Reshaping Gums Can Protect & Beautify Your Smile.

Posted on Jan 08, 2019 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a periodontal specialist, I spend a great deal of my time treating patients who have periodontal (gum) disease and placing dental implants. My specialty has given me advanced training in both areas; both being important for the preservation of your smile and protection of your health.

One aspect of the periodontal specialty that is not always familiar to the general public, however, is our ability to recontour gum tissues. While this can be done to enhance the appearance of a smile, reshaping the gum tissues is also performed to protect and even save natural teeth. I’ll explain.

For several reasons, gum tissues can pull away from the base of teeth. This can occur from gum tissues becoming drier with age or over-zealous tooth brushing. Gums can also loosen their grip around teeth when teeth tilt out of their proper positions.

When the tight seal around the base of teeth is compromised, the tooth becomes more vulnerable to oral bacteria. Darker, sensitive tooth root segments can be exposed. This not only causes discomfort, these areas are more susceptible to bacteria. And, because of allowing an entry point for oral bacteria, the tooth roots and bones that support teeth are more vulnerable to damage as well.

In cases when a tooth breaks near the gum line, gum re-contouring may be able to expose enough of the tooth structure so a crown can be placed. This means the natural tooth can be saved rather than require removal. Once a natural tooth is removed, it brings with it a long list of decisions and associated costs.

Although protecting and saving teeth is the priority, gum contouring can also be performed to enhance the appearance of a smile. For example, for people who have a “gummy smile,” too much gum tissue is visible above upper teeth in a full smile. A periodontist can use his or her specialized skills to reshape the tissues to provide a more balanced smile line.

This procedure is known as a Gingivectomy. This repositions or removes excess gum tissues so the smile line is more balanced to teeth. The procedure is performed while the patient is fully comfortable and the healing time is greatly reduced with our advanced technology.

Another procedure that greatly enhances the look of a smile is crown lengthening. This is recommended when the gum tissues that arch one or several teeth is at a different level than surrounding teeth. With this uneven alignment of gum tissue, it can create a jumbled look in spite of having attractive, healthy teeth.

A crown lengthening procedure typically combines the repositioning of gum tissues along with placement of a crown. This recreates a smile that has proper balance amongst teeth and gum tissues.

It’s not uncommon for new patients to arrive with misconceptions about the procedures. With advanced technology and techniques, along with specialized skills, our patients enjoy optimal comfort, minimal treatment time, and exceptional outcomes for every periodontal need.

Too, many patients feel these procedures are out of reach financially. For many treatments, we offer payment options that are manageable to most budgets. This way, you can make payments while enjoying the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile.

Now that you know how a periodontist can enhance the health and appearance of your smile, consider scheduling a consultation and exam. Call 828-274-9440 or tap here to begin.

 

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/

 

If You Smoke, Your Smile Takes The First Hit.

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

First, let me assure you that this article is NOT a lecture about the health hazards associated with smoking cigarettes. We assume you’ve heard many of those statistics and warnings before.

However, as a Periodontist, I would be remiss if I didn’t begin by sharing the rather unique view I have of what it does to the inside of an adult mouth. With this in mind, I’ll share some perspectives you may not know.

When it comes to a smile, be aware that smokers have a greater risk of periodontal (gum) disease, more frequent bad breath, higher plaque levels, stained teeth, and slower healing following extractions, gum treatment and oral surgery.

The primary reason for this is because smoking has a drying effect on oral tissues. Without moisture that moves bacteria out of the mouth, this creates an ideal breeding environment for oral bacteria.

As oral bacteria reproduce and multiply in the mouth, the bacteria become infectious and inflame gum tissues. This is the beginning of gum disease. In the initial stage, known as gingivitis, symptoms include frequent bad breath, tender gums, and gum tissues that bleed easily when brushing.

As it progresses, bad breath becomes persistent, gum tissues turn red, and pus pockets form at the base of some teeth. Eventually, this potent bacteria attack bone structures that support teeth and tissues surrounding tooth roots. This causes teeth to loosen and can lead to the need for tooth removal.

Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. You may be surprised to learn that losing teeth is highly detrimental to your overall health. Studies show that people who wear dentures die ten years earlier than those with natural teeth, on average. Denture wearers take more medications, have more gastrointestinal problems, and are less socially active.

Smoking is also attributed to nearly a third of all cancer diseases and deaths. Pregnant women who smoke have a greater risk for first-trimester spontaneous abortion, preterm births, low birth weight babies (under 5.5 lbs) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Women who smoke are risk having early menopause while men who smoke are at higher risk of impotency.

On average, smokers decrease life expectancy by 10–15 years. That’s pretty scary. As hard as it is, kicking the habit is well worth the benefits, which can be obvious almost immediately. These often include:

• Immediately: You halt the contribution of ‘second-hand smoke,’ which puts at least 50 carcinogens and other harmful chemicals in the air. If you have children, you’ll eliminate them waking up with ‘smoker’s cough.’
• Within 2 days: The sense of smell and taste return and damaged nerve endings begin to regenerate.
• Within 3 days: Breathing becomes easier with fuller air intake as the lungs start to repair.
• Within 2 weeks: Blood circulation in the gums is restored. The risk of heart attack declines.
• Within 6 weeks: Overall circulation has improved, walking has become easier and your chronic cough has cleared.

In our periodontal dental office, we don’t lecture our patients. We respect them and work with each on an individual basis. Our goal is to help you keep your smile in good shape, keep your natural teeth, and avoid the hazards of periodontal disease.

For those who have lost natural teeth, a periodontist has advanced training in the diagnosis and placement of dental implants in addition to the treatment of all stages of gum disease.

If you are experiencing signs associated with periodontal disease, the condition will only worsen without treatment. The earlier you treat gum disease, the less-involved treatment will be. Call 828-274-9440 to schedule an initial appointment. It is not necessary to be referred.