Healthy gums. Healthier you.

Regular visits to our dental hygienist are one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term oral health.

What does a dental hygienist do?

A dental hygienist is a GDC-registered dental professional who specialises in preventative oral healthcare. Their primary focus is on helping patients achieve and maintain healthy gums and teeth through professional cleaning, assessment, and personalised oral hygiene education.

Hygienists work as part of your wider dental care team — focusing specifically on gum health, plaque management, and the long-term prevention of dental disease. In many cases, regular hygiene appointments are the single most effective way to prevent tooth loss in adults.

GDC regulation

All dental hygienists at Castle Bromwich Dental Care are registered with the General Dental Council and work within the scope of practice defined by the GDC. They are qualified to provide preventative treatments, oral hygiene instruction, and in many cases can see patients directly without a dentist referral.

For more information regarding this treatment
Call us 01217 302 277 OR Contact us OR Book here
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Get in touch

We’d love to hear from you! If you have any questions or would like to arrange a visit, please get in touch.

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What we provide

Hygiene services at Castle Bromwich Dental Care

Our hygiene appointments are thorough, personalised, and focused on your long-term oral health.

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Scale and polish

Professional removal of hardened calculus (tartar) and plaque deposits that cannot be removed by brushing alone, followed by polishing to smooth surfaces and remove staining.

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Gum health assessment

A thorough assessment of your gum tissue using periodontal probing to measure pocket depths and identify any signs of gum disease at the earliest possible stage.

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Oral hygiene instruction

Personalised, practical guidance on brushing technique, interdental cleaning, and lifestyle factors that affect your gum and tooth health.

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Periodontal treatment

Where gum disease is present, root surface debridement (deep cleaning) removes bacterial deposits from below the gumline — the primary active treatment for periodontal disease.

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Fluoride application

Professional fluoride varnish or gel treatments can be applied to strengthen enamel and help prevent decay.

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Dietary and lifestyle advice

Guidance on diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, and other factors known to impact oral health.

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Your hygiene appointment

What to expect

1

Medical history review

Your hygienist will review or take your medical history at each visit, as certain medical conditions and medications can affect gum health.

2

Gum health assessment

Periodontal pocket depths are measured around each tooth. Bleeding on probing, recession, and mobility are also noted.

3

Plaque and calculus removal

Specialist hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers are used to remove hardened calculus from above and, where necessary, below the gumline.

4

Polishing

Teeth are polished using a professional-grade paste to smooth surfaces and remove surface staining.

5

Oral hygiene instruction

Specific, practical guidance on improving your home routine — including brushing technique and interdental cleaning.

6

Preventative treatments

Fluoride varnish or other preventative applications may be recommended based on your individual risk profile.

7

Review and recall scheduling

Your hygienist will discuss findings with you and recommend an appropriate recall interval based on your risk level.

1

Medical history review

Your hygienist will review or take your medical history at each visit, as certain medical conditions and medications can affect gum health.

2

Gum health assessment

Periodontal pocket depths are measured around each tooth. Bleeding on probing, recession, and mobility are also noted.

3

Plaque and calculus removal

Specialist hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers are used to remove hardened calculus from above and, where necessary, below the gumline.

4

Polishing

Teeth are polished using a professional-grade paste to smooth surfaces and remove surface staining.

5

Oral hygiene instruction

Specific, practical guidance on improving your home routine — including brushing technique and interdental cleaning.

6

Preventative treatments

Fluoride varnish or other preventative applications may be recommended based on your individual risk profile.

7

Review and recall scheduling

Your hygienist will discuss findings with you and recommend an appropriate recall interval based on your risk level.

1

Medical history review

Your hygienist will review or take your medical history at each visit, as certain medical conditions and medications can affect gum health.

2

Gum health assessment

Periodontal pocket depths are measured around each tooth. Bleeding on probing, recession, and mobility are also noted.

3

Plaque and calculus removal

Specialist hand instruments and ultrasonic scalers are used to remove hardened calculus from above and, where necessary, below the gumline.

4

Polishing

Teeth are polished using a professional-grade paste to smooth surfaces and remove surface staining.

5

Oral hygiene instruction

Specific, practical guidance on improving your home routine — including brushing technique and interdental cleaning.

6

Preventative treatments

Fluoride varnish or other preventative applications may be recommended based on your individual risk profile.

7

Review and recall scheduling

Your hygienist will discuss findings with you and recommend an appropriate recall interval based on your risk level.

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Understanding gum disease

The stages of periodontal disease

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the UK and is largely preventable.

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Gingivitis

The earliest and most common stage. Gums may appear red, swollen, or bleed when brushed. Fully reversible with treatment and improved home care.

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Early to moderate periodontitis

Infection spreads below the gumline. Bone and supporting fibres begin to be damaged. Manageable but not reversible.

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Severe periodontitis

Significant bone loss around the roots. Teeth may shift or become very loose. Specialist periodontal treatment may be required.

Bleeding on brushing is one of the most common early signs of gum disease and should always be assessed by a dental professional. Do not dismiss it as normal.

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Recommended frequency

How often should you see the hygienist?

There is no single answer that applies to everyone. The appropriate frequency depends on your individual gum health, risk factors, and response to treatment.

Patient profile
Typical recommendation
Healthy gums, low risk
Every 12 months
Moderate risk or early gum disease
Every 3–6 months
Active periodontal disease or high risk
Every 2–3 months
Orthodontic treatment (braces / Invisalign)
Every 3–4 months
Implant maintenance
Every 3–6 months
Pregnancy
More frequent during pregnancy
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Your smile journey

Getting your dream smile is easier than you think.

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Success stories

Your smile is our priority. Trusted family dental care using the latest techniques.

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Testimonials

Wendy S

Patient

I recently visited Castle Bromwich Dental Care, and the experience was exceptional. From the moment I walked in, the staff at the front desk made...

Testimonials

P Chau

Patient

My husband and I have been going to Dr Z. Alam for more than 5 years now, and we couldn’t be happier with the care...

Testimonials

Crystal B

Patient

I am a new patient at Castle Bromwich Dental Care. I have been seen by Dr Ella Bettinson for 4 appointments, and at each appointment...

Testimonials

Penny P

Patient

The receptionist was polite and welcoming. The Dentist and his assistant were friendly and made me feel at ease. The Dentist thoroughly explained to me...

Testimonials

Ferlynn H

Patient

Dr Zulfikar is an outstanding Dr. I’m a nervous patient, but he has always been kind and considerate of my needs. If I feel any...

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Testimonials

Wendy S

Patient

I recently visited Castle Bromwich Dental Care, and the experience was exceptional. From the moment I walked in, the staff at the front desk made...

Testimonials

P Chau

Patient

My husband and I have been going to Dr Z. Alam for more than 5 years now, and we couldn’t be happier with the care...

Testimonials

Crystal B

Patient

I am a new patient at Castle Bromwich Dental Care. I have been seen by Dr Ella Bettinson for 4 appointments, and at each appointment...

Testimonials

Penny P

Patient

The receptionist was polite and welcoming. The Dentist and his assistant were friendly and made me feel at ease. The Dentist thoroughly explained to me...

Testimonials

Ferlynn H

Patient

Dr Zulfikar is an outstanding Dr. I’m a nervous patient, but he has always been kind and considerate of my needs. If I feel any...

View all testimonials

Frequently asked questions

1. Does a scale and polish hurt?

For most patients with healthy gums, a scale and polish is comfortable. Patients with inflamed gums may experience some sensitivity. Local anaesthetic is available if needed.

2. My gums bleed when I brush — should I stop brushing around that area?

No. Bleeding gums are usually a sign of inflammation caused by plaque bacteria — avoiding the area allows more plaque to accumulate. Continue brushing gently and book a hygiene appointment.

3. Is a hygiene appointment the same as a dental check-up?

No — they are distinct. A check-up assesses overall dental health; a hygiene appointment focuses specifically on plaque and calculus removal, gum health assessment, and preventative care. Both are important.

4. Can I see the hygienist without seeing the dentist first?

In many cases, yes — GDC-registered hygienists can see patients directly for preventative care. We always recommend new patients also have a full dental examination.

5. Will a scale and polish whiten my teeth?

It will remove surface staining and can make teeth appear brighter, but it does not change the underlying colour of your teeth. For shade lightening, ask about professional whitening.

6. Can gum disease be cured?

Gingivitis is fully reversible with treatment. Once progressed to periodontitis, the bone loss is not reversible — treatment focuses on halting progression. For patients with implants, ongoing hygiene is essential to prevent peri-implantitis around dental implants.

Book a consultation
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Get in touch

We’d love to hear from you! If you have any questions or would like to arrange a visit, please get in touch.

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Book an appointment today

Let’s take the first step toward a healthier smile, together. Book a consultation with our friendly, professional team. We’re here to help you smile with confidence.

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Opening times

  • Monday 9:00 - 13:00 | 14:00 - 17:30
  • Tuesday 9:00 - 13:00 | 14:00 - 17:30
  • Wednesday 9:00 - 13:00 | 14:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday 9:00 - 13:00 | 14:00 - 17:30
  • Friday 8:30 - 13:00 | 13:30 - 16:30

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Castle Bromwich Dental Care

4.5 160 reviews

  • I’m extremely happy with my teeth bonding and my new smile! From start to finish, I felt very comfortable and well looked after. The result looks really natural and has made a huge difference to my smile and confidence. Dr Zunezo Sadiq was professional… Read more

    I’m extremely happy with my teeth bonding and my new smile! From start to finish, I felt very comfortable and well looked after. The result looks really natural and has made a huge difference to my smile and confidence.

    Dr Zunezo Sadiq was professional, patient and really listened to what I wanted. I’m genuinely very pleased with the final result and would definitely recommend the practice to anyone considering cosmetic dental treatment.

    Thank you so much for giving me a smile I’m really happy with! 😊

  • Great dentist always pleasant and precise with the work and very good service have used this Dentist since 1982 43 years with the Same dentist it’s now run very effectively efficiently with a great service been seen the current Dentist At 6/7 years Z Alam and… Read more

    Great dentist always pleasant and precise with the work and very good service have used this Dentist since 1982 43 years with the Same dentist it’s now run very effectively efficiently with a great service been seen the current Dentist At 6/7 years Z Alam and R Alam Dentists 5 stars and highley recommend.

  • I have had a phobia of dentists for donkeys years, hence the problems I'm having now and have only been a patient here for months rather than years, but I would not go anywhere else. Dr. Zulfikar Alam is a wonderful dentist - he is patient, explains… Read more

    I have had a phobia of dentists for donkeys years, hence the problems I'm having now and have only been a patient here for months rather than years, but I would not go anywhere else. Dr. Zulfikar Alam is a wonderful dentist - he is patient, explains everything, reduces my anxiety and is excellent at his job. I would like to thank him for his patience and perseverance this week, after a very difficult extraction! Thank you so much and kind regards.

  • My Dental Practice. Reliable good doctors and very efficient.

  • Been registered with this dentist for 15+ years and I find the reception staff polite and the dentists professional and keep you at ease for any kind of treatment you may need. Highly recommend

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