Shiraz (left) and Ayzaaz (right)
‘My experience was nothing short of exceptional. I’m so glad to have found a dentist I trust and feel completely at ease with.’ – Chloe Bellas
‘When we stress the importance of following a consistent daily hygiene routine and keeping regular dental appointments, we’re not talking to patients solely about teeth,’ says Dr Shiraz Akram, co-owner with his brother Ayzaaz of the Pure Smiles practice in Fulham. ‘We also want to encourage them to invest in their general wellbeing.’
The mouth is a prime gateway through which bacteria enter the body. So, when oral health is neglected, there is a much higher likelihood of becoming susceptible to gum disease (Periodontitis) which, if left untreated, destroys the bone structure keeping teeth in place. Also, it has been scientifically proven that Periodontitis is linked to the onset of diabetes, cardiovascular issues and dementia.
‘The gum line is an essential defence against bacterial attack and it’s where we identify warning signs,’ explains Ayzaaz. ‘The first symptoms, for example gum inflammation and bleeding, are relatively mild.
‘The medical term for this is Gingivitis, and we can treat it effectively. However, if not caught early, the risk of Periodontitis then increases significantly: deep pockets of space appear around the teeth and connective tissues, the gums recede and the bone breaks down, causing teeth to loosen and fall out.
‘While there’s no hard and fast rule as to how quickly this process happens, there is a point where it is not reversible. In those cases we carefully “manage” the situation using procedures designed to retain the teeth. One such is root planing: that removes solidified tartar which is embedded with bacteria from the root surface, creating a fresh environment in which bone can regenerate naturally.
‘Whatever the stage of gum disease, our highly skilled hygienists, Holly and Lesley, play a critical role in delivering every tailor-made treatment plan. They are committed to doing everything possible to work with patients to achieve the best outcome.’
At this time of year, with the Christmas Party season coming, the demand for teeth whitening treatments is always strong. ‘We use the Enlighten method, it’s by far the best way to achieve a bright, confident smile,’ says Shiraz. ‘Enlighten is the only system that guarantees a final colour rather than just promising generally whiter teeth. Most importantly, over the years it’s the solution that patients have told us that they prefer.
‘The process is simple and comfortable. We take a digital scan in order to fit customised whitening trays – they are like gum shields – which are worn at night for two weeks and for a third week for an hour a day. The patient actually sees their teeth changing colour: so, if it looks perfect, they can simply stop there and then. The teeth will never return to their original colour and the only maintenance required is a top-up for one night every month or so.
‘At Pure Smiles our philosophy is never to treat the teeth and mouth in isolation from the body: we always look holistically at the whole person. We deliver results that, with the correct hygiene support, will last for many years to come and, of course, our team always makes coming herea friendly, reassuring experience.’
SPECIAL OFFER: Pure Smiles is now offering a £200 discount on an Enlighten teeth whitening treatment (offer open until 31 January 2025).
Pure Smiles
257 New Kings Road
Fulham SW6 4RB
750a Fulham Road
Fulham W6 5SH
020 7736 6276
reception@puresmiles.co.uk
https://www.puresmiles.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/pure_smiles.fulham
Photographs:
https://www.instagram.com/annabelmoellerphotography