
DENTAL HYGIENIST ANDÂ THERAPIST
DipDH, DipDT
Eastman Dental Hospital 2016 - 2019
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GDC Number: 285744​
ABOUT ME
I grew up in the Midlands where I completed my A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology. I then travelled up north to study Dental Nursing at Teesside University. Whilst undertaking my training I nursed in general practice and on the student dental facility for undergraduate students, which inspired me to pursue my career as a Dental Therapist. Once I qualified from Teesside University, I was accepted into Eastman Dental Hospital, where I completed my training as a Dental Hygienist and Therapist in 2019. I have since been working in mixed and private practices across London.

MY ROLE
What is a Dental Therapist?
A member of the dental team with a dual qualification, as a Dental Hygienist and Therapist. Our main role is to prevent and treat gum disease and advise you on how to maintain good oral health. We provide preventive care like routine check-ups, oral hygiene advice, professional cleaning and periodontal treatment, as well as restorative treatments such as fissure sealants, crowns, fillings and extractions. We provide treatment for both children and adults.
TREATMENTS
SCALE & POLISH
A clean that is designed to remove deposits of plaque that build up daily on the teeth. It usually involves using an ultrasonic scaler to break down heavier deposits, followed by more precise hand instruments to clear away the stubborn remains. This treatment can also remove some common causes of staining from the teeth i.e. tobacco, red wine, tea and coffee. As well as stain removal, polishing the teeth can remove any minor rough imperfections to leave them smooth.
NON-SURGICAL PERIODONTAL THERAPY
Non-surgical Periodontal Treatment (NSPT) is more thorough than a basic scale and polish. It is a course of intensive treatment targeted to individuals with gum disease. Plaque and calculus deposits are removed from the teeth and root surfaces, to promote healing. Along with tailored/good oral hygiene advice, NSPT can reduce the risk of periodontal disease progressing further.
AIRFLOW POLISHING
This is a form of stain removal without damaging the enamel of the teeth. The polishing device uses a combination of water, compressed air and fine powder particles to remove surface stains gently. The procedure does not require anaesthetic and delivers a comfortable yet highly effective cleaning treatment. You will be left with a brighter and healthier smile.
TOOTH WHITENING
Tooth whitening is a procedure best carried out by a general dental professional. Dental practices use various whitening systems which all contain a concentration of bleach. Different methods of whitening are also available; home whitening kits will involve several dental visits whereby impressions will be taken to make trays for your teeth only, then you will be given the whitening gels with instructions on what to do at home. In-chair whitening is carried out at the dental practice and referred to as laser whitening. A whitening gel is applied to your teeth, then activated by a UV light under the supervision of a dental care professional. Depending on the method you choose the treatment time will vary.
HYGIENE FAQ
WHY IS DENTAL HYGIENE IMPORTANT?
Dental hygiene combines the treatment of active gum disease and prevention of future disease and decay. It is one of the best oral health investments you can make and you will be saving your teeth as well as hundreds of pounds in the future. Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy mouth and live longer without dental problems arising in the future.
WHAT DOES AN APPOINTMENT CONSIST OF?
An appointment starts with me getting to know you and your current oral hygiene regime. You can tell me what is bothering you most about your smile and I will assess your overall dental and gum health. Baseline measurements will be taken so that we can map out a treatment plan best suited to you. I will show you how we can achieve and maintain a healthy smile with immaculate brushing and flossing at home, as well as diet advice and/or smoking cessation advice where necessary.
CAN I SEE YOU WITHOUT VISITING MY DENTIST FIRST?
Yes. I accept direct access patients which means I can carry out your oral health assessment and treat/diagnose within my scope of practice, without the prescription from a dentist. If I come across something that I cannot treat I will advise you to visit a dentist. Tooth whitening does require a prescription from a dentist.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I VISIT THE HYGIENIST?
The first step to improving your smile is to have healthy teeth and gums, therefore it is recommended that you visit the hygienist twice a year, however if you have problems with your teeth or gums, you may need to see the hygienist more frequently.
CAN A DENTIST DO MY HYGIENE TREATMENT?
Whilst your dentist carries out a full assessment of the mouth and gums, hygienists have been specially trained to spend longer with deep cleaning. Dental hygienists are experts at teaching you how to look after your teeth and gums and we focus on identifying and preventing disease by removing plaque and tartar. We can also offer valuable advice on how to maintain a healthy diet.
GET IN TOUCH
Please feel free to send in your questions and comments. I am here to help.