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January 29, 2026 GuidelinesServices0

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:

  1. Specialist treatment with a periodontist
  2. 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


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January 15, 2026 GuidelinesServices0

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:

  1. Impaired Immune Response

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

  1. Increased Inflammation

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

  • Faster tissue breakdown
  • Greater bone loss
  • More severe periodontitis
  1. 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

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

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January 6, 2026 Services0

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.

 


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December 7, 2025 GuidelinesServices0

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


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November 27, 2025 Uncategorized0

Expert care for implant patients at Hammersmith Dental Care

Healthy gums are essential for successful dental implants. However, many patients worry that gum disease will prevent them from getting implants. Fortunately, with the right treatment, most people can still restore their smile. At Hammersmith Dental Care, we specialise in helping patients with gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss prepare for safe and predictable implant treatment. As a result, even those with complex gum concerns can often receive implants successfully.

Why Gum Health Matters for Dental Implants

Dental implants need strong bone and healthy gum tissue to stay firmly in place. Without proper gum health, several problems may occur. For example, untreated gum disease can lead to:

  • Bone loss around the implant

  • Inflammation (peri-implantitis)

  • A higher risk of implant failure

  • Delayed healing

In fact, the American Academy of Periodontology confirms that gum disease is a major cause of tooth and bone loss — both of which are crucial for implant success. Therefore, treating gum disease before implant placement is essential.

Can You Have Dental Implants If You Have Gum Disease?

Yes — in most cases. You can still have dental implants as long as gum disease is treated first. Although gum problems may seem like a barrier, most patients can move forward once their gums have been stabilised.

At Hammersmith Dental Care, we may recommend several treatments to achieve this, such as:

  • Deep cleaning (scaling & root planing)

  • Gum infection control

  • Bone grafting where bone loss has occurred

  • Gum grafting for receding gums

  • Tailored periodontal maintenance before and after implants

Once your gums are healthy and stable, implants can be placed safely using modern, 3D-guided techniques. Consequently, your treatment becomes both more predictable and more comfortable.

Benefits of Implants for Patients With Previous Gum Problems

Dental implants offer long-term advantages, especially for patients who have experienced gum disease. For instance, implants can provide:

  • Prevention of further bone loss

  • Improved chewing function

  • Better oral hygiene and stability

  • A natural-looking, confident smile

  • Long-term reliability when gum disease is well-managed

Moreover, research shows that dental implants have high success rates even in patients with a history of periodontal disease — provided treatment is completed first. Therefore, proper preparation greatly increases the chances of long-term success.

Our Implant Process at Hammersmith Dental Care

1.Gum and Bone Assessment

First, we examine the gums, check bone levels, and identify any active infection. This ensures that we understand your oral health fully before planning treatment.

2. Periodontal Treatment

Next, we stabilise gum disease and prepare the mouth for implant placement. This step is essential for long-term implant success.

3. Precision-Guided Implant Placement

After your gums are healthy, we use 3D scanning and guided surgery to place implants with maximum accuracy and comfort.

4. Long-Term Maintenance

Finally, ongoing hygiene appointments and regular monitoring help keep your gums and implants healthy for many years.

Book Your Implant Consultation in Hammersmith

If you’re dealing with gum problems but want to replace missing teeth, we can help.
Our experienced team provides personalised care for complex gum and implant cases.


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November 20, 2025 GuidelinesServices0

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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November 12, 2025 GuidelinesServices0

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.


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May 19, 2023 Services

Periodontology (periodontics) is an area of dentistry specialising in the supporting structures of the teeth and the diseases that affect them. Examples of diseases a Periodontist would treat include Gum Disease and Gingivitis.






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Please note that fees may vary but will be confirmed at the consultation and a written estimate will be given before treatment commences.


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