Gift Ideas For “Priceless” Smiles!

Posted on Sep 25, 2024 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

It’s not even October and already I’m seeing holiday sales ads and decor. This comes across as pretty confusing when Christmas items are mixed into Halloween candy and skeleton costumes.

However, Americans are wise to get a jump on the holidays since the rush of the Christmas season can become overwhelming. A long holiday shopping list can often be more manageable by jumping on early sales, saving time and money. Like every list, though, there is always that hard-to-buy-for person. At Biltmore Periodontics in Asheville, we have a suggestion…

An electric toothbrush can do a lot more than help an individual enjoy fresh breath and a bright smile. Studies have shown that brushing teeth with an electric version promotes better gum health and slower progression of periodontal (gum) disease. Compared to manual toothbrushing, an electric toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of tooth loss.

As part of a thorough at-home oral hygiene regimen, the thoroughness of an electric toothbrush was monitored in one study (published by the Journal of Clinical Periodontology). In this, the oral health of over 2800 adults was tracked for over 11 years. The use of electric toothbrushes was monitored to watch for periodontal disease, cavities, and the number of natural teeth.

From 2002 – 2006, participants were examined with follow ups conducted after 6 and 11 years. Eighteen percent of the participants were electric tooth brush users. At the time of their 11 year follow up, 37% had switched to using electric toothbrushes.

The study showed electric brushing promoted better gum health and slower progression of gum disease. Electric tooth brushing is also related to a reduction in tooth loss by 20% (compared to those who brush with manual toothbrushes).

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6619286/

One reason for the superior level of cleaning by an electric toothbrush is attributed to features of some models. Many of the newer models include a timer to indicate how long to spend brushing in each quadrant (your teeth divided into 4 sections). The timers are also helpful in the recommendation of brushing for at least two minutes twice daily. (This applies to both manual brushing or with an electric.)

Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss and one of the most prominent diseases in the U.S., with over 47% of adults having some level. Signs of gum disease include tender gums that bleed easily when brushing, gums that darken in color to red (versus a healthy pink), persistent bad breath, and gums that pull away from teeth (receded gums) and expose darker root areas of teeth.

As devastating as tooth loss is, the infectious oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through diseased gum tissues. They are able to create inflammatory reactions that have been associated with a long list of health problems.

Decades of research have shown the bacteria of gum disease are able to trigger the onset of or worsen the development of severe (and even deadly) health conditions. These include: heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, some cancers, diabetes, arthritis, impotency, preterm babies, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and more.

Thus, the gift of an electric toothbrush to a smile you love can improve that person’s oral health and help them in their overall health as well! As a periodontist, I have a firsthand view at how these can help greatly when it comes to time spent at the bathroom sink!

Another gift suggestion is an electric water flosser.

Daily flossing is highly recommended for gum health, lower cavity risk and the prevention of tooth loss. Flossing removes trapped bits of food remaining in the mouth, which feeds oral bacteria and allows them to quickly multiply. Because brushing cannot dislodge all food particles caught between teeth, flossing should be a must-do in one’s daily oral hygiene routine at home.

Proper flossing is easy for those who are in the habit and takes only a minute each day. While an estimated 40% of American adults “claim” to be daily flossers, that’s disputable. Some polls show that about 37% admit they actually floss less than daily with just over 32% saying they never floss.
https://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2016-05-02/how-many-americans-floss-their-teeth

For those who have problems with manual dexterity or find the maneuver awkward, water flossers are an effective alternative. They are easy to use and have been found to be just as effective as manual flossing.

A water flosser works by pulsating a stream of water between teeth that is forceful enough to dislodge trapped food bits but without harming teeth or gums. The pressure can also be adjusted for one’s comfort. They can be affordably purchased online or in many stores.

While adults are gaining a better understanding of how the health in their mouths impacts their overall help, we believe that – like anything – having the right tools can create a stronger commitment and positively support an individual in doing the job effectively. Because every smile gives back so much, protecting it – or helping someone protect theirs – is a gift that has lifelong benefits.

If signs or symptoms of gum disease are suspected, call 828-274-9440. If dental fear or anxiety is a concern, we can discuss comfort options, including oral and IV sedation (“twilight sleep”).

If regular dental care has been difficult for you in the past, consider starting with a consultation. You’ll find the entire team at our state-of-the-art Asheville periodontal dental office treat patients with respect, compassion and a gentle touch.

New patients are always welcome and referrals are not always required.

The Mirror Image Of Dental Implants

Posted on Sep 16, 2024 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

A study conducted in the United Kingdom in 2015 revealed that men check out their reflection 23 times a day while women do about 16 times. While other studies dispute the gender disparity (such as women using the mirror 34 times a day on average), all adults use the mirror more often than is probably perceived.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3077919/Men-vainer-women-research-reveals-guys-look-reflection-23-times-day-women-glance-16-times.html

https://www.reuters.com/article/world/us/women-seen-checking-mirror-every-half-hour-idUSL05402197/

Naturally, part of that time in the mirror is spent each morning or evening as people prepare for the day and then get ready for bed. Ideally, several minutes of this time is being devoted to brushing and flossing. But, are they really getting a good look inside their mouths?

Typically, people don’t think all that often about the presence of their teeth, unless something hurts. Certainly, when hot or cold causes a sharp “jolt” of pain or a constant ache occurs around a particular tooth, an individual realizes something needs attention. After all, there is rarely pain in the mouth that is going to repair on its own. And, pain is our brain’s way of getting our immediate attention that something is wrong.

Adult tooth loss is fairly common in the U.S.  Accidents, tooth (or tooth root) fractures, decay and certain health conditions can increase one’s potential for losing natural teeth. However, periodontal (gum) disease is the most common.

It is estimated that nearly half of the adult population have some form of periodontal disease (47.3%). Symptoms may include:

• tender and swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing

• persistent bad breath

• gums that are red in color rather than a healthy pink

• gums that recede from the base of teeth

• pus pockets around teeth as bacterial accumulate

• gums that are a spongy texture

• teeth that shift or loosen

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), over one-fourth (26%) of American adults ages 65 and older have 8 or less natural teeth. The CDC equates this number (having 8 or fewer teeth) as “severe tooth loss” since it impacts an individual’s ability to thoroughly eat a healthy diet.

While losing a tooth during a lifetime seems “normal,” any loss of an adult tooth should be a wake-up call. As an Asheville periodontist, I know that losing a natural tooth can set into motion a snowball effect. And, it’s what occurs below the gums that creates the path that, for many older adults, leads to dentures.

The absence of a tooth root in the upper or lower jaw bone is a loss of stimulation to the bone mass where it was once positioned. These roots provide both stimulation and nourishment that enables the bone to maintain a healthy mass. Without the presence of tooth roots, the bone begins to “melt away” in a process known as resorption.

It is commonly known that muscles, not used, will shrink in mass. When the jaw bones are lacking stimulation by the tooth roots they’re designed to hold, bone mass begins to shrink.

Resorption begins shortly after the tooth’s root is removed. Once it starts, it continues at an ever-increasing pace. For example, the first year after a tooth root is missing, bone decline may be minimal. With each passing year, however, the pace of bone loss accelerates.

As the bone shrinks in height, natural tooth roots adjacent to the area of missing teeth are subject to movement and root damage. On average, the next teeth you’re most likely to lose are the ones bordering areas of missing teeth.

How do you halt the process of tooth loss due to bone resorption?

Because dental implants replace the tooth above the gum line AND the root portion below it, the bone is able to retain its mass. Using the sturdy foundation of the jaw bone, dental implants are able to restore the look, feel and chewing stability like that of natural teeth.

A periodontist has advanced training to properly diagnose and treat all stages of periodontal (gum) disease (including gingivitis and periodontitis) as well as placement of dental implants. Because we understand the issues that occur above and below the gums, we are proponents of replacing teeth with dental implants, for a wide number of reasons.

1. Dental implants help to prevent declining mass of the jaw bone. In addition to problems associated with dental prosthetics (dentures, partials) when it comes to 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.

2. 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.

3. Unlike crown-&-bridge combinations or partials, dental implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support by 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.

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

5. Because dental implants are supported by the upper or lower jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, they are able to restore biting strength and chewing stability. After an implant is placed in the bone, the bone grows around it to fully secure it in the jaw. This enables confident biting and chewing without fear of movement that is possible with a denture or partial.

Like anything that is implanted into your body, dental implants should be placed in the hands of an experienced specialist. Ideal diagnosis is important, and can even save the patient in overall treatment costs. For example, when missing more than one tooth in one area, one implant can often hold two or a bridge of teeth. Several strategically-placed implants may also be used to support a full arch of teeth.

Proper placement and support in caring for implants is an important part of a successful outcome. However, dental implants can fail. A periodontal specialist can be an asset to your investment. When dental implants are chosen and placed by a periodontist, he or she is trained to select the one that will work best for you now and throughout your lifetime.

In addition to our specialized skills, our Asheville periodontal dental office provides advanced technology and a compassionate approach to care so you can enjoy a comfortable, efficient experience that allows you to have optimal success. Some of this technology is specific to dental implants, including:

• LANAP With PerioLase MVP 7 – Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure is an advanced protocol that efficiently and effectively treats advanced gum disease with the added advantages of a dental laser. For patients who are preparing for dental implant placement, resolving gum disease prior to treatment is mandatory. LANAP offers a non-surgical alternative for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease with very little discomfort and a quick recovery time.

• Cone Beam Imaging – These provide 3D images that are ideal for diagnosing and treatment planning. The highly-detailed images show sagittal, axial, and coronal planes, which locates and tracks nerve canals to optimize implant placement.

• Computerized Dental Implant Placement – This system provides the futuristic ability to position dental implants before the process actually begins. Through computerized technology, the implants are selected and “ideally positioned” on a 3D model of the patient’s jaw. From this, a template is developed for optimal treatment success, even for complex cases.

• CS 3600 Intraoral Scanner – Rather than make impressions with bulky, goopy trays, this scanner quickly and comfortably captures digital impressions accurately and easily. These are used to create precision models or appliances (dental implant crowns, bridges, or full arches). The scanner can also reach hard–to–access areas in the patient’s mouth for superior results with improved patient comfort.

For individuals who have lost teeth because dental fear or anxiety kept them from receiving regular dental care, we are especially sensitive to the concerns of these patients. Our entire team is committed to optimal patient comfort at every visit. Additionally, we offer:

• Oral sedation is a pill that helps patients relax. It also has an amnesiac effect, leaving most with little or no memory of treatment afterward.

• I.V. sedation (also known as “twilight sleep”) places the patient in a deeper sleep state and erases memory of the procedure. It is administered by a Medical Doctor (MD) who is a board certified Anesthesiologist.

For those who feel dental implants are out of reach financially, we encourage them to have a consultation to see exactly what their options may be and the treatment fees entailed. We offer several excellent payment plans, some with no down payment and no interest charged when paid according to the terms.

If you are considering dental implants, you may wish to begin with a consultation appointment. During this time, we can explain the vast difference in comfort, treatment time, and success available through our specialized skills and extensive technology.

Call 828-274-9440 to schedule. New patients are always welcome and a referral is not always required.

Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia and Periodontal Disease

Posted on Aug 15, 2024 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

In information posted on the web site of the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org),

“A recent analysis led by National Institute on Aging (NIA) scientists suggests that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease that causes the chronic inflammation are also associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, especially vascular dementia.”

https://www.alz.org/co/news/oral-health-and-alzheimers-risk#:~:text=A%20recent%20analysis%20led%20by,related%20dementias%2C%20especially%20vascular%20dementia.

Is there a more dreaded disease today than Alzheimer’s? Not only is the individual effected, entire families are devastated when dealing with a loved one’s diagnosis.

In the U.S., it is the 6th leading cause of death.

https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/

By the year 2025, the number of people 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to reach 7.1 million people, a 27% increase from the 5.6 million over the age of 65 in 2019.

In 2020, it was estimated that 11.6% of North Carolina adults aged 65 and over had some level of the disease. Currently, 10% of American adults 65 and over have Alzheimer’s disease. For people ages 85 and older, this increases to 32%.
By 2060, nearly 1 in 4 Americans will be 65 years and older with seniors over age 85 having tripled.

https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf

As a periodontist in Asheville NC, I’ve been following the findings related to Alzheimer’s disease and periodontal disease. Yes, the connection between the two seems far-fetched, but research is showing there is a correlation.

First, allow me to explain periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is an inflammatory disease that attacks gum tissues, teeth, and the structures that support them. It is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. In addition to the problematic oral symptoms associated with gum disease, research has shown that the infectious bacteria are able to activate the development (or worsen the progress) of other diseases.

Because the bacteria of gum disease are able to enter the bloodstream through weakened oral tissues, studies have connected them to serious reactions elsewhere in the body. Some of these lead to the formation of cancer (oral, throat, pancreatic, lung) and some activate conditions such as diabetes and arthritis.

While the statistics of aging adults increase, nearly half of the adult population has some level of gum disease, over 47%. As a periodontal specialist in Western NC, I believe the high prevalence of gum disease among U.S. adults may be, in part, due to the assumption, “if it doesn’t hurt, nothing is wrong”. People also tend to brush off some symptoms as “normal,” such as seeing blood in the sink when brushing teeth.

Although symptoms of gum disease may include tender gums that bleed when brushing, gum disease can begin without any obvious signs. One study included over 8,200 adult at an average age of 63 at the study’s onset. The findings showed an increased propensity for developing dementia for participants who had severe gum disease and missing teeth.

Having no natural teeth was associated with a 26% increased risk. At the end of the study:

• 14% of individuals with healthy gums and all their teeth at the start of the study developed dementia by the end of the study
• 18% of participants with mild gum disease developed dementia
• 22% with severe gum disease (periodontitis) developed dementia
• 23% of those with no remaining teeth developed dementia

Eighteen years later, a follow-up study found those who had severe gingivitis in addition to tooth loss had a 22% higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

What researchers found is the bacteria present in periodontal disease are able to travel through the mucous membranes of the mouth to the brain. This is believed to cause potential brain damage.

https://psychcentral.com/news/2020/07/30/gum-disease-may-be-linked-to-later-dementia/158497.html?MvBriefArticleId=25473

Now, more than ever, maintaining a healthy smile is important for every adult. If you suspect you have gum disease (gums that bleed when brushing, tender or swollen gums, gums that have reddened or receded from teeth), be seen by a periodontist. This disease will only worsen without treatment.

Be committed to having excellent oral health as and make it a priority as an important part of your overall health. For a consultation to discuss how we can help you achieve optimal oral health, call 828-274-9440.

In addition to the treatment of all stages of gum disease and the reshaping of gum tissues, a periodontist is a specialist in the placement of dental implants. If you have lost teeth, dental implants are the ideal tooth replacement option.

Also, please know that our Asheville periodontal dental office offers many comfort options, including Oral and I.V. sedation. Oral sedation is a pill that helps patients relax. I.V. sedation (also known as ‘twilight sleep’) places the patient in a deeper sleep state and erases memory of the procedure. It is administered by a doctor of anesthesiology for optimal comfort and safety.

Connections of Oral Wellness and Overall Health

Posted on Aug 08, 2024 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Over the past few decades, an increased number of studies have pursued the many connections of periodontal (gum) disease and our overall health. With the findings, research has become more focused with links found between infectious oral bacteria and a growing list of serious health problems.

Periodontitis is the most severe form of periodontal disease. It is a severe form of gum infection that damages soft tissues and destroys the bone that supports teeth. This occurs when toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums.

These toxins activate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body, which turns on itself. This systemic inflammation leads to break down and destruction of tissues and bone that support the teeth.

The potent bacteria of gum disease are able to enter the bloodstream through tears in weakened tissues. It is now known that it can trigger inflammatory reactions that are related to the development of the conditions mentioned above. While it can activate the development of serious health problems far beyond the mouth, it can also worsen others already underway.

The initial stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. This may have mild symptoms or even some deemed “normal.” These include areas where the gums are tender or seeing blood in the sink when brushing teeth. However, gingivitis, if not halted, can soon progress to periodontal disease.

Gum disease symptoms include:

• Gums that loosen from teeth (or “recede”)
• Red or swollen gums
• Gums that bleed when flossing or brushing
• Persistent bad breath 

• Teeth that may loosen or drift

Without treatment, gum disease worsens. Many people are unaware of the severity of damage capable by these infectious bacteria. Below are some of the correlations that may surprise you.

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Using findings from previous research, studies have closely scrutinized two types of oral bacteria pathogens. Researchers found that one pathogen was far more prevalent in the saliva of participants who developed pancreatic cancer with a 59% increased risk of developing the deadly cancer. Just as alarming was that the second pathogen was shown to increase this risk by 50%.

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The connections between periodontal disease and other diseases in the body also include a link between oral health and psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic disease that affects the skin. Its cause isn’t fully understood but seems to relate to the immune system turning on itself.

This condition causes the life cycle of skin cells to accelerate beyond normal. Cells build up rapidly on the skin’s surface, forming scales and red patches that are often itchy and sometimes painful.

In one study, researchers found that while “people with psoriatic arthritis had about the same rate of gum disease as those without joint inflammation, people with psoriatic arthritis were more likely to have severe gum problems.”

https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/prevention-tips-for-uveitis-stroke-and-gum-disease

Other studies have shown that people with periodontitis (advanced gum disease) are nearly 1.5 times more likely to develop psoriasis than people with healthy gums. Could one trigger the other, and vice versa?

Another study showed that 36% of people with psoriasis had one or more sites of bone loss measuring at least 3 millimeters (over a tenth of an inch). This was compared to 13% of people without psoriasis.

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For people who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), many are learning that research is noting close connections with arthritis and gum disease, too.

RA is a debilitating, painful disease that destroys joints. RA often emerges gradually, initially causing morning stiffness and weak, sore muscles. As inflammation from RA worsens, joints become swollen.  Joints become achy and stiff most often in the fingers, wrists, elbows, hips, knees, ankles, toes, and neck. Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA.

Apparently, gum disease and RA share a genetic similarity. The clinical makeup shows similar structures, primarily in pathogens that spark disease or illness. Research has found that the pathological process that occurs in both gum disease and RA are nearly identical.

Both conditions cause chronic inflammation in tissues that connect to bone with both diseases having a similar inflammatory trigger. Even more similar is the particular species of bacteria found in periodontally-diseased tissues when compared with tissues around arthritic joints. In one study, a particular pathogen associated with periodontal disease was found to activate the same destructive process of rheumatoid arthritis.

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Another example of damage possible by the infectious bacteria of periodontal disease is coronary artery disease. The heart disease connection, as explained by Harvard Medical School’s newsletter, states:

“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.”

http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/heart-disease-oral-health

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And the list goes on, even including connections between periodontal disease and erectile dysfunction (ED). For men in the 40 – 70 age group, ED affects over 40% with nearly 70% of men at age 70 affected.

https://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/endocrinology/erectile-dysfunction/

One study of 162 males ages 30 to 40 by Turkish researchers, 82 of the participants had normal erection function while 80 who complained of ED, nearly half. Some men in both groups had chronic periodontitis, but the condition was more than twice as prevalent in the ED group.

In another study, 80 male participants who had severe gum disease were more than twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction. This was true even after adjustments were made for other issues that could distort the findings.

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Gum disease affects nearly 47% of American adults. It will worsen without treatment and, to no surprise, is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. As an Asheville periodontal specialist, I have an up-close view of the damaging effects of gum disease.

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease, start with a thorough periodontal examination. Call 828-274-9440 or ask our friendly staff about beginning with a consultation.

If dental fears have caused you to delay or avoid having regular dental care, many treatments can include oral or I.V. sedation (sleep dentistry, or “twilight sleep”).

And, if financial constraints are an obstacle in receiving treatment, we offer several payment plans. Most are interest-free with no down payment required (for qualified individuals). Feel free to ask about these during your consultation.