Patient guide

Seeing a dental hygienist without a dentist first (direct access)

You do not need a dentist to refer you before seeing a dental hygienist. That arrangement is called direct access, and it is how many people in Cobham book a clean without registering for a full examination first.

What is direct access to a dental hygienist?

Direct access means you can see a dental hygienist without a dentist examining or referring you first. The hygienist works within their own scope of practice, and will advise you to see a dentist if anything they find needs a dentist's examination, diagnosis or treatment.

Who is the online direct-access appointment for?

Our website hygiene booking is for people who are not currently registered at Cobham Dental. If you have not been examined here, you can book a hygiene appointment online yourself.

How much is a direct-access hygiene appointment?

A direct-access (self-referral) hygiene appointment at Cobham Dental is £105. That is a separate fee from the registered-patient Airflow hygiene appointment, which is £99.

I am already registered at Cobham Dental — how do I book hygiene?

Registered patients book hygiene visits through the patient portal or by calling reception, so the appointment fits the recall interval your clinician recommended. In the online booking journey, choose “I’m already registered here” and you will be taken to the portal.

What happens at a hygiene appointment?

The hygienist reviews your oral health history, cleans your teeth — at our practice using EMS Airflow as part of Guided Biofilm Therapy — and gives you advice on keeping your teeth and gums healthy at home. They will also tell you how often they think you should be seen.

When might a hygienist advise you to see a dentist?

If they notice something that needs a diagnosis or treatment a hygienist cannot provide — for example decay, a broken tooth or restoration, pain, or signs that need further investigation — they will explain that and recommend a dental examination. Direct access does not replace a dental check-up.

Booking hygiene at Cobham Dental

Direct-access hygiene appointments can be booked online. If you are not sure which route applies to you, call reception on 01932 866966 and we will sort it out for you.