Tooth Loss Results In A Shrinking Jaw Bone

Posted on Nov 11, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you wear a denture or partial, you can assume you’ve lost jaw bone mass. This is due to “bone resorption,” (a shrinking in the mass of bone).

In a healthy mouth, the upper and lower jaw bone support natural tooth roots. While the roots of each tooth enjoy the jaw bone as it’s foundation, the tooth roots stimulate the bone, helping it maintain healthy dimensions.

After teeth are removed, the jaw begins to shrink without the interaction of tooth roots. In a mouth where all natural teeth are missing, the process of bone resorption actually speeds up from the pressure of dentures or partials. For those who sleep in dentures, this rate of resorption occurs at a constant and more rapid pace.

The extent of bone loss experienced can be visible by looking in a mirror without dentures in place. You may see deep wrinkles around your mouth and corners of your mouth turn downward. Your chin may be more pointed than before you lost your natural teeth. Your mouth may also appear collapsed in your face or you may notice jowls starting to form. Dentures have a tendency to conceal bone loss because they fill out the face when in place. However, the problems of losing jaw bone mass go far beyond facial cosmetics.

Once bone loss begins, it occurs at a more rapid pace as you age. This is why a denture that fit well when first made will eventually move around when you bite and chew. Over time, even denture adhesives and relines won’t make eating comfortable.

This is why so many adults are now turning to dental implants for tooth replacement. They provide a dependable foundation for biting and chewing a thick steak and crisp apple without worry. They speak and laugh with others confidently and without the fear of embarrassing slips. Because dental implants restore the presence of natural tooth roots, they also halt (or greatly slow) the process of bone resorption.

An added advantage of dental implants is that they are a wise investment. While dental implants are more costly, initially, than a denture or partial, they are designed to last your lifetime. With proper care, dental implants will enable you to eat and laugh confidently and comfortably.

Modern dentistry offers exceptional options in implant dentistry for many situations, including those who’ve experienced severe bone loss. Call (828) 274-9440 for more information or to arrange a Consultation.

Imagine That Ideal Smile!

Posted on Oct 21, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When children pretend, they enjoy time with friends and learn by role playing. For a few minutes, ‘pretend’ you have the smile of your dreams. Perhaps you have all of your natural teeth again instead of a partial or crown-&-bridge. Maybe you no longer have a ‘gummy smile’ or worry about persistent bad breath.

Now, imagine smiling with that fabulous, confident smile. How do you feel — more confident? Do you smile more often? Is your smile bigger or do you laugh easily with more pleasure? Are you more outgoing since eating and speaking with others is more comfortable?

You CAN have that smile! I see patients all the time who overcome dental fears, financial constraints and other concerns who are now smiling how once was felt to be a distant dream. Often, just a consultation allows us to address obstacles that are often perceived, but may actually be dealt with easier than you thought.

A healthy, confident smile is a significant part of your overall health as well as your appearance, self-confidence, and even self-esteem. Let’s discuss the smile you’ve always wanted and address those concerns. Call 828-274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

Dental Emergency Guidelines

Posted on Oct 11, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I love sports, especially contact sports such as football, soccer and rugby, although I’m at the age where I am mostly a spectator rather than player. An unfortunate result of those who play these sports, however, are lip cuts and knocked-out teeth.

Replacing a lost tooth or repairing ripped oral tissues on both adolescents and adults is not a ‘win’ by anyone’s standards! This can be prevented, in most cases, by wearing a mouth guard. When mishaps do happen, however, the following tips may help lessen the damage:

CUT OR BITTEN TONGUE, LIP OR CHEEK – Apply cold compress to bruised areas. If there is bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth. Arrange to be seen in our office for possible repairs. If bleeding does not stop within 15 minutes or cannot be controlled by simple pressure, go directly to a hospital emergency room.

KNOCKED OUT PERMANENT TOOTH – Handle the tooth by the top portion rather than the root. Rinse the tooth, but do not clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, place the tooth in a cup of milk or water and call your dentist or us immediately. Time is a critical factor in saving a tooth.

BROKEN TOOTH – Rinse dirt from injured area with warm water. Place cold compresses over the area of the injury. Save any broken tooth fragments and call your dentist immediately.

POSSIBLE BROKEN JAW – If a fractured jaw is suspected, use a tie, towel or handkerchief to tie underneath the chin and over the top of the head. This will help to keep the jaws from moving. Go to the nearest emergency room.

BROKEN BRACES & WIRES – Fortunately, most loose or broken appliances do not require emergency room attention. If the appliance can be removed easily, take it out. If not, cover sharp or protruding portions with cotton balls, gauze, or chewing gum. If a wire is stuck in the gums, cheek, or tongue, do not remove it. Take the child to the orthodontist immediately.

TOOTHACHE – Clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with warm, salt water or use dental floss to gently dislodge trapped food or debris. If the face is swollen, apply a cold compress. Take acetaminophen for pain and call your dentist to be seen as soon as possible. Do not place aspirin on the gum or the aching tooth.

Please remember that custom-fitted mouthguards are more comfortable and have a better fit than the boil-&-bite versions. This means you or your child are more likely to wear it! Play safe!

Bridge Vs. Dental Implants?

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

If you are missing one or more teeth in one area, an option growing in popularity is an implant-supported bridge. Anchored by the jaw bone, Dental Implants can replace missing teeth without requiring adjacent, natural teeth for support (as in Crown-&-Bridge combinations).

Although a fixed bridge or partial denture replace the presence of teeth, an implant-supported bridge helps to preserve the bone that previously surrounded tooth roots. The implanted portion acts as a tooth root replacement and halts “resorption” (or shrinking in mass) of the jaw bone. Since implants recreate the stimulation once provided by natural tooth roots, they help to preserve your jaw bone.

Dental Implants also restore the look feel, and comfort of natural teeth. Gums and bone can recede around a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, leaving a visible defect. Additionally, removable partial dentures can move around while chewing, which interferes with your ability to eat all the foods you love.

Whether you opt for an implant supported bridge, a fixed bridge, or partial denture, we feel you deserve to know all the advantages and challenges of each. The only obstacle with Dental Implants, for some people, is the cost. However, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime with proper care. They are an excellent investment.

Ask us about Dental Implants before making your final decision regarding tooth replacement. We’ll be happy to answer all of your questions during a Consultation appointment. Call (828) 274-9440.