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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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Ready to Upgrade Your Oral Care with By Dr Reena?

Maintaining exceptional oral hygiene is more than just brushing twice a day – it’s about integrating holistic care into your daily routine. Dr Reena, a trusted expert in periodontics, brings a range of thoughtfully designed products that not only promote oral health but also elevate your daily self-care rituals. Whether you’re looking to enhance your lip care routine, improve tongue hygiene, or cleanse your mouth thoroughly, By Dr Reena’s collection combines science, precision, and luxury for a superior oral care experience.

1. The Mouth Cleanse: Refresh and Rejuvenate

by dr reena mouth cleanse
By Dr Reena, The Mouth Cleanse

For a refreshing cleanse that leaves your mouth feeling revitalised, By Dr Reena’s Mouth Cleanse is your go-to product. This unique mouthwash is formulated to combat harmful bacteria while providing a soothing, fresh feel after every use. Its gentle formula is designed to support periodontal health, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive gums or those undergoing periodontal treatment.

Regular use of the Mouth Cleanse helps maintain a balanced oral microbiome, reducing the risk of infections and promoting overall gum health. It’s the perfect companion to your daily brushing and flossing routine.

Key benefits:

Explore The Mouth Cleanse and protect your gums with every rinse.

2. The Tongue Scraper: The Key to Fresh Breath

by dr reena tongue scraper
By Dr Reena, The Tongue Scraper

Often overlooked, the tongue holds bacteria that can lead to bad breath and poor oral hygiene. Dr Reena’s Tongue Scraper is designed to be a game-changer in your daily routine. Made from high-quality stainless steel, this scraper effectively removes the bacteria and toxins that accumulate on the tongue, improving overall oral health and freshening breath.

For those seeking periodontal care, using a tongue scraper daily helps reduce bacteria that can exacerbate gum disease, making it an essential tool for patients dealing with periodontal concerns.

Key benefits:

Enhance your oral hygiene with The Tongue Scraper and experience the difference.

3. The Lip Balm: Nourish and Protect

by dr reena lip balm
By Dr Reena, The Lip Balm

Lips are often overlooked in oral hygiene routines, but they play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy mouth. By Dr Reena’s Lip Balm offers much-needed hydration, nourishment, and protection. Formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil, this balm not only soothes dry, chapped lips but also creates a protective barrier against environmental factors.

The moisturising properties make it ideal for those who frequently suffer from cracked lips, especially in colder weather. Regular use ensures your lips remain soft, smooth, and perfectly nourished, making it a must-have in your daily care routine.

Key benefits:

Discover The Lip Balm, officially launching in January 2025, and bring moisture and protection back to your lips.

The Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Care

As a periodontist, Dr Reena understands that oral hygiene extends beyond just brushing and flossing. Periodontal care involves maintaining the health of your gums and supporting tissues, which play a vital role in overall oral wellness. These products have been specially developed with this in mind, ensuring that each element of your oral care routine works to prevent periodontal issues and support long-term gum health.

Incorporating The Tongue Scraper and The Mouth Cleanse into your routine is particularly beneficial for patients with periodontal concerns, as these products target bacteria and toxins that can lead to gum disease. Even something as simple as applying The Lip Balm contributes to your oral health, as hydrated lips are less prone to cracks and infections.

By choosing By Dr Reena’s range, you’re not just investing in top-quality products; you’re investing in the longevity of your oral health.

Discover the Full Range Today

At By Dr Reena, we’re committed to offering products that enhance your oral care routine and support periodontal health. Whether you’re dealing with sensitive gums or simply want to maintain fresh breath, our products are designed with the highest level of care and expertise.

Visit By Dr Reena’s shop to explore our products more and how they can benefit your daily routine. For those looking to delve deeper into maintaining excellent periodontal health, check out our blog on the importance of oral hygiene in preventing gum disease here.

Your smile deserves the best – choose By Dr Reena for an elevated oral care experience.

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.

Can gum disease affect my general health?

The simple answer is yes, gum disease can affect your general health. The mouth is connected with the rest of the body. It is the doorway to the body, rather than a separate organ, and is the access point for bacteria to enter the bloodstream via the gums.

There are particularly strong associations between diabetes and heart disease. When considering diabetes, not only does gum disease have an effect on diabetic control, but it also increases the risk of diabetes in healthy individuals.

The good news is that treating gum/periodontal disease may have a positive impact on general health. So don’t ignore the signs of gum disease and take the necessary steps to ensure healthy gums. Remember, healthy gums = healthy body.

For more information on gum health, disease, dental, and articles, make sure to read our other blogs.

More information on periodontal can be found on the British Society of Periodontology and Implant dentistry website.

gum disease london

Can gum/periodontal disease treatment make a difference to my life?

Gum/periodontal disease can have a negative impact on your quality of life. For example, bad breath may affect your confidence to get close to someone, loose teeth may affect your ability to eat hard foods, tooth loss may affect your nutritional status and the teeth may change position leading to an unattractive smile.

Treating gum/periodontal condition will make a difference to the quality of your life and daily functions. If the condition is treated, you would not have to worry about bad breath, you could eat the foods you like and future tooth loss is prevented. Even individuals who initially don’t have any major symptoms from the condition often say that their mouth feels healthier and they feel better in themselves.

Make sure to read our other blogs to keep a check on your gums. Or contact us if you have any questions or feedback, or would like to book an appointment.

How well does gum/periodontal disease treatment work?

Gum/periodontal disease treatment works really well!

It’s not all doom and gloom when it comes to gum disease. The treatment for the condition is highly predictive and works very well. Of course, the earlier it’s treated the more predictable it is. The first line of treatment is usually ‘non-surgical debridement, which involves disinfecting the gum pockets, allowing them to heal and close up. Even for very advanced cases, there are many options to get the condition under control and ensure the mouth is healthy again.

Although gum/periodontal condition can’t be cured, it can be stabilised. Once it has been stabilised, life-long maintenance of health is simple.

Check out our other blogs if you want to learn more about your dental care. Or contact us if you have any questions or feedback, or would like to book an appointment.

Why are my gums bleeding during pregnancy?

Pregnancy changes your body and that includes your gums too! This means you are more at risk of gum disease and may experience signs of this such as bleeding gums. These signs should not be ignored, as gum disease treatment is safe, effective, and important during pregnancy. Pregnant women should be aware that dental X-rays can be undertaken and local anaesthesia can be delivered without additional risk either to the mother or the foetus. In fact, the risks of no treatment are much higher.

Even without any of the symptoms, if you’re pregnant, it’s always a good idea to get a gum screen and take the necessary precautions to prevent gum disease.

Check out our other articles if you want to learn more about your dental care. Or contact us if you have any questions or feedback, or would like to book an appointment.

Does gum disease run in families?

Genetics and underlying susceptibility play a big role in determining whether you suffer from gum/periodontal condition. Although the plaque/bacteria are the initial cause, your genetic makeup affects how you react to that plaque. For example, your response may be exaggerated if you are genetically more susceptible. Especially if you are young, have a severe disease, and have no other risk factors, this may be the central reason as to why you have developed the disease.

Even if gum disease runs in your family, it doesn’t mean the treatment won’t be successful. In fact, treatment for this is generally highly predictable.

Does my diet affect my gums?

Nutrition and diet have a role in gum/periodontal problems. An imbalance or deficiencies can increase the risk and severity of periodontal disease by affecting the body’s resistance and potential for repair.

Therefore, it’s important to have a healthy intake of fibre, fruit and vegetables and reduce the level of refined sugars to prevent dental disease and improve general health.

Can you cure gum/periodontal disease?

You can never really ‘cure’ gum/periodontal condition but you can treat and stabilise it. Once treated and the gums are healthy, you need to ensure life-long regular maintenance at home and with your hygienist to ensure you minimise any chances of relapse.

Check out our other articles if you want to learn more about your dental care. Or contact us if you have any questions, or feedback, or would like to book an appointment.

What if I leave my gums untreated?

If your gum/periodontal condition is left untreated, this can result in your teeth loosening up and eventual tooth loss. Other associated symptoms may also start to develop including bleeding gums, gum boils, bad breath, bad taste and painful gums/teeth.

You may get very few symptoms until it is advanced so it is important to catch it early, as it’s a preventable and treatable condition.

Are lasers needed to treat my gum?

The simple answer to the question above is no.

Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The evidence base for using lasers in the treatment of periodontal/gum problems is unclear. However, what we do know is that they do not have any additional advantages over conventional treatment.

Conventional therapy has been used predictably for many decades and often those who use lasers will charge you more for the treatment, but the outcome will be the same as that for conventional therapy. So further well-designed studies are required before the widespread use of lasers in periodontology can be advocated.

If I have gum disease is it safe to have dental implants?

Dental implants have become a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. Implants are manufactured from titanium and can support crowns, bridges or dentures.

For patients with advanced gum/periodontal problems, it is often tempting to want to replace loose teeth with implants. The first thing to remember is that nothing beats your own tooth! So wherever you can, you should always try and save your natural tooth, even if it is loose.

Check out our other articles if you want to learn more about your dental care. Or contact us if you have any questions or feedback, or would like to book an appointment. Follow us on Instagram to get updated on our latest treatments!

A periodontist treats gum diseases both non-surgically and surgically. Surgery can also be performed to treat gum recessions, which is when the gums are receding.

The opposite of that is treating gummy smiles by performing what we call a ‘gum lift’ to look nicer, for personal aesthetic reasons. Sometimes, someone’s smile can reveal a lot of gum, so that their lip appears quite high. For people who feel they have extra gum that is interfering with their image, we can perform a gum-lift (which you can see before and after images of on our Instagram).

Here are a few things you should know before deciding whether you should visit a periodontist.

–

What causes bad breath?

How do you know if you have gum disease?

Can gum disease indicate other health problems?

How should you maintain dental healthcare?

When should you see a periodontist?

Do you need to see a specialist clinic?

–

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath, which is also known as halitosis, is a result of the bad odours produced by bacteria trapped by the surface of your tongue or within your gum pockets. Bad breath can be embarrassing or even cause anxiety.

There are two causes of bad breath. One cause is tongue coating, which is why tongue cleaning is so important. The other cause of bad breath is gum disease. Even more so, in light of the pandemic, since everyone has their masks on.

How do you know if you have gum disease?

Gum disease is not always visually apparent. Red gums can be a sign of gum disease, but some people’s gums can look completely normal whilst suffering from severe gum disease.

Other telltale signs of gum disease include:

Loose teeth are a really important indicator of gum disease. On top of that, swelling of the gums and poor bone support may cause the position of teeth to drift and change, and gaps may start opening up between the teeth. Patients don’t always feel pain, but that can also be a sign.

Most people start noticing they might have something wrong when their smile begins to look different.

Can gum disease indicate other health problems?

A recent hot topic is looking into the link between gum disease and general health. Your gums can affect your risk of getting heart disease or otherwise be an indication of diabetes. Your body is intricate and interconnected, so it is not surprising that these links exist, as your mouth is connected to your body.

How should you maintain dental care?

More and more young children, as well as young adults in their early twenties, are succumbing to gum disease. This is quite worrying.

As soon as your first teeth come through good dental care is extremely important. Some might think that dummies may be a concern. Dummies for children can affect the growth of teeth but only once the teeth start developing. It does not have a significant effect on the gums.

Instead, there should be more education on how to brush your teeth, as people are not completely aware of how they should really be doing it. It is not as easy as some might think. However, there are some quite simple things you should know, such as using toothpaste that contains fluoride and ensuring you are brushing well and thoroughly.

Once the baby’s teeth fall out, flossing is a habit that is important to maintain as soon as your adult teeth start to come in. It is important to floss as soon as possible. The best tool for flossing for adults is interdental brushes. These are brushes that are designed to be used in between your teeth. It is more effective than flossing so it is the method that we promote to our patients, especially those with gum disease.

Whilst some might believe that adding toothpaste to your interdental brush would prove more effective, it is not necessary. You can use it plain, then wash it each time you use it. However, it is important to replace the brushes every few days.

If you have healthy gums, then you should have your teeth for life. The common stereotype is that you lose your teeth when you age. However, we have a lot of patients who are in their 80s who still have healthy teeth, and the current generation also has expectations to keep their teeth for life.

Getting into good habits from an early age is critical for reaping the long-term benefits. Gum disease is preventable, therefore, it makes sense that maintaining good habits serves as a preventative measure to getting gum disease.

When should you see a periodontist?

Whether you should see a periodontist depends on the level of risk. Gum disease patients normally need to see a good hygienist every three months. Whilst gum disease is preventable, it is not something that can really be cured but instead stabilised.

Regardless of whether you need care every three months or six months, it is advisable that everyone refers to professionals for their hygiene and cleaning from the very beginning and consistently if they want to maintain their dental care.

Do you need to see a specialist clinic?

If a patient does not think they have gum disease but wants to refer a good hygienist under a specialist clinic, they can book a hygienist directly. The treatment that follows is called Polish and Perfect.

This treatment has three tiers.

Classic

The investment for this treatment is £250. The patient receives an assessment and tailored oral hygiene instructions. They also receive a full mouth cleanse using airflow, which removes any stains that a normal hygienist’s scale and polish wouldn’t do.

Polish and Perfect Maintenance

The investment for this is £200, which is more cost-effective after the patient has already been to our practice once for their initial assessment. They can continue with the maintenance of their dental care.

Polish and Perfect Whitening

This is a tier we have recently introduced. This is for people who now have healthy teeth and gums but can also invest in the appearance of their smile. The whitening package is £595.

Make sure to read our other blogs for more information.

Science of Smiles

“Put on a smile!” We’ve all heard this phrase, but have you ever wondered why smiling is such a ubiquitous part of human behaviour? As it turns out, there’s a fascinating interplay of psychological factors (the science of smiles) that influence why we smile, when we smile, and what those smiles communicate. From feelings of happiness to social norms and even the impact of our surroundings, let’s delve into the intriguing world of the psychology of smiles.

1. Happiness and Positive Emotions

At the heart of smiling lie happiness and positive emotions. When we experience joy, contentment, or any positive feelings, our brain signals our facial muscles to curve into a smile. It’s a natural and universal expression of the good vibes we feel inside.

2. Social Interaction and Communication

Smiling is more than just a facial expression; it’s a powerful non-verbal communication tool. A smile can instantly convey friendliness, approachability, and openness. It acts as a social lubricant, making it easier for individuals to connect with others and build meaningful relationships.

3. Stress and Coping

Remarkably, smiling is not just a response to happiness; it can also influence our emotional state. Research suggests that smiling can reduce stress and serve as a coping mechanism during challenging times. By smiling, we may help regulate our emotional responses and maintain a positive outlook when facing difficulties.

4. Self-esteem and Confidence

The relationship between smiling and self-esteem is bidirectional. When we feel good about ourselves, we tend to smile more in social interactions, projecting confidence and a positive self-image. Conversely, the simple act of smiling can trigger positive emotions and boost our self-esteem.

5. Culture and Social Norms

Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping our smiling behaviour. Different societies have distinct norms regarding when and how much to smile, influencing individual smiling patterns. Being aware of these cultural variations is crucial for cross-cultural communication and understanding.

6. Facial Feedback Hypothesis

The facial feedback hypothesis suggests that our facial expressions can impact our emotions. In other words, the act of smiling itself can trigger the brain to release neurotransmitters associated with happiness and pleasure, even if we weren’t feeling particularly happy, to begin with. So, go ahead, and give yourself a reason to smile—your brain will do the rest!

7. Mirroring and Empathy

Smiles are contagious for a good reason. Our brain’s mirror neurons make us unconsciously mimic the facial expressions of others, fostering social bonding and empathy. When we see someone smile, we’re naturally inclined to smile back, enhancing our ability to understand and share the emotions of those around us.

8. Personality Traits

Our personality traits also influence our smiling behaviour. Extroverted individuals tend to smile more frequently, enjoy social interactions and seek positive engagement with others. On the other hand, introverted individuals may express their emotions more subtly, resulting in fewer smiles.

9. Gender Differences

Research indicates that there may be gender differences in smiling behaviour, with women generally smiling more than men. Socialisation, cultural expectations, and the function of smiles in managing interpersonal relationships are just a few of the factors that can affect these differences.

10. Influence of Surroundings

Our environment can significantly impact how often we smile. Spending time in pleasant and enjoyable settings, surrounded by loved ones or nature, naturally elicits more smiles. Conversely, stressful or uncomfortable situations may lead to fewer smiles.

11. Evolutionary Significance

Smiling may have deep-rooted evolutionary significance as a form of non-verbal communication. In human evolution, a smile may have signalled non-threatening behaviour, fostering trust and cooperation within social groups. It might also have served as a signal of submission or a way to defuse potential conflicts.

12. Involuntary Smiles

Not all smiles are conscious decisions. Sometimes, we smile involuntarily in response to various stimuli, like a funny joke or a tickling sensation. These spontaneous smiles provide genuine insights into our emotional responses.

13. Masking Emotions

In certain social situations, people may use smiles to hide their true emotions. This behaviour is common in professional settings or during challenging times when individuals put on a smiling facade to maintain a positive image or protect themselves from scrutiny.

In conclusion, smiles are much more than a simple facial expression; they are windows into the complex interplay of human psychology and social interactions. From communicating joy to coping with stress and bridging cultural divides, smiles play a crucial role in our lives. So, the next time you flash a smile, remember that you’re not just brightening someone’s day—you’re unravelling the intricate tapestry of human emotions.

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