When to schedule an appointment at the Dental hygienist?

At the 6 monthly check-up of the dentist, the dentist measures the condition of your teeth, including your gums and whether plaque and/or inflammations are present. This measurement is also called the DSPI score. Between your teeth and gum there is a natural amount of space. The medical term for this is “pocket”.

By proper maintenance of your teeth, for example by flossing and brushing, these pockets remain in good condition and the depth of the pocket stays minimal. As a result, there is little or no chance for bacteria. Below you will find an overview of the DPSI score:

1. De gum is healthy
2. The gum is inflamed, you have Gingivitis
3. Besides Gingivitis you also have tartar
4. Breakdown of the support tissues, you have periodontitis (pocket> 4 and <6)
5. Periodontitis in combination with receding gums
6. A further deterioration of situation 3 (pocket 6 or bigger)

Based on the DPSI score, the dentist can refer you to a dental hygienist or prevention assistant. With a DPSI score of 1 or 2 you get a dental referral to the prevention assistant. The prevention assistant takes care of:

• The removal of tartar and dental plaque;
• Polishing the teeth;
• Measuring the DPSI score;
• Fluoride treatments;
• Information and instructions regarding dental care and how to maintain your teeth

In the following cases it would be very recommendable to visit the dental hygienist:

• In case of receding gums;
• In case of red, inflamed, swollen and/or bleeding gums;
• In case of loose teeth or molars;
• In case of regular plaque or tartar on your teeth;
• In case of a bad taste in your mouth or bad breath (halitosis);
• In case of an illness or anomaly that may be affected by your dental health (systemic anomalies).

Are the costs of the treatment at the dental hygienist reimbursed by your health insurer?

The costs for a treatment are mostly always reimbursed by your health insurer, provided you have additional dental insurance. We have agreements with almost all health insurers, because of this we can inform you in advance what the costs are and whether they will be reimbursed or not. You can always call us for information. We would like to help you identify the costs and what your own contribution may be. Beware that in case of a treatment which falls under periodontitis, you will always have to contact your health insurer first to make sure that these are reimbursed.