Different Implant Designs For Different Needs

Posted on May 22, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a dental specialist with advanced skills in the diagnosis and placement of Dental Implants, I enjoy staying on top of the latest techniques, technology and materials. Over the years, I have been especially excited to provide our patients with the advancements that make implant dentistry such an ideal option in tooth replacement.

Today’s implant dentistry is successful, safe, dependable and often immediate. As the doctor who places the implants, having a role in restoring a patient’s ability to bite, chew, speak and laugh has been a major highlight in a rewarding career.

One of the reasons for the high success rate of Dental Implants is in the design of different systems. For decades, Implant designs have been fine-tuned so various systems are able to accommodate specific challenges and preferences. In addition to being more affordable than ever, implant systems are now available for nearly every situation, including:

Implants Supporting Non-Removable Teeth – For some, removable teeth attached to implants were too similar to the denture they had (and detested). Even though these removable replacement teeth are firmly secured to the implants, most individuals want teeth that do not come out. However, some of the more affordable systems have been those that support removable teeth. Now, an implant system known as All-On

-4 is able to support non-removable teeth using just 4 strategically-placed implants. By positioning the implanted portions at unique angles, the biting and chewing forces are distributed evenly among fewer implants. Another advantage of this system is its ability to be placed in minimal bone. Long-time denture wearers are often challenged because of severe bone loss. Having insufficient bone mass to support Implants has prevented some people from having implants or required bone rebuilding procedures prior to implant placement. The All-On-4 implant system is able to overcome this obstacle.

Traditional Dental Implants – Still today, the ‘gold standard’ for most implant treatment requires several stages. Placement of the implants is performed first. For several months after, the bone goes through a process  known as ‘osseo-integration.’ This takes place over a 3-6 month period and secures the implant in the upper or lower jaw bone, similar to natural tooth roots. Once secured, the implant sites are uncovered and a post is positioned inside to which the replacement teeth are secured. During osseointegration, however, patients are able to comfortably wear their denture or partial.

Fast-Track Dental Implants – As the design of implant systems have advanced with the involvement of computerized technology, implant placement and teeth attachment can often be completed in less time than that required by traditional implants. Having the ability to pre-select ideal placement positions prior means that, in some cases, immediate attachment of teeth can occur. While this option isn’t appropriate for everyone, certain patients are, indeed, excellent candidates. This is why it is important to have an experienced and highly-trained doctor coordinate your diagnosis and placement. When your individual needs are carefully assessed, a successful outcome has greater potential with the foundation of a proper diagnosis and implant selection.

Dental Implants are the closest thing to the natural teeth you once had. They are also designed to last a lifetime, making them an excellent investment. The type of implant system best suited to your needs will be discussed after an examination and review of Panorex (jaw-to-jaw) imaging.

Let’s discuss the implant system that is best for your needs and goals during a private consultation appointment. We’ll also discuss comfort options, including Oral and I.V. Sedation. Call 828-274-9440.

Dental Fear Can Lead To Complex, Costly Problems

Posted on Oct 21, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

It is estimated that over 70% of American adults have some level of dental fear. Some are so afraid of dental visits that it interferes with their ability to have a healthy, confident smile. This is unfortunate, especially because people who feel good about their smile tend to smile more often. And, research has shown that smiling boosts one’s mood, self-esteem and self-confidence.

For those who have dental fears, achieving and maintaining a healthy, confident smile is a challenge. In many cases, we see patients who have developed periodontal (gum) disease or lost natural teeth because fear kept them from dental care. We understand that perceived pain can be just as real to some as actual pain. This is why we offer a number of comfort options, including Oral and I.V. Sedation (twilight sleep).

Both forms of sedation help patients relax before and throughout treatment while erasing most or all memory of the procedure afterward. With the help of sedation, many procedures are completed in just one or two visits.

Although some procedures require more than one appointment, our technology helps reduce treatment time while increasing your comfort level. For lengthier procedures, some patients combine several appointments into just one or two. With the help of sedation, they can enjoy total relaxation with a pleasant recovery afterward.

Not only does dental fear create delays in treatment for many, it can greatly increase the costs required for more complex treatment. For example, your 6-month exams and cleanings are structured to help you avoid problems in the first place and catch problems while they’re still small. Keeping gums healthy through regular care is a small investment when compared to the expenses to treat gum disease.

Today’s dentistry, in the right hands, should not hurt. In our office, we take great pride that many new patients with dental fear find that sedation is not necessary after a visit or so. This comes from developing a relationship of trust and helping the patient to know our commitment is to their comfort at every visit.

Call 828-274-9440 to schedule an examination. If fear has kept you from regular dental visits, you likely have some form of gum disease. If not treated, this will only worsen. Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. Plus, the potent bacteria of gum disease has been shown to trigger systemic inflammation. This can create serious health problems far beyond the mouth.

Frightening Statistics Of Oral Cancer

Posted on Jul 11, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When you ask the American population which cancer affects most adults, you usually hear replies of breast cancer or colon cancer. Yes, these cancers are widespread and can be deadly. However, several cancers have had the voices of famous celebrities to help bring them to the forefront. This has been a positive step in helping to save lives.

Being aware of the symptoms of cancers is important. It helps us detect early warning signs and see a doctor, who can take appropriate action. The publicity has also garnered governmental guidelines for regular screenings and even inspired the development of advanced technology. This has furthered the ability to catch the disease at its earliest stages.

Yet, for Oral Cancer, having a widely-known and influential public spokesperson has yet to occur. Quite frankly, even though your regular dental checkups and exams include an annual screening for Oral Cancer, that has left a large percentage of American adults unchecked.

The latest figures from the Centers Of Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) show that only 62% of adults ages 18 – 64 have a dental check-up each year. So, if the key component in catching Oral Cancer early lies in the hands of a dentist, until the patient is in the dental chair, the challenge will continue.

What makes Oral Cancer so deadly is its ability to progress long before symptoms emerge. By the time they do, it becomes a difficult cancer to battle. Treatment is often very disfiguring. Even worse, it is known to be one of the deadliest of all cancers, taking the life of one American every hour of every day.

According to the National Cancer Institute Survey, there has been a 15% rise in oral cancer rates over the past three decades. Adult males are at the highest risk for Oral Cancer, with Black males being the most susceptible.

Oral cancer risk also increases with age, especially after age 50. Risk levels generally peak between ages 60 – 70. The highest rates have been noted with males between ages 50 – 59.

A particular factor that is spiking numbers in younger age groups is the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors (for all ages) includes tobacco and alcohol use. While most cases of oral cancer are linked to cigarette smoking or heavy alcohol use, combined tobacco and alcohol use increases the risk even more than the two risk factors combined.

Unfortunately, many people assume “if it doesn’t hurt, then nothing is wrong.” This, I believe, is one of the reasons our nation has such high levels of periodontal (gum) disease and subsequent adult tooth loss. And, as rising Oral Cancer statistics show, the casual attitude toward dental exams can lead to far worse than losing teeth.

Be aware of warning signs of oral cancer, including:

•    A sore, irritation, lump or thick patch in the mouth, lip, or throat
•    White or red patch inside the mouth
•    Feeling something is stuck in the throat
•    Difficulty chewing or swallowing
•    Difficulty moving the jaw or tongue
•    Numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth
•    Unexplained swelling of the jaw
•    Pain in an ear without hearing loss

While the symptoms above do not always indicate Oral Cancer, any that do not clear up on their own within 2 weeks should be examined immediately. Being proactive can mean the difference between resolving the problem simply or disfiguring surgeries, and even death.

A Periodontal specialist has extensive training in the treatment of the soft tissues in the mouth. A periodontist is your best choice when any unusual symptom in the mouth arises and is your first step in protecting your smile and adding to a healthy YOU.

Call 828-274-9440 for an examination appointment. Also, the American Cancer Society has excellent information at: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/oralcavityandoropharyngealcancer/detailedguide/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer-key-statistics

Want To A Healthy Body? Begin With A Healthy Mouth.

Posted on Jun 15, 2016 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I love being in this profession. Being a Periodontist, I’ve witnessed a number of advancements in dental technology, techniques and materials. I have also followed scientific research that has made enormous strides in connecting oral health with our overall health.

Time and again, studies keep showing how closely related the health of your gums is to the prevention and reduced risk for some serious health problems. Research has found links between the oral bacteria of periodontal (gum) disease to heart disease, stroke, memory loss, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, some cancers, impotency, preterm babies and more.

The culprit is apparently in the ability of oral bacteria to trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body. When gum disease has weakened the tissues in the mouth, the bacteria is able to enter the bloodstream. As it travels through the body, it can set a series of negative reactions into motion.

Knowing this potential, it’s no surprise that a growing number of surgeons are now advising patients to have their gums checked prior to surgery. Additionally, Ob-Gyns have started recommending pregnant patients to be especially diligent in having and keeping their gum health in good shape.

Some recent research findings has shown a predisposition to the deadly pancreatic cancer. Over several years, researchers at the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society collected oral samples as part of a cancer prevention and screening study. They noted elevated levels of two oral bacteria in pancreatic cancer patients. One oral bacteria was found to create a 59% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer with another creating a 50% greater likelihood of developing this deadly disease.

The mouth can also reveal indications of some diseases, even before it is diagnosed. For example, Celiac Disease (an autoimmune disease that causes damage the small intestine) can create defects in tooth enamel. These may appear as yellow, white or brown spots on teeth or cause pits or band-like grooves to form.

Knowing this, it simply makes good sense to take VERY good care of your oral health. Yet, only half of American adults brush twice a day and nearly 80% don’t floss. These actions take just minutes a day and can make an enormous difference in your oral health, and apparently, your overall health as well.

Reconsider your oral health commitment, knowing that you’re doing a favor to your smile AND your body! And, be watchful for signs of gum disease, which include tender gums that bleed when brushing, swollen areas, gum recession or gums that darken from a healthy pink color to red.

Call (828) 274-9440 if you suspect you may have gum disease or have not seen a dentist on a regular basis.