periodontal treatment Archives - RW Perio

The Ancient Wisdom You’ve Been Missing

Ever wonder why your breath still isn’t fresh after brushing? Your tongue might be the culprit. While many of us diligently brush and floss, we’re overlooking a crucial player in our oral hygiene game: the tongue scraper. This simple yet powerful tool has been a cornerstone of oral health for millennia.

Ancient cultures were onto something – tongue scraping, or “jihwa prakshalana” in Ayurvedic medicine, has been practised for thousands of years. Traditional Chinese medicine also emphasises tongue cleaning as a way to maintain overall health. These ancestral practices weren’t just based on tradition – modern science is now validating their wisdom.

The Science Behind the Scrape

Your tongue is essentially a bacterial playground. Its rough, papillae-covered surface creates the perfect environment for microorganisms to thrive. Throughout the day, it collects:

This accumulation forms that white or yellow coating you might notice in the morning. While brushing your tongue with a toothbrush might seem like a good solution, it’s surprisingly ineffective on its own. A toothbrush is designed for the hard, smooth surface of teeth – not the textured landscape of your tongue.

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By Dr Reena Tongue Scraper

The Flavour Enhancement Factor

Here’s where things get interesting: tongue scrapers can enhance your culinary experience. The coating that builds up on your tongue doesn’t just look unpleasant – it dulls your taste receptors. By removing this barrier, you’re allowing your taste buds to fully connect with what you’re eating and drinking.

Many users report that after regular tongue scraping:

The Fresh Breath Connection

Bad breath affects nearly 50% of adults at some point, and that tongue coating is often the hidden culprit. The bacteria residing on your tongue produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) – the primary cause of halitosis. Clinical studies have shown that regular tongue scraping can reduce these VSCs by up to 75%, which is significantly more effective than brushing alone.

Choosing Your Scraper: Material Matters

Not all tongue scrapers are created equal. Here’s what to consider:

Stainless Steel

Copper

Plastic

The Proper Technique

Using a tongue scraper effectively is simple but requires the right approach:

  1. Start first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking
  2. Stick your tongue out comfortably
  3. Place the scraper at the back of your tongue (as far as comfortable)
  4. Apply gentle pressure
  5. Pull the scraper forward in one smooth motion
  6. Rinse the scraper between strokes
  7. Repeat 2-3 times
  8. Clean your scraper thoroughly and let it dry

Beyond Fresh Breath: Additional Benefits

Regular tongue scraping offers surprising benefits beyond the obvious:

Making It a Habit

Like any health practice, consistency is key. Keep your tongue scraper visible near your toothbrush as a reminder. Consider it as essential as brushing – because it is. The process takes less than a minute but can significantly impact oral health and overall well-being.

Remember, your mouth is the gateway to your body’s health. By incorporating tongue scraping into your daily routine, you’re not just freshening your breath – you’re participating in an ancient practice that modern science continues to validate. Your taste buds, breath, and oral health will thank you.

Ready to transform your oral hygiene routine? At RW Perio, we highly recommend starting with the clinical standard By Dr Reena Tongue Scraper and giving it at least two weeks of consistent use. You might be surprised at how much cleaner and fresher your mouth feels – and how much more you enjoy your favourite foods and beverages.

The Hidden Battle Between Your Mind and Your Mouth

Imagine your gums as a frontline soldier, constantly fighting an invisible war against infection. The enemy? Plaque—that sticky bacterial film that creeps along your teeth, causing inflammation and weakening your oral defences. But here’s the twist: stress is the secret weapon compromising your gum health. Gum disease isn’t just about bad breath or bleeding gums.

It’s a serious infection that can destroy the tissues supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. And in the pressure cooker of modern life—especially in London—your gums are taking a beating.

City Life’s Stress Epidemic on Your Oral Health

74% of London adults are constantly stressed. Work pressures, financial anxiety, and the city’s relentless pace turn stress into a silent health destroyer. But it’s not just about feeling overwhelmed—stress is wreaking havoc on your body’s natural defences.

When stressed, your body becomes a hormone factory, pumping out cortisol and adrenaline. These stress hormones don’t just give you headaches and sleepless nights—they systematically weaken your immune system, leaving your gums vulnerable to bacterial invasion.

The Shocking Numbers

How Stress Wages War on Your Gums

Stress doesn’t just sit in the background—it actively attacks your oral health:

Your Stress-Releasing, Gum-Protecting Action Plan

Lifestyle Strategies

Oral Health Tactics

Don’t Wait—Take Action Now for Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive condition. The earlier you address it, the better your chances of preventing serious damage. While a completely stress-free life might be unrealistic, you can take control of both your mental well-being and oral health.

Your Next Steps

  1. Book a dental checkup
  2. Implement stress-reduction techniques
  3. Commit to a consistent oral hygiene routine

Located in the city and concerned about your gum health? Book an appointment with our expert periodontist on Harley Street today. Your gums—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

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Your gums play a vital role during pregnancy, acting as the foundation for your overall oral health and even impacting the well-being of your growing baby. While it’s perfectly normal for your gums to experience increased sensitivity and swelling due to hormonal changes, neglecting proper gum care can lead to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis, or gum disease. This inflammatory condition has been linked to several pregnancy complications, making it crucial for expectant mothers to prioritise their gum health during this delicate time.

We’ll delve into the connection between gum disease and pregnancy risks, exploring the potential consequences and underlying mechanisms. But don’t worry; we’ll also provide you with practical tips and strategies to maintain optimal gum health throughout your pregnancy journey, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your little one.

1.   The Link Between Gum Disease and Pregnancy Complications

Gum disease during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of several complications, including preeclampsia (high blood pressure), preterm birth, and low birth weight. But how exactly does this oral health issue potentially contribute to these adverse outcomes?

According to research, the inflammation caused by gum disease can enter the bloodstream and trigger an exaggerated immune response throughout the body. This heightened inflammatory state may then interfere with the placenta’s ability to deliver adequate nutrients and oxygen to the developing foetus, leading to potential growth restrictions or premature labour.

One study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that women with moderate to severe gum disease were at a significantly increased risk of delivering preterm, low-birth-weight babies compared to mothers with healthy gums. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology revealed a strong association between gum disease and preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition characterised by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.

While the exact mechanisms behind these connections are still being studied, experts believe that the inflammatory molecules and bacteria released by gum disease may contribute to the placental inflammation and dysfunction observed in these complications.

2.   Maintaining Gum Health During Pregnancy

Excellent oral hygiene is your best defence against gum disease during pregnancy. However, the hormonal changes that occur during this time can make your gums more vulnerable to inflammation and bleeding, even with diligent brushing and flossing.

As your progesterone levels rise, your gums may become more sensitive to plaque and bacterial buildup, leading to pregnancy gingivitis. This condition is characterised by swollen, tender, and bleeding gums, and if left untreated, it can progress to more severe forms of gum disease.

However, don’t worry – pregnancy gingivitis typically resolves after childbirth when your hormone levels return to normal. In the meantime, prioritising your oral care routine and seeking professional assistance if needed is crucial to maintaining gum health during pregnancy. Here are some simple yet effective steps to incorporate into your daily routine:

In addition to your at-home routine, it’s crucial to maintain regular dental visits and cleanings during pregnancy. Your dental professional can provide a thorough cleaning and identify any areas of concern that may require additional attention or treatment.

3.   The Role of a Periodontist

A periodontist, like our team at Harley Street, is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases and other issues affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. During pregnancy, periodontal expertise can be invaluable in maintaining your gum health and addressing any concerns that may arise.

If you’re experiencing persistent gum inflammation, bleeding, or discomfort, your dentist may recommend a visit to a periodontist. Our periodontists can provide specialised treatments, such as scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line) or targeted therapies for active gum disease.

Scaling and root planing involve carefully removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from the tooth surfaces and root areas. This process helps eliminate the sources of inflammation and allows the gum tissues to heal and reattach to the teeth. In some cases, antimicrobial or antibiotic treatments may be recommended to control the bacterial infection associated with gum disease.

Additionally, our periodontists can offer preventive measures, such as customised oral hygiene instructions, antimicrobial treatments, and frequent monitoring, to help manage your gum health proactively during this critical period.

4.   Tips for Expectant Mothers

To ensure optimal gum health throughout your pregnancy, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Extra Care and Precaution

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to inflammation and bleeding. This is also called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease.

It’s caused when your body produces more of the hormone progesterone, which boosts the blood supply to the mouth and makes gums more sensitive to bacteria. (The good news is, that once your baby’s born, pregnancy gingivitis should go away.)

If you experience morning sickness, try to avoid brushing immediately after vomiting to protect your enamel. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and brush about an hour later, once the acid levels have neutralised.

Conclusion

Your gum health during pregnancy is closely intertwined with the well-being of both you and your growing baby. By understanding the potential risks associated with gum disease and taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy mouth, you can reduce your chances of experiencing pregnancy complications and ensure the best possible outcome for your little one.

Remember, your dental team is there to support you throughout this incredible journey. Don’t hesitate to consult a periodontist if you have any concerns or need specialised care. By prioritising your gum health, you’ll not only promote a more comfortable pregnancy but also give your baby the best possible start in life.

Book an appointment at our periodontal clinic in London today.

Find Out Whether You Need to See a Periodontist

Periodontal health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked until issues become severe. A periodontist is a dental specialist focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, as well as the placement of dental implants. Maintaining healthy gums is essential not only for a beautiful smile but also for your general health. Here are ten signs that you might need to schedule a visit to a periodontist.

Bleeding Gums

One of the earliest and most common signs of periodontal disease is gum bleeding. Bleeding, especially when brushing or flossing, indicates that your gums are inflamed. This inflammation, known as gingivitis, can progress to more serious periodontal disease if left untreated. If you notice persistent bleeding, it’s time to seek professional help.

Persistent Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be more than just an embarrassing inconvenience. It often stems from bacterial buildup in the mouth, which is a hallmark of periodontal disease. Unlike the temporary bad breath from foods like garlic or onions, persistent bad breath is a sign that bacteria are thriving below the gumline, causing infection and odour. If mouthwash and good oral hygiene aren’t enough to combat bad breath, a periodontist can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

Swollen or Red Gums

Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Swollen, red, or tender gums are a clear indication of inflammation, which can be an early sign of periodontal disease. This inflammation is your body’s response to bacterial infection in the gum tissue. If your gums appear puffy or red, especially along the gumline, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation to prevent further damage.

Loose Teeth

Gum disease affects the tissues that support your teeth, including the periodontal ligament and jawbone. As these structures deteriorate, teeth can become loose and may eventually fall out if the disease is not treated. Loose teeth are a serious sign that you need immediate periodontal care. Addressing the issue promptly can save your teeth and prevent further complications.

Receding Gums

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This condition can be a sign of advanced periodontal disease. Receding gums can cause sensitivity and increase the risk of cavities and tooth loss. Early signs of gum recession include longer-looking teeth or increased sensitivity. Visiting a periodontist can help identify the cause and prevent progression.

Pain While Chewing

Experiencing pain while chewing can be a signal of periodontal problems. While tooth decay can also cause chewing discomfort, periodontal disease often leads to pain due to inflammation, infection, or damage to the supporting structures of the teeth. Distinguishing between different types of dental pain is crucial, and a periodontist can diagnose and treat the specific cause of your discomfort.

Gum Pocket Formation

Gum pockets are spaces that form between the teeth and gums due to the detachment of the gum tissue from the teeth. These pockets can become deeper over time, trapping food particles and bacteria, which exacerbates the infection. Early detection and treatment of gum pockets are vital to prevent severe periodontal disease. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and manage this condition effectively.

Changes in Bite

Periodontal disease can alter the way your teeth fit together when you bite, chew, or speak. If you notice changes in your bite or the alignment of your teeth, it could be due to shifting caused by bone loss or gum disease. Such changes should not be ignored, as they can lead to more severe dental issues. A periodontist can assess these changes and provide appropriate treatment to stabilise your bite.

Sensitivity to Temperature

Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages is another sign of gum issues. This sensitivity often results from exposed tooth roots due to receding gums or enamel loss. While sensitivity can also be caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease should be considered if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like gum recession or swelling. Consulting a periodontist can help determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.

5 Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums 

Learn effective strategies to keep your gums healthy and prevent periodontal disease.

Conclusion

Recognising the signs of periodontal disease early can prevent severe dental problems and maintain your oral health. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to seek professional advice from a periodontist. Early intervention can save your teeth, improve your gum health, and enhance your overall well-being. Don’t wait until the problem becomes too severe—schedule a consultation with our periodontist today if you notice any of these signs.

Periodontal disease is a common condition that affects the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. Despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about it that can lead to delayed treatment and even tooth loss.

In this blog, we will clear up five common misconceptions with insights from a periodontist in London.

Periodontal Disease Only Affects Older People

Contrary to popular belief, periodontal disease can affect people of all ages. While it is more common in older adults, younger people can also develop the condition. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications can increase the risk of it at any age. Therefore, it is essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums from a young age to prevent this. At RW Perio, we provide supportive periodontal therapy, in which when active treatment is complete, supportive therapy maintains the health improvements achieved.

gum disease treatment

Brushing and Flossing Alone Can Be A Preventative

While brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, they are not enough to prevent the disease. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings by a periodontist are also necessary. A periodontist can detect the early signs and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent them from progressing.

Bleeding Gums Are Normal

Many people assume that bleeding gums are natural, particularly when brushing or flossing their teeth. Bleeding gums, on the other hand, are a sign of inflammation and can be an indication of this disease. As a result, if your gums bleed on a frequent basis, you should consult a periodontist. If you’re curious to know why your gums are persistently bleeding, read about it here – “What Your Bleeding Gums are Trying to Tell You”.

Periodontal Disease Only Affects Gums

The gums and the bone that holds the teeth in place are both affected by periodontal disease. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss as well as other major health issues like heart disease and diabetes. If you have any indications of these symptoms, it is critical that you seek treatment from a periodontist. Read our latest article on what you can do about your receding gums – “Is Gum Recession Reversible”.

Periodontal Treatment Is Painful and Expensive

Many people skip periodontal therapy because they believe it will be painful and costly. Periodontal therapy, however, is now more comfortable and affordable than ever before, thanks to contemporary periodontal treatment procedures. Postponing therapy may result in more extensive and costly treatment in the future. Why not try our Online Gum Health Check today?

periodontist london

Clearing up Misconceptions

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can affect anyone at any age. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums, seeing a periodontist regularly, and seeking prompt treatment can help prevent this from progressing. If you have any questions about periodontal health or periodontal treatment, contact us for a specialist assessment here at RW Perio.

Learn whether gum recession is reversible by experts at RW Perio

Gum Recession: Causes and Reversibility

Gum recession is a common dental issue that occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth begins to pull back; exposing more of the tooth’s root. This can lead to sensitivity, tooth decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Read further to learn about the causes of gum recession. We’ll discuss the periodontal methods of treatment that can help to reverse this condition.

Causes of Gum Recession

Several factors can contribute to gum recession. The most common causes include:

Brushing too hard

Aggressive brushing can cause the gums to recede, as the bristles can irritate and damage the gum tissue.

Periodontal disease

Also known as gum disease, this bacterial infection can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to recession.

Genetics

Some people may be more prone to gum recession due to genetic factors.

Crooked teeth

Misaligned teeth can place extra stress on the gums, causing them to recede.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes in the body, such as pregnancy, can cause the gums to become more sensitive and prone to recession.

Tobacco use

Smoking or using other forms of tobacco can increase the risk of receding gums.

Periodontal Methods of Treatment

If you are experiencing gum recession, it is important to seek treatment from a periodontist – a dentist who specialises in the treatment of the gums and bones that support the teeth. There are several periodontal methods that can be used to help reverse this and prevent further damage.

Non-Surgical Treatment: This is a non-surgical procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing out the roots to help prevent bacteria from re-establishing themselves.

Gum Grafting: In this procedure, a small amount of gum tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and used to cover the exposed roots of the teeth. This can help to protect the roots from decay and sensitivity.

Bone Grafting: In cases where the bone has been lost due to periodontal disease, bone grafting can be used to rebuild the bone and provide a foundation for the gums to reattach to the teeth.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage caused. The type of surgery will depend on the severity of the recession and the overall health of the patient.

gum disease london

Aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, genetics, and tobacco use can cause gum recession, a common dental issue. A periodontist and proper treatment can reverse this condition and prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.

If you are experiencing symptoms of this condition, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening.

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Bleeding gums are often an indication of gum disease, which can cause severe problems if left untreated.

It’s important to understand what your bleeding gums may be trying to tell you about your oral health and how to take steps to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a common condition that affects the soft tissues of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, and cheeks. It is caused by bacteria in plaque, which is a sticky film that forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to inflammation and infection in the gums.

There are two stages of gum disease:

Gingivitis

This is the early stage of gum disease, characterised by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. At this stage, the damage can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This is a more advanced stage of gum disease, where the infection has spread to the supporting tissues and bones around the teeth. In severe cases, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone.

Other factors that can contribute to gum disease include:

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The symptoms of gum disease can vary depending on the stage of the condition.

In the early stages, symptoms may include:

Why is Gum Health Important?

Maintaining healthy gums is important not just for your oral health, but also for your overall health. Studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

In addition to reducing your risk of other health problems, maintaining healthy gums can also help you avoid more costly and invasive dental procedures down the road.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums

Maintaining healthy gums starts with proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.

In addition to these basic habits, there are a few other things you can do to promote gum health:

Apply Routine Check

Bleeding gums may be a sign of gum disease, which can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated. By understanding the symptoms of gum disease, its causes, and how to maintain healthy gums, you can take steps to protect your oral and overall health. Remember to visit your specialist periodontist here at RW Perio or dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, and to practice daily dental hygiene at home.

Our gum specialists at RW Perio focus on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases and are committed to ensuring that you are comfortable throughout your treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, then treatment will usually begin with non-surgical periodontal treatment. This usually involves debridement into the gum pockets and carefully cleaning the root surfaces to remove bacterial toxins.

This is followed by oral therapy to help control microbial periodontal infections. The aim of non-surgical periodontal treatment is to reduce the depth of the pockets and increase the ability to maintain good oral hygiene. Treatment will only work with good home care, so an important part of this treatment is for RW Perio to give you tailored oral hygiene instructions.

What It Involves

Non-surgical Periodontal treatment is usually the initial phase of treatment recommended for patients diagnosed with periodontitis or periodontal disease. This treatment aims to reduce the depth of the pockets and increase the ability to maintain good oral hygiene in this area. The first and most important element of this phase is optimal home care. For long-term stability, an optimal oral hygiene regime is usually recommended.

Our company spends a significant amount of time providing you with tailored oral hygiene instructions, to ensure you are comfortable performing this regime yourself.  We’ll monitor your compliance throughout the treatment and also put you on reassessment. Advice will be given if there are other concerns related to your gum health such as bad breath.

Through root surface debridement, the build-up under the gum line and the bacteria within the pockets are removed and disinfected. To ensure you are comfortable, this is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, using The Wand system. You may be required to come in for several treatment appointments if you have generalised pockets. By this, each quarter or half of the month will be the best time for appointments.

non surgical periodontal treatment

Treatment

Periodontal therapy improves your ability to perform effective home care and oral hygiene. This allows for long-term maintenance of the results. The procedure removes any stains you may have. There is a reduction and/or elimination of bleeding gums. Reduces and/or eliminates bad breadth. There’s a reduction in the depth/closure of the periodontal pockets. The mobility of any loose teeth is reduced to a minimum.

The lifespan of the teeth is greatly increased. If there’s pain following the procedure (which is to be expected), it can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. This usually lasts for a few days. You should expect a temporary increase in bleeding from the gums. There’s increased sensitivity, especially to cold. It’s usually short-lasting and can be managed with toothpaste designed to reduce sensitivity.

Your teeth may look slightly longer, and the spaces between them may become larger than usual. This is a result of the gums receding as they heal. With innovative techniques, RW Perio has made great strides in the non-surgical treatment of periodontal problems.

With the following techniques, we perform the best non-surgical periodontal treatment on our clients simply and affordably.

Specialist Debridement

The fundamental non-surgical periodontal treatment for gum diseases is the method of debridement. This helps to clean the surface and below the gum lines of the affected area. To effectively allow the gums and surrounding bones to heal properly, the best approach is specialist debridement. Local anaesthetics are used to effectively numb the area for greater comfort while cleaning the surface. Scaling involves removing the tartar or hardened plaque above and below the gum line. The specialist usually schedules for the patient to visit after 8 weeks, and if the procedure improves gum disease, periodic maintenance can be scheduled to take place within 3-4 months after the first treatment. Moreover, the majority of patients are required to undergo maintenance therapy to sustain periodontal health.

Systemic Antimicrobials

To help treat periodontal disease in some patients, systemic antibiotics may be prescribed. This is usually taken orally as medication and normally used to help treat periodontal disease but only when combined with conventional non-surgical therapy. Your dentist will help determine if this treatment approach will help alleviate your condition.

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