Give A Lasting Gift For That Special Person!

Posted on Dec 09, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

It seems everyone has at least one person on their holiday shopping list who is extra special and deserves an extra special gift. Whether it’s a parent, child or spouse, there are holidays we want to give the gift that “keeps on giving all year long” (and longer!).

This year, how about a gift that enhances their appearance, boosts confidence and creates smiles more often? Periodontal procedures can create smiles they love, such as crown lengthening, recovering receded gums, repairing a gummy smile or even ridding a mouth of gum disease.

Call us at (828) 274-9440 to discuss your recipient. We can arrange a consultation for them to discuss treatment options.

This year, you really can give a gift they’ll cherish for years to come! And, you’ll end up being the ultimate gift giver!

Long Teeth & Receded Gums

Posted on Dec 01, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Does your smile make you look older than you really are (or want to look)?

Gum recession causes the dark portions of tooth roots to be exposed and makes teeth look long. Gum recession can occur as a result of periodontal disease, aging, aggressive brushing, smoking (which dries oral tissues), clenching and/or grinding teeth, or having crooked teeth.

Exposed roots are unappealing and heighten your risk for developing cavities. Several procedures are available to cover exposed roots, reduce further gum recession and protect vulnerable roots from decay.

To discuss options best for your particular situation, call us at (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation appointment.

How To Spend Less On Dental Care

Posted on Nov 18, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontal Specialist, I see the insides of many, many mouths. Occasionally, I see a patient who wants to improve the appearance of their smile, such as through crown lengthening or repairing a ‘gummy smile.’ In most cases, however, the mouths I see are in dire need of care.

Whether an adult is at my office for dental implant placement due to lost teeth or needs their gum health restored due to periodontal disease, most of these situations are avoidable. And, their condition is not always one of neglect as much as from a lack of knowledge.

While commercials promote denture creams, tooth paste and whitening strips, there has been little public awareness of how to adequately care for one’s teeth and gum health. A dental hygienist may urge you to floss, but do you really know how? Or, do you know why you should and what can happen if you don’t?

A vast amount of research is showing how your oral health can impact your overall health and even contribute to the onset of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis and preterm babies. Yet, the American population still lacks the understanding of how easy it is to prevent problems from occurring in the mouth in the first place.

This year, be determined to save your money on dentistry and spend mere minutes per day tending to your oral health. The key is to:

Floss daily – Ask for a ‘flossing lesson’ if you’re having difficulty

Brush thoroughly (at least twice a day) using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste

Swish after meals when you cannot brush and drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist

Use a tongue scrapper daily to remove bacteria embedded in the tongue

Maintain your 6-month dental check-ups and cleanings

Keep between-meal snacking to a minimum and avoid sugar whenever possible

If you have soft enamel, ask your dentist for sealants. When teeth are cracked or fractured, have them crowned as soon as possible.

If you are missing teeth, replace them – preferably with dental implants.

We tend to spend many hundreds of dollars on the upkeep of our automobiles, yet, balk at investing in our oral health and appearance. Your smile is worth the attention you can give it each day to keep your smile in good working order and looking great! Be as committed to your smile as your vehicle and you’ll save time, money and enjoy overall health benefits all day, every day!

 

Gummy Smile? We Can Fix That!

Posted on Nov 03, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

For those who have a gummy smile, when in a full smile, excess gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth. Not only does this detract from the beauty of a smile, a gummy smile causes many people to ‘hold back’ when they smile.

While a healthy smile is nothing to conceal, I understand that one’s smile is a factor in appearance as well as self-confidence. It is important to have a healthy smile and one that we feel good about sharing. Now, modern techniques and technology make repairing a gummy smile a process that requires minimal treatment time, is more comfortable, and heals at a faster pace.

Gum contouring is performed using gingivectomy (jen-juh-vect-oh me), where excess gum tissue around the teeth is removed. After the procedure, there may be tenderness or swelling. Most discomfort is managed with over-the-counter medications but prescription strength forms are made available. In healing, every individual is different. Some take a few days to heal while others need a couple of weeks. For those who smoke, this lengthens the duration of healing time.

Most gingivectomies are followed by crown lengthening to enhance the appearance of front teeth after excess tissue is removed. This result is a smile that has a beautiful, even line.

If you have a gummy smile or know someone who would like more information, begin with a consultation to discuss a gingivectomy and subsequent crown lengthening. Call (828) 274-9440 to schedule.