Having struggled with drug and alcohol addiction for 10 years, Gavin Reid’s teeth had long plagued his smile.
The Salford landlord’s battle with substance abuse meant he hadn’t visited a dentist in five years – leaving him with teeth that made him feel “ugly” and “incredibly self-conscious".
Having become clean from crystal meth and liquid ecstasy three years ago, the 51-year-old decided it was time to fix his neglected smile.
Gavin visited Ruh Dental practice in Spinningfields and was offered a treatment plan to completely transform his smile – giving him a new lease of life and a newfound confidence.
“I had struggled with my relationship with drugs and alcohol for the best part of 10 years,” Gavin said. “I wasn’t taking good care of myself at all, and this really showed in my mouth.
“I felt ugly. I never smiled and would dart out of the way every time I saw someone with a camera. I used to be such a positive, happy person but my teeth made me feel incredibly self-conscious.
“I hadn’t been to the dentist in about five years. I didn’t bother exploring any options as I genuinely didn’t think there was any hope left for me.
“There is a history of gum disease in my family and because of the damage that I had inflicted on myself through years of neglect and abuse, I thought the only option for me would be dentures which I really didn’t want.”
When attending his initial consultation, Gavin said that he felt ‘held.’ He said: “From the moment you step through the door at Ruh, you know that this is a dental practice like no other. It doesn’t feel clinical, the staff were so lovely and completely non-judgemental.
“Everyone there just wants the best for you and wants to see you finally have a confident smile.”
Dr Arshad, who helped treat Gavin, added: “It was apparent from Gavin’s first consultation just how much his teeth was having an impact on his quality of daily life. I made a promise to him on that first day that I was going to do my absolute best to get him the smile that he deserves.”
Gavin had dental aligners fitted on his bottom teeth to correct his bite and a combination of porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges to completely transform his smile.
When he first saw his new set of teeth, Gavin recalled how he burst into tears. He said: “As soon as I looked in the mirror, I was so overcome with emotion. It was mentally life changing for me. I love smiling now, and I love having my photo taken too.
“I feel as though I finally have a purpose. I’m able to properly look after my teeth, and I know just how much it has improved my self-confidence and self-esteem.”
Since completing his treatment, Gavin is re-training as a counsellor so that he can help other people through tough times in their lives. Having a smile to be proud of has opened new doors for Gavin, in his personal life and now working life.
When asked what he would say to others who may be considering a dental makeover, Gavin said: “If your smile makes you feel less than, just know that there is always something that can be done. It is absolutely life-changing.”
