The Problems With Dentures

Posted on Oct 06, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Dentures, as we know them today, have been around for many years. The earliest dentures were carved from bone or made from human teeth. By 1775, porcelain dentures, which were more durable and attractive, were being made. However, early dentures were basically worn to replace the appearance of teeth rather than restore function and often removed before eating.

The challenge with dentures is how they eventually lead to a number of problems even today. The most common problem for denture wearers is an unstable fit. Even dentures that felt secure when first placed eventually loosen and slip while chewing. This occurs due to the declining foundation of jaw bone mass, which causes the gum ridge to flatten out.

Bone loss occurs without the stimulation of tooth roots in the jaw bone. Once it begins, the process of bone loss, or ‘resorption,’ is ongoing. The pressure from wearing dentures actually speeds up this process. For denture wearers who sleep in their dentures, this rate of bone loss is even more rapid from the constant pressure on the jaw bone. As the bone continues to resorb, even relines won’t help much.

Bone loss is also why you’ll see long-time denture wearers develop a “granny look.” The face takes on a collapsed look and the chin becomes more pointed. Jowls form as facial muscles detach from shrinking jaw bones. The entire face takes on an aged appearance far beyond one’s actual years.

Difficulty eating a healthy diet with dentures leads to another set of problems. When dentures do not fit securely, the rubbing and discomfort often leads to a soft diet of foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. These foods often lack protein and fiber. Your overall health requires a diet of vitamin rich fruits and vegetables along with protein-rich meats. Since digestion begins in the mouth, dentures that rub sore spots on tender gum tissue causes many to swallow before sufficient chewing is done. It is no surprise that denture wearers have more gastrointestinal problems than non-denture wearers and take more medications.

In our society, food is often the centerpiece of social occasions. Being socially active is an important part of our happiness level and overall well-being. People who are not comfortable eating or speaking because of unstable dentures often find themselves declining invitations because of the fear of embarrassment.

No matter how many advancements are made in the development of dentures, they will never be a good substitute for teeth. They never were. On the market today, there is no denture adhesive or paste that can make dentures a good substitute for teeth considering they only add to the rate of bone loss.

Dental Implants provide a dependable, reliable means of tooth replacement. They recreate the stimulation of natural tooth roots in the jaw bone, halting bone loss and restoring dependable chewing stability.

Considering all the long-term problems created by dentures, the one-time cost of Dental Implants makes them a far better value. Too, restoring your ability to eat comfortably and laugh confidently without the fear of embarrassment is priceless. Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more or request a Consultation.

An Apple A Day For Dental Health, Too!

Posted on Oct 02, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

We’ve all heard that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are loaded with antioxidants and are a good source of fiber, making them a good snack or dessert for your overall health, including your smile.

Munching a crisp, fresh apple requires chewing action that activates an increase in saliva. In addition to having more saliva to help cleanse your mouth, the texture of the apple gives teeth a mini-cleaning and the gums healthy stimulation for increased blood flow.

Just be sure to purchase organic apples only. An average commercially-grown apple has more pesticide residue than all other fruits and vegetables. According to USDA data, pesticides have been found in 98% of even washed apples and can contain up to 48 types of pesticides. This is definitely one food worth the added expense of buying organic!

If you’ve had to give up foods like apples because of undependable dentures, ask for a Consultation appointment to discuss Dental Implants. Implants can secure a denture, enabling you to eat all the foods you love again – including apples! Call (828) 274-9440.

Want A ‘Problem’ Tooth Pulled? Read This First!

Posted on Sep 29, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When a person wants a tooth extracted because it’s a ‘problem’ tooth, it’s often because it is requiring continual repairs. Unfortunately, ridding yourself of one problem can open the door to a long list of others.

Each tooth in your mouth holds other teeth in proper position. This includes the teeth on each side and the one above or below. A missing tooth enables neighboring teeth to ‘drift.’ This eventually leads to drifting of teeth adjacent to them, and so on. Misaligned teeth can lead to chips, broken teeth, night-time clenching or grinding, headaches, worn teeth, jaw joint pain and a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.

It is a fact that when a tooth is removed, if not replaced, the tooth next to the open space will be the next you’ll lose. Thus, replacing a missing tooth should occur as soon as possible. We recommend Dental Implants rather than a Crown-&-Bridge combination since implants use the jaw bone as their foundation, just as natural tooth roots. Crown-&-Bridge requires the crowning of otherwise healthy, natural teeth on each side to serve as supports for the bridged tooth.

Dental Implants provide another advantage as well. Since they are held in the jaw bone, they recreate the presence of a tooth root. This stimulates the bone to help the jaw maintain a healthy depth and mass. Like the gap left by a missing tooth, bone loss from missing tooth roots enable drifting of neighboring teeth. Implants, when placed soon after extraction, help you avoid that.

‘Problem teeth’ are often avoided with a healthy foundation of gum tissue and proper oral hygiene. Unless the tooth has been severely compromised due to periodontal disease or has broken below the gum line, removal is seldom the easiest and cheapest solution. Let’s first establish a healthy mouth so all teeth have a better environment with a reduced risk for problems. Call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation appointment.

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.