Gloomy Stats On America’s Sugary Smiles

Posted on Apr 15, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

On a worldwide scale, what is one of the most common diseases?

You may be surprised to learn that the answer is tooth decay. When researchers from the University College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine studied public health records from around the world, they found that the United States is far too sugary.

Almost 92% of American adults have experienced cavities. Compare this to Nigeria, where their diet contains almost no sugar. The study found that only 2% of the population had tooth decay.

Although fingers point at sugar as the villain, it’s actually how sugar reacts in the mouth that sets the destructive process into motion. When we consume sugar, it combines with saliva and bacteria in the mouth. Although all foods and beverages activate an acid attack in the mouth, sugar is the ‘perfect food’ for oral bacteria. These acids cause decay to teeth to begin.

Yet, the destruction doesn’t stop with your teeth. As oral bacteria reproduce and accumulate, the gums become inflamed. This is the initial stage of gum disease, which is the nation’s leading cause of tooth loss.

American diets are saturated in sugar. Foods and beverages are laden with it and sugary consumables are typically easy to access. Everywhere you turn, from vending machines to fast food establishments to nearly every check-out line, candy bars, gum and sodas are within arm’s reach.

The World Health Organization recommends that a person’s total calories in a day should consist of no more than 5% from sugar. For most, sugar is not an easy substance to delete or reduce in daily diets. Why? Because sugar is addictive. MRI scans have shown that sugar activates the same brain regions as are activated during cocaine use. It’s also been found that the more sugar you consume, the more you need since you build up a tolerance. This is a symptom of substance dependence.

Want to kick the sugar habit? There are numerous books and online sources that guide you through weaning yourself off of sugar. And, going cold turkey isn’t always the best way. Switching to honey, an actual food that the body processes without creating a ‘high,’ is a good way to begin.

While fluoride has helped, on its own, it is insufficient to overcome the continual bacterial onslaught from American sugar consumption. Your smile is more important than sugary indulgences. As a matter of fact, your entire body would operate better without sugar.

Take a stance that sugar will not ruin your smile (or the smiles of your family members)! Every habit takes time to break so allow 2-3 months to ease off of sugar altogether. Until then (and always), floss daily, brush twice a day (for 2 minutes each time), drink lots of water and be committed to your 6-month dental cleanings and check-ups.

Call (828) 274-9440 to get your mouth in healthy shape!

Smile Your Way To A Healthier Heart

Posted on Apr 13, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Want a healthy heart? Start with your smile!

There are a number of studies that suggest that oral health and gum disease are related to serious conditions like heart disease.

The link between periodontal (gum) disease and heart disease hasn’t been pinpointed, however, there is strong evidence that the two do, indeed, have a connection. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. One study found that the presence of common oral problems such as gingivitis, cavities and missing teeth, were as good at predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.

The culprit seems to lie in the way oral bacteria can trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. It begins when the bacteria of gum disease enters the bloodstream through gum tissues weakened by gum disease.

Inflammation in the body is a normal, healthy reaction, to an extent. For example, when you cut yourself, pro-inflammatory hormones in the body recruit white blood cells to battle infection and damaged tissue. Normal inflammation of pain, redness, and swelling are indications that your immune system is acting appropriately. As healing progresses, the inflammation subsides.

However, when inflammation is turned on and remains that way, it is like being on fire from the inside out. Symptoms of inflammation that don’t recede mean your immune system is in continual fighting mode. What began as a healthy reaction to protect your body is now stuck in the ‘on’ position. The inflammation has now gone from a healthy reaction to a damaging presence.

Precisely how oral bacteria triggers an inflammatory response is still under the microscope. Until more is known, take every measure to ensure your oral health is excellent. Brush and floss, eat a healthy diet, drink lots of water, have dental check-ups and cleanings every six months, and tend to oral problems promptly, such as crowning cracked teeth or repairing cavities.

Think of your mouth as the opening to your entire body, because it is! Make a healthy smile a priority to reduce your risk of chronic inflammation in the body so your smile goes all the way to your heart!

Call (828) 274-9440 if you have not had regular dental care and wish to develop a ‘clean slate’ for lasting oral wellness! Your smile and your heart will thank you!

Are YOU At Risk For Oral Cancer?

Posted on Apr 08, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

None of us anticipate contracting cancer in our lifetime. We may have a family history of certain cancers or know we’re risking cancer from certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking. Yet, the actual diagnosis of cancer is typically an unexpected jolt.

Oral cancer fails to be as visible as some other cancers, such as breast or colon cancer. It doesn’t have the backing of major media campaigns nor is it backed by nationally-coordinated fundraisers, such as walks sponsored by major firms. Yet, oral cancer is one of the deadliest of all cancers with one of the poorest survival rates. For those who do survive, the disfiguring effects from treatment can be jarring. Roger Ebert, one of the most recognized movie critics of modern film, succumbed to oral cancer after undergoing surgical attempts to save him, leaving him unrecognizable in his final days.

The American Cancer Society cites oral cancer is more than twice as common in men as in women. It is about equally common in blacks and in whites. Although the overall rate of new cases has been stable in men and decreasing slightly in women, there has been an increase in cases linked to infection with human papilloma virus (HPV) in white males and females.

Oral cancer occurs most often in:
• The tongue
• The tonsils & oropharynx
• The gums, base of the mouth and in other oral soft tissues
• The lips and salivary glands

The average age of people diagnosed with these cancers is 62 with more than a fourth of oral cancers occurring in patients under age 55.

With newly diagnosed oral cancer patients, a small percentage will develop another cancer in a nearby area such as the larynx (voice box), the esophagus (the tube in the throat) or the lung. Some who are cured of oral cancer will develop another cancer later in the lung, mouth, throat, or other nearby areas. For this reason, patients must have follow-up exams for the rest of their lives. Oral cancer survivors must also avoid tobacco and alcohol, which increase the risk for these second cancers.

The word “cancer” on its own is scary. For those who must endure the battle as well as family members who are closely involved, an oral cancer diagnosis is devastating. But, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. Knowing your risks can help, but watching for signs and taking immediate action can mean the difference between minimal treatment versus a disfiguring, or even deadly, outcome.

Warning signs include a mouth sore that does not heal, white or red patch of tissue, difficulty swallowing, a lump or mass in the mouth or neck, a long period of hoarseness, pain or numbness in the oral region, change in the voice, or a long period of ear pain.

As a Periodontal Specialist, I have in-depth training that helps me spot early signs of oral cancer and to begin prompt treatment. My goal is to help restore you to good oral health in all procedures. Catching oral cancer as early as possible will help you resume your life with a smile.

If you have signs of oral cancer, as listed above, contact us immediately for an examination: (828) 274-9440.

How Dentures Compromise Digestive Process

Posted on Mar 20, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The most common complaint I hear from denture wearers is their frustration when eating. Food is such a centerpiece of gatherings. From family dinners during the holidays to wedding receptions to lunch out with friends, we tend to ‘gather together’ with food front and center.

When dentures do not fit properly, the pleasure of savoring foods you love is often accompanied by the fear of embarrassing slips or clicks. Yet, another repercussion of poor fitting dentures exists – a compromised digestive system.

Grade school science taught us that digestion begins in the mouth. Proper chewing coupled with sufficient saliva help to break down foods so its continued journey can be efficiently performed. Problem dentures typically result in a reduction in chewing and saliva flow, which in turn reduces the absorption and metabolism of key nutrients.

Because chewing efficiency and strength are greatly decreased by dentures, this often leads to a diet of softer foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. Unfortunately, these choices can be high in fats, sugar and calories. Additionally, less fiber intake from a diet low in fruits and vegetables leads to constipation and a reduced intake of vitamins and minerals.

Another problem associated with denture wear is aerophagia. This is excessive swallowing of air that can lead to a severely distended stomach, pain and poor digestion.

For those who prefer dentures, it’s important to maintain the most secure fitting denture possible. However, Dental Implants are rapidly becoming the tooth replacement option of choice for many adults. Implants can secure a denture by using the jaw bone as the foundation, just as natural teeth have. This restores biting strength and chewing stability. And, no more rubbing or slips!

Adults who switch to Dental Implants are pleased that they can resume eating the foods they love again. They can chew comfortably and laugh with friends without worry.

If your denture is compromising your ability to eat, it’s likely having negative effects on your digestive system as well. Protect your health and resume eating pleasure. Call (828) 274-9440 for a Consultation to discuss options best for your needs.