Looking after your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining a healthy smile, and regular hygiene appointments can make a real difference.
We caught up with Harry, our Dental Hygienist, to find out more about his journey into dentistry, why looking after your gum health matters, and what you can expect from a hygiene appointment.
Having recently qualified as a Dental Therapist at the University of Plymouth, Harry is passionate about helping patients feel comfortable, improving their oral health and giving them the confidence to look after their smiles. And if you’ve been putting off a hygiene appointment, his message is simple: we’re here to help, not judge!
How long have you been working as a dental therapist, and what made you choose this career?
I qualified from the University of Plymouth as a Dental Therapist in June.
I knew that I wanted to work in a team-focused environment where, no matter what each day has in store, I can take comfort in knowing I have been able to make a positive impact on a patient’s health and wellbeing.
What do you enjoy most about being a dental therapist?
I love being able to meet so many different people on a daily basis.
Working with patients to improve their periodontal health we get to provide the foundation for a healthy and happy smile!
Why is regular hygiene care so important for looking after our teeth and gums?
Beyond the aesthetic benefits of a healthy smile, there is increasing research into the link between periodontal disease and heart disease as well as conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
Periodontal disease is also something that can be developing in the background without a patient even knowing, so regular hygiene visits give us the opportunity to ensure that there aren’t any hidden surprises for the patient that may compromise the future integrity of their teeth.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about booking a hygiene appointment but hasn’t been for a while?
The first thing I’d say to any patient is ‘we’re here to help and not judge’.
We’re able to cater the appointment to your needs and to try and make it as comfortable as possible. The sooner you can come to see us, the sooner we can hopefully show you that it isn’t as intimidating as you may think. We also promise not to nag as we understand how life can sometimes get in the way of being able to take optimal care of your smile, but at the same time we have plenty of tips and tricks to help make sure your smile is well looked after
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work? Any hobbies, interests or favourite ways to spend your spare time?
Cooking and reading are probably my two biggest hobbies away from work. When I have had a busy day with lots of noise I love being able to switch off and enjoy the tranquillity of reading a good book with a nice cup of tea (with no sugar of course!).
Thanks Harry!
So, are you ready to book your hygiene appointment?
You don’t need to wait until something feels wrong to look after your teeth and gums. Regular hygiene appointments can help keep your smile healthy, remove plaque and tartar build-up, and give you tailored advice on caring for your teeth at home.
At Keast Mews Dental Centre in Saltash, we offer direct access hygiene appointments, so you can book to see our hygiene team without needing to see a dentist first.
Whether you’re keeping up with your usual routine or it’s been a little while since your last visit, we’re here to help you feel comfortable and confident about your oral health.
