Shivani Patel BDS(hon)Kings College Hospital London 2007
MSc(Periodontology)University College
London 2022 MFDS RCS (Eng)2009 GDC 114722

Shivani qualified from Guy’s, Kings and St Thomas Dental hospital in 2007, after which she has worked in General Dental Practice. In 2013 she completed a two year training programme in enhanced Clinical Periodontics at Kings College Dental Hospital. Following this she has spent her time in Practice providing non-surgical periodontal treatment as well as teaching undergraduate students at Kings College Hospital.

What does a Periodontist do?

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, during the three to four year Postgraduate training programme. They are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures. Periodontists often treat more problematic periodontal cases, such as those with severe gum disease or a complex medical history. Periodontists offer a wide range of treatments, such as scaling and root planing (in which the infected surface of the root is cleaned) or root surface debridement (in which damaged tissue is removed). They can also treat patients with severe gum problems using a range of surgical procedures. During the first visit, the periodontist usually reviews the patient’s complete medical and dental histories. It is extremely important for the periodontist to know if any medications are being taken or if the patient is being treated for any condition that can affect periodontal care, such as heart disease, diabetes, or pregnancy. The periodontist examines the gums, checks to see if there is any gum line recession, assesses how the teeth fit together when biting, and checks the teeth to see if any are loose. The periodontist will also take a small measuring instrument called a probe and place it between the teeth and gums to determine the depth of those spaces, known as periodontal pockets; this helps the periodontist assess the health of the gums. X-rays may also be taken to observe the health of the bone below the gum line.

Who should see a  Peridontist?

Some patients’ periodontal needs can be managed by the general dentist or hygienist. However, as more and more patients are exhibiting signs of periodontal disease, coupled with research that suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and other chronic diseases of aging, periodontal treatment may necessitate a greater understanding and increased level of expertise by a trained specialist. Patients who present with moderate or severe levels of periodontal disease, or patients with more complex cases, will be best managed by a partnership between the dentist, hygienist and periodontist.

Fees:
Consultation (1 hour and 15 minutes) including x rays: £175
Non-surgical treatment: from £250 per arch
Surgical Treatment: quoted per case