A study has identified a possible link between mouth bacteria and meningitis. They suggested that regular brushing and flossing could help prevent the disease. The suggestion came after researchers in Zurich found a new bacterium in the blood of patients with meningitis. This bacterium is also found in patients with a type of heart disease called endocarditis. It is thought the bacterium could enter the bloodstream via bleeding gums. More research is required to confirm this but it reinforces the need for good oral hygiene.

It is a well-known fact that healthy gums are vital for a healthy mouth. It is also becoming more and more evident that having a healthy mouth is vital for overall health. For example, did you know that the following conditions may be caused or made worse by poor dental health:

1. Heart disease 
 

2. Stroke 
 

3. Diabetes 
 

4. Giving birth to a low birth weight or premature baby 
 

5. Respiratory disease 

Visiting the dentist and dental hygienist on a regular basis will minimise the risk of gum disease and its associated problems. Dental hygiene requires dedicated attention. A simple 5-minute scale is not good enough. Thorough removal of plaque bacteria above and below the gum line is required. This should take at least 30 minutes and is longer for more advanced disease. Gum disease never goes away and must be stabilised for life. Developing a relationship with your dentist and dental hygienist, who understand your needs, will lead to healthy gums for life and a healthy body.

Dental implants are the gold standard to replace missing teeth so why follow the PIP scandal? Whether you have one, several or all missing teeth, dental implants can provide you with a long lasting and natural solution. If you are considering dental implants, we urge you to research which dental implants are going to be used.

Only choose a dental implant system which is backed by extensive research over many years. Look at the websites of the companies and read about the research involved in the dental implants and their latest products. 

We are strongly against techniques that are not evidence based. It may be tempting to choose an implant that is 1/3 or 1/2 the price which your own dentist offers, but we would urge you to choose a well known company, a skilled and experienced dentist and a dental practice that offers personal care dedicated to your needs. 

Dr Nissit Patel only uses the very best materials in all aspects of dentistry including dental implants. For a free quick consultation or chat on dental implants, call us on 0207 7311162.

Researchers from Sweden have discovered that periodontal or gum disease may in fact predict a person's risk of heart failure, stroke and heart attack. The researchers examined almost 8000 patients with gum disease and the results showed that certain types of gum disease can in fact predict the risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks, heart failure and strokes. If you have bleeding gums, bad breath, bad taste, yellow build up on the teeth, loose teeth or gum recession then you are very likely to have gum disease. Do not delay. Contact us today for a full clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment plan. Preventing or treating gum disease can help fight other more serious health issues. Call us on 020 7731 1162.

Mouth Cancer Action Month was launched last month at the House of Commons. The importance of early detection was highlighted as a key factor in survival rates. Mouth cancer currently kills more people than cervical and testicular cancer combined with over 1,800 recorded deaths in 2008. Recent high profile sufferers include Hollywood actor Micheal Douglas, former England captain Bryan Robson and BBC presenter Danny Baker. Between 1997 and 2007, the number of mouth cancer cases had risen by nearly 46 percent. During our initial comprehensive consultation, oral cancer screening is carried out on a routine basis and followed up upon every further examination. If you are concerned about mouth cancer, please contact us on 0207 7311162.

In Japan, a new trend is gripping the fashion conscious as women are paying for teeth to be purposefully disarranged and made to look crooked! The new look is called 'yaeba' in Japanese or 'double tooth' and it is reported that men are finding this look attractive. While it is true that imperfections may give character, we believe that attractive smiles are straight and white. Do not hesitate to contact us on 020 7731 1162 to see how we can deliver straight, white smiles.

Dental treatments, options and jargon can be confusing. Although the terms are common language for a dentist, they may as well be a foreign language for the majority of the population. This is why we take a great deal of time with our patients and explain clearly in simple English what the dental treatment options may be. One excellent communication tool is our state of the art intra oral camera. Pictures can tell a thousand words. We will show you the pictures on our large screen and show you the issues and options. Seeing is believing! If you require a plain speaking dentist in Fulham or London, please call us on 020 7731 1162 or e mail us on info@progressivedentistry.co.uk

Did you know that the health of your mouth could affect the health of your body, e.g. heart disease, stroke. Click here to see what problems dental health could cause. The good news is that gum disease is almost entirely preventable and treatable. The sooner the disease is identified the better. The tell tale signs of gum disease that you should look out for include: Inflammation of the gums causing them to be red, swollen and bleed easily. This is usually evident on brushing and cleaning in between the teeth. Bad breath Loose teeth Unpleasant taste in the mouth Regular mouth infections Gum disease must be treated by a dental professional. It cannot be self treated. It is very important to regularly visit your dentist and hygienist to assess the mouth as a whole and identify any early signs of gum disease. Call us today if you are concerned about gum disease and the effect on your body. Tel 020 7731 1162, e mail info@progressivedentistry.co.uk