What is dental hygiene and AirFlow air polishing?
Regular hygiene visits are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and fresh smile. During your appointment, our dental hygienist will carefully assess your gums and the tissues supporting your teeth, checking for signs of gum disease and providing tailored advice on the best way to care for your mouth at home.
Professional cleaning removes stubborn plaque and tartar that can’t be reached through normal brushing. We use a combination of ultrasonic cleaning, gentle hand scaling, and the latest AirFlow air polishing system — a highly effective technique that uses a controlled jet of water, air, and fine powder to leave your teeth feeling exceptionally clean and smooth.
Who should have a hygiene appointment?
Everyone with natural teeth should see a dental hygienist regularly. Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach areas, putting your gum health at risk. Routine hygiene visits help prevent gum disease, freshen your breath, and keep your smile looking its best.
How does AirFlow air polishing work?
AirFlow technology directs a fine, high-speed jet of air, warm water, and powder over the surfaces of your teeth and just below the gumline. This gently removes stains, plaque, and biofilm — the layer of bacteria that forms on tooth surfaces and can lead to gum inflammation. It’s an advanced and minimally invasive way to deep-clean your teeth, even in areas traditional tools can’t reach.
What are the benefits of AirFlow cleaning?
AirFlow polishing is both comfortable and highly effective. It removes stubborn surface stains caused by tea, coffee, wine, and smoking, while also disrupting the bacterial biofilm that contributes to gum disease. The fine powder can even help reduce sensitivity by sealing tiny openings in exposed tooth surfaces.
Because AirFlow reaches under the gumline, it’s particularly beneficial for patients with early gum disease or periodontal pockets. Most people find the experience much gentler than conventional scaling, with a noticeably cleaner, smoother feel afterwards.
How long does a hygiene visit take?
A typical hygiene appointment takes around 30 minutes and includes professional cleaning, AirFlow polishing, and personalised advice on how to maintain your oral health at home. Your hygienist will demonstrate the best brushing and interdental cleaning techniques to keep your teeth and gums in top condition.
How much does a hygiene visit cost?
A routine hygienist appointment costs £115. However, this treatment is generally included as part of your plan if you’re a Dental Subscription member. We’ll confirm all costs and membership benefits before your visit.
Get in touch
Frequently asked questions
Does the hygienist have to use a scaler as well?
Are there any reasons why I can’t have a hygiene appointment?
Does Airflow damage the teeth?