Dental Hygienist in Maida Vale
If you are looking for a dental hygienist in Maida Vale, you will find us at 207 to 209 Sutherland Avenue, W9 1RU, two minutes on foot from Maida Vale tube station. A dental hygienist is a registered dental professional who cleans your teeth, treats the early stages of gum disease and shows you how to look after your mouth at home. You do not need a referral from a dentist to book one.
Our hygiene appointments start at £115, with Airflow stain removal available as an extra at £40. We are open until 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which helps if you work during the day.
Key takeaways
- Scale and polish is £115, or £125 when seen with a dentist. Airflow is £40.
- Hygienists are registered with the General Dental Council and can see you directly, with one exception: tooth whitening needs a dentist's prescription.
- Healthy gums should not bleed. If yours do, a hygienist can help find out why.
- We are open Monday to Saturday, with late evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
What does a dental hygienist do?
A hygienist focuses on the health of your gums and the cleaning of your teeth. According to the General Dental Council, dental hygienists and therapists can carry out their full scope of practice without a referral from a dentist, except for tooth whitening, which requires a prescription from a dentist.
In a typical visit, your hygienist will check your gums, remove plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth and polish them. They also give practical advice, such as how to clean between your teeth and which brushing method suits you. Our general information on dental hygiene covers this in more detail.
Hygienists work alongside your dentist, and each can refer you to the other when something needs attention. Where gum disease is involved, regular hygiene visits can be part of wider periodontal treatment.
Which hygiene appointment do you need?
Many people are not sure whether they need a scale and polish, an Airflow treatment or something deeper. This is a simple way to think about it.
| If you want to | Appointment to ask about | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Remove tartar and keep your gums healthy | Scale and Polish | £115 |
| Have your hygiene visit and a dentist's check at the same time | Scale and Polish with Dentist | £125 |
| Lift surface stains from tea, coffee or red wine | Add Airflow to your visit | £40 |
| Treat bleeding, swollen or receding gums | Start with a dental examination or periodontal assessment | See our fee list |
Airflow uses a jet of air, water and fine powder to lift stains and soft plaque from the surface of your teeth. It is generally gentle. It is not a substitute for scaling when hard tartar needs to be removed, which is why many patients have both.
If your gums are already inflamed, your dentist may suggest a deeper clean below the gum line. NHS information describes this as deep cleaning under your gums for more serious gum disease. We explain what that involves in our information on gum disease.
What to expect at your first hygiene visit
You will be asked about your medical history, medication and any worries you have about your gums or breath. Your hygienist then looks at your teeth and gums, may use a small probe to check gum health and discusses what they find.
Scaling removes plaque and tartar, using either hand instruments or an ultrasonic scaler. Polishing smooths the surface of your teeth to help keep plaque from sticking. If you have sensitive teeth, tell your hygienist before starting so they can adjust their technique. [CONFIRM: appointment lengths for scale and polish and Airflow]
You will leave with a clear plan, including when you should come back. If your gums are sore afterwards, a few days of careful cleaning usually helps. Contact us if soreness persists.
Hygiene visits for particular situations
Hygiene care is not one size fits all. A few examples of when a visit is especially worthwhile are below.
- Pregnancy and diabetes. The NHS says regular dental check ups matter particularly if you are pregnant or have type 2 diabetes. Tell us at booking so we can plan accordingly.
- Smoking. Smoking is a risk factor for gum disease, and the NHS recommends stopping for the health of your gums. Smoking also stains teeth, and a hygienist can remove the surface staining.
- Sensitive teeth. Let us know. We can adapt the technique, and sensitivity is worth investigating in its own right.
- Stain from tea, coffee or red wine. Polishing and Airflow can lift surface stains. If you would like your teeth to be lighter than their natural shade, that is whitening, which needs a dentist's prescription according to the General Dental Council.
- Teeth straightening. If you wear aligners, a hygienist can help keep your teeth and gums healthy while you do. Ask us for advice on cleaning.
How often should you see a hygienist?
You may have heard that everyone needs a hygienist every six months. The honest answer is that it depends on you. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on dental check up intervals says the time between oral health reviews should be set for each patient based on risk, and ranges from three months to 24 months for adults. Factors include how well you clean, your diet, smoking, past gum disease and any medical conditions.
Your hygienist will suggest a schedule that suits your mouth. Some people need visits every three to four months while their gums heal. Others do well on a yearly or six monthly visit. If you are unsure when your last full check was, a dental examination is a good starting point.
Bleeding gums and gum health
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are one of the main signs of gum disease, according to the NHS. Other signs include swollen, red or sore gums, gums that are shrinking back, loose teeth and an abscess. Plaque build up is the cause, and in the early stages it can often be reversed with good cleaning and professional help.
If this sounds familiar, book a visit so that we can look properly. Regular check ups in Maida Vale also help us spot gum problems early. Please do not ignore it.
Hygienist or dentist first?
If you have not been seen for a while, or you are worried about a specific tooth, it often makes sense to have a dental examination first. Your dentist can check for decay, assess your gums and take any images. You can then go straight to the hygienist with a clear plan. If you only want a routine clean and your teeth feel fine, you can book the hygienist directly. And if you would like both on the same day, our Scale and Polish with Dentist appointment is £125.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Brush and clean between your teeth as normal before you come.
- Bring a list of any medicines you take, and tell us about any changes to your health.
- Let us know if you are nervous, or have sensitive teeth or gums, so we can adjust the visit.
- Write down any questions, such as how to clean around braces, implants or crowns.
Why teeth sometimes feel different after a clean
After a thorough scale, many people notice that their teeth feel smoother, and sometimes that there seem to be new gaps or more sensitivity. This is normal. Hardened tartar can fill spaces between teeth, and once it is removed the spaces are visible again. Sensitivity usually settles within a few days. If it does not, tell us.
Looking after your teeth at home
The NHS recommends brushing twice a day for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, spitting out afterwards rather than rinsing, and cleaning between your teeth daily with interdental brushes or floss. Adults should use toothpaste with at least 1,350 parts per million of fluoride. It is better not to use wooden toothpicks, and to wait before using mouthwash so it does not wash away the fluoride.
Your hygienist can show you the interdental brush size that fits your gaps, which is one of the most useful things you can learn in a visit.
Fees and payment
Our hygiene fees are Scale and Polish £115, Scale and Polish with Dentist £125 and Airflow £40. A new patient examination is £110 and an existing patient examination is £95. A £50 refundable deposit is taken at booking and returned when you attend. Many private health insurers are accepted. Please ask us about your own policy.
Finding us in Maida Vale
Maida Smiles is at 207 to 209 Sutherland Avenue, London W9 1RU, two minutes on foot from Maida Vale tube station. Paid parking is available through ParkBee on Lanark Road, the road next to the practice. If you live or work in Maida Vale, Little Venice or around Warwick Avenue, you can reach us without crossing central London.
| Day | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 09:00 to 18:00 |
| Tuesday | 09:00 to 20:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:00 to 18:00 |
| Thursday | 09:00 to 20:00 |
| Friday | 09:00 to 18:00 |
| Saturday | 09:00 to 18:00 |
You can read more about our home area at our Maida Vale dental practice. Our hygienist is Hala Jumah, and her profile is on our website. [CONFIRM: that Hala Jumah sees patients at Maida Vale and on which days, her GDC number and experience; other hygienist names, GDC numbers and experience]
Dental hygienist FAQs
Do I need a dentist's referral to see a hygienist?
No. The General Dental Council says hygienists can work without a referral, except for tooth whitening. You can book directly with us.
Does scale and polish hurt?
It should not. You may feel scraping or a little sensitivity, particularly if you have not had a clean for a while or your gums are inflamed. Tell your hygienist and they can adapt their approach.
What is the difference between a hygienist and a dentist?
A dentist diagnoses and treats problems with teeth, gums and the mouth, including fillings and extractions. A hygienist focuses on cleaning and preventing gum disease. They work as a team.
Is Airflow better than a scale and polish?
They do different jobs. Airflow is mainly for surface stains and soft plaque, and scaling removes hardened tartar. Many patients have both in one visit.
How often should I see a hygienist?
It depends on the health of your gums. Guidance from NICE says the interval should be based on your individual risk, anywhere from three months to two years. Your hygienist will recommend a schedule.
What if my gums bleed during cleaning?
Some bleeding is common when gums are inflamed. It tends to improve as they become healthier. If your gums bleed often, we want to see you.
Can I see a hygienist in the evening?
We are open until 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. [CONFIRM: evening hygienist availability]
Book a dental hygienist in Maida Vale: call 020 3583 9809 or book online. We are at 207 to 209 Sutherland Avenue, W9 1RU.
Call 020 3583 9809Directions From St John’s Wood
Address: 207-209 Sutherland Ave, London W9 1RU. Get directions.
Paid parking is available using ParkBee on Lanark Road (the road right next to the practice). For public transport users, we are a two-minute walk from Maida Vale tube station.
What we offer
Google reviews
4,8
I could not be more satisfied with my experience at Maida Smiles - A special mention to Dr Gurteurez who is one of the most friendly and professional dentists I have ever met
Adam
I had my first visit and the team was very warm, caring and professional. The online booking platform makes it very easy to arrange your appointment. Doctor Pedro made me feel comfortable despite this being my first appointment since Covid. He is incredibly knowledgeable and offers you the best treatment for your specific condition. I would highly recommend them
Gian Paolo Ziletti
Professional. Friendly. Informative. Maida Smiles offers great dental services including cleanings, oral surgery and realignment. I feel very lucky to have them so close by. I had an appointment just this week that was quick, thorough and safe.
Emily Chmura
Being very nervous about using dentists after a terrible experience when I was younger, I came to Maida Smiles and loved the calm patient demeanour of Pedro. You can clearly see Pedro and the team take pride in what they do and are perfectionists. The whole experience was great and I will never go to another dentist again.
Reena Nathwani
Delighted with the outcome of my treatment by Pedro. Meticulous attention to detail explaining exactly how the procedure would be carried out from first consultation to completion backed up with supporting guidance notes. Clearly an expert in his field and someone who cares passionately about the outcomes for his patients. Highly recommended.
George Jones
I loved my first visit to Maida Smile Dental Clinic. The staff member at reception was very warm, welcoming and professional. My dentist, Priscilla, and her assistant were fantastic. I have quite sensitive teeth near my gums and I can find the probing and investigation quite uncomfortable during a consultation, but this wasn’t the case at all. I didn’t experience discomfort and felt in very safe hands. This also applied to the hygienist work. I didn’t even have to ask Priscilla to avoid using the ultra sound cleaner on the sensitive areas of my teeth. I’m looking forward to going back, and that’s not often you can say that about going to the dentist!
Simone Gibson
Since I first had the luck to be recommended and book an appointment with Dr. Pedro Gutierres over 8 years ago, I have never trusted my dental health nor my family’s to anyone else. It’s very hard to find a dentist who ticks all the boxes and even goes beyond any expectations you may have, from service, sympathy, professionalism, and expertise, etc., 5 stars are not enough to rate him. I was so happy when he opened his own clinic and surrounded himself with the best professionals you can find, I cannot recommend Maida Smiles Dental Clinic enough.
Sofia Gouveia
Maida Smiles Dental Clinic is excellent!! The staff is very friendly, professional and always aiming for the customers best experience! A special thank you to Dr. Pedro Gutierres who is truly amazing. I am absolutely satisfied with the results and highly recommend this great dental clinic!
Ana Cruz
Dr. Pedro Gutierres is the best Implantologist I have come across. His work is amazing and of very high quality! I would highly recommend him and Maida Smiles to all my friends and family. If you want the perfect smile this is the place to go.
Blossom
“Pedro was so patient and professional throughout my treatment for my implants.. I chose to have my treatment with a local anaesthetic rather than any sedation and have a very bad gag reflex when anything touches the back of my throat. His patience throughout the experience was wonderful, completely putting me at ease and he also gave me a technique to help me in the future. I have seen him for my follow up and fully intend to book an annual visit in 2020. which is no small thing as I live 60 miles away.I can thoroughly recommend him for any treatment.”
Denise Gilbert
I was very nervous to pull my ingrown wisdom tooth. Dr Pedro Guiterres made me feel really comfortable and the job was completed very professionally. It didn’t take long at all and I didn’t feel any pain. I would definitely recommend his service at this practice.
Jihan Daoud
From the day I made my first appointment. The team at Maida smile were amazing. They didn’t treat me like a customer but more like family. They have been great in every step in FINALLY GETTING MY DREAM SMILE from the receptionist to my dentist Pedro Laranjeira I can’t thank you enough and of course Pedro Laranjeira beautiful wife…… they are very professional and understand that I had to change my appointment now and then for work commitments and they were very understand. I will defo recommend them 100% not forgetting how chic the office is
Tracy Mensah
I was very nervous about having a dental implant but was immediately put at ease by Dr Pedro Gutierres. The procedure was explained in full and the care both during and after treatment has been of the highest standard. I received advice on how to look after my implant and have had no problems. I highly recommend.
Dawn Briggs
I had 7 implants installed by Dr Pedro Gutierres, including one which required a bone graft. In my 70 years I’ve had some bad experiences with dental treatment so it takes a lot for me to relax but, from my initial consultation, through to the end of the treatment, I had complete trust in Pedro’s expertise: preparations for the treatment and after-care were extremely thorough and fully explained, the treatment itself was surprisingly endurable (considering what was involved) and the implants have made a major difference to my life. If you are considering implants then I would whole-heartedly and sincerely recommend Pedro for this work.
Russ Hickman
I couldn’t recommend Maida Smiles enough: the care, attention to detail and the way Dentists and Nurses made sure I felt comfortable and safe throughout the treatments was incredible. Dr Pedro explained the treatments in detail to me and I have never felt under pressure to proceed… but I am very glad I did as I am happy and confident to smile again!
Mariana Pinheiro
Highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a friendly and trustworthy practice with an incredibly friendly and patient staff. Dr Pedro has been one of the best dentists I’ve ever had, he made me feel comfortable and were very knowledgeable in explaining every step of what he was doing and answering all of my questions. Amazing thorough the procedure, excellent communication, superb and professional treatment. I hope they keep it this way for a long time.
Joas Souza
Dr Pedro is a very good, confident and experienced professional. I’ve known him for some years now and always felt well cared for, either for small or bigger treatments.The facilities of the clinic are amazing and all the staff are very friendly. Highly recommended.”
Nelson Cafruni
I went to different clinics before, and nobody could really convince me until Maida Smiles did. The team here makes you comfortable , shows you different options and different budgets , and doesn't try to make you go only for one plan. I felt that the team was knowledgeable and wanted to help me , so that's why I decided to start
Diogo
I was referred to Dr. Pedro who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional, they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. I've never looked back since
Theresa
"I told him, 'I want beautiful teeth, beautiful but natural, I don't want fake looking teeth.' Now I smile, I talk... it just makes you more confident. If you wear a beautiful nice suit... you have beautiful teeth, then it's like a perfect."
Louca
"I went to my hygienist a little while ago, and she said to me they were the best implants that she'd ever seen and she would never have known that they weren't my real teeth."
Sharon
Dr. Pedro explained the process of Invisalign to me. It sounded easy, it was quite a quick process, and the end result is my teeth moved back, so I'm quite happy.
Soula
I feel like I've not just developed a professional relationship with my dentist and the staff... they become more like friends as well, because of the kind of compassion and sympathy that they give you during treatment.
Alvin
"After a friend recommended the clinic, I was referred to Dr. Pedro, who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional; they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. They have more than met my expectations. I have to have a few more implants, and I'm not afraid anymore. Now, finally, I can live again."
Lesley
"After not having a great experience with previous dental treatments, I was desperate for someone that I trusted. I broke a tooth, and even before I saw Dr. Pedro, he reassured me that I was going to be fine. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was an amazing experience, from not only Dr. Pedro but also all the staff in the clinic, and I would definitely recommend [them] ".
Mariana
I chose Maida Smiles because of the reviews and a friend who was really happy with the results. The results definitely met my expectations. My expressions are much more smooth than before and it really makes the difference
Carolina
I’m very grateful for the quick and efficient service I received when I needed an emergency appointment. The staff were kind and accommodating, and the dentist provided clear, helpful advice that made a real difference. The whole experience was reassuring. Highly recommend their professionalism and expertise!
Safiya Guled
I am always anxious when having to see the dentist and this was one of my first experiences with Maida Smiles. The dentist, Benedict Harrison was very reassuring and immediately put me at ease. He was quite lucid in his explanations of what had to be done, etcetera, and is making good progress with the ongoing treatment. Also, the rest of the staff were friendly and just plain nice.
John Jacobs
Wow wow Dr Claudia is the best dentist in London, my kid adores her and it is always a pleasant visit. Can’t recommend her enough
Bel Cohn
I am delighted with the results of my replacement veneers.
Dr Benedict Harrison was very good at talking me through the whole process and keeping me informed during the treatment if there were any issues - which there weren’t.
He has a charming demeanour which is an added advantage in a dentist, who I think we all agree are not our favourite people, overall a 5 star experience.
Karen Shepherd
I went to the Maida Smiles Clinic for the first time and had the most wonderful experience! I am dentist phobic but strangely left the place with a big smile on my face (literally!). The receptionist was super kind, Susan was impeccable and very helpful, and I had my appointment with the most amazing dentist Dr Mafalda Vilhena. Couldn’t recommend her enough. She explains the whole procedure and is very rigorous in her work. Congratulations to Dr Pedro Gutierres for creating such an excellent working environment and to all the team. I will be back and bringing my family along and we don’t even live in Maida Vale. Thank you for such an impeccable job on my teeth and for taking my fear of dentists away. Note: they don’t cover NHS, only private bookings or with insurance.
Maria Monteiro
