Hygienist services in London

A dental hygienist cleans your teeth and helps you look after your gums. They remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that brushing cannot reach. They also show you how to clean your teeth and gums better at home.

What a hygienist costs in London

Private: the London median published starting price for a hygienist appointment is £75. Half of all practices start between £65 and £95. A longer appointment, an airflow polish (a jet of water, air and fine powder) or treatment for gum disease costs more. Privately, you can usually book a hygienist directly, without seeing a dentist first.

NHS: a scale and polish is part of Band 1 (£27.90) when your dentist says it is clinically needed. More treatment for gum disease is part of Band 2 (£76.60). On the NHS, hygienist care is part of a course of treatment with your NHS dentist. You cannot usually book an NHS hygienist on your own. For how to find a practice, see our NHS dentists in London page.

For every treatment price in one place, see our London dental price list or our guide to how much a dentist costs in London.

How often to go

There is no fixed rule. Your dentist or hygienist will suggest a gap based on your gums. Many people go every 6 to 12 months. People with gum disease are often seen every 3 to 4 months.

If your gums bleed when you brush, see gum treatment in London. A hygienist visit is often booked at the same time as a dental check-up.

Written and reviewed by the Dentist-London.com Editorial team. Last reviewed 6 October 2026. Prices are advertised starting prices, not quotes. Confirm the cost with the practice. This is general information and does not replace advice from a dentist about your own teeth.