How Modern Dentistry Enhances Overall Wellbeing
A friendly interview with Dr Kamilla Kochanek founder and co-owner of Medical Dental Spa West Hampstead.
Dr Kamilla, many people still think dentistry is just about teeth. Is that really the case today?
Not at all! Dentistry has evolved significantly over the years. While caring for your teeth and gums is still at the core of what we do, modern dentistry takes a much more holistic approach. Oral health is closely connected to your overall wellbeing, with links to areas such as heart health, digestion, immunity, and even mental health. When your mouth is healthy, it helps your entire body function better. By maintaining good oral health, you’re not just protecting your smile—you’re supporting your long-term health, comfort, and quality of life as a whole.
That sounds interesting. Can you explain how the mouth is connected to the rest of the body?
Absolutely. Your mouth truly is a gateway to the rest of your body, and what happens there can have a significant impact on your overall health. Conditions such as gum disease can lead to chronic inflammation, which has been linked to systemic issues including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and even complications during pregnancy. Harmful bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body if left untreated. By maintaining healthy gums and addressing oral health issues early, you help reduce inflammation, lower health risks, and support your body’s ability to function at its best. A healthy mouth isn’t just about a confident smile—it’s an important part of protecting your general health and wellbeing.
So gum health is more important than people realise?
Very much so. Bleeding gums are often overlooked or dismissed as minor, but they’re usually an early sign of inflammation or gum disease that shouldn’t be ignored. When gum issues are addressed promptly, we can stop the condition from progressing and prevent more serious complications. Early treatment doesn’t just protect your teeth and gums—it also helps reduce inflammation in the body, which plays a role in many general health conditions. By caring for your gum health, you’re supporting your immune system, lowering potential health risks, and contributing to better overall wellbeing.
Many patients feel anxious about visiting the dentist. How does modern dentistry help with that?
Modern dentistry has evolved to be far more gentle, compassionate, and centered around the patient experience. At Medical Dental Spa, we’ve intentionally designed a tranquil, spa-inspired setting that helps patients feel at ease from the moment they arrive. By reducing anxiety and creating a sense of calm, we’re able to make dental visits more comfortable and enjoyable. This relaxed approach not only supports better oral health outcomes, but also contributes positively to overall mental and emotional wellbeing, because caring for your smile should feel just as good as it looks.
Can dental problems affect confidence and mental health too?
Absolutely. When someone feels self-conscious or embarrassed about their smile, it can affect far more than their appearance. Many people begin to avoid social interactions, hold back from speaking freely, or feel hesitant in professional settings such as meetings, presentations, or interviews. Over time, this can influence confidence at work, relationships, and overall self-esteem. By improving oral health and enhancing the appearance of a smile, patients often experience a significant boost in confidence. This renewed self-assurance can translate into better communication, stronger professional presence, more fulfilling social connections, and an overall improvement in mental health and quality of life.
What role does prevention play in overall wellbeing?
Prevention is truly the foundation of lifelong oral health. Regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and consistent daily hygiene habits allow us to identify potential concerns early—often before they become painful or serious, or prevent them altogether. Taking this proactive approach helps minimize the need for complex or invasive treatments down the line, saving patients time, discomfort, and unnecessary stress. More importantly, maintaining healthy teeth and gums supports better long-term outcomes not just for oral health, but for overall wellbeing, giving patients confidence and peace of mind year after year.
Are there simple habits people can start today to support both dental and general health?
Yes! Brushing twice a day with a quality toothpaste is essential, along with cleaning between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes. Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet helps support strong teeth and healthy gums, while limiting sugary and acidic foods can reduce the risk of decay. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day aids saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth, and managing stress can help prevent issues such as teeth grinding or gum inflammation. And of course, regular dental visits remain a crucial part of maintaining oral health, allowing problems to be caught early and ensuring your smile stays healthy, comfortable, and confident for years to come.
Finally, what would you say to someone who hasn’t seen a dentist in a while?
I would say this: there’s no need to worry or feel embarrassed. Our role is to support you, never to judge. Taking that first step toward dental care can be truly life-changing—not only enhancing your smile, but also improving your overall health and wellbeing. No matter where you’re starting from, it’s never too late to begin caring for yourself and your smile.