Tooth Loss Results In A Shrinking Jaw Bone

Posted on Nov 11, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you wear a denture or partial, you can assume you’ve lost jaw bone mass. This is due to “bone resorption,” (a shrinking in the mass of bone).

In a healthy mouth, the upper and lower jaw bone support natural tooth roots. While the roots of each tooth enjoy the jaw bone as it’s foundation, the tooth roots stimulate the bone, helping it maintain healthy dimensions.

After teeth are removed, the jaw begins to shrink without the interaction of tooth roots. In a mouth where all natural teeth are missing, the process of bone resorption actually speeds up from the pressure of dentures or partials. For those who sleep in dentures, this rate of resorption occurs at a constant and more rapid pace.

The extent of bone loss experienced can be visible by looking in a mirror without dentures in place. You may see deep wrinkles around your mouth and corners of your mouth turn downward. Your chin may be more pointed than before you lost your natural teeth. Your mouth may also appear collapsed in your face or you may notice jowls starting to form. Dentures have a tendency to conceal bone loss because they fill out the face when in place. However, the problems of losing jaw bone mass go far beyond facial cosmetics.

Once bone loss begins, it occurs at a more rapid pace as you age. This is why a denture that fit well when first made will eventually move around when you bite and chew. Over time, even denture adhesives and relines won’t make eating comfortable.

This is why so many adults are now turning to dental implants for tooth replacement. They provide a dependable foundation for biting and chewing a thick steak and crisp apple without worry. They speak and laugh with others confidently and without the fear of embarrassing slips. Because dental implants restore the presence of natural tooth roots, they also halt (or greatly slow) the process of bone resorption.

An added advantage of dental implants is that they are a wise investment. While dental implants are more costly, initially, than a denture or partial, they are designed to last your lifetime. With proper care, dental implants will enable you to eat and laugh confidently and comfortably.

Modern dentistry offers exceptional options in implant dentistry for many situations, including those who’ve experienced severe bone loss. Call (828) 274-9440 for more information or to arrange a Consultation.

Our Patients Deserve The Why & How

Posted on Nov 08, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

During initial conversations with new patients, some share concerns of feeling vulnerable in the dental chair.

It’s natural to have a sense of vulnerability when someone with sharp instruments is doing things in your mouth (a highly sensitive area) that you can’t see, and as you’re on your back in a narrow treatment chair. While my patients praise me for a gentle hand and creating a comfortable experience at all times, we feel they have an added reason to relax.

When treatment is recommended, I make sure patients understand their options. As a dental specialist, part of my role (and commitment) is to diagnose and explain the various procedures needed to restore oral health. An important part of this is in the explanation of the treatment, helping each to understand why they need the treatment and what is entailed BEFORE we begin.

Over the years, I’ve invested in intra-oral cameras, digital imaging (replacing grainy x-ray film) and large screen, color monitors. While these aid in precision diagnosis and optimal treatment planning, the ability to visually show patients their problem helps them to understand the “why.” The “how” is up to me to relay before and even during the procedure.

An informed patient is more involved in their oral health and more relaxed in the treatment chair. Plus, we feel our patients deserve the respect of information that makes them fully confident in their decisions for treatment.

To begin with a Consultation, call (828) 274-9440 to schedule.

Gummy Smile? We Can Fix That!

Posted on Nov 03, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

For those who have a gummy smile, when in a full smile, excess gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth. Not only does this detract from the beauty of a smile, a gummy smile causes many people to ‘hold back’ when they smile.

While a healthy smile is nothing to conceal, I understand that one’s smile is a factor in appearance as well as self-confidence. It is important to have a healthy smile and one that we feel good about sharing. Now, modern techniques and technology make repairing a gummy smile a process that requires minimal treatment time, is more comfortable, and heals at a faster pace.

Gum contouring is performed using gingivectomy (jen-juh-vect-oh me), where excess gum tissue around the teeth is removed. After the procedure, there may be tenderness or swelling. Most discomfort is managed with over-the-counter medications but prescription strength forms are made available. In healing, every individual is different. Some take a few days to heal while others need a couple of weeks. For those who smoke, this lengthens the duration of healing time.

Most gingivectomies are followed by crown lengthening to enhance the appearance of front teeth after excess tissue is removed. This result is a smile that has a beautiful, even line.

If you have a gummy smile or know someone who would like more information, begin with a consultation to discuss a gingivectomy and subsequent crown lengthening. Call (828) 274-9440 to schedule.

Oral Cancer Is A Deadly Threat

Posted on Oct 23, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Recently, Michael Douglas revealed that his former claim of having, and conquering, throat cancer was false. He admitted to actually having cancer of the tongue, a form of oral cancer. He shared that his reason for hiding his true diagnosis was to protect his career. Because of the radical surgery requirements to remove oral cancer, (that is, when it’s not too late to effectively treat it), he feared his acting career would be negatively affected, no matter the outcome of surgery.

Now that he has been able to recoup and rebound, which is not always the case with oral cancer, he is being more open and forthright about his ordeal. Oral cancer kills about 1 person each hour, 24 hours every day. Of those newly diagnosed, approximately 57% (or a little over half) will be alive in 5 years. This percentage has not significantly improved in decades.

Not many could blame Mr. Douglas for his concerns. For movie fans, many still remember the film critic duo of Siskel & Ebert. Roger Ebert suffered from oral cancer, also, and succumbed in 2013 after a nearly 10 year battle with cancer of the thyroid and salivary glands. Pictures of his disfigured face were far from how he once appeared.

From the mid-1970’s through 2004, the National Cancer Institute reveals a 15% increase in oral cancer rates. While men ages 60 – 79 have the highest risk, both sexes and all adults are susceptible. Recent facts show:
•    For every 100,000 adults, 10.5 will develop oral cancer.
•    Oral cancer rates are significantly higher for males than for females.
•    Oral cancer rates are higher for Hispanic and Black males than White males.
•    Oral cancer rates increase with age, with a more rapid increase after age 50, peaking between ages 60 – 70

Survival rates for oral cancer can be improved, however, with greater awareness. The following symptoms should be closely monitored and, if still present after a week to 10 days, checked immediately by a dentist or dental specialist.

– white or red patch of tissue in the mouth or lips
– small ulcer similar to a common canker sore
– tissue changes that mimic a bite on the inside of your cheek
– any sore or discolored area of your mouth
– lump or mass that can be felt inside the mouth or neck
– pain or difficulty swallowing, speaking or chewing
– wart-like mass
– persistent hoarseness
– numbness in the oral/facial region
– persistent ear ache in both ears

Because symptoms can be painless and are minimally visible or changing, these signs are often ignored or the individual chooses to delay having them checked until their 6-month dental exam.

Delays can be deadly. Take charge of your well-being and be proactive when it comes to your oral health. We’d much rather give you good news than have you amidst the terrible statistics of oral cancer. Call (828) 274-9440 for more information.