Fear of the Hygienist and current regulations

[pinkcattydude]

I’ve not seen a hygienist for many years after a bad experience. My dentist suggested it might be time and I’ve plucked up the courage and have an appointment. But a friend has said they can’t do the usual stuff and it’s a longer appointment. Does anyone know how bad this is going to be, is this going to put me off going again?

They can’t use the high pressure water thing, but they still use the scraper instead. I don’t think my appointment was any longer than normal.

Hi it might be possible to use the ultra sonic scaler (the water one) it depends on what PPE and what measures are in place in the practice. Some practices are scheduling longer appointments but the extra time may be for deep cleaning. If you are worried and have had a previous back experience let the hygienist know at the start of the appointment.

Try not to worry. I hate going to the hygienist too but have been recently and preferred the way they do it under covid regs. To me it seemed gentler.

Ok I’m gonna go through with it, just dreading them telling me I need loads of work or it hurting again.

My dentist did it the old way but was decked out head to toe in PPE and there was a gap between all appointments to clean the room so it did involve the water jet pick thing but that is something I like as it does make them feel really clean - I could have opted for a manual descale which was cheaper but preferred to pay the extra (I'm private just to clarify so pay either way).

Mine did a manual scale in the last lockdown (think because I am on Denplan) it was very gentle.

They said they miss using the ultrasonic but they can only wear PPE for 4 hours and only in a room that has a special fan that removes all the particles in the air and is positioned above the client.

You can always ask the hygienist to stop at any point, for a break or altogether. You are not a prisoner Mine usually says raise your hand if you want a break.

It will be okay. This is a good idea for you to do this and hopefully will be a very positive experience.

Thank you all! you’ve been very reassuring.

My last hygienist appointment was exactly the same for me once I was in the chair (though not for my poor hygienist who was in top-to-toe PPE).

You're doing yourself a favour getting it done now. The longer you leave it, the more cleaning you'll need.

I’ve found it better

I didn't think hygienists were operating

You can also ask for numbing injections, I get completely numb for every hygienist appt now after a traumatic one about five years ago.

Just explain how nervous you are to the hygienist, what is is that's causing your anxiety about the clean (is it fear or pain, not being able to swallow , not being in control etc) and they will be able to reassure you and explain what can be done to help alleviate your nervousness.
All the best OP I'm sure your appointment will be fine.

I went yesterday!
It was absolutely fine and felt very safe.

Please make sure you tell them how nervous are otherwise they can't help make you feel better. I find headphones help me.

Well done for taking that step.

@RoseHipps

Try not to worry. I hate going to the hygienist too but have been recently and preferred the way they do it under covid regs. To me it seemed gentler.

My thought too-I can't stand the squeal and vibrations of the ultrasonic one.

Omg I did it 20 years of grime gone took 45 minutes and I looked like I’d been in a fight but it wasn’t so bad (just wish you couldn’t hear it) So glad I went. Thought I should update in case anyone else is thinking about it. Thank you!

Well done for going!

That's fantastic news, you should feel very proud of yourself x