Hygienist services in London

Scale and polish, gum-health checks and oral-hygiene advice from a dental hygienist.

  • 1,408 Verified practices
  • £65-£95 Typical "from" price (887 practices' published fees)
  • 33 Borough guides

A dental hygienist specialises in preventive care - cleaning your teeth, removing plaque and tartar, and advising on how to keep your mouth healthy between visits. Regular hygienist appointments are one of the best investments you can make in your dental health.

A hygienist appointment in London typically costs £60-£150 privately. The price varies depending on the length of appointment, the practice location, and whether it includes an airflow polish or deeper treatment. For a full breakdown of treatment costs, see our London dental cost guide.

On the NHS, a hygienist visit is included in a Band 1 check-up at £27.90, but only if your dentist refers you as part of your treatment plan. You can’t book directly with an NHS hygienist. For more on NHS dental access, see our NHS dentist London hub.

Most dentists recommend seeing a hygienist every 6 months, though some patients benefit from more frequent visits every 3-4 months.

A hygienist visit pairs well with regular dental check-ups. If you’re also interested in brightening your smile, see our guide to teeth whitening in London.

This information is a general guide and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Always consult a qualified dentist about your individual circumstances.

Written and reviewed by the Dentist-London.com Editorial team. Last reviewed 3 March 2026. Prices shown are indicative ranges, not quotes - confirm costs directly with the practice.

1,408 of London's 2,130 CQC-registered practices are verified for hygienist services, taken directly from each practice's own published treatment list, not guessed from directory categories. Across 887 practices with published fees, "from" prices typically range £65-£95. More practices are verified every week.

Highly rated practices offering hygienist services

Ratings via Google (practices with 10+ reviews). Treatment lists verified from each practice's own website.

Hygienist services by London borough

Find a dentist by borough

Hygienist services: frequently asked questions

How much does a hygienist appointment cost in London?

A hygienist appointment (scale and polish) in London typically costs between £65 and £95, with longer sessions for gum disease costing more.

Is a hygienist available on the NHS?

A basic scale and polish can be included in an NHS check-up where it is clinically needed, but standalone hygienist appointments are usually a private treatment.

How often should I see a hygienist?

Most people benefit from a hygienist visit every six months, alongside their routine check-up. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

What does a dental hygienist do?

A hygienist removes plaque and tartar that brushing cannot reach, polishes your teeth, and gives tailored advice on cleaning and gum care to prevent decay and gum disease.