Protect Heart With A Healthy Smile

Posted on Feb 02, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The human body is not only built to house bacteria, it is made to utilize some bacteria in a healthy way. For example, much of your gut bacteria help the digestive system operate more efficiently.

However, most of us know that a great number of bacteria strains can be harmful. This can happen when a cut becomes infected, the result of too much ‘bad’ bacteria. Although the body’s immune system responds to infection by sending white blood cells to conquer the ‘bad’ bacteria. At certain levels, however, rapidly growing bacteria can overwhelm white blood cells. This is when a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to give your white blood cells added reinforcement.

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection in the mouth. It begins when oral bacteria have accumulated beyond what the immune system can manage. As the infection spreads, gum disease destroys oral tissues and tooth-supporting structures, including bone, ligaments and tooth roots. Periodontal disease, not surprisingly, is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S.

As harmful as oral can be to the mouth, the problem can easily become more widespread, and more severe. Through tears in diseased gum tissues, this infectious bacteria can enter the bloodstream. As it travels throughout the body, research has found that it can trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere. Studies have shown that the bacteria of gum disease is related to heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, some cancers, preterm babies and even impotency. Research is also finding a correlation between gum disease bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the first correlations between oral bacteria and other serious health problems was found in heart disease. One notation of this was published in Harvard Medical School’s newsletter, Harvard Health Publications:

“In people with periodontitis (erosion of tissue and bone that support the teeth), chewing and toothbrushing release bacteria into the bloodstream. Several species of bacteria that cause periodontitis have been found in the atherosclerotic plaque in arteries in the heart and elsewhere. This plaque can lead to heart attack.

“Oral bacteria could also harm blood vessels or cause blood clots by releasing toxins that resemble proteins found in artery walls or the bloodstream. The immune system’s response to these toxins could harm vessel walls or make blood clot more easily. It is also possible that inflammation in the mouth revs up inflammation throughout the body, including in the arteries, where it can lead to heart attack and stroke.”

Generations ago, maintaining a healthy mouth was not the priority it has become today. And, the priority has garnered favor that goes far beyond the appearance of a smile. Because we now know our oral health is so closely related to our overall health, the medical community is taking a stronger standing in encouraging their patients to achieve good oral health.

As a matter of fact, a growing number of surgeons are advising their adult patients to have a periodontal check-up to ensure bacteria levels in their mouths will not burden the immune system’s ability in efficient healing. Ob-Gyn’s are also encouraging pregnant women to ensure their gums are healthy – for the sake of both the mother and their unborn baby.

Research has also shown that, by improving the oral health in diabetic patients, their insulin levels improve. This is also true for men who have elevated PSI levels, even when they receive no treatment for prostrate problems.

It is important to know the symptoms of gum disease. These include gums that bleed easily when brushing, tender or swollen gums, gum tissue that recedes from teeth, frequent bad breath, gums that deepen in color from a healthy pink, and pus pockets that form near the base of some teeth.

Don’t delay care. Gum disease will only worsen without treatment. Begin by seeing a Periodontist, who specializes in treating all levels of gum disease. Then, be committed to your at-home oral hygiene regimen. Twice daily brushing and daily flossing is necessary to keep oral bacteria at a manageable level. Also, stay current with your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings, which give you a periodic clean slate and can catch problems while still small.

For more information, call 828-274-9440 or schedule a consultation. Your smile – and your body – will thank you!

Individualized Care For Unique Patient Needs

Posted on Jan 25, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I once heard the term, “not everything fits into a box.” I agree. While this may be related to the phrase, “think outside the box,” it reminds me of how we approach patient care.

As a Periodontist, my specialty includes treating all levels of periodontal (gum) disease, reshaping gum tissues, and the diagnosis and placement of dental implants. Summed up, however, I restore smiles to a healthy, confident state. This is why I love what I do.

In our office, we only exist because of our patients. That’s where our commitment lies and is the foundation for every decision we make. This is also why we look at each patient’s needs individually. No two mouths are alike and no two patients are alike.

As far as gum disease goes, there are various stages that require different approaches in order to effectively treat it. Although some individuals may have similar stages of gum disease as others, certain factors must be considered as the most appropriate treatment is determined.

In addition to their existing level of gum disease, we take into account the patient’s age, medical and dental history, their current medications, and number of remaining teeth. We also consider any anxiety or fears associated with dental procedures.

Fear has been a major deterrent for many to receive regular dental care. This is why adults often end up with gum disease and tooth loss. By the time many arrive at my office, they are at a point where they have no other choice in order to rid their mouths of the infectious bacteria or replace missing teeth from to the destructive nature of gum disease.

To help anxious or fearful patients relax, we make sure we are communicating thoroughly. Our belief is that patients who are fully informed of their needs and the procedures required are more confident in proceeding with treatment. This, in turn, creates a patient who is able to relax and let fears go.

Some patients are unable to relax, however. This is why our office provides Oral or I.V. Sedation. Oral sedation is a pill form of relaxation. Although most patients have little or no memory of the procedure afterwards, this provides deep relaxation with a quick recovery.

I.V. sedation (also referred to a ‘twilight sleep’) is a deeper level of relaxation. This is an in-the-vein medication administered via a drip. Patients doze while their procedures are accomplished and have no memory of their treatment. Recovery time is longer but some patients are fine with that. Most are able to resume normally within 24 hours.

Regardless of the sedation chosen, patients are closely monitored by trained staff and advanced safety equipment. Your safety is as important to us as your comfort, so we ensure all measures are taken to provide both to optimal levels.

Please know that your procedure, comfort option, and individual needs are important to everyone in this office. We promise you’ll be respected, given exceptional care, and never over-treated or under-treated. We are here to help you regain the smile you desire.

Your oral health is a vital component of your overall health. Research has shown that the health of your gums and number of teeth directly correspond to a healthier you. Don’t delay care that you need, even if fear has prevented this in the past.

To begin, call 828-274-9440 and schedule a consultation appointment. During this time, we can discuss the treatments that may work best for your needs. I’ll explain comfort options and have our financial coordinator review payment options with you, if desired.

 

Understanding Terms Associated With Gum Disease

Posted on Jan 23, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Occasionally, I catch myself using dental terminology during patient conversations. As a Periodontist, ‘perio-talk’ is second nature to me. Deep down, however, I know it isn’t always clear to my patients.

I believe that patients are better participants in their oral health when they understand specifics of their individual needs. When I say ‘perio’ instead of ‘gum tissue,’ the patient doesn’t always ask for a better explanation, even though they may not be sure of the term’s meaning. This leaves us both at a loss – the patient doesn’t fully grasp their needs and recommended solution and I have a patient who is unsure of the ‘why’ and ‘how.’

Although dental implant placement and gum recontouring are regular treatments we provide, periodontal (gum) disease is the most frequent problem we treat. Gum disease affects over 47% of American adults and is the nation’s leading cause of tooth loss. It has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, memory loss, arthritis, diabetes, preterm babies and impotency.

Because gum disease begins without obvious symptoms, people often ignore the warning signs. This tends to allow the disease to progress further. As a basic explanation of how gum disease forms, I’ve listed the progression below — with dental terminology omitted!

• Oral bacteria – Bacteria in our mouths is normal. However, an overload of bacteria is how the problem begins. When oral bacteria are not removed on a daily basis, they amass and form plaque.

• Plaque – This is a sticky film that coats teeth and covers the gums and tongue. It can be felt by running the tongue over teeth at the end of the day before you brush. Plaque forms quickly, from the time you brush in the morning to the time of your evening brushing. The presence of plaque signals that your mouth is harboring more bacteria than saliva flow can rinse away. When plaque is not removed on a daily basis, oral bacteria thrive, reproduce, and harden into calculus.

• Calculus – Also known as tartar, calculus is a cement-hard mass of bacteria that develops from plaque. This colony of bacteria attaches to tooth enamel and can only be removed with special instruments used by dental professionals. This is why your 6-month check-ups and cleanings are so important. By preventing the formation of calculus or having it scraped off on a regular basis, you can avoid damage to gums and enamel.

• Gingivitis – This is the first stage of gum disease. Here, oral bacteria reproduce at a rapid rate while attacking gum tissues and tooth enamel. Signs of gingivitis are gums that bleed easily when brushing, sore gums, and frequent bad breath. When tended to promptly, gingivitis can be halted and reversed. Treatment requires twice daily brushing (at least two minutes) with a soft to medium bristle tooth brush and flouride toothpaste. Daily flossing is also needed to remove food particles and bacteria between teeth. Tongue scraping is advised to remove oral bacteria embedded in the grooves of the tongue. An alternative to a tongue scraper is to brush the tongue with your tooth brush. Be sure to get to the back of the tongue where the greatest concentration of bacteria are embedded. Drink lots of water and swish daily with an oral rinse that kills bacteria. Limit sugar-laden foods and beverages as well as caffeine (which is drying to oral tissues).

• Periodontal (Gum) Disease – When gingivitis progresses, the next stage is periodontal disease. This is when oral bacteria are at a deeper level, eating gum tissues and tooth enamel while creating inflammation. Typical symptoms are red and swollen gums, gums that recede and expose sensitive tooth root areas, and persistent bad breath.

• Periodontitis – This advanced stage of gum disease includes infectious bacteria that cause the gums to be red and tender all the time. In addition to the symptoms of previous stages of gum disease, pus pockets form at the base of some teeth. Some teeth will loosen as bacteria attack the structures that support tooth roots. Eventually, teeth will require removal. Even worse, this potent bacteria can enter the bloodstream through tears in diseased gum tissues. This has been found to trigger internal inflammation that has been found to contribute to the severe health problems mentioned prior (heart disease, arthritis, etc.).

I believe if the general population were more aware of the sequence that leads to full-blown gum disease, we’d have healthier adults, far less people who wear dentures or partials, and people who are enjoying confident smiles. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, please remember that these will only worsen when treatment is delayed.

I hope I’ve provided a helpful explanation of how oral bacteria progresses and how it effects your oral and overall health. For an examination to assess the health of your gums along with recommended treatment options, call 828-274-9440 to arrange a consultation appointment. We will discuss your current situation and potential treatment options.

Advantages of Dental Implants Are Many

Posted on Jan 18, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When a patient is missing natural teeth or describes trying to eat with a ‘wobbly’ denture, I spend time explaining the advantages of Dental Implants. Although patients may also be considering other options, I find many don’t realize the unexpected future costs associated with less expensive methods.

Here are a few of the many reasons we feel make Dental Implants the ideal tooth replacement option:

• Dental Implants restore biting strength and chewing stability: Dental Implants are supported by the upper or lower jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots. After implants are placed in the bone, the bone grows around them to fully secure them in the jaw. This enables confident biting and chewing without fear of embarrassing slips or uncomfortable rubbing.

• Dental Implants help to prevent declining mass of the jaw bone: When natural tooth roots no longer exist in the jaw, the bone that once held them no longer has the nourishment and stimulation once channeled through the roots. This causes the bone to shrink and what continually changes the fit of a denture or partial. In addition to undependable biting and chewing, bone loss causes changes in facial appearance that are aging far beyond one’s actual years. An implant restores stimulation to the bone and halts the progress of bone loss.

• Dental Implants are successful: Dental Implants have one of the highest success rates of any in-bone implant in the body, including hips and knees. When properly selected, placed and maintained, they are designed to last your lifetime.

• Dental Implants are a one-time expense: Because Dental Implants do not decay, require root canals, crack or break, future expense for upkeep or repairs is not needed. The material they are made of biologically integrates with living bone and is not rejected nor will it cause adverse reactions to surrounding structures. With proper care, they will last as long throughout your life.

• Dental Implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support: Unlike crown-&-bridge combinations or partials, Dental Implants do not depend on adjacent teeth. And, because they help to preserve the bone that supports neighboring teeth, they are actually beneficial to the life of other natural teeth.

• Dental Implants support your overall health: The ability to eat a diet rich in healthy, fibrous and protein-rich foods enables our bodies to function properly. And, the ability to eat without fear of embarrassing moments or uncomfortable rubbing instills the confidence to be socially active. Because many social settings are centered around food, people who have Dental Implants know they can confidently eat, laugh and speak closely with others.

• Dental Implants are a ‘no regrets’ method of tooth replacement: I’ve never had one patient who felt their implants were anything but “the best investment I’ve ever made!”

For some people, the only ‘challenge’ when it comes to Dental Implants is the all-upfront expense. While they are an excellent investment, implant fees are paid before treatment completion. Budget constraints make some people uneasy with this type of commitment, especially when they’ve become used to a minimal investment and limited insurance coverage for most dentistry each year.

Some dental insurances tend to label Dental Implants as elective, as dentures and bridges require less coverage. However, when patients decide they will not allow an insurance company to dictate their health, comfort and self-confidence, insurance coverage becomes less important.

We believe an educated patient makes decisions that are best for their needs. To discuss replacing teeth with Dental Implants, call (828) 274-9440 to schedule a consultation. I’ll be happy to answer your questions and discuss potential treatment expenses.