Reasons We Hear Why You Are NOT Flossing!

Posted on Jul 20, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

We’ve heard every excuse under the sun as to why folks don’t, or ‘can’t,’ floss! And for each, the benefits of flossing outweigh the gripes in every instance. Here are some reasons and why each just won’t fly!

“My hands are too big.” Our Response: Floss holders are available. These are especially helpful for people with dexterity problems, such as arthritis sufferers.

“My gums bleed.” Our Response: Gums that are red, swollen, or bleed easily indicate gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. This should be treated immediately. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss and will only worsen if not treated.

“I have my teeth cleaned twice a year, so I don’t need to floss.” Our Response: In less than two days, plaque on teeth can turn into calculus. To remove calculus, a professional cleaning is required. The easiest way to prevent calculus is through daily flossing that takes very little time and energy.

“My teeth are too tight for the floss.” Our Response: Waxed or polymer floss is recommended for people with tight spaces between teeth.

“Flossing takes too long.” Our Response: Once you are in the habit of daily flossing and are good at the technique, the time involved is a minute or two. This investment of time can save you much in dental care to repair gum problems and cavities.

“I may damage my gums when flossing.” Our Response: Technique is important and will be reviewed with you during your regular hygiene appointment.

We want to help you become a Super Flosser! Ask for instructions at your next visit! This is too important to NOT do, every day!

Insurance Coverage For Dental Implants

Posted on Jul 18, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Dental insurance policies cover some basic oral health needs, such as filling a cavity, as well as routine care of check-ups and cleanings. However, it’s important to remember that insurance companies are in the business to make a profit. It is up to you to ensure your needs are being proactively met for your long-term oral health. Because insurance companies seek to cover ‘basic’ needs with the least expense to them, Dental Implants are often not covered by many group insurance policies.

Dental Implants are an upfront expense, meaning the total cost occurs at the time of treatment. For example, the treatment fee for those who select Dental Implants is higher than those who opt for a three unit crown & bridge. However, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime. Therefore, future expenses are not incurred.

Insurance companies realize the probability that you will change insurances in time. By providing coverage for only the crown-&-bridge, they are hoping they won’t be covering you for future needs that may include a broken bridge, root canals and replacement crowns. And, if you are on their plan should these incidences occur, there is a limit to what they’ll cover in any given year, regardless.

The fact that Dental implants are not covered by many policies has nothing to do with their effectiveness. It has more to do with what gives these companies (not you) the best deal. When health care decisions are made based upon what is in your long-term best interest rather than the bottom-line of an insurance company, your oral well-being will serve you well through an overall healthier you!

If you’re not sure about your insurance coverage for Dental Implants, bring your insurance information to our office and we’ll review it to give you and idea of the type of coverage you may receive. Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a time convenient to your schedule.

Advantages of Dental Implants vs. Bridge

Posted on Jul 16, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While a bridge or partial will initially cost more than having Dental Implants, I put strong emphasis on ‘initially’ for several reasons.

Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime. They are held in the jaw bone, just like natural tooth roots. This means that they do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. Leaving natural teeth untouched, rather than crown them merely to support a bridge, provides a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Additionally, Dental Implants will never need (or cause the need for) a root canal or repair of cavities. It is a fact that the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth are most likely next in line to require removal. Dental Implants are designed to replace missing teeth using the natural foundation of your jaw bone.

Another benefit is how Dental Implants look and feel like your own teeth. Once placed, Dental Implants integrate into the structure of your bone. Through this, they help to prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and partials.

Over time, bone loss becomes obvious through changes in facial appearance. Bone loss contributes to deep wrinkles around the mouth, causing the corners of the mouth to turn downward even in a smile. Eventually, many develop a collapsed appearance of the mouth. This creates a ‘granny look’ that makes you appear far older than your actual age.

Because some people prefer to keep their Dental Implant treatment a private issue, no one ever need know that you have implant-supported replacement teeth. Some implant systems allow you to remove attached teeth, but many versions are non-removable. These types mean you’ll never have to remove your teeth from your mouth again. You’ll be able to wake up with a smile and brush your implanted teeth along with your natural teeth!

The success rate of Dental Implants is excellent. Properly selected, placed and maintained, this lifetime solution makes them a wise choice when it comes to tooth replacement. Since Periodontists specialize in gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth, they have the knowledge, training and facilities to give you teeth that look and feel just like your own.

When you compare Dental Implants to a bridge based on the long-term advantages rather than initial costs, the choice is an easy one. Dental Implants are a wise investment. To arrange a consultation to discuss your needs, call (828) 274-9440.

We Understand Fearful Patients

Posted on Jul 13, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Our periodontal practice often sees patients who have a significant fear associated with dental visits. We also understand that not all those who experience fear or anxiety associated with dental visits are the same. While many had traumatic dental experiences in the past, others experience anxiety for different reasons, including:

Fear of perceived pain – Some people merely anticipate pain from hearing tales from others about unpleasant or painful dental procedures.

Feeling helpless or having no control – For some, to sit in a dental chair with an open mouth and not see what’s being done is a frightening situation.

Embarrassment or self-consciousness – Certain adults are uneasy with the physical closeness of a dentist or hygienist that’s required for treatment. This may have to do with the appearance of their teeth or possible mouth odors, fearing they’ll be judged.

Fear of injections or inadequate numbing – Having a tremendous dread of needles, especially in one’s mouth, is another cause for dental anxiety. Some adults also fear the dentist will begin treatment before the numbing meds have taken effect or that the amount of numbing won’t be sufficient.

Fear of side effects – Although no one likes the numbness of a “fat lip” associated with local anesthetics, some may also have dizziness, feel faint or even be nauseous.

What helps each patient relax is based upon their specific situation. We often begin by sitting together in a comfy Consultation Room. We discuss their unique needs and how we can move at a pace that feels good for them.

Patients typically relax when they realize there will be no discomfort and they are in control of how we proceed, whether before treatment or during a procedure. Some opt to include Oral Sedation with their treatment in the beginning. Yet, after their first visit, many no longer feel this is necessary.

When patients feel they can trust you to make sure they are comfortable and ‘cared for’ rather than just being treated, fear and anxiety often disappear. If you, or someone you know, has dental fear or anxiety, call (828) 254-9440 to request a Consultation. We’ll discuss the best way to restore your mouth to a healthy state!