Dental Hygienist Auckland
Support the long-term health of your teeth and gums.
A dental hygiene appointment focuses on professionally cleaning your teeth and supporting the health of your gums. It’s carried out by a dental hygienist and plays a key role in preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
What happens during a hygiene appointment?
Your hygienist will:
Remove plaque and tartar (also known as a scale and polish)
Gently clean and polish your teeth
Assess your gum health
Offer tailored advice on brushing, flossing, and oral care at home
If needed, they may also recommend products to support your oral health.
Is a hygiene appointment the same as a check-up?
Not quite. A check-up is when your dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of problems. A hygiene appointment is when your hygienist focuses on cleaning and preventive care. Both are important. They are separate appointments, but are often booked together.
How often should I see the hygienist?
Most people benefit from a hygiene appointment every 6-12 months, but some may need to come more or less often depending on their gum health, risk of decay, or lifestyle habits like smoking.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
Helpful info about your Dental Hygiene appointment
Number of appointments: 1
(but the hygienist may recommend additional appointments if needed).
Duration: 45mins - 1hr
You will be seen by a: Oral Health Therapist
Cost of treatment: $185-$225
Dental Hygiene - Frequently asked questions
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Most patients find hygiene appointments comfortable, though you may experience some mild sensitivity or pressure during cleaning, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gum inflammation. If you have significant tartar buildup or gum disease, there might be some discomfort, but your hygienist can use topical numbing gel or other techniques to keep you comfortable. Let your hygienist know if you experience any discomfort – they can adjust their technique or take breaks as needed.
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Even with excellent home care, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus) that can only be removed with professional instruments. Your hygienist can reach areas that are difficult to clean at home, such as deep pockets around teeth and below the gum line. Professional cleaning also includes polishing to remove surface stains and fluoride treatment to strengthen teeth. Regular professional cleanings help prevent gum disease and tooth decay that home care alone cannot prevent.
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Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, starting with gingivitis (red, swollen, bleeding gums) and potentially progressing to periodontitis (which can cause tooth loss). It's caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup. Hygiene appointments are essential for preventing and treating gum disease by removing bacterial deposits, reducing inflammation, and teaching you proper home care techniques. Early-stage gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
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Your teeth will likely appear brighter and cleaner after a professional cleaning as surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and other foods are polished away. However, professional cleaning removes stains rather than whitening teeth beyond their natural color. If you're interested in making your teeth whiter than their natural shade, ask your hygienist about professional whitening options available at the practice.
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Absolutely! In New Zealand, most children below high school age are seen by the School Dental Service for their regular check-ups and treatment. However, we have some parents who like to bring their children to see our hygienist in between their yearly school dental exams for additional preventive care. For high school age adolescents, we're able to provide treatment free of charge through the Oral Health Service. Early hygiene visits help establish good oral health habits, allow professional monitoring of developing teeth, and help children become comfortable with dental care. The hygienist will use gentle techniques appropriate for children and provide education about proper brushing and healthy eating habits.
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Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, focusing on the gum line and all tooth surfaces. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth where your toothbrush can't reach. Your hygienist may recommend specific products and techniques based on your individual needs.
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No referral is required to see a hygienist in New Zealand.