Dental hygienist in Thames Ditton

For most patients, a hygiene visit every six months is recommended — ideally timed alongside a dental check-up. Patients with a history of gum disease, or those who are more susceptible to tartar build-up, may benefit from visits every three to four months.

Your hygienist will recommend an interval that reflects your individual gum health rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Surface staining — from coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco — is removed using a combination of ultrasonic scaling and hand instruments. Ultrasonic scalers use high-frequency vibrations to break down hard deposits, while hand scalers allow the hygienist to work carefully around the gum line and in between teeth.

For more persistent staining, a polishing paste is applied using a rotating cup or brush to buff the tooth surface. In many cases this significantly brightens the appearance of teeth without any whitening agent. Where deeper discolouration exists within the tooth structure itself, professional cleaning alone will not fully resolve it — we can discuss tooth whitening or other options at your appointment.

Brown or darkened areas between the teeth are commonly caused by a build-up of staining compounds that accumulate in the spaces where the teeth touch. Coffee, tea, and certain foods leave pigmented residue that brushing alone cannot always reach, particularly in tight contact points.

In some cases, the discolouration indicates early decay or a deteriorating filling, rather than staining — which is why it is always worth having these areas examined at a dental check-up rather than assuming it is purely cosmetic. A hygienist can remove surface staining effectively; decay is a separate clinical matter requiring treatment.

Yellowness in teeth can have several causes, not all of which are related to hygiene. The inner layer of the tooth (dentine) is naturally yellow, and as the outer enamel thins with age or wear, this colour shows through more noticeably. Diet, certain medications, and genetics also play a role.

Professional cleaning can remove surface deposits and restore a fresher appearance, but it will not change the underlying colour of the tooth structure itself. If you are concerned about the overall shade of your teeth, we can discuss professional tooth whitening options — this is safe and effective when carried out under clinical supervision.

Most patients find a hygiene appointment comfortable. Sensitivity during cleaning is more common in patients who have had significant tartar build-up, gum disease, or exposed root surfaces. Our hygienist works carefully and will adjust the approach if you find any area uncomfortable.

If you are particularly sensitive or anxious, please mention this when booking. Topical anaesthetic gel can be applied to the gum tissue before treatment to reduce discomfort. Dr Bravis and the team are experienced in caring for patients who feel apprehensive about dental treatment.

A dental check-up is carried out by a dentist and focuses on examining teeth, gums, bite, soft tissues, and overall oral health — including assessing for decay, gum disease, and mouth cancer. Treatment planning is also part of the check-up.

A hygienist appointment is focused on professional cleaning, prevention, and oral health education. Hygienists remove tartar and staining, treat early gum inflammation, and give detailed guidance on maintaining gum health between visits. The two appointments are complementary and ideally booked together — assessment followed by a thorough professional clean.

Yes — treating and preventing gum disease is a core part of what a dental hygienist does. Gingivitis (early-stage gum inflammation, characterised by bleeding and swelling) is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Our hygienist can guide you through the exact changes needed to your brushing and interdental routine.

More advanced gum disease (periodontitis) involves bone loss around the roots and requires more intensive treatment, known as root surface debridement (deep cleaning). This is carried out at the gum line and below, typically with local anaesthetic for comfort. If signs of periodontitis are detected, a structured treatment plan will be provided.

Yes — we see children for hygiene appointments alongside their parents' visits and during routine dental check-ups. Our hygienist provides age-appropriate guidance on brushing technique, diet, and the importance of caring for both primary and permanent teeth.

Establishing good oral hygiene habits early significantly reduces the risk of decay and gum problems in adulthood. We make every effort to ensure younger patients feel relaxed and comfortable during their visit.

Yes — Thames Dental & Skin is located in Thames Ditton, Surrey, and our hygiene services are easily accessible for patients from Kingston upon Thames, Esher, Surbiton, Walton-on-Thames, Molesey, Hinchley Wood, Long Ditton, and the wider Surrey area. We welcome new patients and can typically arrange appointments promptly.

To book a hygiene appointment or to combine it with a dental check-up, please contact us and our team will find a time that suits you.