Hygiene Treatments

Every day, a sticky film of bacteria called plaque forms on your teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus), a rough, cement-like substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar buildup along the gum line causes inflammation, leading to red, swollen, and bleeding gums—the first stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition where the infection spreads below the gum line, destroying the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth. This can eventually lead to tooth loss. You might not experience any pain in the early stages, which is why regular professional cleaning is so critical for catching and reversing problems before they become severe.

At West Harbour Dental, we offer two levels of professional hygiene treatment, depending on the health of your gums and the extent of any buildup:

This is your routine, preventative cleaning, typically recommended every six months. Our hygienist will use specialised instruments to gently remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line. We then polish your teeth to a smooth, clean finish, removing surface stains and leaving your smile bright and fresh. This treatment is ideal for patients with healthy gums who are maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

If you have signs of gum disease—such as deep pockets between your teeth and gums, bleeding, or bone loss visible on x-rays—you may require a more intensive deep clean. This treatment involves cleaning below the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces of your teeth. The roots are then smoothed (planed) to help the gums reattach and heal. Deep cleaning is often performed over two or more appointments and may involve local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort. This treatment is essential for halting the progression of periodontitis and saving your teeth.