Why has my dentist advised me to see a dental hygienist?
5th June 2026
If your dentist has recommended a visit with our dental therapist and hygienist, Eleanor Dodd, it is very normal to wonder why this is needed — especially if your teeth feel fine or you have not had any problems.
The most important thing to understand is that this recommendation is not about whether you have “good” or “bad” teeth.
It is about keeping your gums healthy and stable over time.
During your regular dental health review, your dentist focuses on examining your teeth, assessing your overall oral health, identifying any developing problems, and planning treatment where needed.
However, gum health is something that benefits from regular preventive care in between these reviews.
This is where our dental therapist, Eleanor Dodd, plays an important role.
Eleanor’s appointments are focused specifically on maintaining healthy gums. This includes removing plaque build-up that cannot be managed at home, helping reduce the risk of gum disease, and supporting long-term stability of your oral health.
Even when home care is excellent, gum disease can develop gradually and often without obvious symptoms. Regular preventive care helps us prevent problems before they become more serious.
For this reason, your dentist may recommend that you see Eleanor as part of your ongoing care, alongside your dental health reviews.
In some cases, Eleanor can also provide fillings and children’s dental care, allowing treatment to be delivered efficiently within the same clinical team where appropriate.
The aim is simple: prevention, stability, and early intervention where needed — helping you keep your natural teeth healthy for life.
If you are ever unsure why a particular appointment has been recommended, our team will always be happy to explain it clearly at your visit.
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