Understanding the Difference

If you’ve been told you may have gum disease, or you’re experiencing bleeding gums or bad breath, you might be wondering:

Do I need a periodontist or a hygienist?

This is one of the most common questions patients ask at Hammersmith Dental Care, and it’s also why searches such as periodontist vs hygienist, gum specialist vs hygienist, and who treats gum disease are so common online.

This guide explains the difference clearly, helping patients across Hammersmith and Fulham understand which professional is right for their gum health.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Gum disease often progresses silently. Many patients assume routine hygiene appointments are enough — but once gum disease becomes more advanced, specialist periodontal care may be required to prevent tooth loss and bone damage.

Knowing whether you need a hygienist or a periodontist ensures you receive the right treatment at the right time.

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

A dental hygienist focuses on preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy gums through regular professional care.

A hygienist can help with:

Scale and polish treatments
Removal of plaque and tartar above the gumline
Managing early gum disease (gingivitis)
Reducing bleeding gums
Oral hygiene advice tailored to your needs
Ongoing maintenance following periodontal treatment

Best for:
Patients with healthy gums, mild inflammation, or early-stage gum disease.
Hygiene Services (Hammersmith Dental Care)

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist is a gum specialist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating moderate to advanced gum disease (periodontitis).

At Hammersmith Dental Care, patients from Hammersmith and Fulham are referred to a periodontist when specialist care is needed to control gum disease and protect long-term oral health.

A periodontist treats:

Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
Deep gum pockets
Gum recession
Bone loss around teeth
Persistent gum infection
Loose or shifting teeth
Non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatments

Best for:
Patients with ongoing gum problems, deep pockets, or bone loss seen on X-rays.
Periodontist (Gum Specialist)

Periodontist vs Hygienist: What’s the Difference?

Hygienist	Periodontist
Prevents gum disease	Treats advanced gum disease
Routine cleaning	Deep cleaning below the gumline
Treats gingivitis	Treats periodontitis
Maintenance care	Specialist periodontal care
Non-surgical	Non-surgical & surgical treatments

Who Treats Gum Disease?

It depends on how advanced the gum disease is:

Gingivitis (early gum disease):
→ Usually treated by a hygienist
Periodontitis (advanced gum disease):
→ Treated by a periodontist (gum specialist)

Patients often don’t realise they have periodontitis until symptoms worsen — which is why early assessment is so important.

Signs You May Need a Periodontist

You may benefit from seeing a gum specialist if you experience:

Bleeding gums that don’t improve
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums
Loose or shifting teeth
Deep gum pockets
Gum tenderness or swelling
Bone loss identified on X-rays
A history of gum disease

If you’re unsure, a professional gum assessment can determine the most appropriate care.

Do I Need Both a Hygienist and a Periodontist?

In many cases, yes.

A common treatment approach at Hammersmith Dental Care includes:

Specialist treatment with a periodontist
Long-term gum maintenance with a hygienist

This combined approach offers the best protection against gum disease returning.

Book the Right Gum Care

If you’re unsure whether you need a hygienist or a periodontist, our team can guide you with a comprehensive gum health assessment.

We proudly care for patients across Hammersmith and Fulham, helping them protect their gums, teeth, and long-term oral health.

Book a Periodontist Consultation
Book a Hygiene Appointment

Gum Disease and Diabetes: The Science Behind the Link

Gum disease and diabetes are closely connected through inflammation, immunity, and blood sugar control. This relationship is so well established that gum disease is now considered the sixth complication of diabetes by medical professionals.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we regularly support patients with diabetes by providing specialist periodontal care designed to protect both oral and general health.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by harmful bacteria living below the gumline.

It develops in stages:

🔹 Gingivitis

Caused by plaque bacteria irritating the gums
Leads to redness, swelling, and bleeding
Reversible with professional care

🔹 Periodontitis

Occurs when inflammation spreads deeper
The immune system begins to damage bone and tissue
Results in gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth
Not reversible, but can be stabilised

The key driver is chronic inflammation, which plays a major role in its link with diabetes.

What Is Diabetes? (And Why It Affects Healing)

Diabetes affects how the body regulates blood glucose (sugar). When blood sugar levels remain high:

White blood cells become less effective
Inflammation increases throughout the body
Healing slows down
Infection risk rises

This makes people with diabetes more vulnerable to infections, including infections of the gums.

The Science: How Diabetes Makes Gum Disease Worse

From a biological perspective, diabetes impacts gum health in several ways:

Impaired Immune Response

High blood sugar weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight the bacteria responsible for gum disease.

Increased Inflammation

Diabetes increases inflammatory markers in the bloodstream. In the gums, this leads to:

Faster tissue breakdown
Greater bone loss
More severe periodontitis

Reduced Blood Flow

Diabetes affects small blood vessels, limiting oxygen and nutrient delivery to the gums — slowing healing after infection or dental treatment.

The Reverse Effect: How Gum Disease Affects Blood Sugar

Gum disease doesn’t stay in the mouth.

The bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontitis:

Enter the bloodstream
Increase systemic inflammation
Interfere with insulin function

What the Science Shows

Multiple studies confirm that untreated gum disease makes blood sugar levels harder to control, while periodontal treatment can lead to measurable improvements in HbA1c levels (a key diabetes marker).

In simple terms:
Healthy gums help support better diabetes control.

Warning Signs Diabetic Patients Should Never Ignore

People with diabetes should be especially alert to:

Bleeding gums
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Gum recession
Teeth that feel loose
Slow healing after dental work

Because gum disease can be painless, regular checks are essential.

Why Periodontal Treatment Is Especially Important for Diabetics

Without treatment, gum disease can lead to:

Accelerated bone loss
Tooth loss
Implant complications
Increased systemic inflammation
Poor diabetes control

Early periodontal care reduces bacterial load and inflammation — benefiting both oral and general health.

Periodontal Treatment for Diabetic Patients at Hammersmith Dental Care

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our approach is evidence-based and tailored to patients with diabetes:

Detailed gum assessments
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
Careful infection control
Supportive periodontal maintenance
Long-term prevention strategies

We focus on stabilising gum health while supporting overall wellbeing.

Practical Steps Diabetic Patients Can Take to Protect Their Gums

✔ Maintain stable blood sugar levels
✔ Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
✔ Clean between teeth every day
✔ Attend regular hygiene appointments
✔ Seek early periodontal assessment
✔ Avoid smoking or vaping

Prevention and early intervention are key.

When Should a Diabetic Patient See a Periodontist?

You should book a periodontal assessment if:

You have diabetes and bleeding gums
Gum disease keeps returning
You notice gum recession
You have loose teeth or implants
You want to reduce long-term health risks

Specialist care leads to better outcomes.

References

NHS – Gum Disease: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gum-disease/
NHS – Diabetes: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diabetes/
British Society of Periodontology – Systemic Health: https://www.bsperio.org.uk
American Academy of Periodontology – Diabetes & Gum Disease: https://www.perio.org/consumer/diabetes-and-periodontal-disease
Preshaw PM et al., Periodontitis and Diabetes: A Two-Way Relationship, Diabetologia

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in the UK — yet many people don’t realise they have it until it becomes serious. Because gum disease often progresses quietly, recognising the early signs can help you protect your teeth, prevent bone loss, and avoid more complex treatment in the future.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our periodontal team helps patients spot the warning signs early and get the specialist care they need to keep their gums healthy for life.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) happens when plaque bacteria cause inflammation of the gums.
It begins as gingivitis, and if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

The sooner gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat — and the better the long-term outcome for your oral health.

Early Signs of Gum Disease You Should Never Ignore

1- Bleeding Gums

If your gums bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating, it is not normal.
Bleeding is usually the first sign of gum inflammation.

Why it matters:
Bleeding indicates that plaque and bacteria are building up around the gumline, causing irritation and swelling

2- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

Healthy gums should be firm and pink.
Redness or puffiness means your immune system is responding to bacteria.

Why it matters:
Swelling is an early indicator of gingivitis and can progress quickly without treatment.

3- Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away

Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or an unpleasant taste can be caused by trapped bacteria under the gums.

Why it matters:
Gum infection produces gases that cause odour — a strong sign that harmful bacteria are present.

4- Receding Gums

Your teeth may start to look “longer” as the gums shrink away from the surface.

Why it matters:
Gum recession is often linked to early periodontitis and can expose the roots, causing sensitivity and increasing the risk of tooth loss.

5- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

When the gums pull back, the root surface becomes exposed, leading to discomfort or sharp sensitivity.

Why it matters:
This is a sign that gum inflammation has already started to damage tissue.

6- Loose Teeth or Changes to Your Bite

In advanced stages, patients may notice movement in their teeth or that their bite feels different.

Why it matters:
This indicates bone loss, which requires urgent periodontal treatment.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Treating gum disease early prevents:

Gum recession
Bone loss
Tooth mobility
Tooth loss
Pain and infection
The need for surgery

Early diagnosis often means treatment can be non-surgical and more comfortable, such as:

Professional deep cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
Hygiene therapy
Targeted periodontal treatment
Home-care guidance to support long-term gum health

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our periodontist provides advanced care for all stages of gum disease, ensuring predictable, long-lasting results.

When to See a Periodontist

You should book a periodontal assessment if you notice:

✔ Ongoing bleeding gums
✔ Bad breath despite cleaning
✔ Gum recession
✔ Loose teeth
✔ A family history of gum disease
✔ You smoke or have diabetes (higher risk)

Our specialist-led team offers comprehensive gum assessments using advanced diagnostic tools

Gum grafts and Smile Makeovers

Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile. If you are experiencing gum recession, sensitivity, or feel unhappy with your smile, combining a gum graft with a smile makeover can restore both health and aesthetics. At Hammersmith Dental Care, we provide advanced periodontal and cosmetic treatments to help you achieve a confident, long-lasting smile.

What Is a Gum Graft?

A gum graft is a periodontal procedure used to treat gum recession by adding healthy tissue to areas where gums have receded. This helps protect the tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of the gum line.

Benefits of a gum graft

Protects tooth roots
Reduces sensitivity
Strengthens gum health
Improves smile symmetry
Helps prevent further recession

Why Gum Grafts Are Important in Smile Makeovers

If your gums have receded, cosmetic treatments alone won’t achieve the best result. A gum graft:
- Creates a healthier foundation for veneers or bonding
- Improves smile symmetry
- Restores a youthful gum line
- Enhances gum-to-tooth proportions
- Supports long-term aesthetic stability
Treating the gums first ensures your smile makeover looks natural and lasts longer.

Why Choose Hammersmith Dental Care?

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our team offers specialist-led gum treatment and advanced cosmetic dentistry, allowing us to treat both health and aesthetics together.

What we offer:
- Evidence-based periodontal care
- Modern cosmetic dentistry
- Personalised smile makeover plans
- Digital smile design
- Comfortable, patient-focused experience
FAQ
1. Is a gum graft painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort thanks to modern techniques and local anaesthetic. Mild soreness is normal for a few days.
1. How long does a gum graft take to heal?
Initial healing takes about 1–2 weeks. Full stability develops over a few months.
1. Can a gum graft be part of a smile makeover?
Yes— restoring the gum line first often makes cosmetic results more natural and longer-lasting.
1. What causes gum recession?
Common causes include gum disease, over-brushing, genetics, orthodontic treatment, and ageing.
1. How much does a gum graft cost in London?
Costs vary depending on the amount of recession and the type of graft used. A consultation at Hammersmith Dental Care provides a personalised treatment plan.

References
1. American Academy of Periodontology – Soft Tissue Grafting Guidelines
2. British Society of Periodontology – Gum Recession Treatment

Did you know that treating gum disease can help protect not just your smile — but also your heart health?
Recent research from University College London found that professional gum treatment may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
At Hammersmith Dental Care, we provide gentle, effective gum disease treatments in Hammersmith to stop bleeding gums, prevent infection, and keep your smile healthy for life.

New Research: Treating Gum Disease May Protect Your Heart

A 2025 study from University College London (UCL) revealed that treating gum disease can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

In the study, patients who received intensive gum treatment (deep cleaning) showed healthier blood vessels after two years — potentially lowering their cardiovascular risk by around 10%.

This is because gum inflammation doesn’t stay isolated in your mouth. Harmful bacteria and inflammatory molecules can enter the bloodstream, contributing to narrowing and stiffening of the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

(Source: University College London, 2025)

Why Gum Health Is Vital

Your mouth and body are deeply connected.
Research continues to show that gum disease is linked to serious health conditions, including:

Heart disease
Stroke
Diabetes complications
Premature birth (in expectant mothers)

That’s why at Hammersmith Dental Care, we take a proactive approach to gum health — helping patients not only protect their teeth but also support their overall wellbeing.

Understanding Gum Disease

If your gums bleed when brushing, feel swollen, or you’ve noticed persistent bad breath, you might have gum disease — one of the most common oral health problems in adults.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we see many patients with early and advanced gum disease (also known as periodontitis). The condition develops when plaque and bacteria build up around the teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed and infected.

Common signs of gum disease include:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Red, swollen, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
Loose teeth or gaps forming between teeth

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care early.

Professional Gum Disease Treatments at Hammersmith Dental Care

Our experienced dental team provides specialist advanced gum disease treatments in Hammersmith designed to stop infection, restore gum health, and prevent further damage.

Our approach includes:

Professional scale and polish – removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
Deep cleaning (root planing) – smooths the roots of teeth to help gums reattach and heal.
Antibacterial treatment – targets bacteria beneath the gum surface.
Ongoing maintenance care – tailored hygiene visits to keep gums healthy long-term.

Every treatment plan is personalised to your needs, ensuring comfort and effective results.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Here are a few steps you can take at home to maintain great gum health:

Brush twice daily for at least 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth every day using floss or interdental brushes.
Avoid smoking, which increases gum disease risk.
Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet to support gum health.
Visit your dentist or hygienist regularly — ideally every 6 months.

If your gums bleed or feel sore, don’t ignore it. Early gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleaning and good oral care.

When to Book a Gum Health Appointment

You should see your dentist if you notice:

Bleeding or swollen gums
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth
Gums that have receded or are painful

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our friendly team will perform a thorough gum assessment and provide the right treatment to help restore your oral health and confidence.

Healthy Gums, Healthy Body

Your gums are the foundation of your smile — and a reflection of your overall health.
By taking care of them, you’re helping to protect your teeth, heart, and general wellbeing.

“Healthy gums don’t just make your smile stronger — they help protect your heart and body too.”
– The Hammersmith Dental Care Team

Book Your Gum Disease Consultation in Hammersmith

If you’re worried about bleeding gums or gum disease, we’re here to help.
At Hammersmith Dental Care, our skilled dentists and hygienists offer gentle, effective treatments to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Call us on 02087414777 or Book Online today to schedule your gum health check.

We’re conveniently located in Hammersmith, West London, and welcome both new and existing patients.

If you’ve ever noticed a little blood in the sink after brushing or flossing, you’re not alone. Bleeding gums are one of the most common early signs that your gums may be irritated or inflamed — and it’s your body’s way of saying, “something isn’t quite right.”

The good news? In most cases, it’s easy to fix when caught early. Let’s look at why gums bleed, what it could mean, and how to stop it before it turns into something more serious.

The Most Common Cause: Gingivitis

The number one reason for bleeding gums is gingivitis — the early stage of gum disease.
It happens when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up along the gumline. When plaque isn’t removed properly, it irritates the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding.

Common signs of gingivitis:

Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
Puffy, tender gums
Bad breath that won’t go away
A sour taste in your mouth

The best part? Gingivitis is completely reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning from your dentist or hygienist.

When Gum Disease Gets Worse: Periodontitis

If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis.
At this stage, the infection moves deeper and starts to affect the bone and tissues that support your teeth.

Signs of periodontitis:

Receding gums (teeth may look longer)
Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Gums that pull away from your teeth (forming “pockets”)
Loose or shifting teeth
Pain when chewing

Once gum disease reaches this stage, it can’t be fully reversed — but it can be managed with professional treatment and regular care.

Other Possible Reasons for Bleeding Gums

While gum disease is the most common cause, other factors can also contribute:

Brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush
Skipping flossing (causing gums to be tender when you start again)
Vitamin C or K deficiency
Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause)
Certain medications (especially those that cause dry mouth or thin the blood)
Smoking or vaping, which reduces blood flow to the gums
Medical conditions like diabetes

If you’re unsure what’s causing your bleeding gums, it’s always safest to have them checked by your dentist.

How to Stop Gums from Bleeding?

The best way to stop bleeding gums is to treat the cause — not the symptom.
Here’s what you can do starting today:

At Home:

Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
Rinse with water or an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins C and K (fruits, leafy greens, bell peppers).
Quit smoking or vaping — your gums will thank you!

At the Dentist:

Book a professional cleaning (scaling and polishing) to remove hardened plaque and tartar.
Have your dentist check for gum pockets or early bone loss.
Follow any personalised advice for brushing, flossing, or mouthwash use.

Why Gum Health Matters

Healthy gums aren’t just about keeping your teeth in place — they’re vital for your overall health.
Research shows that gum disease has been linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and low-birth-weight babies.
Keeping your gums healthy supports your whole body.

When to See Your Dentist

You should book an appointment if:

Your gums bleed regularly when brushing or flossing
You notice swelling, redness, or receding gums
You have persistent bad breath or bad taste
Your teeth feel loose or painful
It’s been over 6 months since your last dental visit

Don’t wait until it hurts — gum problems are easiest to treat before they become painful.

Healthy gums = a healthy smile (and a healthier you).

An Excellent smile design gives you the power to express of your emotions and significantly influences how others perceive you. Despite their small size, your teeth play a crucial role in your confidence and can greatly affect your overall sense of happiness. At Hammersmith Dental Care, our expert smile design dentist ensures that you achieve a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing smile. In this blog, we delve into the advanced techniques our expert dentists use to create stunning smiles.

Understanding Smile Design

The Principles of Smile Design

Creating a beautiful smile involves more than just making your teeth look good. It’s about taking a comprehensive approach to ensure that all the elements of your mouth work together seamlessly. This includes not only your teeth but also the surrounding tissues, muscles, and bones. At Hammersmith Dental Care, we follow a systematic process to evaluate, diagnose, and treat aesthetic dental issues. Our goal is to create a smile that is both attractive and functional.

Components of Smile Design

A well-designed smile involves considering both the facial and dental aspects. Let’s break down these components to understand how they contribute to a stunning smile.

Facial Composition

What is Facial Composition?

Facial composition refers to the way your facial features align and work together to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance. This is important because your smile doesn’t exist in isolation; it’s part of your overall facial expression.

Key Elements of Facial Composition in Smile Design

Interpupillary Line: This is the imaginary line that runs between the centers of your pupils. For a balanced smile, this line should be parallel to the line of your teeth.
Lips: Your lips frame your smile. The shape and position of your lips play a crucial role in how your smile is perceived. Any significant misalignment should be addressed to enhance the overall smile design.

Dental Composition

What is Dental Composition?

Dental composition focuses specifically on your teeth and gums. It involves ensuring that your teeth are the right size, shape, and position, and that your gums are healthy and well-contoured.

Key Elements of Dental Composition in Smile Design

Tooth Components:

- Dental Midline: The imaginary line that runs between your two upper front teeth and should align with the center of your face.
- Incisal Lengths: The lengths of the visible parts of your teeth when you smile.
- Tooth Dimensions: The size and shape of each tooth.
- Zenith Points: The highest points of your gums above each tooth.
- Axial Inclinations: The angles at which your teeth are positioned.
- Interdental Contact Area: The areas where your teeth touch each other.
- Incisal Embrasure: The small spaces between the edges of your teeth.
- Considerations of Sex, Personality, and Age: Customizing the smile design to suit your unique characteristics.
- Symmetry and Balance: Ensuring both sides of your smile are even and harmonious.

Soft Tissue Components:

- Gingival Health: Healthy gums that are free from disease.
- Gingival Levels and Harmony: Even and well-shaped gum lines.
- Interdental Embrasure: Small gaps between your teeth at the gum line.
- Smile Line: The curve of your teeth when you smile.

Guidelines for Proportions

To achieve the perfect smile, dentists use several guidelines to ensure your teeth are proportionate and aesthetically pleasing. These include:

Golden Proportion: A mathematical ratio often found in nature that helps create visually appealing proportions.
Recurring Aesthetic Dental Proportions: Ensuring that each tooth fits harmoniously within the smile.
M Proportions and Chu’s Aesthetic Gauges: Tools and measurements that help in designing a balanced smile.

The Smile Design Process at Hammersmith Dental Care

Comprehensive Evaluation

At Hammersmith Dental Care, your smile makeover journey starts with a thorough dental checkup. We assess your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to ensure you’re a good candidate for cosmetic treatments.

Custom Treatment Plan

Based on your evaluation, we create a personalized treatment plan that may include procedures like aligners for straightening teeth, teeth whitening, dental crowns, or porcelain veneers to cover imperfections. We combine these treatments to enhance your oral health and create a beautiful, symmetrical smile.

Benefits of a Smile Design

Improved Oral Health

A smile makeover can do more than just improve your appearance. By addressing issues like misaligned teeth and missing teeth, we can enhance your overall oral health, reduce the risk of decay, and improve your bite.

Enhanced Aesthetics

Through various cosmetic procedures, we can significantly enhance the appearance of your smile. This includes whitening your teeth, correcting their shape and alignment, and ensuring your gums are healthy and well-contoured.

Long-term Benefits

Our aim is to provide results that are not only beautiful but also long-lasting. By using advanced techniques and high-quality materials, we ensure your new smile is durable and easy to maintain.

Conclusion

Creating a beautiful, functional smile requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. At Hammersmith Dental Care, we combine our expertise in restorative and cosmetic dentistry to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to book your appointment and start your journey to a stunning smile.

For more detailed information on the principles of smile design, visit this article.

Your responsibility

The recommendations in this guideline represent the view of NICE, arrived at after careful consideration of the evidence available. When exercising their judgement, professionals and practitioners are expected to take this guideline fully into account, alongside the individual needs, preferences and values of their patients or the people using their service.

Understanding the Difference

Do I need a periodontist or a hygienist?

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?

A hygienist can help with:

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist treats:

Periodontist vs Hygienist: What’s the Difference?

Who Treats Gum Disease?

Signs You May Need a Periodontist

Do I Need Both a Hygienist and a Periodontist?

Book the Right Gum Care

Gum Disease and Diabetes: The Science Behind the Link

What Is Gum Disease?

What Is Diabetes? (And Why It Affects Healing)

The Science: How Diabetes Makes Gum Disease Worse

The Reverse Effect: How Gum Disease Affects Blood Sugar

What the Science Shows

Warning Signs Diabetic Patients Should Never Ignore

Why Periodontal Treatment Is Especially Important for Diabetics

Periodontal Treatment for Diabetic Patients at Hammersmith Dental Care

Practical Steps Diabetic Patients Can Take to Protect Their Gums

When Should a Diabetic Patient See a Periodontist?

References

What Is Gum Disease?

Early Signs of Gum Disease You Should Never Ignore

1- Bleeding Gums

2- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

3- Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away

4- Receding Gums

5- Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

6- Loose Teeth or Changes to Your Bite

Why Early Treatment Matters

When to See a Periodontist

Gum grafts and Smile Makeovers

What Is a Gum Graft?

Benefits of a gum graft

Why Gum Grafts Are Important in Smile Makeovers

Why Choose Hammersmith Dental Care?

What we offer:

FAQ

Is a gum graft painful?

How long does a gum graft take to heal?

Can a gum graft be part of a smile makeover?

What causes gum recession?

How much does a gum graft cost in London?

References

New Research: Treating Gum Disease May Protect Your Heart

(Source: University College London, 2025)

Why Gum Health Is Vital

Common signs of gum disease include:

Professional Gum Disease Treatments at Hammersmith Dental Care

Simple Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Healthy Gums, Healthy Body

Book Your Gum Disease Consultation in Hammersmith

Understanding Smile Design

Facial Composition

Dental Composition

The Smile Design Process at Hammersmith Dental Care

Benefits of a Smile Design

Conclusion