At Thanksgiving time, we are reminded of all the things for which we have to be thankful. As American citizens, we’ve learned to never take for granted our many blessings. While you calculate all the things on YOUR “thankful list,” remember to include your smile!

Your smile is a major part of your facial appearance. We live in a country that offers exceptional techniques and materials so a smile can be recreated to give a more attractive appearance.

Your smile also reflects the “best of you” by showing your warmth, friendliness and kindness to others.

Your smile is the beginning of the pleasure of this country’s abundance of food. It is the first stage of your digestive process. Through biting, chewing and saliva’s role in the initial processing of food, your body can reap all the benefits of vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber.

Your smile allows you to speak, giving you the ability to pronunciate clearly.

Your smile is precious. Whether you are two or a hundred and two, it deserves the very best you can give it.

Your smile is as important to us as it is to you. Because you allow us to be a part of your smile’s well-being, we are especially thankful!

As a Periodontist, I see a wide variety of mouths. Some folks have poor oral health and missing teeth because of dental fears. Some grew up not having access to good dental care or understanding its importance. Because of genetics, some were born with an oral health that would always pose challenges.

When a patient’s oral health suffers, regardless of the reason, the result, far too often, is tooth loss. No one can predict the frustration and discomfort that dentures can cause until they’ve been a long-time denture wearer. Denture problems include sore spots on tender gums, difficultly biting and chewing, embarrassment from slips, speech problems, and being self-conscious in social settings.

This is why I recommend Dental Implants. Because Dental Implants are held in the jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, they restore stability. This means you can eat and laugh without fear of slips, chew comfortably, and feel confident in close settings with others. Plus, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime, making them an excellent investment.

For those who are missing natural teeth, Dental Implants provide a dependable, lasting way to have teeth that are “part of you” again. Arrange a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440. During this time, I’ll explain the types that are appropriate for your needs and answer your questions. You just may find yourself enjoying a confident new smile by Christmas!

If you learned that spending less than 5 minutes twice a day could save you hundreds of dollars, hours of time, and even prevent major diseases, it’d be foolish to NOT commit to that time. Yet, as a Periodontal Specialist, I’m privy to the vast number of adults who fail to brush and floss each day. It’s no longer just a matter of avoiding cavities. As research continues, there is more and more proof that your oral well-being affects your overall health.

Periodontal (gum) disease is now considered a medical disease. As an inflammatory disease, periodontal disease increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, sleep apnea, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, pneumonia, preterm births, and birth defects, to name a few.

Fifty percent of heart attacks and strokes occur in people with normal cholesterol levels. Inflammation is the key contributor to heart disease and cardiac events. Although many see a Dentist to reduce pain and restore teeth, the fact is they are also “soldiers” in protecting your overall health.

Rather than perceive a dental office as a mere ‘cleaning station’ for the mouth, think of it, also, as a heart attack, stroke, and diabetes prevention center. Rethink your relationship with dental professionals as “disease prevention specialists” and be as committed to your oral care as your dental professional is to you. Their involvement in your health care regimen – as well as the advice of brush, floss, swish, etc. – could save your life.

Whenever I meet a new patient referred by a current or former patient, I take it as the ultimate compliment! Too, we often see people who have not seen a dentist in years. It is not unusual to meet a new patient who was forced to delay care for many years due to fear, financial issues or serious illness. Regardless of the reason, we are always happy to make them feel ‘at home’ and confident in allowing our office to restore them to optimal oral health.

We are always pleased to welcome others who are seeking the specialized care other patients have come to know! Suggest they visit our web site or call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.