Replacing Teeth Protects Other Teeth, And More!

Posted on Jan 18, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Every tooth in an adult mouth has an important role, which goes far beyond esthetics.

When a tooth is lost, so is its ability to help the teeth on each side maintain proper position. A gap allows neighboring teeth to shift, allowing other teeth to move, also. It is a fact that when a natural tooth is lost, an adjacent tooth is statistically the next to be lost.

The tooth above or below are also compromised. When a tooth has no tooth to meet in a bite relationship, it grows longer. This traditionally conflicts with the neighboring teeth, top and bottom. Not only can this alter the bite, it typically leads to chips, fractures or breaks.

An issue many people are unaware of is bone resorption. This occurs when the jaw bone is no longer supporting the tooth root. Without this stimulation, the jaw begins to shrink, or resorb, affecting the stability of adjacent teeth. When several teeth in one area are lost, over time, facial changes can result from the shrinking bone. This is what gives long-time denture wearers a ‘sunken in’ mouth and a ‘granny look’ that ages them far beyond their actual years.

When a tooth is lost, replacing it promptly is the best option to preserve bone and protect the health of other teeth. Because Dental Implants recreate the presence of tooth roots in the jaw bone, this is the preferred method of tooth replacement. Dental Implants are also becoming the preferred tooth replacement choice for adults, regardless of how many teeth are missing, often because they are designed to last a lifetime.

Of course, a flattering smile is always a positive reflection. Having a gap in one’s smile or noticeable when laughing can send a message that is a ‘step down’ from who they really are.

To discuss Dental Implants, call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

‘Tis The Season — To Eat & Smile With Confidence!

Posted on Nov 19, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I see a wide variety of mouths. Some folks have poor oral health and missing teeth because of dental fears. Some grew up not having access to good dental care or understanding its importance. Because of genetics, some were born with an oral health that would always pose challenges.

When a patient’s oral health suffers, regardless of the reason, the result, far too often, is tooth loss. No one can predict the frustration and discomfort that dentures can cause until they’ve been a long-time denture wearer. Denture problems include sore spots on tender gums, difficultly biting and chewing, embarrassment from slips, speech problems, and being self-conscious in social settings.

This is why I recommend Dental Implants. Because Dental Implants are held in the jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, they restore stability. This means you can eat and laugh without fear of slips, chew comfortably, and feel confident in close settings with others. Plus, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime, making them an excellent investment.

For those who are missing natural teeth, Dental Implants provide a dependable, lasting way to have teeth that are “part of you” again. Arrange a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440. During this time, I’ll explain the types that are appropriate for your needs and answer your questions. You just may find yourself enjoying a confident new smile by Christmas!

Things To Consider When Considering Dental Implants

Posted on Oct 10, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

For many reasons, Dental Implants are becoming the preferred tooth replacement option for today’s adults. Even though Dental Implants have the highest success rate of any in-bone implant in the body (including hip and knee implants), removal is occasionally necessary.

While it’s tempting to want to get the ‘best deal’ for implants, certain issues should be taken into consideration before selecting who will coordinate your treatment.

• One of the first decisions made by the Doctor is the type of implant that is best suited for you. This depends on the amount of bone you have available, the number of teeth each implant will support, and position of a lower jaw nerve and your sinuses. Without knowing precisely which implant type is best for these combined factors, the implants may require removal due to future problems.

• When a Doctor is only familiar with one or two implant systems, that’s the one he or she will likely recommend whether or not it is the best one to accomplish your goals and fit your specific needs. When an implant is placed that cannot adequately perform the role intended, failure down the road is not uncommon.

• The placement process can ‘make or break’ many implant cases. If an implant is placed at an incorrect angle, too shallow or too deep, it can create many problems, making removal eventually necessary.

• An implant can only be placed in a mouth that is healthy. If implants are placed where periodontal (gum) disease exists, the bacteria can lead to implant failure. It is vital that the Doctor ensure your mouth is healthy before placement occurs.

However, one of the most typical causes of implant failure does not occur from what happens inside the dental office. It is from lack of proper oral hygiene at home. It is absolutely necessary the patient is dedicated to home care that maintains a healthy mouth so bacteria does not compromise your implants. If you have implants, be especially committed to your periodic exams and cleanings. Also, follow the home care instructions of your hygienist to keep your mouth healthy between visits.

By selecting a dental practice wisely (rather than based on a cheap price) and maintaining a healthy mouth once your implants are placed, you’ll enjoy a lifetime of smiles, laughter and eating foods you love! To discuss Dental Implants, call (828) 274-9440.

Tooth Loss NOT Natural Part Of Aging

Posted on Oct 08, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Your natural teeth are designed to last as long as you do, with proper care. It is a fact that denture wearers take more medications and have more gastrointestinal problems than those with their natural teeth. It should also be noted that denture wearers die ten years sooner, on average, than those who have their natural teeth.

When natural tooth roots no longer exist in the jaw bone, the bone begins to shrink in depth and height. The discomfort, inconvenience, and embarrassment experienced by most denture or partial wearers is due to this shrinking bone foundation. Denture adhesives only lessen the amount of movement for brief periods. When eating becomes difficult, people resort to a diet of soft foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. Bone loss also causes changes in one’s facial appearance, including deep wrinkling and a sunken-in appearance of the mouth. This causes denture wearers to look far older than their actual age.

Because Dental Implants are held by the jaw bone, they help to halt the bone loss that dentures and partials actually accelerate. Another benefit is how Dental Implants are ‘self-supporting’ so it is not necessary to crown an otherwise healthy, adjacent tooth to serve as a support for a bridge. With proper maintenance, they will provide as much pleasure and satisfaction as natural teeth.

If you are interested in replacing a denture or partial, contact us at (828) 274-7440 for more information on Dental Implants.