It seems the most common reason I hear why people stick with a denture rather than have dental implants is the cost of implant treatment. Yet, I’ve never once heard a patient say their dental implants weren’t worth every cent.

Think of dental implants as a third set of teeth. This is because they look, feel and function just like the natural teeth you once had. They allow you to eat a healthy diet of foods you love, laugh and smile confidently, and wake up with a smile (in your mouth, not in a glass).

I’ve had some people tell me about their new car, but then say they can’t afford dental implants. Yet, others on fixed incomes work very hard to find the means to achieve a “new smile” so they can live a healthier, more active life with greater social confidence.

Let’s make the coming year your ‘Lucky ’13!’ Think about the things that are of true value to your life. Then, call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation appointment so we can discuss how you CAN chew in comfort and smile with confidence!

It was Thomas Jefferson who coined the phrase, “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.” Wise words then, and are still.

It’s not unusual to see a patient who is in dire need of periodontal treatment, even though they are not experiencing pain. Hence, some assume their treatment can be delayed.

As a Periodontal Specialist, I know too well what lies ahead for most who delay treatment for gum disease. Since periodontal (gum) disease will not improve without treatment (and will progressively worsen), treatment in latter stages typically requires more time and greater expense.

Be proactive with your dentistry so you can enjoy a worry-free smile. You’ll find you actually save time and money by avoiding more-complex treatment later.

I often consult with patients who are contemplating a bridge replacement for Dental Implants. The only obstacle, for most, is the higher cost for implants. However, there are many reasons why a bridge is not necessarily the best investment or the best option for your oral well-being.

When a bridge is used to replace missing teeth, it must be attached to natural teeth for support. These natural teeth must be crowned (or ‘capped’). Once a natural tooth is shaved down in order to have this crown covering, it is never the same. Unlike your natural tooth, it will always need a crown to protect it and is also susceptible to requiring a root canal.

Underneath the gum tissue in the area where you have missing teeth, bone ‘resorption’ is occurring from the absence of tooth roots. ‘Resorption’ is the term used to describe the shrinking process of the bone that once supported natural teeth. As the bone shrinks, susceptibility increases for the natural teeth supporting the bridge. On average, the next teeth you’ll lose are teeth adjacent to areas of missing teeth. Because Dental Implants recreate the presence of tooth roots, they halt the process of bone resorption.

When a Dental Implant is placed, it does not need the support of other teeth. It is held by the jaw bone, just as a natural tooth root. This also gives you dependable biting and chewing strength.

For those who are missing several teeth, one Dental Implant can often support a ‘bridge’ of several teeth. Since the cost of implant treatment depends greatly on the number of implants used, this keeps overall expenses lower.

Dental Implants are made from a material that bonds successfully with your jaw bone. Once placed and properly maintained, an implant should last your lifetime. The initial costs are higher since placement is a surgical procedure and due to the materials used. However, the lifelong advantages are a bargain by comparison.

Dental Implants need no root canals, do not decay and do not compromise the well-being of adjacent natural teeth. Unlike a crown-&-bridge combination, they become a ‘part of you’ that can actually enhance your overall oral health. If you are contemplating replacing a bridge with Dental Implants, please call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

It seems key symptoms in the mouth are warning signs of adult onset diseases. For instance, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and heart disease increases with age. Researchers believe that these diseases often manifest themselves in the mouth.

For example, the American Diabetes Association states that the majority of diabetics suffer from Type 2 diabetes, which usually begins after age 45. Initial indicators of this disease are bad breath and bleeding gums.

Also, after the age of 45, the risk for developing heart disease triples. Although heart disease is the leading killer of Americans, a sore and painful jaw is often overlooked as a warning signal.

Research continually reveals links between oral and overall health. Please alert us or your General Dentist to any unusual symptoms or change in your medical status.