HPV – How The Virus Relates To Oral & Throat Cancers

Posted on Feb 17, 2022 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Every April, a number of oral health and cancer organizations come together to recognize Oral Cancer Awareness Month on a national basis. This is meant to expand awareness of this cancer, which takes a victim every hour of every day. Of those individuals, 43 percent will not survive longer than five years. Those who do survive may suffer from problems, such as severe facial disfigurement or difficulties with eating and speaking.

Oral cancer includes cancer of the mouth and upper throat, known as oropharyngeal cancer. The death rate associated with oral and oropharyngeal cancers is particularly high largely because detection typically occurs late in its development. However, when oral cancer is detected and treated early, treatment-related problems are reduced and with improved survival rates.

Annual oral cancer examinations during regular dental check-ups are the best method for detecting oral cancer in its early stages. It is also important to respond immediately to signs and symptoms of oral cancer, which include:

• A sore or ulceration that does not heal within 14 days;
• A red, white, or black discoloration of the soft tissues of the mouth;
• An abnormality that bleeds easily;
• A lump or hard spot in the tissue, usually border of the tongue;
• Raised tissue or a newly emerged growth;
• A sore beneath a denture or partial that does not heal;
• A lump or thickening that develops in the mouth; and
• A painless, firm, fixated lump on the outside of the neck that does not go away within two weeks.

Historically, factors that can contribute to having a higher risk of oral and oropharyngeal cancers have been heavy drinkers and smokers older than age 50. However, in recent years the cancer is occurring more often in nonsmoking people due to HPV 16, the virus most commonly associated with cervical cancer.

The human papilloma virus 16 (HPV) is sexually transmitted, although it is a different virus than HIV or (HSV) herpes. HPV is now the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States.

Exposure can occur by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the virus. It most commonly spreads during anal or vaginal sex. It can also spread through close skin-to-skin touching during sex. HPV can spread even when a person with the infection has no signs or symptoms.

There are many different types of HPV; most do not cause any health problems. Most individuals who get HPV never have symptoms and the virus goes away by itself. But, if HPV does not go away, it can cause genital warts or certain kinds of cancer. Symptoms can appear years after having sex with someone who has the infection.

Approximately 99 percent of people who develop HPV will clear the virus on their own. In approximately 1 percent of individuals, the immune system will not clear the virus and it can lay dormant for decades before potentially causing a cancer.

HPV itself isn’t a cancer but it can cause changes in the body that lead to cancer. Because of the growing rate of HPV, the increasing incidence of oropharyngeal cancer have been particularly concerning for younger age groups. Within the age range of 15 to 59, 40 percent will have HPV. This is an alarming rate for people with no other risk factors.

HPV-related oral cancer most commonly involves lymphoid tissue in the tonsils or the base of the tongue. Signs and symptoms of HPV-caused oropharyngeal cancer may include one or more of the following:

• Hoarseness or sore throat that does not resolve within a few weeks;
• A swollen tonsil on one side (usually painless);
• A painless, firm, fixated lump felt on the outside of the neck, which has been present for two weeks or more;
• A persistent cough that does not resolve after many days;
• Difficulty swallowing or feeling something is caught in your throat; and/or
• An earache on one side that persists for more than a few days.

https://oralcancerfoundation.org/april-is-oral-cancer-awareness-month-2021/

https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv-and-men.htm

Cervical cancer is the most common HPV-associated cancer among women (48 percent), and oropharyngeal cancers (82 percent) are the most common among men. The diagnosis may not be until years, or even decades, after a person gets HPV. Currently, there is no way to know who will get cancer after getting HPV.

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/uscs/about/data-briefs/no26-hpv-assoc-cancers-UnitedStates-2014-2018.htm

HPV vaccines can prevent some of the health effects HPV causes. Once acquired, however, there is no specific treatment for HPV although there are treatments for health problems that develop from HPV, such as genital warts. Your healthcare provider can treat genital warts with prescription medication.

Because cancers from HPV are more treatable when found and treated early, it is important for those who acquire the virus to be especially diligent in having oral cancer screenings and promptly responding to any signs or symptoms (as mentioned above).

The HPV vaccine is safe and shown to be effective at preventing the virus. Like any vaccine, side effects can occur, which are typically short-lived and mild, such as headache, fatigue, fever or nausea. Most people have no side effects at all.

You are also urged to be committed to your 6-month dental exams. This provides your dentist an opportunity to note any suspicious areas in the mouth or on the lips. If you have not had regular dental check-ups, you may need to begin by seeing a periodontal specialist.

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease (a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth also known as gum disease), and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in both of these areas and more, including three additional years of education beyond dental school.

As a periodontal specialist in Asheville for over 25 years, I take great pride in making our patients feel comfortable and understanding of their particular oral health status. If oral problems exist, we are able to resolve many with conservative treatment measures. Our Western NC periodontal dental office features some of the most advanced technology available to minimize treatment needs, treatment time, and speed healing with comfort always a priority. Oral and IV sedation are available.

To schedule an appointment, call 828-274-9440. New patients are always welcome and a referral is not required.

Ages 65 & Over: Stay More Socially Involved With A Healthy Smile.

Posted on Feb 09, 2022 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Science has shown that the act of smiling gives a boost to our mood. Even a “fake” smile triggers endorphins (feel-good chemicals) in the brain to release, providing a bit of a “natural high.”

There are many things that make us smile. Time spent with friends, family, and social activity are helpful in keeping an individual active and involved, and hopefully smiling. Unfortunately, older adults are more prone to social isolation. This has proven to be unhealthy, mentally, physically and yes, even for the health of a smile.

Older adults are already at a disadvantage when it comes to having a healthy, full smile. Some estimates show that over one-quarter (26 percent) of adults ages 65 and older have 8 or less remaining natural teeth. About 17 percent in this same age category are missing all of their teeth.

On a positive note, total tooth loss (being “fully edentulous”) in the 65 or older category is decreasing. When comparing the 5-year periods of 1999–2004 to 2011–2016, it dropped by nearly 30 percent.

However, tooth loss comes with many frustrations, and even embarrassment. Many adults who wear dentures or partial dentures to replace missing teeth have similar complaints: sore spots on tender gum tissues, difficulty biting or chewing, slips while speaking or laughing, discomfort and the fear of embarrassment.

These frustrations often lead to (1) a change in diet; and (2) less social involvement. When certain foods become too difficult to chew properly, adults often alter their diet, opting for softer foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. Unfortunately, these foods typically lack in protein and fiber needed for good health.

Too, improper chewing is challenging to the digestive system. It is no wonder that denture wearers have more gastrointestinal problems and take more medications than people who still have their natural teeth.

Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to numerous measures of health and well-being. One interesting study focused specifically on the effects of social isolation and loneliness in relationship to oral health.

The Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey was conducted in three time segments: 2011-12, 2014 and 2018. The purpose of the study was to asssess the effects of social isolation and loneliness on the rate of tooth loss.

Data of the survey was evaluated, with nearly 4300 adults 65 and older who were participants in at least two of the time segments. The findings showed that, as tooth loss increased, so did social isolation. This study provided strong evidence that social isolation was associated with fewer remaining teeth and even accelerated the pace of tooth loss.

This problem is not just one of our current 65+ age group. According to the U.S. Census, the number of American adults aged 65 years or older is expected to reach 98 million by 2060, making up nearly one-quarter of the overall population. This means that a 30-year-old today will be well within this age group in less than 40 years.

Currently, the poorest oral health in Americans 65 and over are those who are economically disadvantaged, have no insurance, smoke, and in racial and ethnic minorities. Additional factors are being disabled, homebound, or who live in nursing homes. After retirement, some adults lose insurance benefits and find that Medicare does not cover routine dental care.

A high percentage of older adults also have periodontal (gum) disease, the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. Nearly 68 percent of adults aged 65 years or older have some level of gum disease. While nearly 1 in 5 older adults have lost all of their teeth, total tooth loss is twice as prevalent for adults ages 75 and older compared with the 65-74 age group.

Aging also increases the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Oral and pharyngeal cancers are primarily diagnosed in older adults at a median age of 62 years. Gum disease also increases risks of chronic diseases including arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

All of these challenges are why a periodontist can be instrumental in the health and well-being of adults, especially those in the “older” age groups.

A periodontist is a dental specialist who receives 4 years of undergraduate training at a college or university and 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.

A periodontist begins by accurately diagnosing the stage of gum disease present, or if it does exist. Many people are surprised by its presence since it can exist without obvious signs or symptoms.

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 their age. We also discuss sedation options if dental fear is a concern.

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

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. Additionally, they are skilled at placing implants at proper depths and angles. As they oversee your “healing” time, periodontists are able to optimize your comfort and outcome.

When tooth loss begins, replacing that tooth with a dental implant is highly advised. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime and restore biting and chewing comfort and stability. Additionally, the stimulation they provide to the jaw bone helps to halt bone loss.

This is because the implanted portion, held by the jaw bone, recreates the presence of the natural tooth roots you once had. While a denture or partial is positioned on top of the gum tissues, dental implants have the advantage of the jaw bone as their foundation, just as natural teeth.

For those who feel they are “too old” for dental implants, many of our implant patients are well into their 80’s or 90’s.  Keep in mind that today’s adults are staying in the workplace longer, staying active in senior years, and living longer. Since 1950, Americans added over 11 years to average life expectancy, to age 79, according to 2019 statistics.

At every age, your smile reflects you, and should be a positive reflection throughout your lifetime. If you are experiencing tooth loss, let’s discuss halting the process during a consultation appointment in our comfortable Asheville periodontal dental office.

Call 828-274-9440 to schedule an appointment.

https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/adult_older.htm

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/cdoe.12727

Optimize Your Dental Implant Experience, Results.

Posted on Jan 24, 2022 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I recently had to return a small appliance at a “big box” store. I didn’t have the receipt but hoped I could at least get a store credit. When I explained this to the customer service rep, she said a receipt wasn’t necessary. She scanned the bar code and asked me if I wanted the refunded amount applied to the credit card I used to purchase it. No receipt needed, no credit card, and I was in and out of the line in no time.

With today’s technology, many processes that were once time-consuming and complicated are now simple and “painless.” Less time is required with better results. Technology has made this true, too, in dentistry.

As a periodontist, I specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all stages of periodontal (gum) disease. I also have advanced training and skills in the selection and placement of dental implants. In addition, periodontists are particularly skilled in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

As an Asheville periodontal specialist for over 30 years, I’ve treated a variety of needs that involve the gum tissues. These include:

– Treatment of all stages of gum disease (gingivitis, pregnancy gingivitis, periodontal disease, periodontitis)

– Reshaping gum tissues for esthetic enhancement (crown lengthening, gingivectomy for ‘gummy smiles’, repairing areas of gum recession)

– Diagnosis and placement of dental implants

– Treatment of lesions or cysts in oral tissues

To receive the extensive, additional 3 years of training after dental school to become a periodontist, (I believe) an individual must be passionate about the specialty. I certainly am, which is why I’m so committed to stay on top of the latest developments in the field.

This includes incorporating some of the most advanced technology available for the betterment of our Western North Carolina patients.

Our periodontal dental office features cutting edge technology, much of which is not available in other dental or periodontal offices in this region. These features help to diagnose with precision, treatment plan with superior accuracy and reduces the patient’s treatment time while optimizing comfort.

For our dental implant patients, these options have been significantly beneficial in maximizing results. Some specifically helpful in dental implant diagnosis and planning are:

LANAP With PerioLase MVP 7 – Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure is an advanced protocol that efficiently and effectively treats advanced gum disease with the added advantages of a dental laser. For patients who are preparing for dental implant placement, resolving gum disease prior to treatment is mandatory. LANAP offers a non-surgical alternative for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease with very little discomfort and a quick recovery time.

Cone Beam Imaging – These amazing 3D “x-rays’ are ideal for diagnosing and treatment planning. The highly-detailed images provide a clear view of the upper and lower jaw. Because cone beam radiographs show sagittal, axial, and coronal planes, locating and tracking nerve canals optimizes implant placement. The images are captured in a quick, painless process and at minimal levels of radiation.

CareStream Cone Beam Computer Tomography Imaging – This enhanced tomography works with 3D imaging for exceptional detail and range.

Computerized Dental Implant Placement – This system provides the futuristic ability to position dental implants before the process actually begins. Through computerized technology, the implants are selected and “ideally positioned” on a 3D model of the patient’s jaw. From this, a template is developed for optimal treatment success, even for complex cases.

CS 3600 Intraoral Scanner – Rather than make impressions with bulky, goopy trays, this scanner quickly and comfortably captures digital impressions accurately and easily. These are used to create precision models or appliances (dental implant crowns, bridges, or full arches). The scanner can also reach hard–to–access areas in the patient’s mouth for superior results with improved patient comfort.

Sedation – Our Asheville periodontal practice is known for its environment of comfort and respectful care. We understand that over 70 percent of the adult population have some level of dental fear or anxiety. For optimal comfort and relaxation, we offer several sedation options, including oral and IV sedation.
Oral sedation is a pill that helps patients relax. It also has an amnesiac effect, leaving most with little or no memory of treatment afterward.
I.V. sedation (also known as ‘twilight sleep’) places the patient in a deeper sleep state and erases memory of the procedure. It is administered by a Medical Doctor (MD) who is a board certified Anesthesiologist.
With both sedation options, patients are closely monitored with advanced safety equipment throughout treatment.

When it comes to placement of dental implants, a periodontist has a unique understanding of the tender layers of gum tissues. Using gentle and precise skills when it comes to any treatment involving oral tissues, the patient experiences less disruption and incisions. When it comes to the gums, less is definitely more. We strive to optimize comfort levels and speed the healing process.

If you are considering dental implants, you may wish to begin with a consultation appointment. During this time, we can explain the vast difference in comfort, treatment time, and success available through our specialized skills and extensive technology.

Call 828-274-9440 to schedule. New patients are always welcome and a referral is not required.

Cut Dental Costs With Simple Steps

Posted on Dec 15, 2021 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

In order to avoid costly repairs on our vehicles, we rotate our tires, have the oil changed periodically, and make sure certain fluids are at sufficient levels. This is why our annual inspections are so important; risks can be pointed out to keep us safely on the road.

The same is true with our family’s health. We stay proactive by eating healthy, staying active and having regular check-ups along with periodic screenings.

It simply makes sense to be committed to preventing problems or catch any that do arise at early stages. Research has shown that your oral health deserves the same commitment you give to maintaining a healthy body.

Studies have found a correlation between the bacteria of periodontal (gum) disease and serious problems elsewhere in the body. These include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies,  impotency and more.

Another reason to maintain a healthy smile is to save money. By devoting about 5 minutes per day to your oral hygiene routine, coupled with having dental exams and cleanings every six months, you can prevent many problems from occurring in the first place. The reward is a savings in time and expense that may be needed for repairs – repairs that may have been prevented from occurring in the first place.

Your twice-a-year dental check-ups are opportunities to remove tartar. Tartar is a cement-hard mass of oral bacteria that forms when plaque (the sticky film that coats teeth and gums) is not removed thoroughly attaches to teeth and can no longer be brushed or flossed away.

Both plaque and the hardened mass of tartar are the result of accumulated bacteria. Oral bacteria continually reproduce in the mouth, which provides a warm, dark and moist environment. As they thrive and reproduce, they attack gum tissues.

As they amass to levels beyond what the immune system, oral bacteria can lead to gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease). Unresolved, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, an infection. Eventually, periodontitis develops, which is an advanced level of gum disease. At this level, teeth often loosen and must be removed.

While gingivitis causes tender gums to bleed when brushing, periodontal disease symptoms are more severe, including persistent bad breath, sore gums that bleed easily, gums that darken in color, receded gums, and pus pockets that form between teeth.

As devastating as adult tooth loss can be, the potent bacteria of gum disease can enter the bloodstream through tears in disease gum tissues. Research has shown the infectious bacteria of gum disease can activate or worsen the development of certain pathogens.

Obviously, oral bacteria is highly potent. However, it’s easy to control with twice daily brushing and daily flossing combined with regular dental checkups. For added protection, limit sugary snacks and either swish after eating or chew sugarless gum when brushing is inconvenient. Not only will you help to reduce your risk for cavities and gum problems, you’ll be able to enjoy fresher breath and smiling confidence.

It is also important to respond early to signs and symptoms of gum disease. As mentioned above, things like frequent bad breath or seeing blood in the sink when brushing are warning signs that something is wrong.

A periodontist is a dentist who has specialized skills in the diagnosis and treatment of all levels of periodontal disease. He or she can also recontour the shape of gums and place dental implants for optimal results.

If you have not seen a dentist on a regular basis, you may be experiencing symptoms that indicate gum disease. As you would respond to a warning sign with your overall health, so should you with your oral health.

Begin with a thorough examination to determine what your needs are and the best way to achieve and maintain good oral health. You’ll be supporting your overall health in addition to having a confident smile.

If dental fear has prevented you from having regular dental care, ask about sedation options. We offer both oral sedation and IV sedation (twilight sleep). Both are safely administered and you are closely monitoring throughout treatment.

You may wish to begin with a consultation. To schedule, call 828-274-9440.