'I've spent thousands on my dental nightmare - I'm too scared to smile'

Despite fearing dentists for as long as she could remember, Elizabeth Qashou always made the effort to look after her teeth.

The nervous patient never missed a check-up, visited a hygienist every three months and had undergone several treatments in the past.

So the mum was shocked to learn her mouth was decaying during a routine appointment – seeing her lose two teeth and thousands of pounds so far.

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Elizabeth, from Prestwich, was hit with the news while visiting her Manchester-based dentist in August 2020.

While examining her mouth, they noticed the mum had significant bone loss, diagnosing her with advanced periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place.

It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – to build up on the teeth and harden.

Executive PA Elizabeth decided to change practices where she discovered a number of her decaying teeth would likely require extraction.

So far the mum-of-one has had several fillings, root canal, two extractions, crowns and still has multiple treatments to come – all being paid for privately.

Elizabeth estimates she’s forked out thousands for the work so far. Recalling the moment she was told about the state of her teeth, the 64-year-old said: “It was extremely upsetting and a big shock to find out about my periodontal disease at such a late stage - especially as I had swapped to paying privately for my dental treatment.

“I was a regular patient who always had regular check-ups and three-monthly hygienist appointments so why had this happened to me?