A Dental Hygienist is specially trained in the prevention and treatment of gum disease. Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is the process whereby the structures that hold your teeth in place are gradually lost due a disease process caused by the interaction of the body’s own immune system and plaque bacteria on the teeth. If enough of the supporting structures are lost your teeth will become loose and eventually will need to be removed. The role of the hygienist and any hygiene services is to help prevent this from happening by removing the deposit which triggers gum disease and educating patients on how best to prevent it from accumulating the in the future.
treatment feeMICHELLE MURDOCH
HYGIENIST, GDC – 6163
Michelle started in dentistry as a dental nurse 1996 and qualified in 1998. She studied at Glasgow School of Hygiene at Glasgow Dental Hospital from January 2000 and graduated in Decemeber 2002 with a Diploma in Dental Hygiene. Michelle loves nothing more than engaging with patients about their oral health and the overall feeling of wellbeing that a healthy mouth can bring. She love to meet new patients but she especially loves to see returning patients come back and tell her they have been following her advice and see the huge improvements that can happen.
Michelle was married in 2007 and has two daughters Amii and Isla as well as two Yorkshire terriers Hamish and Bonnie. Her spare time is spent with her children and dogs however in the evening when she finally gets time to herself she love to read. She will read anything from crime to a love story. Michelle also loves a good catch up with good friends and keep regular contact with close friends from her school years.
FAQs
What is Periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is commonly called gum disease. It refers to the process whereby the structures that hold your teeth in place are gradually lost due a disease process caused by the interaction of the body’s own immune system and plaque bacteria on the teeth. Periodontal disease can happen slowly over time or in certain individuals it can happen very quickly. The end result of gum disease is loose teeth which can become infected and painful or even fall out. Factors which can make you more likely to experience gum disease are smoking, poor oral hygiene or diabetes, however it can also happen it individuals who have none of these risk factors.
How can I prevent or stop gum disease?
Gum disease is triggered by plaque bacteria on the teeth therefore if you can keep your teeth and gums clear of plaque then you should not be affected by gum disease. The best way to do this is by brushing two times daily for two minutes followed by cleaning in between your teeth with floss or inter-dental cleaning brushes or aids. Brushing your teeth with a manual or electric toothbrush only cleans two thirds of the surface area. Gum disease generally starts in between teeth where cleaning has not been adequate.
You should also see your dentist every 6 months for a checkup where he will check your gums. If they feel there is plaque or calculus (this is the name for plaque which has calcified onto the teeth) then they may recommend a scale and polish. Patients who exhibit signs of gum disease or build up on their teeth will be encouraged to see the hygienist. Some patients may only see the hygienist every six months whilst others may benefit from attending every three months.
Stopping smoking is essential for the successful treatment of gum disease.
Can I get back the bone that has been lost during gum disease?
The bone that is lost during gum disease cannot be replaced. The aim of the treatment of gum disease is to stabilise the condition and prevent the further loss of bone.
What is the difference between NHS and private treatment with the hygienist?
The goal of your hygiene visit whether its NHS or private clean is the same, which is to remove any build up from your teeth. Private appointments with the hygienist are longer and they can use equipment such as ‘airflow’ for removing staining or ‘periomate’ for cleaning under the gum which is not available on the NHS.
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