Dental Implants Give You The MOST For Your Investment When It Comes To Replacing Teeth.

Posted on Nov 28, 2018 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I have advanced training and skills to treat all levels of periodontal (gum) disease as well as in the reshaping of gum tissues in the mouth. Another realm of the periodontal specialty, however, is in the diagnosis and placement of dental implants.

In addition to the intense academic and hands-on training, I have completed continuing education on an ongoing basis to stay current on the latest advancements in the causes and treatment of all stages of gum disease as well as in new options in implant dentistry.

Although my specialty has provided an interesting and ever-evolving profession, I have developed a special closeness to dental implants. This is mainly because I am witness to the transformations they can make in people who choose to replace a denture, partial or bridge with this advanced, superior form of tooth replacement.

Dental implants are ideal replacements for missing teeth for a number of reasons. Through intricately-designed implant systems, modern techniques in placement and restoration, and advanced materials, adults now have a wide variety of options for replacing natural teeth.

Along with the developments in implant dentistry, my advanced training in the diagnosis and placement of dental implants gives me expanded skills to provide optimal results. While our patients mainly see the results of an appealing, confident smile once their treatment is completed, dental implant recipients receive a long list of benefits from this investment (including their ability to last a lifetime!).

One of the first things our dental implant patients notice is their ability to bite and chew again, without movement. Because dental implants are held by the jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, the attached teeth have the same, dependable foundation as the natural teeth you once had.

People who eat with dental implants no longer worry about embarrassing or uncomfortable slips while chewing. They can dine with friends and eat the foods they love without the fear of slips or clicks. Dental implants also prevent foods from becoming trapped between the denture and tender gum tissues while eating. No longer do seeds or bits of nuts “stab” into the gums!

A benefit often overlooked by implant recipients, however, is their ability to halt bone loss. With natural teeth held by the upper or lower jaws, the bones are nurtured by the presence of tooth roots that provide stimulation and nourishment. Without their presence, the jaw bones begin to shrink, or “resorb.” Resorption is when these bones begin to lose mass, declining in height and width.

Bone loss leads to a number of problems. For one, resorption is why once-snug dentures and partials begin to slip and cause uncomfortable rubbing.

A new denture is designed to conform to the unique contours of your gum ridge (the gum-covered arch that once held your natural tooth roots). As the jaw bone declines in mass, the foundation it was designed to fit flattens. This results in a less secure fit that can allow for movement when chewing. Although denture pastes or adhesives may provide temporary improvement, eventually even relines (reshaping the interior contours) are of little help.

Once resorption begins, remaining teeth adjacent to the area of bone loss are affected. A shrinking bone that abuts areas of resorption weakens tooth root stability. This creates a domino effect. When a natural tooth is lost, statistics show the next to go will most likely be an adjacent tooth.

As bone loss continues, the ever-shrinking jaw provides a weaker foundation for remaining teeth. It can also result in a facial appearance that is far beyond one’s actual years. Bone resorption can be visually detected in people who have jowls, a collapsed mouth (know as a ‘granny look’) and a sharply pointed chin.

In cases where one or several teeth together are missing, crown-&-bridge combinations are an option. However, crowns and bridges can require repairs and/or replacements over time. And, they do nothing to halt bone loss. Another consideration is the need to crown otherwise healthy, natural teeth for the sole purpose of supporting a bridge. This compromises the integrity of a natural tooth for the sole purpose of supporting one side of a bridge.

To many people who choose dental implants to replace teeth, however, it is the appeal of making a lifelong investment that is the determining factor when comparing costs of implants to other tooth replacement options. Since they are designed to last a lifetime, many like dental implants for their ‘one and done’ choice of treatment.

For every patient, our goal is to provide the best outcome based on your long term goals. For a private consultation, call 828-274-9440 for an appointment or tap here to begin.

Revolutionizing The Process Of Taking Impressions – New Technology Enhances Outcomes, Comfort!

Posted on Nov 16, 2018 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The Asheville periodontal dental office of Biltmore Periodontics is pleased to announce the latest technology – the CS 3600 intraoral scanner.

No longer do our patients have impressions made with bulky, goop-filled trays held in their mouths!

The CS 3600 Scanner is designed to quickly and comfortably scan areas inside our patient’s mouth. It acquires digital impressions accurately and easily, scanning a full or dual arch for the fabrication of digital models or appliances. (https://www.biltmoreperiodontics.com/services/advanced-technology/)

The CS 3600 provides a highly accurate digital impression using a small, handheld scanner. It can also reach difficult–to–access areas in the patient’s mouth for superior results with improved patient comfort.

Just some of the superior features of the CS 3600 Scanner include:
• Acquires digital impressions to design crowns, inlays, onlays, bridges, orthodontic appliances and aligners, custom abutments and RPD;
• Has an Intelligent Matching System that prevents missing data in any area. Plus, it even sends a warning to indicate areas of the scan that lack detail;
• Has adaptive hole filling that automatically identifies holes and selects the appropriate anatomical color for optimal aesthetic outcomes;
• Enhances outcomes for restorations, orthodontics and implants; and,
• Displays precise, accurate HD 3D color images with vivid color and details for improved case review, analysis and communication between doctors, referrals and labs.

This highly-advanced technology joins the cutting edge features also available at Biltmore Periodontics. These include:

Dental Radiology With 3-D Cone Beam Technology
Dr. Claiborne and Dr. Boyland rely on 3D imaging in diagnostic and treatment planning. This latest level of 3D imaging covers the whole dentition area, giving a clear view of the mandible and maxilla (upper and lower jaw) for intricate review for the diagnostic requirements of endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, implantology, TMJ and prosthodontics as well as dental and maxillofacial surgery.

In addition to imaging, cone beam radiographs provide images in sagittal, axial, and coronal planes. This makes it possible to locate and trace the mandibular nerve canal for pre-surgical planning for an ideal implant position. Our doctors also like that patients are exposed to only minute levels of radiation through a process that is fast and comfortable.

CareStream Cone Beam Computer Tomography Imaging
Our office features the Carestream 9300. This Cone Beam Computer Tomography provides dual modality panoramic and 3D imaging with exceptional detail and range. The CS 9300 can deliver 3D imaging at a significantly lower dose than 2D panoramic imaging. In fact, in a recent study, the CS 9300 and CS 9300 had up to an 85 percent lower radiation dose than traditional panoramic imaging.

Simplant Dental Software for Computerized Dental Implant Placement
This advanced software system allows for pre-surgical positioning of dental implants on the computer using a 3D model of the patient’s jaw. Once the implant type is selected, a surgical template is developed that ensures a precision fit. Simplant creates optimal implant treatment success, even for complex cases. It also simplifies the team treatment process so intricate aspects of the surgical process can be discussed prior to placement.

Intraoral Camera Technology
This self-contained intraoral camera features full motion video with outstanding image quality from an internal camera that captures ideal angles and images with the click of a button. The images are sent to screen for a clear, crisp view so your Periodontists can confer with patients on specific treatment issues.

Computer Imaging In Treatment Suites
Treatment suites are equipped with computers for convenient image sharing with patients. This allows patients to have a more complete understanding of their individual needs through images that can be pulled up by Dr. Claiborne, with the ability to enlarge certain areas to show specific details. Through this, patients have greater involvement in treatment decisions.

You can learn more about this technology at: https://www.biltmoreperiodontics.com/services/advanced-technology/

 

Gum Disease, Dental Implants – A Periodontist Can Make A BIG Difference.

Posted on Aug 06, 2018 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When it comes to our health, most of us have an internist, or a ‘primary care’ physician. This doctor oversees our general health. However, should a strange rash appear, our internist will likely refer us to a dermatologist. The same is true if we experience persistent back pain; the internist is likely to refer us to an orthopedist.

When it comes to the best way to pinpoint and tackle specific issues with our health, it makes sense to see a doctor who has received specialized training in that area. This helps to take the guesswork out of diagnosis and enhances the potential for a successful outcome in an efficient process.

As a periodontal specialist, I work with a large number of general dentists in Western North Carolina as well as other dental specialists and physicians. In many cases, we work together in “team treatment” so the patient receives specialized dental care that blends comfortably with the positive relationship each has with his or her regular dentist.

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who has continued in education to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of all areas of the tissues in the mouth. In addition to treating all phases of periodontal (gum) disease, we are uniquely qualified to reshape gum tissues.

For gum disease, we are able to help patients overcome the problems caused by the infectious bacteria in the mouth. Through decades of research, this bacteria has been associated with many health problems elsewhere in the body. It has been found to trigger systemic inflammation and has been linked to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and arthritis.

We begin by accurately diagnosing the stage of gum disease present. From there, we develop a customized treatment plan based upon factors such as the patient’s current overall health, their diet, medications, whether they smoke or drink alcohol, and age.

Treatment recommendations are made based on what will effectively resolve the problem without over-treating or under-treating. By restoring the patient to good oral health, we are able to help them avoid tooth loss and rid their mouths (and thus, their bodies) from an overload of oral bacteria.

Gum tissues also play an important role in protecting teeth. When they recede, or pull away from the base of teeth, tooth roots may be exposed. These darker, sensitive areas can be re-covered through procedures that restore the protective seal around teeth as well as the level of the gum line, which plays an important role in a smile’s appearance.

A periodontist specializes in gum contouring to enhance the look of your smile. For example, when the gum tissues that arch over each tooth are a different levels, it can distract from a smile’s appearance. Through reshaping procedures (often referred to as a gingivectomy), we can correct this for a more balanced “smile line.”

The same is true for an individual who is born with a “gummy smile.” This occurs when too much gum tissue shows above top teeth in a full smile. Often, with minor reshaping or “crown lengthening” procedures, we can adjust the gums to a more esthetically-pleasing level.

Periodontists also specialize in the diagnosis and placement of dental implants. They are trained to understand all the intricate concepts involved in selecting the proper type of implant. Then, they are skilled at placing implants at proper depths and angles. As they oversee your “healing” time, periodontists are also able to optimize your comfort and outcome.

A periodontist receives 4 years of “undergraduate” training at a college or university and then goes on to earn a dental doctorate. After 4 years of dental school, they further their education for another 3-4 years before completing stringent requirements for a specialty certification in periodontics.

This 11 years of higher education is a commitment I made with enthusiasm, and I have relished staying on the cutting edge of new developments in the field throughout my career. On an ongoing basis, periodontal findings have revealed the integral connection between our oral health and our overall health.

As research continues, the understanding of good oral health as it benefits our overall health will hopefully become common knowledge to every individual. Sadly, our nation now has an adult population of nearly half that have some level of gum disease.

If you would benefits from the advanced skills of a periodontal specialist, please know that we are fully trained to attend to your specific periodontal needs in a comfortable, effective manner. Our entire team is committed to compassionate, respectful care that is appropriate for each need and our office is equipped to handle your care efficiently, effectively, and gently.

Call 828-274-9440 to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

 

 

Your Gums – An Important Part Of Your Smile’s Appearance

Posted on Jun 20, 2018 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The word “smile” actually sums up the combination of several components. What creates a smile is the lips, teeth, and gum tissues. Certainly, the teeth are an important part of what “makes or breaks” a flattering smile. However, as a Periodontist, I know how significantly the shape of the gums can as well.

A periodontal specialist is uniquely trained in the diagnosis and treatment of all phases of periodontal disease and other problems associated with gum tissues. He or she also has advanced skills in the diagnosis and placement of dental implants. To the general public, however, an often unknown skill of the Periodontist is in the “esthetic” contouring of gum tissues.

To understand the intricate involvement a periodontal specialist has in smile enhancement, just look in the mirror and get a close-up view of your smile.

You’ll notice that each tooth is arched by gum tissue. You’ll also see a slight dip of this tissue that seems to separate each individual tooth. What you may not have noticed before is how the gum tissues that border each tooth are in a fairly even line. This is your “smile line.”

In seeing photos of people who have what is deemed as beautiful smiles, the teeth are nicely shaped and the gums are evenly contoured over each. In a smile that has an uneven smile line, it tends to create a jumbled look, even though the teeth may be properly shaped and aligned.

In some situations, people have experienced gum recession. This is when the gums pull away from the base of teeth, which exposes darker, tooth root portions. This not only detracts from a smile’s appearance, it leave the tooth vulnerable to decay. It also causes sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and beverages.

In this instance, we often perform a gum graft. This uses a small portion of the patient’s own gum tissue to cover the area of recession. This restores appearance and helps to protect the health of the tooth.

For other people, too much gum tissue may arch the teeth most visible in a smile. This is known as a “gummy smile.” Katie Couric, when she smiles fully, is an example of this. Essentially, a gummy smile is a genetic trait and does not pose a risk to one’s oral health. However, for some people, it causes them to feel self-conscious about their smile’s appearance.

It takes a precision hand and special skills to be able to reshape the gum tissues in order to preserve a natural contour. For example, that “dip” in-between each tooth is an important part of the smile line, as small as it is. This dip is known as a pointed papilla.

One of the reasons we urge people to have an implant placed at the time of tooth removal is to protect the natural contour of the gums, including this slight dip. It takes only days for this small point to begin to flatten. For teeth that are visible in a smile, the lack of this point can detract from the natural appearance in a smile.

In periodontology, we reshape gums through a procedure known as a gingivectomy (gin-geh-vect-om-ee). In this, excess gum tissue is removed. For mild cases, we may be able to reshape the gums without the need for crowning the tooth. In many cases, however, a crown is placed in addition to gum re-contouring. This is known as crown lengthening.

The crown not only enhances the appearance of the tooth involved in treatment, it helps to protect it’s root. If too much gum tissue is removed, sensitive root portions of the tooth can be exposed. This can allow entry of oral bacteria, compromising the health of the tooth and surrounding gum tissues (which can lead to gum disease).

In our office, crown lengthening or gingivectomies are performed with a high level of comfort. Although gum tissues are laden with nerves, we take special measures to minimize anything that would add to one’s discomfort or the amount of time needed for healing. As a specialist in this area, I am trained to help each patient achieve optimal results with treatment that they remember as “no big deal!”

Healthy gums are an important part of your overall health and the foundation for your teeth. The appearance of your gums, however, are an important part of your smile, too. The self-confidence in knowing a smile looks attractive tends to cause people to smile more often. That’s a good reason to ensure your teeth AND gums are in good shape!

If you’ve noticed your smile is less-than-its-best because of uneven or excess gum tissue, call us at 828-274-9440. We will be happy to schedule a consultation appointment. During this time, we’ll make recommendations and I’ll explain the procedure. From there, you can make the decision that is best for your needs and goals.