Causes Of Pain When Consuming Hot Or Cold

Posted on Nov 17, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Do you get painful jolts when you drink hot or cold beverages or eat ice-cream? This commonly stems from sensitivity caused by gum recession.

When the gums pull away from teeth, they leave portions of tooth roots exposed. Unlike the enamel-coated tooth that extends above the gums, the root portion below relies on gum tissue to protect the dentin.

Dentin is a porous layer around the neck of the tooth. It consists of tiny tubules that surround the root’s nerve center. If the dentin is exposed, the nerve center responds with pain signals. This typically happens when the bristles of a tooth brush or hot or cold foods and beverages reach exposed areas.

As a periodontal specialist, what I most often see are gums that have pulled away from teeth due to periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is a common cause of gum recession as well as the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss.

Smoking, certain illnesses or poor oral hygiene can be factors in gum disease. When bacteria in the mouth are not removed on a daily basis, plaque forms around the teeth. Plaque is toxic and causes irritation to the gums, which can develop into gingivitis. As the gums become more inflamed, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis (gum disease).

As the bacteria of gum disease destroy healthy gum tissues, the gums lose their attachment to the teeth. This becomes apparent when teeth appear to be long and reveal darker portions near the gum line. Even worse than having the appearance of your smile compromised, gum recession allows for easy entry of bacteria to penetrate bones and tissues that support teeth. This leads to a more severe level of gum disease.

Another cause of gum recession can be from rigorous tooth brushing or using an overly-abrasive substance such as baking soda. When tender gum tissues are literally scoured away day after day, you’ll eventually erode tooth enamel and the gum tissue protecting sensitive areas.

Gum recession can also occur from trauma that results from teeth clenching or bruxing (tooth grinding). This most often happens during sleep, leaving many people unaware that this is occurring. This action can break down gum tissues and eventually lead to recession. In addition to receded gums, clenching or grinding can cause teeth to become worn or chip.

If gum recession is minor, we recommend switching to a soft bristle tooth brush and lighten up on your stroke. Rather than a back-&-forth ‘scrubbing’ motion, swipe from the base of each tooth to its end. Then, clean the tops of teeth with a circular motion. Use a sensitivity toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate to block the nerve endings.

In more severe cases of gum recession, surgery may be recommended. Gum tissue regeneration and gum grafting can protect tooth roots and restore the appearance of your smile. Gum grafting is a common periodontal procedure and performed with a high level of comfort and an excellent outcome.

The best way to remedy gum recession is sooner than later. Begin with a periodontal examination so you can hopefully avoid extensive treatment or expense. Call (828) 274-9440 for an appointment.

Why Straight Teeth Help You Avoid Gum Disease – And More!

Posted on Oct 14, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I frequently work in conjunction with other dental specialists, many of these being Orthodontists. Straight, properly-aligned teeth do far more than create an appealing smile. I see a number of gum problems that began as a result of crooked teeth.

The tight nooks that crooked teeth provide are an ideal gathering place for oral bacteria. This means you’re more likely to develop plaque in these areas. This buildup leads to Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease. These are also ideal spots for the formation of cavities.

When teeth are in proper alignment, there is less potential for developing problems such a grinding or clenching teeth during sleep. This disrupts your sleep quality and can result in worn, chipped or broken teeth. Straight teeth also help you avoid jaw joint problems, tooth fractures and gum recession.

With straight teeth, a beautiful smile isn’t the only benefit you’ll receive. A proper bite can save you a tremendously in time and money for future dental repairs and treatment.

To learn more, call (828) 274-9440. We’ll be happy to arrange a periodontal exam if you suspect crowded, crooked teeth have resulted in gum disease.

Bleeding Gums NOT A Good Sign!

Posted on Oct 13, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Unfortunately, many Americans perceive that seeing blood while brushing is a good sign, assuming it shows they’re doing a great job. The fact is – Healthy gums do not bleed while brushing! Bleeding gums indicate a problem that needs to be addressed while treatment can be minimal. Delay only allows the problem to worsen, resulting in more time and expense in the future.

Periodontal (gum) disease is the most common cause (and an early warning sign) for gums that bleed while brushing, it is also the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S. Gum disease begins with gingivitis, which occurs from a bacterial build-up of plaque. This irritates the gums, causing them to bleed and become swollen and tender.

Other contributors can make gum tissue more vulnerable to oral bacteria and the development of gum disease. These include:

   • Overzealous brushing, brushing with a hard bristle toothbrush or using an abrasive substance, such as baking soda. These cause more harm than good to teeth and gum tissue.
   • Drugs can contribute to gums that bleed easily. These include antidepressants, nasal sprays and oral contraceptives.
   • Smoking has a drying effect on gum tissue. Smokers typically have more calculus than non-smokers from the irritation of the chemicals in cigarette smoke.
   • Vitamin K deficiency interferes with the body’s process of blood clotting. This can also result in gums that bleed.
   • Certain changes in hormonal levels can cause red, tender and swollen gums.

When bleeding gums are dealt with in early stages, a thorough dental cleaning and committed oral care regimen at home can often halt the progression of gingivitis leading to gum disease. Act now by seeing a Periodontist for treatment. A Periodontist specializes in the treatment of all phases of gum disease. He or she can work with your dentist to determine an appropriate treatment to restore your smile to a healthy state.

Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.

Avoid Dental Disasters By Being Proactive

Posted on Sep 24, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When I place Dental Implants to replace a single tooth, it is often because the tooth fractured below the gum line. When a tooth breaks or cracks beneath the realm of a protective crown, the tooth must be removed and replaced.

When hairline fractures appear, a dentist will typically recommend a crown to protect the tooth, avoiding a potential break. The reason many people decline or delay having a tooth crowned is due to dental insurance constraints. It is unfortunate when patients postpone dental repairs because of their insurance coverage.

Once a tooth is removed, the patient must decide how to replace it. Because insurance companies prefer to cover the least expensive methods of replacement, the patient must decide if their ‘approved’ option is what serves their long-term, best interest.

Keep in mind that these insurance companies are for-profit firms. Dental insurance is meant to HELP with expenses for basic procedures (cleanings, etc.) or repairs (a yearly allowance for crowns or fillings, for example). Dental insurance is not, and never will be, total coverage that ensures your long-term dental wellness.

Having a healthy, confident and appealing smile is a positive part of your overall health. Be proactive so you can avoid costly and time consuming repairs regardless of what dental insurance companies allow. If you do not have a regular general dentist, call our office at (828) 274-9440 for a recommendation. If you do, let your dentist guide you to lasting oral wellness.