The dictionary defines a smile as: “a pleasant or agreeable appearance, look, or aspect.” Does that describe your smile?

As a periodontist who performs gum recontouring to repair ‘gummy smiles’ and dental implants to replace missing teeth, patients often share the emotional repercussions of a flawed smile before treatment. Many of them explain how they’ve  ‘held back’ on their smile, often concealing it with their hand or smiling with lips only. Some share they felt uncomfortable speaking with the opposite sex. Others felt their smile has kept them from pursuing higher positions or particular jobs.

Your smile is much more than teeth and gums. It reflects your overall personality. Would a confident smile make you more comfortable smiling and interacting with others? Would it prompt you to smile more often? Would it make you feel more attractive and outgoing? These are changes that patients have shared after treatment. Truly, the effects go much deeper than visual.

Adults often indulge in cars, clothes, electronics and trips as ways to create good feelings. Yet, none can provide the lasting effects of a confident, appealing smile. If you’d like to discuss dental implants for tooth replacement or gum recontouring for a smile you’ll enjoy sharing, every day, call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

While Dental Implants are nothing new, their makeup is still a bit of a mystery.

Most traditional Dental Implants are divided into three parts. The first part is the true implant. This portion is similar to a hollow screw. It is positioned in the jaw bone underneath your gum tissue to recreate the presence of a tooth root. Over a period of 3-4 months, the bone grows around the implant, securing it in place. This process is called “osseo-integration.”

The second and third parts of implant treatment are typically performed in the same appointment. The gum tissue is uncovered at each implant site and a post is secured into the hollow portion of the implant. Then, a replacement tooth is attached to the post. Because the tooth has the same foundation as that of natural teeth, biting strength and stability is restored.

In many cases, a bridge of two or more teeth can be attached to one implant. A full arch of teeth can also be secured to 4 to 8 implants that are strategically placed. This is ideal for people who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth and want to replace a denture.

In addition to restored ability to eat and chew securely and comfortably, Dental Implants help to halt bone resorption that occurs from missing tooth roots. Because the jaw bone is stimulated by the presence of tooth roots, without them, the bone begins to shrink in height and mass. This bone loss results in changes in facial appearance and places adjacent teeth at risk.

There are many types of Dental Implants designed to accommodate individual needs. During a Consultation appointment, I’ll explain the types best for your needs and answer your questions thoroughly. Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a time.

A particular area of expertise in my specialty of Periodontics is the placement of Dental Implants. As a specialist trained to treat all tissues in the mouth and supporting structures of teeth, we have a unique level of knowledge for diagnosis and treatment in these areas. Because Dental Implants are placed in the upper or lower jaw bone, just under oral tissues, our involvement gives you a ‘leg up’ for a successful outcome.

Precision placement of Dental Implants is important to ensure you have a successful outcome. When an implant is placed in insufficient bone, at an incorrect angle, or too close to a nerve or sinus cavity your odds for implant failure increase greatly.

Additionally, Periodontists are particularly careful with gum tissue. By being ‘respectful’ of the gums and minimizing incisions when possible, your healing time is less with greater post-treatment comfort. When an implant site can heal in less time, the chances for infection greatly decrease.

Everyone wants to enjoy a successful outcome with any treatment. They also want to have a rapid recovery with minimal discomfort. Having your implants placed by a Periodontal specialist can help greatly.

If you are considering Dental Implants, call (828) 274-9440 for a Consultation. Here, we can answer your questions thoroughly so you can decide what is best for you.

Fortunately, many of today’s dentists are more sensitive to patient concerns when it comes to dental fear and anxiety. Most understand the need to be communicative before and during procedures, take ample time during numbing procedures and offer options to enhance comfort. However, for those who are ages 50 and over, memories of a traumatic experience in the past can remain embedded for decades. These memories can interfere or even prevent people from receiving the care they need to enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

For those who’ve avoided regular dental care because of fear, your smile isn’t the only thing that takes the brunt of its effects. Not having regular dental cleanings and check-ups places you at a higher risk for gum disease. This destroys gum tissue, teeth and supporting bones. It also increases your risk for more severe health problems. The bacteria of gum disease can enter the bloodstream through tears in oral tissues, triggering inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. It has been attributed to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency.

We are committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile while instilling a sense of trust. The LAST thing we want is for you to feel uncomfortable! Begin by arranging a consultation appointment. This way, I can answer your questions thoroughly and discuss comfort options to help you relax.

Your smile should be a positive part of your health, appearance and self-confidence. Don’t let an unfortunate experience from your past keep you from the terrific smile you deserve! Call (828) 274-9440 to speak to our caring phone staff.