Blog

18/07/2023

Dentist vs Dental Hygienist

Both dentists and dental hygienists play a vital role in every practice, but what’s the difference between them both? Learn more in this article.

A trip to the dentist or the hygienist? That’s the burning question on many people’s minds.

It isn’t an either/or type of situation, and you should keep up with regular appointments with both.

While they each play vital roles in any dental practice, what exactly is the difference?

In this article, the experts here at Shawlands Dental Care reveal the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist, which treatments they can perform and how often you should pay them a visit.

What can a dentist do?

A dentist can perform many treatments, including:

• In-depth dental examinations
• Identify and treat tooth decay with fillings and root canal treatments
• Tooth extractions
• Oral cancer screenings
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Tooth restorations
• Dental implants and dentures

What can a dental hygienist do?

Dental hygienists can perform some of the same treatments that dentists can, such as oral cancer screenings, teeth whitening and fillings – but there are a few treatments that general dentists don’t usually do, including:

• Deep cleaning to keep teeth and gums healthy
• Fitting mouth guards
• Advise on brushing and flossing and guidance on dental treatments

How often should I visit my dentist?

Outside of any emergencies, you should try to visit your dentist every six months.

You may be able to go longer between appointments if you keep up a good oral hygiene routine at home. But if your teeth and gums are in poor condition, you’re genetically prone to gum disease, you smoke or you’re currently pregnant, you may need to visit more frequently – around every three months or so.

What about my hygienist?

You should try to visit your hygienist every six months also, making sure it sits in between appointments with your dentist.

By doing this, you can keep on top of your oral health, and ensure that no issues are missed.

You might not require a deep cleaning so often, especially if you keep your teeth and gums in good condition, but it’s still a good chance to express any of your concerns and discuss potential treatments.

Is it worth seeing a dental hygienist?

If you want to maintain excellent oral health, seeing a dental hygienist is more than worth it.

90% of people don’t brush or floss their teeth correctly, but during your appointments, your dental hygienist will clean your teeth and gums thoroughly – explaining how to brush and floss properly at home to maintain the results and keep cavities and gum disease at bay.

Remember – conditions such as tooth decay or gum disease can only be detected and treated by a professional, and the longer you push the problem aside, the worse it becomes – leading to more invasive and expensive treatments down the line.

Need more info?

Whether you’re looking for a new regular dentist in Glasgow, going to a dental hygienist in Glasgow for the first time, or looking for more information about the benefits of regular appointments – don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

We’re always available, and more than happy to help and answer any of your questions.

Alternatively, if you’d like to book your next dental or hygiene session with us, head over to our online booking system and select the date and time most convenient for you!