The mouth is like a door to the entire body. So, it’s not surprising that occasional symptoms are indications of some common problems, such as:

•Bad Breath: This typically occurs from an overload of bacteria in the mouth.
The bacteria that break down food in your mouth excrete odor-producing materials. If not thoroughly cleansed away, the build-up becomes obvious in your breath odor. What to do? Naturally, brush and floss twice daily and use a tongue scraper to clear embedded bacteria in the tongue. Chew sugarless gum after meals to aid saliva flow, which washes away germs. And, drink plenty of water.

•Canker Sores: These painful mouth sores often occur during times of fatigue or stress.
When your immune system is vulnerable, an added helping of stress can trigger a canker sore. While over-the-counter medications help to numb the pain, swishing with warm, salty water may help just as well. Generally, canker sores last a week to ten days. Ask Dr. Claiborne about medications that will speed healing.

•Very Sensitive Teeth: This often indicates too-rigorous brushing or using a hard bristle toothbrush.
While you want to be thorough when brushing your teeth, overdoing it can damage enamel and gum tissue. When the gum tissue surrounding teeth is damaged, tooth roots become exposed to heat and cold. Use a light hand and toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Damaged enamel and worn gum tissue doesn’t heal itself. During an examination, we can assess if your damage needs to be repaired by gum therapy.

•Sores, Red or White Patches, Etc.: When an unusual oral problem does not go away in 10 days to 2 weeks, make arrangements to be seen promptly!
Some unusual spots or soreness in the mouth may be a sign of oral cancer. Although some are painless, it doesn’t mean they are harmless. Oral cancer is one of the deadliest of all cancers and has the worst survival rate if not caught in earliest stages. Schedule an appointment immediately!

For problem that involves the tissues in the mouth (including the tongue and soft palate), call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

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.

When children pretend, they enjoy time with friends and learn by role playing. For a few minutes, ‘pretend’ you have the smile of your dreams. Perhaps you have all of your natural teeth again instead of a partial or crown-&-bridge. Maybe you no longer have a ‘gummy smile’ or worry about persistent bad breath.

Now, imagine smiling with that fabulous, confident smile. How do you feel — more confident? Do you smile more often? Is your smile bigger or do you laugh easily with more pleasure? Are you more outgoing since eating and speaking with others is more comfortable?

You CAN have that smile! I see patients all the time who overcome dental fears, financial constraints and other concerns who are now smiling how once was felt to be a distant dream. Often, just a consultation allows us to address obstacles that are often perceived, but may actually be dealt with easier than you thought.

A healthy, confident smile is a significant part of your overall health as well as your appearance, self-confidence, and even self-esteem. Let’s discuss the smile you’ve always wanted and address those concerns. Call 828-274-9440 to arrange a consultation.