Dental Hygiene
Serving patients throughout Barnes, Richmond, Hammersmith, Fulham, Putney and London SW13
Professional Dental Hygiene in Barnes, SW13
Your oral health is the foundation of your overall wellbeing. At Castelnau Dentists, our highly trained dental hygienists work alongside your dentist to keep your gums healthy, prevent tooth decay, and give you a clean, fresh smile you can feel confident about.
Whether you are visiting us for a routine scale and polish, gum health assessment, or our advanced Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) treatment, you will always be seen by a caring professional dedicated to your comfort and long-term oral health.
We recommend most patients visit their hygienist every six months, though some individuals with gum disease or a higher risk of dental problems may benefit from more frequent appointments. During your first visit, we will assess your oral health and create a personalised maintenance plan tailored to your needs.
What Does a Hygiene Appointment Include?
- A thorough examination of your gums and assessment of any build-up
- Professional removal of plaque and tartar (calculus) using specialist instruments
- Polishing to remove surface stains and leave teeth feeling smooth
- Personalised advice on brushing technique, flossing, and the right products for you
- Guidance on diet and lifestyle factors that affect your oral health
Please visit our fees page for full pricing information. Finance options are also available.
Results may vary. A consultation with your hygienist will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.
Why Dental Hygiene Matters for Your Long-Term Health
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, yet it is largely preventable with the right care. Regular hygiene visits play a vital role in catching early signs of gum disease before they develop into more serious problems.
Our hygienists are trained not only to clean your teeth professionally but also to spot signs of oral cancer, tooth erosion, and other conditions that can affect your health. Early detection can make a significant difference to your long-term outcomes.
We understand that some patients feel anxious about hygiene appointments, particularly if they have sensitive teeth or have not visited a hygienist recently. We always take a gentle approach and will explain every step before we begin. Please let us know if you have any concerns and we will do our best to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Gum Disease and Your General Health
Research has shown strong links between gum disease and systemic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and complications during pregnancy. By looking after your gum health, you are also helping to protect your overall health and wellbeing.
If you are concerned about your gums, have noticed bleeding when brushing, or have been told you need a deep clean, our team can help. We will carry out a full assessment and discuss your options with you in a clear, supportive way. Book a hygiene appointment today or speak to our team for advice.
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) at Castelnau Dentists
We are proud to offer Guided Biofilm Therapy, one of the most advanced dental hygiene systems available today. GBT is a gentle, minimally invasive approach to professional teeth cleaning that is more comfortable and more effective than traditional methods.
Using the EMS Airflow technology, our hygienists use a warm water and fine powder spray to remove dental biofilm (plaque), staining, and early tartar in a gentle, efficient way. This is followed by targeted use of ultrasonic instruments where needed, and a final rinse to leave your mouth feeling exceptionally clean and refreshed.
Benefits of Guided Biofilm Therapy
- Comfortable and gentle, even for those with sensitive teeth or dental anxiety
- More thorough removal of biofilm compared to traditional polishing
- Safe for dental implants, orthodontic appliances, and restorations
- Faster treatment times with outstanding results
- Suitable for patients of all ages
GBT is particularly beneficial for patients with dental implants, orthodontic braces, crowns, bridges, or veneers, as the gentle Airflow technology effectively cleans around complex restorations without damaging them.
To find out more about Guided Biofilm Therapy, or to book your hygiene appointment, please book online or call our friendly team.
Do hygiene appointments hurt?
Most patients find hygiene appointments comfortable and straightforward. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, please let your hygienist know before they begin. They will take a gentle approach and can adjust the treatment to suit your needs. We use a topical desensitising gel if required, and GBT (Guided Biofilm Therapy) is often significantly more comfortable than traditional cleaning methods.
How often should I see a dental hygienist?
Most adults benefit from visiting their hygienist every six months. However, patients with gum disease, a history of periodontal problems, dental implants, or a higher risk of decay may benefit from more frequent visits. Your hygienist will recommend a personalised maintenance schedule based on your individual oral health needs.
What is the difference between a scale and polish and Guided Biofilm Therapy?
A traditional scale and polish uses hand and ultrasonic instruments to remove tartar, followed by polishing with a paste. Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) uses the EMS Airflow system, which removes dental biofilm, staining, and early tartar with a warm water and fine powder spray before any instrument work. GBT is gentler, more thorough, and particularly effective around implants, braces, and restorations.
Can I see a hygienist if I have not seen a dentist recently?
We always recommend that new patients see one of our dentists for a full oral health assessment before booking a standalone hygiene appointment. This ensures we have a complete picture of your oral health and can recommend the most appropriate care for you. If you are an existing patient, please speak to our team about booking directly with a hygienist.
Will a hygiene appointment help with bad breath?
Yes. Persistent bad breath (halitosis) is often caused by bacterial build-up on the teeth, gums, and tongue. A thorough professional cleaning can remove the source of many odours, and your hygienist can offer personalised advice on daily oral care routines that help keep breath fresh. If bad breath persists after treatment, we may recommend a consultation with the dentist to rule out other contributing factors.
Is dental hygiene suitable for children?
Yes, dental hygiene is suitable for patients of all ages. We encourage good oral health habits from an early age and can provide gentle, child-friendly hygiene appointments. Our hygienists are experienced in working with younger patients and can offer age-appropriate advice on brushing, diet, and caring for both baby and adult teeth.
Book Your Dental Hygiene Appointment Today
Good oral health starts with regular professional care. Whether you are overdue for a clean or looking to maintain a healthy smile, our friendly hygiene team at Castelnau Dentists in Barnes are here to help.
We welcome patients from Barnes, Putney, Richmond, Mortlake, Sheen, and the surrounding SW13 area. New patients are always welcome.
At Castelnau Dentists, we provide a choice of accessible NHS dentistry and high quality private dental treatments for all the family. Our friendly team is dedicated to helping you enjoy a happy, healthy smile for life through regular check-ups, hygiene appointments, and expert care.
Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is an advanced, gentle approach to professional teeth cleaning at Castelnau Dentists, Barnes. Using the EMS Airflow system, our hygienists provide a thorough, comfortable clean suitable for all patients, including those with implants and orthodontic appliances.