25 Feb 2026

Museum Dental Suites in Holborn Protects Your Smile from Decay and Gum Disease

If you’ve ever felt a twinge of pain when biting into something sweet or noticed bleeding when brushing your teeth, your mouth might be giving you an early warning. Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most common dental problems, but they’re also among the most preventable.

At Museum Dental Suites near Holborn and Tottenham Court Road, our associate dentists, Dr Moshin Nathu, Dr Nayanthara Perera, and Dr Castellari work  to provide careful diagnosis and modern treatment that keep your teeth healthy and your smile confident for life.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Symptoms like sensitivity, bleeding gums, or dull aches usually build up over time rather than appearing overnight. When plaque and bacteria are left undisturbed, they can lead to decay, gum disease, bad breath, tooth loss, and even contribute to wider health problems.

Our dentists in Holborn focus on catching problems early so treatment stays simple, comfortable, and more affordable in the long run.

What to Expect at Your Dental Check-Up

Your visit to Museum Dental Suites is designed to be thorough but relaxed.

• Full clinical examination: Checking teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues.
• Digital X-rays: Detect hidden decay and assess bone levels.
• Periodontal measurements: Measuring gum pockets for early signs of disease.
• Photographs and charting: Monitoring changes and explaining findings clearly.
• Personalised plan: Clear explanation of results and recommended next steps.

Part One: Tooth Decay and Cavities

What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in plaque feed on sugars, producing acids that dissolve enamel. If untreated, decay can spread into dentine and eventually the nerve, causing pain and infection.

Stages of Tooth Decay

1. Early enamel changes: Surface weakens with no symptoms.
2. Enamel breakdown: White or brown spots may appear.
3. Dentine involvement: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
4. Nerve involvement: Sharp or lingering pain.
5. Abscess: Infection causing swelling or severe throbbing.

Why Treat Decay Early?

• Prevents persistent sensitivity or toothache
• Reduces risk of infection or abscess
• Avoids complex treatments such as root canal or extraction
• Prevents shifting of neighbouring teeth

Treatment Options for Tooth Decay

• Fluoride and remineralisation for early enamel changes
• Tooth-coloured composite fillings
• Inlays or onlays for larger cavities
• Root canal treatment for infected nerves
• Crowns to protect heavily damaged teeth

Part Two: Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease is an inflammatory condition caused by plaque and tartar build-up. If untreated, it can damage the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Stages of Gum Disease

1. Gingivitis: Red, swollen gums that bleed easily (reversible).
2. Early periodontitis: Deepening pockets and slight bone loss.
3. Moderate periodontitis: Increased bone loss and slight tooth mobility.
4. Advanced periodontitis: Significant loosening and potential tooth loss.

How We Diagnose and Plan Treatment

• Measure pocket depths around each tooth
• Record bleeding and inflammation
• Check for gum recession
• Use X-rays to assess supporting bone levels

Why Treat Gum Disease?

• Loose or drifting teeth
• Gaps between teeth and gum shrinkage
• Persistent bad breath
• Difficulty chewing comfortably
• Negative impact on appearance and confidence

Treatment for Gum Disease

• Professional scaling and polishing
• Deep cleaning (root surface debridement)
• Antimicrobial rinses or gels where appropriate
• Review and monitoring appointments
• Ongoing maintenance every three to six months

The Role of Our Associate Dentists

Our associate dentists work closely with principal dentist Dr Wahab Shakir to provide a coordinated approach to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term maintenance.

Long-Term Maintenance and Preventive Care

• Regular check-ups (often every six months)
• Routine hygiene appointments
• Periodic X-rays where clinically needed
• Consistent home care with brushing and interdental cleaning

Why Choose Museum Dental Suites?

Museum Dental Suites is an award-winning private dental practice in Holborn offering general, cosmetic, and emergency dental care in a modern, supportive environment.

Book Your Appointment in Holborn Today

If you have noticed bleeding gums, sensitivity, bad breath, or dental pain, contact the practice or book online to arrange a convenient appointment at our Great Russell Street clinic.