When It Comes To Replacing Missing Teeth, Dental Implants Are The Ideal

Posted on May 16, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Modern dentistry provides excellent options to replace missing teeth. When replacing several teeth in one area, a standard method has been a crown and bridge combination. However, when considering all options along with the advantages and challenges of each, Dental Implants stand out as the ideal, for many reasons. They are the closest thing to the look, feel and function of natural teeth. Quite frankly, the only deterrent for most is the higher cost of implants.

When a bridge is used to replace missing teeth, it must be attached to neighboring teeth on both sides for support. This requires that the supporting teeth to be crowned for this reason alone. Remember, once a tooth is crowned (or ‘capped’), it will always require a crown. When a Dental Implant is placed, it does not rely on the support of adjacent teeth.

Without the presence of natural tooth roots in the jaw bone, the bone begins to decline in mass. This process is known as resorption. This can become more obvious when the area of gum tissue under (or above) the bridge diminishes in height. Eventually, a gap may be visible between the bottom of the bridge and the gums.

As the bone declines in mass, the teeth supporting the bridge are more susceptible to problems. On average, the next teeth to be lost are teeth adjacent to areas of missing teeth. This is one reason Dental Implants have such an edge. They actually recreate the presence of tooth roots, halting the bone resorption process. And, since implants are held by the jaw, just as natural tooth roots, they restore dependable biting and stable chewing.

For those who are missing two or more teeth, one Dental Implant can often support a ‘bridge’ of teeth. Because the cost of implant treatment depends greatly on the number of implants placed, this helps to keep expenses more manageable for most.

Dental Implants are made from a material that bonds successfully with your jaw bone. Properly chosen, placed and maintained, an implant can last a lifetime. Dental Implants will never need root canals, do not decay and do not compromise the well-being of adjacent natural teeth. And, because implants become a part of you, they are your ‘own teeth’ once again! They’re like a “do over” for tooth loss!

Although the initial costs are higher than many options for tooth replacement, the advantages provide a wise investment when compared with other tooth replacement options. If you are considering replacing teeth, call 828-254-9440 for a consultation.

Periodontists Can Reshape Gum Tissues For A More Beautiful Smile

Posted on May 10, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontal Specialist, I have unique expertise in treating all stages of periodontal (gum) disease and in the placement of Dental Implants. Another part of my specialty is in the recontouring of gum tissues, or Periodontal Plastic Surgery.

While the shape, shade and length of teeth have a major impact on the appearance of a smile, so does the gum tissue that surrounds teeth. Think of your teeth as a window and your gums as the window frame. To ensure a balanced appearance of each window, the frame must be properly aligned in shape and size as well. Without it, an entire room would look ‘off.’ As with facial appearance, your smile is greatly affected by the appearance of teeth and their ‘frames’ of gum tissue.

There are several areas where gum reshaping can have a dramatic impact on a smile’s appearance. For those who are born with a ‘gummy smile,’ gum recontouring can restore the balance of gums to teeth and create a more beautiful smile.

In a gummy smile, too much gum tissue is exposed above the teeth most visible in a smile. This is a genetic trait and certainly doesn’t affect oral health. The detriment, for many with a gummy smile, is it causes them to refrain from smiling fully. Some with this trait smile with lips only and some conceal their smile with a hand.

The procedure to correct a gummy smile can be done in one visit. Excess gum tissue is removed and the remaining gums are arched over each tooth for a natural appearance. In most cases, porcelain crowns or veneers are placed to accentuate the natural look and feel of the teeth involved. The result is a fabulous smile that can be shared fully and joyfully!

Gum reshaping is also done when certain teeth are bordered by more gum tissue than that bordering surrounding teeth. The procedure most commonly performed to correct this is crown lengthening. This is usually done in conjunction with crown placement but may be possible in mild cases of excess gum tissue.

Crown lengthening helps to establish an appealing, balanced smile line that ‘frames’ each tooth with an arch similar to that over adjoining teeth. The procedure requires just one visit and healing time is generally minimal.

Another way that Periodontal Plastic Surgery can enhance the appearance of a smile is grafting to repair gum recession. This is when the gum tissue pulls away from the base of the tooth, exposing darker, more sensitive tooth root sections. Causes of receded gums are often due to age, bite misalignment, gum disease and over-zealous brushing.

Also referred to as Gingival Grafting, this procedure typically involves taking a small area of tissue from the roof of your mouth (which heals quickly) and placing it over the area of recession. It is secured in place for a healing period of approximately two weeks. The results restore the look of a healthy, naturally-framed tooth.

A Periodontal Specialist not only provides you with the skills to create an optimal outcome, he or she understands the TLC needed for minimal disruption to the gums involved. This tender, vulnerable tissue requires a gentle touch and precision hand to provide each patient with an exceptional result with minimal healing time required.

The next time you walk into your living room, pay particular attention to the windows. Imagine the windows having different sized frames that are mismatch on each side and worn. The entire room would look less inviting. When it comes to your smile, your gums help to create an ‘inviting’ smile that makes a positive impression.

Ask about Periodontal Plastic Surgery to enhance the appearance and health of your smile during a consultation appointment. Call 828-274-9440 to schedule.

 

Don’t Forget Your Smile While On Vacation!

Posted on May 02, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

It’s May, and many people are planning summer vacation time with friends and family. While some getaways will take people out of the country, others will keep them here in the States to enjoy the mountains, parks, and shore. This time is a great way to rejuvenate!

While your vacation plans may include ways to avoid weight gain and jet lag, you’ll also want to avoid the potential for a cavity or gum problems. And, vacations are easy times to be vulnerable smile-wise. We are often ‘off schedule’ during vacations and out of a normal routine. This means that brushing and flossing may not get the attention they deserve.

If changing time zones, add in an extra brushing-&-flossing session rather than miss one or have it delayed by several hours. You can easily pack a travel toothbrush in your purse or carry-on bag with a travel-sized toothpaste. When you cannot brush, swish several times with water.

Regardless of your destination, be sure to pack with your smile in mind. Take fluoridated toothpaste, toothbrush and floss. When you arrive, place these items out by the bathroom sink where they’ll be visible reminders and handy to use.

Drink plenty of water to ensure oral moisture and be aware of your consumption of drying foods and beverages. Alcoholic beverages, caffeine, spicy foods and sweets may be ways you add to a vacation’s indulgences. Just be aware of what they may be doing to your oral wellness.

It’s easy to grab snacks when on vacation. Remember, each time you eat or drink, you trigger an acid attack in your mouth. This acid is so hard on tooth enamel, it actually softens it for 20-30 minutes. After eating, swish with water or chew sugarless gum to activate saliva flow.

Try to limit snacking. If you do snack, opt for fresh fruits and veggies rather than chips or other carbohydrate-laden foods (which bacteria love). Drink bottled water rather than soda or sugary drinks.

When you return, you will have avoided adding to the credit cards bills coming in by tending to your smile’s health every day of your vacation. (Something to smile about!) By making your smile a priority during your ‘off’ time, you prevent can problems that require time and money to repair. And, the money you save can be applied to your next vacation!

The best way to GO on vacation is to ensure your oral health is in good shape BEFORE you leave! If you are behind on your 6-month dental checkups, call 828-274-9440 to request an exam. We’ll get your oral health vacation-ready!

 

How To Prevent Oral Problems & Expensive Treatment

Posted on Apr 28, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Let’s face it – health care is expensive. Although insurance coverages help, just the price of the coverage is a strain for many people. The 2014 National Health Expenditures report estimated that U.S. adults spend over $9,523 per year on health care.

Caring for your smile requires a monetary commitment as well. The Government Accountability Office reported that between 1996 – 2010, the average out-of-pocket dental costs per individual per year increased 26%, from $520 to $653.

While these expenses are hefty amounts for most, caring for our health does require an investment and one that is well worth the cost. Even though people are typically committed to annual screenings and exams, many often fail to place an equal priority on their oral health.

Your smile influences far more than facial appearance. The presence of teeth is vital for maintaining jaw bone mass, processing a healthy diet and feeling confident in social settings. It is a fact that people who wear dentures have more gastrointestinal problems, take more medications and eat out less.

However, a deeper problem can emerge from having poor oral health. The bacteria of periodontal (gum) disease have been found to create internal inflammation elsewhere in the body. These inflammatory reactions trigger a higher risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency.

Gum disease is also the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. And, it’s running rampant in the U.S. It is estimated that over 47% of adults over the age of 30 have some level of gum disease. For those who are over age 65, 64% are said to have moderate to severe gum disease.

As a Periodontal Specialist, the majority of the problems I see and treat could have been prevented altogether. By taking proactive measures, it’s actually easy to prevent oral problems and costs for repairs. Simply spending a few minutes each day and having 6-month check-ups can save you greatly.

Your dentist structures your regular oral hygiene visits to remove buildup that can lead to problems or catch ones that may have emerged at early stages. Early treatment can help to keep time and expenses needed for repairs to a minimum.

The ‘way to save’ begins at home, for the most part. Your oral care routine at home can help you avoid problems by keeping oral bacteria to minimal levels. When performed correctly, twice-daily brushing and flossing are very effective in reducing oral bacteria and preventing buildup. Brush (for at least two minutes each time) using a soft to medium bristle brush and fluoridated tooth paste.

However, brushing without flossing is like rinsing off in the shower but not using soap. After brushing, food particles can remain between teeth, which provide oral bacteria the sustenance they need to thrive and reproduce. When you feel a sticky film on teeth and gums (known as plaque), it is actually an accumulation of oral bacteria.

For those who are in the habit of flossing, it takes about a minute a day. And this one minute can make a world of difference in helping to keep oral bacteria from damaging tooth enamel and gum tissues. If you would like, our dental hygienist can show you how to comfortably hold floss and move it easily between teeth (even those hard-to-reach teeth). However, for those who have dexterity problems, an electronic flosser can make the task easy but still very effective.

Oral bacteria can also be greatly reduced by using a tongue scraper. This tool gently uproots oral bacteria that are embedded in the tongue. Scrape 2 – 3 times over the tongue, starting at the back of the tongue where most bacteria exist and rinse after each pass. You can also brush your tongue after brushing your teeth, if preferred.

For many, a surprising cause for oral bacterial growth is ‘dry mouth.’ The natural flow of saliva in the mouth is designed to continually rinse oral bacteria. When saliva levels are low, oral bacteria can accumulate quickly. Smoking, alcohol, caffeine, some medications and mouth breathing (such as snoring) are all drying to oral tissues. The aging process and some health conditions, including anemia, hypertension, arthritis and diabetes also contribute to causes of dry mouth.

To lessen the negative effects of dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you take medications that are drying to the mouth, ask your doctor about alternative options. Also, consider using an over-the-counter mouth wash designed specifically to replenish oral moisture.

To protect the tooth’s enamel, delay brushing after eating for 20 – 30 minutes. The reason? Each time you eat, an acid attack begins in your mouth. While this is a helpful part of the digestive process, these acids tend to soften tooth enamel for about 30 minutes. Brushing during this time can wear away precious tooth enamel.

It may seem expensive to absorb the cost for crowning a tooth, but it can actually prevent costly future problems or even tooth loss. A tooth that is too laden with fillings or has cracks is vulnerable to breaking. If the break extends below the gum line, the tooth must be removed. This leaves you with an entirely new set of expenses.

Missing teeth affect the alignment of surrounding teeth and increase the risk for broken, chipped or worn teeth. Misaligned teeth can lead to night-time clenching and grinding as well as migraines, headaches, sore jaw joints, pain in facial and neck muscles, dizziness and ear ringing.

The added bonus of a healthy mouth is fresh breath and the ability to avoid preventable problems from occurring – thus, saving you time and money. Be committed to your dental health every day. You will be greatly rewarded!

If you are experiencing problems with missing teeth or have tender gums that bleed easily when brushing, call 828-274-9440 for an appointment.