If you began 2014 with a resolution to “get fit,” you may be finding your enthusiasm is waning about now. As we age, losing weight and keeping in shape is a daunting task for most of us.

Findings of a survey of over 1,000 American adults were recently shared by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. The survey assessed how today’s consumers invest in their appearance.

A whopping 80% of those polled said they would invest to minimize the effects of aging. And, while 48% claimed they would spend on weight loss measures, 62% said they would spend money on their smile, with females more likely to invest in their smile than males.

About half felt the appearance of a smile can conceal the effects of aging while only 10% felt a physique could conceal one’s true age. Adults age 50 & over claim a smile is a better feature at camouflaging the years than adults in the 18-29 age category.

As a Periodontist, I specialize in the health AND appearance of gum tissues. Two procedures I regularly perform involve gum recontouring. Most contouring is performed as a gingivectomy that removes excess gum tissue around teeth. This is frequently done to repair a “gummy smile,” for example.

Gingivectomies are also performed in crown lengthening. This enhances the appearance of a smile for people who have porcelain veneers or crowns placed. This gives an even line of gum tissue for a smile that is flattering and attractive!

The appearance of your smile can be a major factor in self-esteem, self-confidence and of course, appearance. It is important to have both a healthy smile and one that makes us feel good from the inside out! To discuss your smile, feel free to contact us at (828) 274-9440.

Instead of having one dental professional for your oral health and smile’s appearance, general dentists regularly team with periodontists. Although general dentists often refer patients to us for periodontal problems, such as gum disease, we also team with your general dentist to create treatment plans that best conform to your needs and goals.

While periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, they are also trained in performing cosmetic procedures involving gum tissue. This skill level includes cosmetic procedures to enhance the appearance of your smile.

A common procedure for smile enhancement is crown lengthening. We also are trained to a ‘gummy smile.’ These procedures correct the amount of gum tissue that shows in a full smile, creating an even, balanced gum line that reveals a proper tooth length that is balanced to one’s facial features. Periodontists also correct gum recession by covering exposed root surfaces, which prevents sensitivity to hot and cold and for esthetic reasons.

If you have dental fear or anxiety, feel free to discuss this at your initial consultation or exam. We have several options that can enhance your comfort throughout any procedure. Like your general dentist, our goal is to make your experience a positive one so your overall outcome is a healthy, attractive smile!

Call (828) 274-9440 for more information.

It seems everyone has at least one person on their holiday shopping list who is extra special and deserves an extra special gift. Whether it’s a parent, child or spouse, there are holidays we want to give the gift that “keeps on giving all year long” (and longer!).

This year, how about a gift that enhances their appearance, boosts confidence and creates smiles more often? Periodontal procedures can create smiles they love, such as crown lengthening, recovering receded gums, repairing a gummy smile or even ridding a mouth of gum disease.

Call us at (828) 274-9440 to discuss your recipient. We can arrange a consultation for them to discuss treatment options.

This year, you really can give a gift they’ll cherish for years to come! And, you’ll end up being the ultimate gift giver!

Does your smile make you look older than you really are (or want to look)?

Gum recession causes the dark portions of tooth roots to be exposed and makes teeth look long. Gum recession can occur as a result of periodontal disease, aging, aggressive brushing, smoking (which dries oral tissues), clenching and/or grinding teeth, or having crooked teeth.

Exposed roots are unappealing and heighten your risk for developing cavities. Several procedures are available to cover exposed roots, reduce further gum recession and protect vulnerable roots from decay.

To discuss options best for your particular situation, call us at (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation appointment.