If you’re searching for dental implant cost in London, chances are you’re seriously considering treatment — and want clear, honest answers before booking.

Dental implants are a long-term investment in your smile, comfort, and confidence. In this guide, we’ll break down how much dental implants cost in London, what affects the price, and how to decide if implants are right for you.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in London?

In London, the average cost of a single dental implant typically ranges from:

£2,000 – £3,500 per tooth

This usually includes:

Implant (titanium screw)
Abutment (connector)
Final crown (visible tooth)
Surgical placement
Follow-up appointments

Be cautious of very low prices — implants are a precision treatment, and quality materials and expertise matter.

What Affects the Cost of Dental Implants?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all price. Several factors influence the final cost:

1. Number of Implants Needed

Replacing one tooth costs less than replacing multiple teeth or a full arch.

2. Bone Density & Preparation

Some patients require:

Bone grafting
Sinus lift procedures

These add complexity — and cost — but improve long-term success.

3. Implant Brand & Materials

High-quality, well-researched implant systems cost more but offer:

Better integration
Higher success rates
Longer lifespan

4. Experience of the Implant Dentist

Expert planning and surgical skill reduce complications and improve outcomes — an important factor when choosing where to book.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?

For many patients, yes — absolutely.

Compared to bridges or dentures, dental implants:

Last significantly longer
Protect jawbone health
Look and feel like natural teeth
Don’t rely on neighbouring teeth for support

While the upfront cost is higher, implants often prove more cost-effective long term.

Why Dental Implant Prices Vary Across London

If you’ve searched “implants near me”, you’ll notice prices vary widely.

This is often due to:

Clinic location and overheads
Technology used (3D scans, digital planning)
Length of aftercare and follow-up
Whether treatment is done by a general dentist or implant specialist

Always compare what’s included, not just the headline price.

Can I Spread the Cost of Dental Implants?

Many London clinics offer payment plans or finance options to make implants more affordable.

This allows you to:

Spread the cost monthly
Start treatment sooner
Avoid compromising on quality

Ask about flexible payment options during your consultation.

What’s Included in a Dental Implant Consultation?

A proper implant consultation usually includes:

Full oral examination
3D imaging or X-rays
Assessment of bone and gum health
Personalised treatment plan
Transparent cost breakdown

This is the best way to get an accurate price — not just an online estimate.

Looking for Dental Implants Near You in London?

If you’re ready to move forward, the next step is simple.

– Get expert advice
– Understand your exact costs
– Explore your treatment options
– Ask questions — with no pressure

Book a dental implant consultation today and find out exactly how much your treatment would cost.

Ready to Book?

Dental implants are a long-term solution — choosing the right team matters.
Speak to an experienced implant dentist and take the first step towards a confident, complete smile.

If you’re considering dental implants but feeling nervous about pain, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions patients ask is: “Is getting a dental implant painful?”

The short reassurance?
Most patients say dental implant treatment is far less painful than they expected.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what dental implant pain feels like, how long recovery takes, and what you can do to heal comfortably and confidently.

Does Getting a Dental Implant Hurt?

During the dental implant procedure, you should not feel pain. The area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic, similar to what’s used for fillings or tooth extractions.

Many patients are surprised to learn that:

Dental implant surgery is often less uncomfortable than having a tooth removed
You may feel pressure or vibration, but not sharp pain
Anxiety is usually worse than the procedure itself

If you’re particularly nervous, sedation options may also be available to help you relax.

What Does Dental Implant Pain Feel Like Afterwards?

After the anaesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort, especially in the first few days.

Common sensations include:

Soreness around the implant site
Mild swelling of the gums or cheek
Slight bruising
Tenderness when chewing

This is all part of the normal healing process and is usually well managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Most patients describe the pain as dull and manageable, not severe.

Dental Implant Recovery Time: What to Expect

First 24–72 Hours

Mild swelling and tenderness peak
Soft foods recommended
Pain relief as advised by your dentist

1–2 Weeks

Gums begin to heal
Stitches (if used) may dissolve or be removed
Discomfort significantly reduces

3–6 Months (Healing Phase)

The implant integrates with the jawbone (osseointegration)
No ongoing pain
Implant becomes stable and strong

Implant recovery time varies, but most patients return to normal routines within a few days.

How Painful Is Dental Implant Healing Compared to Other Treatments?

Many patients report that dental implant pain is:

Less than wisdom tooth removal
Comparable to a routine extraction
Easier than expected overall

Because implants don’t involve neighbouring teeth, recovery is often smoother than bridges or more invasive dental procedures.

Dental Implant Aftercare Tips to Reduce Pain

Following proper aftercare plays a huge role in keeping discomfort minimal and healing on track.

Do:

✔ Take prescribed or recommended pain relief
✔ Apply a cold compress for swelling
✔ Eat soft foods (soups, yoghurt, mashed vegetables)
✔ Keep the area clean with gentle brushing

Avoid:

✖ Smoking (this delays healing)
✖ Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
✖ Touching the implant site
✖ Strenuous exercise for a few days

Good aftercare = faster healing + less pain.

When Should You Be Concerned About Pain?

While mild discomfort is normal, you should contact your dentist if you experience:

Severe or worsening pain after several days
Increasing swelling or redness
Fever or signs of infection
Pain when biting months after placement

These issues are uncommon but should always be checked promptly.

Are Dental Implants Worth It Despite the Fear of Pain?

For most patients, the answer is yes.

Dental implants:

Look and feel like natural teeth
Restore chewing comfort and confidence
Prevent bone loss in the jaw
Offer a long-term solution compared to dentures or bridges

And importantly — the pain is temporary, the benefits are long-lasting.

Thinking About Dental Implants?

If fear of pain has been holding you back, a personalised consultation can make all the difference. Understanding the process, recovery time, and pain management options helps patients feel confident and in control.

Book your consultation with our implant dentist to discuss your concerns and find out whether dental implants are right for you.

Noticing blood when you brush or floss? Many people assume bleeding gums are normal or just a sign of brushing too hard — but in reality, healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is often an early warning sign that your gums need attention.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we regularly help patients from Hammersmith and Fulham address bleeding gums early, before they progress into more serious gum disease.

Why Do Gums Bleed?

If you’re wondering why do gums bleed, the most common reasons include:

1. Plaque Build-Up

When plaque isn’t removed effectively, it irritates the gums and causes inflammation. This is the earliest stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis.

2. Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)

Bleeding gums are often the first noticeable sign of gingivitis. At this stage, the condition is reversible with the right care.

3. Inadequate Brushing or Flossing

Ironically, not flossing enough can cause gums to bleed more. When you first start cleaning between your teeth properly, mild bleeding can occur — but this should improve within 7–10 days.

4. Hormonal Changes or Medical Conditions

Pregnancy, diabetes, and certain medications can increase gum sensitivity and bleeding, making professional gum care even more important.

Why Bleeding Gums Are Not Normal

Bleeding gums are your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. If left untreated, early gum inflammation can progress into periodontitis, which may lead to:

Persistent bad breath
Gum recession
Loose teeth
Tooth loss

Early action is the key to preventing long-term damage.

Bleeding Gums Treatment: What Actually Works?

Effective bleeding gums treatment focuses on removing plaque, reducing inflammation, and restoring gum health.

At Home:

Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
Use a dentist-recommended antibacterial mouthwash

Professional Treatment:

Scale and polish to remove hardened plaque (tartar)
Targeted gum therapy if inflammation is more advanced
Ongoing hygiene care plans to keep gums healthy

If your gums continue to bleed after improving your home routine, it’s time to see a dental professional.

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should book an appointment if:

Your gums bleed regularly when brushing or flossing
Bleeding lasts longer than a week
You notice redness, swelling, or tenderness
You have persistent bad breath

Patients searching for bleeding gums Hammersmith often come to us early — and that early step can make all the difference.

How We Help at Hammersmith Dental Care

Our team focuses on early detection and prevention of gum disease. We provide gentle, thorough assessments and personalised treatment plans to stop bleeding gums before they become a bigger problem.

Take Action Early – Your Gums Will Thank You

Bleeding gums are not something to ignore — and they’re not something you just have to “live with.” With the right care, gum health can often be fully restored.

Concerned about bleeding gums?
Book a gum health check at Hammersmith Dental Care today and protect your smile for the long term.

If you’ve been told you need a dental implant, it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous. One of the most common concerns we hear at Hammersmith Dental Care is:

“What actually happens during a dental implant procedure?”

The good news? Modern implant dentistry is carefully planned, highly predictable, and far more comfortable than many patients expect.

This step-by-step guide explains the dental implant procedure, what you’ll experience at each stage, and how we ensure patients across Hammersmith and Fulham feel informed, relaxed, and confident throughout the process.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It is placed into the jawbone and supports a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they:

Look and feel like natural teeth
Protect the jawbone from shrinkage
Do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support
Can last many years with proper care

Step 1: Initial Consultation & Assessment

Every successful dental implant procedure starts with careful planning.

During your consultation at Hammersmith Dental Care, your implant dentist will:

Assess your oral and general health
Take detailed digital X-rays or 3D scans
Check bone quality and gum health
Discuss your goals and concerns
Explain whether additional treatments (such as bone grafting) are needed

This stage is crucial — it ensures your implant surgery process is safe, personalised, and predictable.

Step 2: Preparing for Implant Surgery

If your mouth is healthy and ready, we move to the preparation stage.

This may include:

Treating gum disease if present
Removing a failing tooth (if required)
Planning bone grafting if bone volume is insufficient

Many patients are surprised to learn that preparation is often minor and straightforward.

Step 3: Implant Placement (The Surgery)

This is the part most patients worry about — but it’s usually the easiest.

What happens during implant surgery?

The area is fully numbed using local anaesthetic
The implant is gently placed into the jawbone
The procedure is precise and controlled
Most patients feel pressure, not pain

In fact, many people say implant placement is more comfortable than a tooth extraction.

Time:
Usually 30–60 minutes per implant

Step 4: Healing & Osseointegration

After placement, the implant needs time to bond with the jawbone — a process called osseointegration.

What to expect:

Mild swelling or tenderness for a few days
Normal daily activities resumed quickly
The implant gradually becomes part of the bone

Healing time:
Typically 3–6 months, depending on individual healing and bone quality.

This stage is key to creating a strong, long-lasting foundation for your new tooth.

Step 5: Abutment & Final Tooth Placement

Once healing is complete:

A small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant
Custom impressions are taken
Your final crown is carefully designed to match your natural teeth
The crown is securely fitted

The result is a tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural one.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

This is one of the biggest fears — and one of the biggest misconceptions.

Most patients report:

Little to no pain during surgery
Mild discomfort afterwards, managed with standard pain relief
A smoother recovery than expected

Your comfort is always a priority at Hammersmith Dental Care, and we take time to explain each step so there are no surprises.

How Long Does the Full Implant Process Take?

The full implant surgery process varies depending on your individual needs:

Simple cases: around 3–4 months
More complex cases: up to 6–9 months

While it takes time, the result is a stable, long-term solution that protects both your smile and jawbone.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants are ideal if you want:

A fixed, non-removable solution
A natural appearance
Improved chewing and speech
Long-term tooth replacement
To avoid dentures or bridges

Patients across Hammersmith and Fulham choose implants because they restore confidence as well as function.

Speak to Our Implant Dentist

If you’re considering dental implants but still have questions or concerns, the best next step is a personalised consultation.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we believe informed patients feel calmer, more confident, and more in control of their treatment.

Speak to our implant dentist today to find out whether dental implants are right for you.

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

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we understand how missing teeth can affect your confidence, comfort, and everyday life. Dental implants offer a modern, long-lasting solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth.

This guide explains what dental implants are, how they work, and whether they may be right for you, helping patients in Hammersmith make informed, confident decisions about their oral health.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. They are small titanium posts placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, an implant securely supports a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture.

Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for tooth replacement because they restore both appearance and function while helping protect long-term oral health.

What Makes Dental Implants So Effective?

Dental implants are made from biocompatible titanium, which allows them to fuse naturally with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong, stable foundation that closely mimics a natural tooth root.

Each implant restoration has three parts:

The implant – placed in the jawbone
The abutment – connects the implant to the tooth
The crown – a custom-made tooth matched to your smile

Why Patients Choose Dental Implants at Hammersmith Dental Care

Many of our patients choose dental implants because they:

Feel secure and comfortable
Look natural and blend seamlessly with existing teeth
Protect the jawbone and facial structure
Do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support
Allow normal eating, speaking, and smiling

Unlike dentures, implants are fixed in place, meaning no slipping, clicking, or adhesives.

Am I Suitable for Dental Implants?

You may be a good candidate for dental implants if you:

Have one or more missing teeth
Have healthy gums
Have sufficient jawbone (or are suitable for bone grafting)
Are in good general health

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we carry out a thorough consultation and digital assessment to ensure implants are safe, suitable, and predictable for you.

The Dental Implant Process

We take a careful, patient-centred approach to dental implant treatment:

Personal Consultation

We assess your oral health, take digital X-rays or 3D scans, and discuss your goals.

Implant Placement

The implant is placed gently under local anaesthetic. Most patients find the procedure comfortable and straightforward.

Healing & Integration

Over the following weeks, the implant bonds securely with the jawbone.

Final Restoration

A bespoke crown is fitted, restoring your smile, bite, and confidence.

Does Dental Implant Treatment Hurt?

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. Any mild discomfort after treatment is usually short-lived and easily managed with standard pain relief.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last many years—often decades. They are one of the most durable and cost-effective tooth replacement options available.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Dental implants should be cared for just like natural teeth:

Brush twice daily
Clean between teeth regularly
Attend routine dental and hygiene appointments
Maintain healthy gums

Good maintenance is key to long-term success.

Dental Implants in Hammersmith – Local Care You Can Trust

Choosing dental implants at Hammersmith Dental Care means:

Experienced clinicians
Modern technology and materials
Clear treatment planning
Ongoing support close to home

We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, ethical, and patient-focused implant care.

Book Your Dental Implant Consultation

If you are considering dental implants in Hammersmith, our friendly team is here to help. A consultation will allow us to assess your needs and explain your options clearly, with no pressure.

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

Many people assume that all dental problems can be treated by a general dentist — but when it comes to gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss, specialist care can make a crucial difference.

A periodontist is a dentist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Knowing when to see a gum specialist can help you protect your teeth, avoid unnecessary tooth loss, and improve your long-term oral health.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our periodontist provides expert-led periodontal care for patients at all stages of gum disease.

What Is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on:

Gum health
Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
Bone loss around teeth
Gum recession
Dental implant health

After qualifying as a dentist, a periodontist completes several additional years of postgraduate training, gaining expertise in advanced diagnostics, non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatments, and long-term maintenance of gum health.

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist provides specialist care beyond routine dental cleaning.

1. Diagnose Gum Disease Accurately

Periodontists use detailed assessments to detect gum disease early, including:

Measuring gum pocket depths
Assessing bone levels
Identifying inflammation and infection
Evaluating risk factors such as smoking or diabetes

2. Treat Moderate to Advanced Gum Disease

For patients with periodontitis, a periodontist can provide:

Deep cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
Targeted antimicrobial therapy
Specialist periodontal treatment plans
Supportive periodontal maintenance

These treatments aim to stop disease progression and stabilise the gums.

3. Treat Gum Recession

Gum recession can cause sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and root exposure.
A periodontist can offer:

Non-surgical management
Gum grafting procedures
Treatment to prevent further recession

4. Manage Dental Implants & Peri-Implantitis

Periodontists are experts in the health of tissues around dental implants, including:

Prevention of implant complications
Treatment of peri-implantitis
Long-term implant maintenance

5. Perform Advanced Periodontal Surgery

In more advanced cases, treatment may include:

Regenerative procedures
Surgical periodontal therapy
Bone and tissue preservation techniques

When Should You See a Gum Specialist?

You should consider seeing a periodontist if you notice:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Swollen or red gums
Persistent bad breath
Gum recession or teeth looking longer
Loose or shifting teeth
A history of gum disease
Dental implants that feel uncomfortable
You smoke or have diabetes

Early referral to a gum specialist can prevent permanent damage.

Why Specialist Periodontal Care Matters

Gum disease is often painless — but its effects can be serious.

Without specialist treatment, periodontal disease can lead to:

Bone loss
Tooth movement
Tooth loss
Implant failure
Complex and costly treatment

Seeing a periodontist early often means simpler, more comfortable treatment and better long-term results.

Periodontal Care at Hammersmith Dental Care

At Hammersmith Dental Care, our periodontist offers:

✔ Comprehensive gum assessments
✔ Evidence-based periodontal treatment
✔ Personalised maintenance programmes
✔ Long-term gum stability and prevention

We work closely with your general dentist to ensure seamless care.

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

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