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.

Catch Gum Disease Early & Save Time & Money!

Posted on Mar 18, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While your six-month cleanings and exams remove plaque and tartar, many people fail to have an effective routine at home. When a thorough regimen of oral hygiene at home twice daily is not followed, the potential to develop early stage gum disease increases greatly. This can result in symptoms of gum disease before the next visit rolls around.

Gingivitis is the first level of gum disease. This is when bacterial accumulation develops to the point of showing obvious signs of damage to oral tissues. These signs include frequent bad breath, tender gums and gums that bleed easily when brushing. As oral bacteria reproduce, gingivitis will develop into periodontal disease. This occurs when oral bacteria are reproducing at a rampant rate and damaging gum tissues at a more destructive level.

The good news, however, is you CAN reverse the progress of gingivitis before it moves to a deeper level that is more time-consuming and expensive to treat. As soon as you notice signs (as mentioned above), begin a twice-a-day regimen of brushing your teeth a minimum of two minutes, flossing daily, swishing after brushing with an oral rinse and either using a tongue scraper or brushing the tongue to remove embedded bacteria.

Additionally, increase your water intake. A moist mouth supports the cleansing effects of saliva. Avoid or greatly limit between-meal snacking and minimize your intake of sugary foods and beverages.

With proper measures, you should begin to see symptoms subside in a few days. However, that doesn’t mean you should back off! Continue this regimen to maintain a healthy mouth and control bacterial buildup. And be sure to keep your regular hygiene appointments. Those visits will help you have a ‘clean slate’ twice a year so you can avoid problems in the first place.

Once you are in the routine of this oral hygiene commitment, you’ll find it takes very little time and the payoff is well worth it! If you haven’t had regular dental check-ups and feel your gum health needs more than what home care can provide, call us at (828) 274-9440 for an appointment. Gum disease only worsens without treatment and early treatment can save you time and money.

Smile Affects More Than Appearance

Posted on Mar 16, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The dictionary defines a smile as: “a pleasant or agreeable appearance, look, or aspect.” Does that describe your smile?

As a periodontist who performs gum recontouring to repair ‘gummy smiles’ and dental implants to replace missing teeth, patients often share the emotional repercussions of a flawed smile before treatment. Many of them explain how they’ve  ‘held back’ on their smile, often concealing it with their hand or smiling with lips only. Some share they felt uncomfortable speaking with the opposite sex. Others felt their smile has kept them from pursuing higher positions or particular jobs.

Your smile is much more than teeth and gums. It reflects your overall personality. Would a confident smile make you more comfortable smiling and interacting with others? Would it prompt you to smile more often? Would it make you feel more attractive and outgoing? These are changes that patients have shared after treatment. Truly, the effects go much deeper than visual.

Adults often indulge in cars, clothes, electronics and trips as ways to create good feelings. Yet, none can provide the lasting effects of a confident, appealing smile. If you’d like to discuss dental implants for tooth replacement or gum recontouring for a smile you’ll enjoy sharing, every day, call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

The 1-2-3 Of Dental Implants

Posted on Mar 11, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While Dental Implants are nothing new, their makeup is still a bit of a mystery.

Most traditional Dental Implants are divided into three parts. The first part is the true implant. This portion is similar to a hollow screw. It is positioned in the jaw bone underneath your gum tissue to recreate the presence of a tooth root. Over a period of 3-4 months, the bone grows around the implant, securing it in place. This process is called “osseo-integration.”

The second and third parts of implant treatment are typically performed in the same appointment. The gum tissue is uncovered at each implant site and a post is secured into the hollow portion of the implant. Then, a replacement tooth is attached to the post. Because the tooth has the same foundation as that of natural teeth, biting strength and stability is restored.

In many cases, a bridge of two or more teeth can be attached to one implant. A full arch of teeth can also be secured to 4 to 8 implants that are strategically placed. This is ideal for people who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth and want to replace a denture.

In addition to restored ability to eat and chew securely and comfortably, Dental Implants help to halt bone resorption that occurs from missing tooth roots. Because the jaw bone is stimulated by the presence of tooth roots, without them, the bone begins to shrink in height and mass. This bone loss results in changes in facial appearance and places adjacent teeth at risk.

There are many types of Dental Implants designed to accommodate individual needs. During a Consultation appointment, I’ll explain the types best for your needs and answer your questions thoroughly. Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a time.