth at home.
It is a team effort, but the hygienist plays a key role in keeping your gums healthy and your teeth stable for the long term.
How often should you book a hygiene appointment
For most adults, every six months is a good guideline. It keeps plaque build-ups under control and helps spot early signs of gum problems before they become more serious.
Some people need to come more often. If you have a history of gum disease, smoke, vape, or have diabetes, you may benefit from appointments every three months. On the other hand, if your gums are extremely healthy and your dentist is happy with your routine, you might stretch it to once a year, although this should always be based on professional advice rather than guesswork.
Signs you might need to come in sooner
There are a few early warning signs that suggest your gums need attention.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Sensitivity around the gum line
- Visible plaque or staining even after regular brushing
If you notice any of these, booking a hygiene appointment is usually the best first step.
Why regular hygiene visits help
Routine hygiene appointments keep your gum health on track. Regular cleaning removes tartar that you simply cannot shift at home and helps prevent gum disease, tooth loss, staining and bad breath. Most patients are surprised at how much fresher and cleaner their mouth feels afterwards.
Hygiene visits often save money in the long run as well because early preventative care reduces the need for more complex dental treatment later on.
What to expect at Selly Park Dental
Patients tell us they appreciate the calm, friendly approach from our hygiene team. A typical appointment includes a gentle but thorough clean, tailored advice based on your current brushing routine and, where necessary, stain removal to brighten your smile. We always take time to explain what we are doing so you feel comfortable throughout.
Common questions our patients ask
Will it hurt?
Most people feel only mild pressure. If your gums are inflamed it can feel a little sensitive, but this usually settles quickly.
Can hygienists remove stains?
Yes. Surface staining from tea, coffee, wine and smoking can usually be lifted during the clean.
How long does it take?
Most hygiene appointments last around 30 minutes depending on what is needed.
Ready to book
If you are in Selly Park or nearby areas in Birmingham, you can book a hygiene appointment with our team online or by calling the practice. Regular visits are one of the easiest ways to keep your mouth healthy and avoid future problems.