Your gums are like cushions for your teeth: they surround the teeth in the jaws and help to support them.

Looking after your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth. Red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush them could be a sign of gum disease.

Bleeding gums, bad breath, and swollen or receding gums can all be signs that your gums aren’t healthy.

If left untreated, this can lead to gum disease, one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.

Although the reasons aren’t entirely clear, it has also been shown that poor dental hygiene has been linked to health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

FAQs

What is gum disease?

Our mouths are full of bacteria, known as plaque. The build-up of this plaque on our teeth causes inflammation of the gums, known as Gingivitis.

Gingivitis
The gums around your teeth become red, swollen, and often bleed when you brush your teeth. This is the earliest sign of gum disease and shouldn’t be ignored. Gingivitis is completely reversible with daily brushing, flossing and regular professional cleans by a hygienist.
Periodontitis
When gingivitis isn’t treated, it can lead to inflammation around the tooth, known as Periodontal disease. This causes irreversible destruction of the supporting gums and bone around your teeth. The gum starts to pull away from your teeth and form spaces known as ‘pockets.’

To keep your mouth clean and healthy, we recommend you come in for regular hygiene appointments and dental check-ups.

Am I at risk of Gum Disease?

The following factors mean you may have a higher risk of developing gum disease:

Smoking.
Poor oral hygiene.
Diabetes, heart disease, immunosuppression.
Certain medications.

How is Gum Disease Treated?

Our dentists and therapists are highly trained to treat gum disease. This process involves cleaning below the gum line to remove deposits of plaque and tartar which you can’t reach.

If your gum disease is severe or advanced, we may recommend you see our periodontal specialist.

Is Gum Disease Permanent?

When caught early, gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible. This is done through routine brushing and flossing and regular hygienist visits.

Once gum disease has progressed to periodontal disease, we recommend you see our Periodontal Specialist for consultation and advice.

For more information regarding this treatment

Back to General Dentistry

TESTIMONIALS

“Had an appointment today with Reza to replace a filling. The dentist took his time to explain the process and also regularly checked if I was okay. It was a pleasant experience and I am very pleased of the outcome....”

Priscille Louison.

“I am extremely pleased with the treatment I had. I expressed my mistrust in dentists because of past experience and Dr Hassan assured me he would do the best for me. He talked me through each step of the procedure...”

Derek Fox.

“I had a root canal treatment done here by Dr Kreena Patel & her team & I cannot speak highly enough of them all. Very professional, thorough & kind, charming & VERY efficient. Root canal procedure is never a "pleasure"...”

Amit Kumar.

“I’ve been with Brigstock dental practise for over 10yrs and even though I’ve moved from the neighbourhood I didn’t change it because their service is exceptional. The receptionists are always friend and very polite and Rudy is an amazing dentist....”

Joyce Adjei.

“The care and service at Brigstock Dental is great. Dr Rudy is always on time, kind, patient, professional and thorough. His dental nurse is also very lovely and has been there for many years. The reception staff are always helpful....”

Sheena Shah.

“Brigstock is a great dental practice. The staff are always friendly and professional. I used to be a nervous patient but not anymore. I am grateful to be a regular patient at this dentist.”

Clive Minto.

“I've been coming to Brigstock Dental practice for over 10 years now. I cannot fault them. I always received excellent dental care and wonderful customer service from all the front desk staff. I had a filling done with Dr Rudy...”

Pauline Laud.

“Great dental practice! Dr Sangeetha and her nurse Salma are just the best ever! During my appointment I felt more like in SPA rather than in a dentist chair due to an absolutely painless treatment and very calm, friendly atmosphere....”

Nina Morrison.

“I recently visited Dr. Hassan for a crown and was impressed by the entire experience. Dr. Hassan was very professional and took the time to explain each procedure clearly. He was patient, attentive, and showed great care in ensuring my...”

Maryam Malik.

“Reza my dentist was amazing he made sure at every step that I was ok as he knew I was anxious. My tooth looks like a new tooth. He clearly cares about his profession and it shows. The receptionist are...”

Shanta Foster.

VIEW ALL TESTIMONIALS

Alan Pickett

17:23 28 Aug 24

I have been using Brigstock Dental for a number of years. I've had a number of hygienist visits and various procedures including root canal procedure, a crown on a rear molar and a few repairs of broken fillings. I can honestly say that I have never been disappointed by the level of service, care and treatment provided by the team at Brigstock Dental is second to none. I will continue to be a patient with them.

Freddie Roberson

08:08 28 Aug 24

I have nothing but praise for this dental surgery. My dentist himself is a very good man and a great job however the two hygienist that I have been dealing with have been absolutely excellent and have changed my mouth forever! Their expertise and referrals have helped me to save my teeth and gums. Also they were very easy to talk to, listen to well and their treatment was excellent. I was referred to a gum specialist who was amazing and found issues with my gums and even the dentist had not seen. As a result of her examination I discovered wisdom teeth that need treatment an infection that I did not know existed excellent. Also, the staff at reception are simply brilliant. Extremely friendly, very professional and create a great atmosphere. They remind me of my appointments and my waiting times are always minimal. Honestly, I can say that Dental Practice is absolutely amazing and would highly recommend them to anyone.

Sonia Valente

20:56 14 Aug 24

I've been attending this practice for a few years now, and I recently had my first hygiene appointment with Nusarat Jahan. She was amazing, and I'll definitely be requesting her for future appointments. My teeth have never felt so clean and bright. Thank you, Nusarat, for the 5-star hygiene care!

Vicky Lankester

18:33 05 Aug 24

I had to have a crown fitted with a filling being replaced. This was the first major dental procedure for me, and I was scared! Dr Rudy Audit and his dental nurse (apologies I don't know her name) could see how nervous I was and they were so reassuring and professional. They put me at ease and constantly reassured me. They made the procedure so much less stressful than I thought it would be. Dr Audit's job on my tooth was brilliant, with the crown fitting really well. I was also very well-informed about the procedure and costs. I am so glad he is my dentist and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him.The reception staff are also very polite and professional and are always easy to deal with.Thank you!

Alen Gjini

14:52 30 Jul 24

We attended open days for children at the beginning of the year, our little girl was very scared, but after 3 appointment with Dr. Reza, she’s improved hugely! Very kinda and gentle approach. Definitely recommend for children!

Maria Phillipou

21:46 28 Jun 24

Recommend by my husband to see Karin (Hygienist). She saw my son & was very thorough & took her time to explain the importance of how to look after his teeth. She did an amazing job with his teeth & I will be returning for myself & daughters.The lady's at the reception were lovely too!

Jojo DesignsGB

14:23 25 Jun 24

I have been with this surgery since I was 9 years old, I am now 36. I have always found everyone who works here to be professional and friendly. Sounds very strange but it’s always a pleasure to go in for my routine checkup.

Bella B

17:05 19 Jun 24

I had a wisdom tooth removed today. Needles to say I was not looking forward to it at all but my dentist was amazing!!! I can trust her 100% to look after me, especially as I'm a very nervous patient!Very caring, understanding and professional! I recommend Dr Jawad she's the best!

MILLY Morr

04:15 31 May 24

Good clean and welcoming dental practice. I took both of my children to get their teeth checked during the children's day during the half-term. They had colouring, face painting, children's TV shows , balloon, gift bags and very understanding staff. I would recommend this dental practice. The only problem is I couldn't become a member due to them being overscribbed.

Munira Jamal

11:50 29 May 24

I took my 13 year old daughter for her second appointment with Almaas. My daughter had to have a tooth out, she had minimal pain. We were very satisfied with the treatment received. I would recommend this practice, all the staff are super friendly, polite and welcoming.

Annamaria Kostikova

13:43 22 May 24

Excellent service and customer care throughout. Had my first dental implant done with Brigstock Dental.Everyone kind and efficient. My Implantologist was great! Made me feel relaxed and explained everything as he went along. I felt comfortable, safe and in good hands in spite of my fear of dentists.I would use them again and highly recommend this clinic.

Bhimji Shah

16:44 01 May 24

I had two appointments with Dr. Sangeetha on two consecutive days. I felt comfortable at all the times. Dr. Sangeetha gives good explanation of the treatment and the process. Her assistant and the staff in reception were good. I would recommend Brigstock Dental to my family and friends.

Derek Fox

18:41 21 Apr 24

I am extremely pleased with the treatment I had. I expressed my mistrust in dentists because of past experience and Dr Hassan assured me he would do the best for me. He talked me through each step of the procedure and even took photos of the different stages. After the process he showed me the photos, talking through the work he had carried out and why. I feel confident in his skills and trust his decisions. The nurse Michelle was lovely and relaxed me with her banter.

Priscille Louison

16:52 11 Apr 24

Had an appointment today with Reza to replace a filling. The dentist took his time to explain the process and also regularly checked if I was okay. It was a pleasant experience and I am very pleased of the outcome. I have been attending this practice for a few years now and all the staff are extremely welcoming. Not to forget the lovely hygienist Karen who is exceptionally the best.

Amit Kumar

20:36 05 Apr 24

I had a root canal treatment done here by Dr Kreena Patel & her team & I cannot speak highly enough of them all. Very professional, thorough & kind, charming & VERY efficient. Root canal procedure is never a "pleasure" but this team make it as good as it possibly can be. I have no hesitation in recommending them 100%. I felt in safe hands which was important to me. Thank you team at Brigstock Dental!

Aisha Malik

16:14 26 Mar 24

Dr Zohaib and the dental nurse Michelle were amazing. They really took care of me. I was very nervous about having my treatment and they put me at ease. Zohaib is a fantastic dentist who really cares about his patients. Great team!

Joyce Adjei

13:09 25 Mar 24

I’ve been with Brigstock dental practise for over 10yrs and even though I’ve moved from the neighbourhood I didn’t change it because their service is exceptional.The receptionists are always friend and very polite and Rudy is an amazing dentist.He’s very friendly and always polite and takes great of me and my family whenever we see him.

kazuko hashimoto

18:19 22 Mar 24

I was very happy with my root canal treatment at Brigstock Dental today. Dr Kreena is genuine, caring and very good at what she does. Immediately, I could trust her with my treatment. I’m a dentist myself so I thought I would be ok with having a root canal treatment but on the morning of the treatment I was feeling a little nervous. She reassured me all will be fine and explained each step of the way. Her dental nurse is also very lovely and has a great vibe together with Dr Kreena. Thank you so much. One very happy patient.

sheena shah

18:58 07 Mar 24

The care and service at Brigstock Dental is great. Dr Rudy is always on time, kind, patient, professional and thorough. His dental nurse is also very lovely and has been there for many years. The reception staff are always helpful. I have been coming to this practice for years and I have no complaints.

Raj

14:04 07 Mar 24

We been going to this Dental surgery for last 10 years and our Dr is Rudy. He’s very nice and friendly also his assistant Dr also very nice and friendly. Both are amazing and they providing the good service for the patients needs.

Marcelo VC

22:16 27 Feb 24

I came to Brigstock Dental for an emergency assessment with severe pain. The admin team was friendly and efficient.The dentist who conducted my assessment was professional, knowledgeable, and able to efficiently diagnose and treat my tooth as well as explain the follow-up plan.The dentist's assistant was caring and efficiently assisted with the procedure.Many thanks to all.

Kanaka Nair

12:00 27 Feb 24

I've been at this dental practice over 10 year. Never had a bad experience . The staff are friendly and helpful. The dentists are professional and caring. Overall they provide an excellent service.

Amit Kotecha

21:54 13 Feb 24

As a Specialist Oral surgeon I’m lucky that I’ve not needed much Dentistry. I think we surgeons make the worst patients. I recently cracked a virgin tooth, the crack had propagated into the nerve. I’ve never know pain like it. Kreena has been a colleague that I have admired from afar and consulted a few times. For me there was only one choice. 7 hour round trip from Leicester to Brigstock to see this amazingly talented young lady. She is a consummate professional and excellent at her job. The team were amazing. When a surgeon picks another surgeon you know they have to be the best! Five stars is definitely not enough. Pain free by the time I got home. Thank you Kreena and team.

Francisca Akonor

09:45 12 Feb 24

My son has recently went through a terrible accident which resulted in the loss of one of his teeth. Due to this, I called the dentist and managed to get an emergency appointment despite the fact that they were busy on that afternoon. I was able to get a quick appointment with dentist Reza Davari. He and his team were very welcoming, helpful and able to resolve the issue. The team was very attentive and friendly towards my son. I would highly recommend Brigstock Dental as I have been with them for over 20 years and haven’t encountered any issues with this dental hospital.

Satish

12:57 01 Feb 24

I have been attending this dental practice for the past 30 years. It has been agreeably modernised over the years, introducing online use for booking, etc. Also, there have been changes, e. g. retirement of the top man. However, the younger practitioner has treated me well today, and with the same courtesy and promptness. I am glad to say that the personnel may have changed but the character has remained the same! Excellent!

sadiki clennon

22:17 26 Jan 24

I was looking for a new dentist, before being introduced to Brigstock Dental Specialist.Dr Reza Davari my dentist was more than out standing. The care and time he took with my teeth, plus he was so patient. A good listener to the problems I was having. and how he explained the issues I have and what needed to be done was brilliant. You can tell he has a real passion for his job.A true professional I always felt comfortable, and more than happy with the work I had done. I definitely recommend Dr Reza Davari.Mobojah Clennon.

Pauline Laud

11:42 16 Jan 24

I've been coming to Brigstock Dental practice for over 10 years now. I cannot fault them. I always received excellent dental care and wonderful customer service from all the front desk staff. I had a filling done with Dr Rudy Audit and his lovely assistant. He explained everything in detail and made me feel very relaxed and assured. I can honestly say it was painless - I almost fell asleep!!! Very happy with the end result! Thank you to all the team.

Angela Brown

19:30 14 Jan 24

I have been a patient at this practice for many years and cannot praise it enough. The staff are friendly and helpful, the dentist professional and caring. I am a nervous patient but the dentist does everything possible to put me at ease. I have had a bridge fitted with no difficulty. I feel so lucky to be in such capable hands.

Anne Cleary

12:07 08 Jan 24

Went for a filling this morning. Was absolutely terrified going, The Dentist Shabana Buth was absolutely brilliant. She put me at ease straight away, I would give her 110 per cent I never felt a thing. I have had bad experiences in the past but Shabana was just fantastic. Would not be terrified next time

Louise Knipe

13:11 30 Nov 23

Have been attending this Practice since 1998. It has grown!. I find the staff and Mr Patel very accomodating, helpful and will give adive, costs etc if necessary for more extensive work.The reception is very welcoming and thankful of their service.

E Q

23:22 27 Nov 23

Brigstock Dental Practice is staffed by great people. The receptionists are welcoming and helpful, especially Tracey. The Doctors are fantastic. Dr Shabana Buth, who looks after my wife and I, is amazing. We both sing her praises for her caring nature and professionalism. She is knowledgeable, helpful and brings a spark of light in the darkness of one's dental issues. She explains the treatment pathway in great detail to the patient, involving them every step of the way. She is a great asset to the practice.I highly recommend this practice.

Lorna Blake

15:54 21 Nov 23

Referred by my usual dentist, I have since been under the care of Dr. Patel, who replaced one of my teeth with an implant, after my own had splintered. The result is great, and the new tooth feels comfortable, as though it has been there for years. It also looks great. I'm very happy. Thank you Dr. Patel!

meenakshi patel

21:19 08 Nov 23

Had a great experience at Brigstock dental centre. My dentist Reza Davari was very cool (one of the coolest dentists). Made me feel very comfortable with my treatment and I would say he definitely has an amazing playlist to calm your nerves!.

FG-_-Dotz-_ Uckey

16:46 08 Nov 23

This has been my dentist for many years now. I'm always happy with the service that I receive. I'm only sad that I have not been able to register my husband with yourselves. For over four years I have been asking but you are not taking on NHS patients.

Emma Puddy

21:59 07 Nov 23

This is the best dental practice I have ever been treated by. I feel completely safe + have 100% trust + faith in them. Their knowledge + skills are second to none. Dr Davesh + Dr Kreena, + Yuliyana are brilliant. Thank you so much for your professional care, I really appreciate you.

Shamim Firah

08:48 05 Nov 23

Brigstock Dental are always amazing. In 2015 i almost died but I got an emergency note to take to a hospital (A previous dentist were not so professional) and I had to get surgery! I'm forever grateful and they are so gentle. Thank you 😊

leon elwinus

04:05 04 Nov 23

I had an excellent experience at brigstock dental center, so far the best choice I've ever made. I first came very worried about a missing tooth that affects my smile untill I met Mr Patel my dentist who changed everything. I was very relaxed during my procedure and well taken care off. The staff were very kind and helpful and I definitely will be recommending brigstock dental center to my friends and family🎇thanks much again team👍🏽

Soha Iftikhar

11:44 29 Oct 23

My whole family has been registered with Brigstock Dental since 2007. They have always been good and gotten better over the years. Dr Shabana Buth is excellent and thorough with her examination and treatment.

Einna Kitsok

06:18 26 Oct 23

A clean, spacious and modern dental clinic.All the staff and my dentist polite, professional and efficient. I’m having some work done so cannot comment on quality of dental work yet but so far an excellent experience.

Frances Davis

16:05 13 Oct 23

Saw Mr Hussain, the new dentist. I started off by explaining that I have a real fear of dentists, he was absolutely fantastic, explained what he was doing and then discussed what we could do with a particular tooth. I felt totally in control and was reassured by his lovely manner and his thorough explanations. I have never had an unpleasant visit to this surgery and would strongly recommend it to anyone. Brilliant is the only word to use.

Pinky Wimalasuriya

19:30 08 Oct 23

I have been coming here to this practice for a while now, the receptionist when arriving make you feel so welcomed. They are all so helpful. Thank you Nishma for making me feel more confident with myself, I have always felt so scared going to the dentist, but you made my treatment pain free when ever I came and I felt so comfortable what ever you said. A big thanks to your assistant who always held my hand when I had to have an injection.Thank you for making me smile again. Bless you always. Xxxx Pinky xxx

MARGARET WOODING

22:35 28 Sep 23

Since first being treated by Davesh Patel at my local practice in Ashford in Kent, I happily travel 110km to have a consultation and treatment at Brigstock Centre, because he is the finest specialised dental surgeon I could have working on my teeth. I cannot speak highly enough of his judgement, skill and gentleness. I confidently recommend him to all my family and friends, despite the distance they will have to travel from south east Kent to see him.

Sarrah Boukheroufa

17:18 26 Sep 23

Always an wonderful experience. Nusrat the dental hygienist is a gem. Warm and welcoming vibe and does a great job of cleaning my teeth. Used to have a phobia of dentists before coming to Bridgestock, now I won’t go anywhere else

Paul Dwyer

13:52 13 Sep 23

Have not been to the dentist in awhile not a great fan, believing if it don't hurt I don't need them.But after getting some problems and needing a dentist went to them being just around the corner from me.Found the staff to be very friendly and the dentist Nisma, (even though looking like she had just got the day of school) very very good at her profession. I will no longer have any fears about going to the dentist. (will never enjoy it but no more fears).

Zoltán Kepes

09:25 12 Sep 23

I had a very good experience visiting Brigstock Dental. The receptionists are very helpful and polite. Lucy, who deep cleaned some of my teeth was very good and gave me good advise.Nisma, who extracted some of my broken teeths was very friendly and professional. She explained me my situation and what needs to be done very well. The extraction itself was carried out very precise and highly focused.I wish I would have come 10 years earlier to Brigstock Dental.

Matt Kingsman

09:08 09 Sep 23

I have been using this dentist for about 10 years now. I had a healthy fear of dentists before but brigstock put me at complete ease and i wouldnt go anywhere else. Always the best service. Totally friendly and if you’re scared of dentists i highly recommend joining

Dee Waldron

15:49 04 Sep 23

This appointment for was a child. Reception staff are very kind, friendly and supportive. Dentist had a positive approach, very attentive and my child was calm and at ease throughout the treatment.Thank you

Nikky

13:55 04 Sep 23

Very friendly environment, all the Dentists are top notch. My daughter is always treated with passion, respect and fun loving session. I am also treated same way.I can't fault them at all. The best Dental place in whole of Croydon, yes whole of Croydon.

Sarah Adams

16:42 31 Aug 23

I'm a new patient and this was my first visit, and first check up since covid, so I wasn't sure how things would go! I couldn't have been more pleased with the service.Friendly staff, they explained everything that was going on clearly, and gave nice simple advice to follow between check ups (which I'll be back for!).I'm not someone who worries about the dentist generally, but given how friendly and warm the team were, I imagine they're great with nervous visitors.Definitely would recommend them.

Dorret

19:06 25 Aug 23

Really found the practice friendly and they were able to put my mind at rest as getting a root canal. The only thing that could be improved was n acknowledge by staff as I was waiting to see the dentist. I wasnt sure who would be seeing me but saw the same staff pass me on a couple of a occasions.

Serena Evans

14:22 18 Aug 23

I've been going to Nisma ever since I've been going to the dentist on my own. (I'm 24 now). She's my favourite so I'm sad to know that she'll be leaving to travel.😭I've recently got my crown fitted and it has turned out wonderful. She's worked very hard to adjust it and make it comfortable. Her assistant Yulianna is also so kind and caring. They work well together and I enjoy visiting them.The receptionist Tracy is always good fun as she signs me in and out of appointments.Overall, excellent experience all around. I've never had any problems 💜

elfreda nettleford

18:51 21 Jul 23

Happy with my service at this dental surgery staff very friendly and welcoming and my main man ruddie and he's lovely assistant always put me at ease every time I have too go too see them both their look after me because they know lm always nervous coming in too attend my appointment very very happy customer thanks 😀👍

Ann Gregson

09:41 20 Jun 23

Couldn’t be more impressed with this dentist surgery. First visit was for wisdom tooth extraction. I’m very nervous about any kind of dental work and decided against sedation in the end as was so reassured by Nishma at the initial consultation. Gabi, the nurse who assisted her was amazing too and Kora on reception was lovely at making me feel calm for the appointment. Will definitely be going back to this clinic for all my dental treatment in future. Thank you!

Mercedes Amamoo

22:08 02 Jun 23

I have been with Bristock Dentist for sometime now. I had gum disease and was referred to the hygienist for treatment.I met with this amazing, wonderful and lovely lady Nusarat Jahan who treated me with respect and love. She really showed much concern and had a wonderful treatment and advice on how to care for the gums to make my teeth stronger again to help keep them for sometime rather than extraction.I am doing my best to use the interdental brushes and also try to attend every session of my appointment to help keep both teeth and gums clean.I will recommend Bristock dentist and especially hygienist Nusarat Jahan to anyone who will need their services.

Philip Hill

10:41 25 May 23

I have been at this dental practice 9 years I visited and had a crown fitted and another sorted the service I received was amazing and would like to thank Shabana Buth my dentist she has done a first class job on my teeth. The reception staff again are so helpful. Thanks again for all your work must appreciated.Philip Hill

Denise Graham

12:14 25 Mar 23

I recently had the pleasure of taking my 8-year-old son to Brigstock Dental Practice for a kids day, and I am thrilled to say that it was an exceptional experience. My son has struggled with brushing his teeth for as long as I can remember, but after visiting the practice, he has been brushing his teeth twice a day every day without fail!I am so grateful to Nisma, the wonderful dentist who treated my son, as well as the entire team for their outstanding care and attention to detail. Nisma took the time to explain the importance of oral hygiene to my son in a way that was easy for him to understand, and made the experience fun and engaging.Since our visit, my son has been more confident and proud of his achievement, and I have noticed a significant improvement in his overall oral health. I highly recommend Brigstock Dental Practice to anyone looking for top-quality dental care for their children. The team's expertise and compassionate approach to patient care are truly unmatched. Thank you, Brigstock Dental Practice, for making such a positive impact on my son's oral health!

Cece “Cece” W

04:36 24 Mar 23

Had treatment done by Nisma, who was as absolute pleasure, didn’t even remember I was at the dentist. Nisma made me so at ease and was very attentive, explained everything she was doing during my treatment, I couldn’t ask for a better dentist! Also Juliette the dental assistant was great. Overall Brigstock is an excellent practice, with great service!

Gum Disease