The Hazards Of Sleeping In Your Dentures.

Posted on Oct 23, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

A recent study has found that elderly patients who wear dentures while they sleep have a higher risk of developing pneumonia. The study included over 450 denture wearers and tracked their oral health and hygiene as well as medical status. Nearly 41% of the participants reported that they slept in their dentures.

The three-year study found that those who wore their dentures while sleeping had a higher risk for pneumonia than those who slept without their dentures. Additionally, this group was more likely to have gum inflammation, plaque buildup on the tongue and denture and be more prone to other oral health issues.

When dentures are worn 24/7, oral bacteria reproduce on a continual basis. In addition to an increased risk of pneumonia, this can lead to other problems, including:

Halitosis – Bad breath is a common problem for denture wearers. The material that forms the gum portion of dentures is porous and provides a dark, warm and moist breeding ground for bacteria. Oral bacteria growth leads to the formation of plaque and frequent bad breath.

Mouth Irritation – Loose dentures can move while eating and create sore spots on tender gum tissue.

Burning Mouth Syndrome – Dentures can place stress on facial muscles and oral tissues. This can lead to pain and soreness in the mouth that tends to worsen throughout the day. It also causes an increase in thirst and loss of taste.

Oral Thrush – The fungus Candida albicans can overgrow in the mouth, creating lesions on the tongue and cheeks.

Bone Loss –  Wearing dentures places pressure on the upper and lower jaw (the gum ridge that supports your denture), which causes the bone to shrink. Wearing dentures all day and all night creates continual pressure, which accelerates the rate of bone loss.

Although many people are committed to wearing dentures or partials, we in the dental field typically recommend Dental Implants for a number of reasons. If your denture is uncomfortable or you are concerned about associated health risks, call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation to discuss your potential for Dental Implants.

String Floss Vs. Water Flossers

Posted on Oct 20, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Dental floss has been around for almost 200 years. With nearly two centuries of dentists pleading to excuse-laden patients, no wonder water flossers were invented.

The goal, whether using dental floss or a water flosser, is to remove food debris caught between teeth and scrape away the bacterial film formed during the day. This film is the beginning of plaque and, when not removed daily, hardens into calculus. Calculus is the cement-like substance that adheres to teeth. It consists of reproducing oral bacteria that feed on tooth enamel and gum tissue. Once formed, calculus cannot be brushed or flossed away. Only a dental professional can remove it using special tools.

When water flossers first emerged, the debate was whether they were as effective as dental floss. However, as water flossers have been fine-tuned over the years, they have proven to be more effective than standard flossing.

Although the companies who developed these water flossers provided early research showing the benefits of their product versus dental floss, dental researchers wanted their own proof. One study found that a water flosser combined with tooth brushing was nearly 93% more effective than using floss with brushing. It also showed that adults can have up to 52% better results at reducing gingivitis, which is the early stage of periodontal (gum) disease. Additionally, international research showed that combining a water flosser with brushing provided twice the effectiveness at reducing gingival bleeding than using brushing and dental floss.

For adults who have arthritis or find using floss is too awkward, water flossers are an excellent alternative. When combined with thorough twice-daily brushing, today’s water flossers can do a better job at removing oral bacteria, food particles and preventing the sticky film that forms plaque.

However, it is the commitment of the individual that makes the most difference. A thorough, committed oral hygiene regimen at home and twice a year visits to your general dentist is the best way to prevent oral bacteria buildup and the problems that result. In addition to cavities and gum disease, research has shown that oral bacteria can trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency.

Adequate brushing and flossing (whether standard floss or a water flosser) can help you avoid cavities, gum disease, tooth loss and the heightened risk of health problems elsewhere in the body. Rather than plead with patients to floss daily, I’d much rather recommend an easy-to-hold device that has proven safe, effective, and promotes more compliance than that of string floss.

If you have delayed dental check-ups and suspect gum disease, call (828) 274-9440 to schedule an examination.

Why Straight Teeth Help You Avoid Gum Disease – And More!

Posted on Oct 14, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I frequently work in conjunction with other dental specialists, many of these being Orthodontists. Straight, properly-aligned teeth do far more than create an appealing smile. I see a number of gum problems that began as a result of crooked teeth.

The tight nooks that crooked teeth provide are an ideal gathering place for oral bacteria. This means you’re more likely to develop plaque in these areas. This buildup leads to Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease. These are also ideal spots for the formation of cavities.

When teeth are in proper alignment, there is less potential for developing problems such a grinding or clenching teeth during sleep. This disrupts your sleep quality and can result in worn, chipped or broken teeth. Straight teeth also help you avoid jaw joint problems, tooth fractures and gum recession.

With straight teeth, a beautiful smile isn’t the only benefit you’ll receive. A proper bite can save you a tremendously in time and money for future dental repairs and treatment.

To learn more, call (828) 274-9440. We’ll be happy to arrange a periodontal exam if you suspect crowded, crooked teeth have resulted in gum disease.

Bleeding Gums NOT A Good Sign!

Posted on Oct 13, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Unfortunately, many Americans perceive that seeing blood while brushing is a good sign, assuming it shows they’re doing a great job. The fact is – Healthy gums do not bleed while brushing! Bleeding gums indicate a problem that needs to be addressed while treatment can be minimal. Delay only allows the problem to worsen, resulting in more time and expense in the future.

Periodontal (gum) disease is the most common cause (and an early warning sign) for gums that bleed while brushing, it is also the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S. Gum disease begins with gingivitis, which occurs from a bacterial build-up of plaque. This irritates the gums, causing them to bleed and become swollen and tender.

Other contributors can make gum tissue more vulnerable to oral bacteria and the development of gum disease. These include:

   • Overzealous brushing, brushing with a hard bristle toothbrush or using an abrasive substance, such as baking soda. These cause more harm than good to teeth and gum tissue.
   • Drugs can contribute to gums that bleed easily. These include antidepressants, nasal sprays and oral contraceptives.
   • Smoking has a drying effect on gum tissue. Smokers typically have more calculus than non-smokers from the irritation of the chemicals in cigarette smoke.
   • Vitamin K deficiency interferes with the body’s process of blood clotting. This can also result in gums that bleed.
   • Certain changes in hormonal levels can cause red, tender and swollen gums.

When bleeding gums are dealt with in early stages, a thorough dental cleaning and committed oral care regimen at home can often halt the progression of gingivitis leading to gum disease. Act now by seeing a Periodontist for treatment. A Periodontist specializes in the treatment of all phases of gum disease. He or she can work with your dentist to determine an appropriate treatment to restore your smile to a healthy state.

Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.