Being referred to a periodontist can feel like a step into the unknown. Many patients arrive feeling anxious, wondering what will happen during their appointment or worrying that specialist treatment automatically means they will need surgery.
The reality is often very different.
A first visit to Pure Periodontics is designed to be informative, thorough and reassuring. Whether you have been referred by your dentist or have booked directly because you’re concerned about your gum health, the aim is to understand exactly what is happening, explain the findings clearly and create a personalised treatment plan that suits your individual needs.
Located within Austin Friars in the heart of the City of London, Pure Periodontics combines specialist periodontal expertise with a calm, welcoming environment, helping patients feel comfortable from the moment they arrive.
Here’s what you can expect during your first visit.
Step one: Arriving at Austin Friars
When you arrive at Austin Friars, simply ring the intercom for Pure Periodontics.
Once you’ve been welcomed into the building, you’ll be directed inside before making your way to the clinic.
Whether you’re travelling from nearby offices in the City or further afield, the clinic is conveniently located and easy to reach, making specialist periodontal care accessible for patients across London.
Step two: A warm welcome
First impressions matter.
On arrival, the reception team will greet you, confirm your appointment details and provide access to the main lobby.
Many patients tell us they feel nervous before their first visit, particularly if they’ve been referred for advanced gum disease or have experienced ongoing dental problems.
The team understands these concerns and aims to create a calm, friendly atmosphere from the moment you walk through the door.
Step three: Making your way to the clinic
Pure Periodontics is located on the lower ground floor of the Austin Friars building.
Simply take the lift down, where you’ll find the clinic ready to welcome you.
The practice has been designed to provide a comfortable environment where patients can feel relaxed before their appointment begins.
Step four: Checking in at reception
Once you’ve arrived at the clinic, the reception team will welcome you and help you settle in.
If there is any paperwork to complete or details to confirm, they will guide you through everything before your consultation.
This is also an opportunity to let the team know if you have any questions, concerns or particular anxieties about your visit.
Step five: Relax in our reception lounge
Before your appointment, you’re invited to relax in the reception lounge.
Many patients appreciate having a few moments to unwind before meeting their clinician, especially if they have travelled into London after a busy day at work.
The calm surroundings are designed to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Step six: Complimentary refreshments
During your visit, you’re welcome to enjoy complimentary tea, coffee or chilled water while you wait.
It’s a small touch, but one that reflects the practice’s commitment to providing a positive patient experience from start to finish.
Step seven: Meeting your clinician
When it’s time for your appointment, your clinician will personally greet you in reception and accompany you to your treatment room.
Rather than feeling rushed, your first consultation is an opportunity to have a detailed conversation about your oral health, understand any concerns you may have and discuss what has brought you to the practice.
Some patients attend because of bleeding gums, while others have noticed gum recession, loose teeth or have been referred following routine dental examinations.
Every patient’s journey is different, which is why understanding your individual concerns is an important part of the consultation.
Understanding your gum health
The first appointment focuses on building a complete picture of your periodontal health.
This usually begins with a discussion about your dental and medical history, any previous gum treatment you’ve received and the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.
Your clinician will then carry out a comprehensive periodontal examination.
This may include:
- Examining your gums and teeth
- Measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth
- Assessing areas of gum recession
- Checking for signs of inflammation
- Looking at plaque accumulation
- Assessing tooth mobility where appropriate
- Reviewing existing X-rays or taking additional images if required
These findings allow the clinician to determine whether gum disease is present, how advanced it is and which treatment options are most appropriate.
Understanding your diagnosis
One of the most important parts of your appointment is understanding the diagnosis.
Many patients have heard terms such as gingivitis or periodontitis but are unsure what they actually mean or how they affect their long term oral health.
At Pure Periodontics, time is taken to explain the findings in clear, straightforward language.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions and fully understand both their diagnosis and the reasons behind any recommended treatment.
As Clinical Director of Pure Periodontics and former Consultant Periodontist at King’s College Hospital, London, Dr Neesha Patel believes that informed patients are better equipped to look after their periodontal health in the future. Helping patients understand what is happening beneath the gum line is an important part of every consultation.
Creating your personalised treatment plan
No two mouths are the same, which means no two treatment plans should be either.
If treatment is recommended, it will be tailored specifically to your diagnosis, the severity of your condition and your long term oral health goals.
Depending on your individual needs, this may involve:
- Professional periodontal therapy
- Non-surgical treatment
- Ongoing periodontal maintenance
- Gum grafting
- Regenerative procedures
- Treatment for peri-implantitis
- Monitoring without immediate treatment where appropriate
Every recommendation is discussed carefully so you understand your options before making any decisions.
Will treatment happen at the first appointment?
This depends on your individual circumstances.
For many patients, the initial visit is focused on assessment and diagnosis, allowing sufficient time to gather all the information needed before planning treatment.
If appropriate, some treatment may begin on the same day, although more complex procedures are usually arranged for a future appointment.
Your clinician will explain exactly what is recommended and answer any questions you may have before treatment begins.
Before you leave
After your appointment, the reception team will help arrange any future visits if required and answer any practical questions about your ongoing care.
Whether your treatment involves a single follow-up appointment or a longer periodontal care plan, the team aims to ensure every stage of your journey is as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Why specialist periodontal care matters
Many patients are referred to Pure Periodontics after routine dental appointments identify signs of gum disease that require specialist assessment.
Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before further damage occurs and often provides more options for preserving healthy gums, supporting bone and natural teeth.
Specialist periodontal care is not simply about treating gum disease. It is about understanding why it has developed, creating a personalised treatment plan and helping patients maintain healthy gums for the future.
Your first step towards healthier gums
Attending your first appointment with a periodontist may feel daunting, but most patients leave feeling reassured.
Understanding your gum health is the first step towards protecting it.
Whether you’ve been referred because of bleeding gums, gum recession, periodontitis or another periodontal concern, your first visit to Pure Periodontics is designed to provide clarity, expert guidance and a personalised plan that supports your long term oral health.
From the moment you arrive at Austin Friars until the end of your appointment, every part of your visit is focused on delivering specialist care in a welcoming and supportive environment.