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General health

Dental hygeinist

4 replies

Kez100 · 07/10/2015 17:48

Today I had my NHS check up with the dentist. It cost 18.80 took seconds but he was running late and I did (for the first time ever) miss an appointment last time and he didn't charge, so I feel temporarily in his debt.

Anyway, he would normally do a scale and Polish but he didn't - he recommended I go for a professional clean for some staining and a little tartar by a dental hygeinist, which his practice don't have. Coming home I see it is supposed to be included in the 18.80 and in the past he has always cleaned tartar off when necessary. Anyway, I am assuming it's more than he feels should be covered by the NHS and I suspect their rates have been nailed to the ground just like many other NHS services.

So, can I ask, what sort of service should I be looking for? What does it cost you? How often do you go? Do hygeinist s offer other services you recommend? Does anyone insist it's done under the £18.80?

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HelenF35 · 07/10/2015 18:16

I always pay for a hygienist to do my clean, even though I'm nhs. My mum is a dental nurse and has drummed it into me how much better a job they do and it's true. 30 min clean costs me £30 but it's worth every penny imho. The hygienist concentrates solely on cleaning.

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Kez100 · 07/10/2015 18:56

That's sounds a much better deal for my teeth. I think that explains why he recommended it. No way did his cleaning treatment take longer than 5-10 minutes. Thanks

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Mrsmorton · 10/10/2015 15:13

If it's just a bit of tartar and some staining, the dentist isn't contractually bound to do it under the NHS as it's not affecting your oral health. If you have active gum disease then, yes they would have to do something to secure your oral health. I'm a dentist and I would definitely pay to see the hygienist, they're bloody amazing and mine knows far more than me about gums etc. I'm often in there asking her advice!

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Kez100 · 10/10/2015 15:37

Thanks. I have made a hygeinist appointment and can see the value of a 30 minute appointment over the short service I have had before (I'm not complaining at all.... what time can be expected for the NHS price we pay).

My first appointment is 45 minutes and I expect will cover my medical history, etc.