Hygiene and gum care
A calm, thorough clean that keeps gums healthy and stops small problems becoming big ones.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Our hygienists spend the time most appointments never have: a proper, patient clean, and practical coaching you can actually keep up at home.
Brightwell is a fictional practice; this page is demo content and is not medical advice.
Step by step
What happens at your visit
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Gum health check
We measure the small gaps around each tooth gently, so we know where to focus.
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Scale and polish
Hardened plaque is lifted away with a fine ultrasonic tip and hand instruments, then teeth are polished smooth.
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Show and practise
We show you where plaque tends to collect and practise the brushing and cleaning-between that suits your mouth.
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Your next visit
We recommend an interval based on how your gums look, not a fixed rule.
Afterwards
Aftercare
- Gums can feel tender and may bleed lightly for a day or two. Keep cleaning gently and they settle quickly.
- Teeth can feel sensitive to cold for a short time after tartar is removed.
- Use the interdental brush size we showed you once a day; it makes more difference than any mouthwash.
Questions
About hygiene and gum care
Does a hygiene visit hurt?
It should not. Tell us if anything is uncomfortable and we will slow down, change instrument or offer a numbing gel.
Why do my gums bleed?
Usually because plaque has been left at the gum line and the gums are inflamed. It tends to improve within a couple of weeks of regular cleaning.
Will cleaning make my teeth whiter?
It removes surface stains from tea, coffee and so on, so teeth often look brighter. It does not change their natural shade.