The High Price Of Wearing Dentures

Posted on May 07, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

For most denture wearers, the reason that prevents replacing them with Dental Implants is the cost. Yes, Dental Implants are more expensive – upfront. Over time, however, their initial cost can save you greatly.

When a denture is first made, it conforms to your gum ridge. Although it may feel snug in the beginning, you’ll eventually notice a change. It will begin to move while you chew. Biting becomes less secure and even adhesives won’t help much. While relines help, the “re-fit” is only a temporarily fix.

Without tooth roots in the jaw bone, the ridge that once held natural teeth begins to shrink. Dentures add to this bone loss through the pressure they place on the ridge. For those who sleep in their dentures, this continual pressure accelerates the rate of bone loss even more.

It is a fact that denture wearers have more gastrointestinal problems, take more medications and are less socially active. Additionally, many sacrifice the fiber and protein-rich foods they once enjoyed for softer foods that dissolve easily in the mouth.

Dental Implants are tooth root replacements that halt bone loss. With the jaw bone as their foundation, your ability to bite and chew is stable. Plus, you can eat all the foods you love without worry of slips or uncomfortable rubbing.

Dental Implants are also designed to last your lifetime. Dentures and the detrimental problems they contribute to will require ongoing expenses – in your mouth and with your overall health.

When weighing the REAL cost of dentures vs. Dental Implants, look into the future. The higher, one-time expense of implants may be the best investment you ever made! Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.

Your Heart’s Health May Depend On Number of Natural Teeth!

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

Could tooth loss and bleeding gums set you on a path for cardiovascular disease? In the largest study of its kind, a connection has been revealed that shouldn’t be ignored.

Research results were recently released on how periodontal disorders, such as tooth loss and gingivitis, are associated with risk for cardiovascular disease.

The report was released in April 2014 in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. It published information on a clinical trial involving 15,828 participants, all with chronic coronary heart disease. It found that indications of periodontal disease (few remaining teeth and gum bleeding) were common in these patients.

However, those who had more natural teeth were found to have lower levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors. They also had lower glucose levels and better blood pressure readings. Even participants who had diabetes, consumed alcohol, were under stress or were smokers had healthier numbers when they had more teeth and minimal gum bleeding.

Nearly 70% of these participants with chronic cardiovascular disease were current or former smokers. Sixteen percent of the group had no remaining natural teeth with 41% having less than 15 teeth. Over one-fourth of the group reported bleeding gums when brushing teeth.

These findings reinforce the link between dental disease and coronary heart disease. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. The study’s evidence shows poor dental health among chronic coronary patients increases their risk level. While age and smoking are recognized as risk factors related to both periodontal and cardiovascular diseases, this shows that the association between the conditions goes far deeper.

Although this doesn’t confirm that periodontal disease is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease, it is another reason to make every effort to maintain healthy gums and do everything possible to keep your natural teeth.

If you have bleeding gums, you likely have periodontal disease. Contact us promptly at (828) 274-9440 for an appointment. This will not improve without treatment and can result in eventual tooth loss.

By the way, the next time your dentist recommends a crown to protect your natural tooth, remember this study that shows your heart may reap the benefits as well.

One-Stop-Shop For Implants May Have Risks

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

Recently, I’ve been seeing ads for ‘clinics’ promoting dental implants. They make the process sound quick, easy and a good deal. However, as a dental specialist, I understand these ‘quick and cheap’ options come with risks.

When someone offers a ‘package deal’ on something as intricate as dental implant procedures, it can quickly fall short of the good deal it seems. We all want to know that the time and money we invest in anything is a good value. Putting your long-term oral health and well-being in the hands of quickie solutions can have pitfalls.

Your dentist knows your health history, commitment to oral hygiene in the office and at-home regimen. He or she also understands your preferences in appearance and function as well as comfort needs. When working with a periodontist, he or she communicates all history and aspects of your oral health and overall preferences. We then work together as a personalized team on your behalf. This lessens the potential for factors that can contribute to implant complications or eventual failure (resulting in removal).

Since some clinics offer only one particular implant system, performing them in bulk may allow them to give you a better rate. Yet, the type of implant placed may not be the best one for your individual needs; something that can come back to haunt you later.

There are many types of implants designed for specific needs, such as those for people who have lost a lot of jaw bone mass or those who want non-removable teeth. The cost for dental implants is such that ‘having it done right the first time’ is not something to be overlooked.

You deserve to know all the options that are appropriate for your individual needs and goals. Having it ‘done right the first time’ is the best way to achieve a lasting, successful outcome. Call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation.

How Fearful Patients Can Achieve A Healthy Mouth

Posted on Apr 07, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontal Specialist, I see a great many adults who have developed gum disease, and lost teeth as a result, because of dental fear. Although modern techniques and advanced technology in dentistry greatly enhance comfort with less time required for treatment, these advancements do nothing to help fearful patients overcome dental fears.

Sadly, dental fear prevents many adults from having regular dental care or receiving treatment when problems are small. Many will wait until there is an urgent need that ‘forces’ them into a dental office. In our office, most fearful patients begin with a Consultation appointment.

In the Consultation, we discuss their current situation, goals and concerns. I find many perceive a sense of lost control while in a reclined position in a narrow chair, which makes them feel vulnerable. Because the mouth is a very sensitive area, fearful patients actually anticipate pain. These patients often need time to gain confidence in my commitment to their comfort.

While dental fear is not uncommon among adults, it can be overcome. Most fearful patients begin with Oral Sedation, which is taken prior to your arrival so you are relaxed from the very start. Once you are in the treatment chair, a staff member is continually by your side to monitor you with sophisticated equipment.

Numbing medications are provided once you are totally relaxed, so this part of the process causes no anxiety. You’ll be relaxed throughout your visit and likely won’t remember any part of treatment. Yet, afterwards, recovery is quick and you’ll feel refreshed.

If dental fears prevent you from a healthy, confident smile, remember that every journey begins with a first step. Call (828) 274-9440 for a Consultation appointment. We’ll meet and discuss your options so you can decide how you wish to proceed.