Think Dentures Are An Easy Solution To Oral Problems?

Posted on May 27, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Dentures always seem like such a simple solution to oral problems. They’re not. Research has shown that adults who are totally edentulous (missing all of their natural teeth) die at an age that is ten years earlier, on average, than those who have their natural teeth. Research also indicates a higher risk of heart disease and diabetes.

A new study links fewer teeth and bleeding gums with a range of cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Poor dental hygiene and bleeding gums could allow up to 700 different types of bacteria to penetrate the bloodstream. Once bloodborne, this bacteria can increase heart attack risk regardless of how fit and healthy the adult is otherwise.

Studies have shown that an individual’s number of natural teeth affects their potential for systemic inflammation. A Swedish study of over 15,000 adults showed that the fewer teeth remaining, the higher the levels were of an enzyme that increases inflammation and promotes hardening of the arteries.

Along with higher cardiac risk, few teeth was related to higher cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and waist circumference. Those with fewer teeth also had greater chance of having diabetes. However, it’s not just keeping your natural teeth. Your gum health plays a significant role as well.

Initial signs of gum disease are bad breath and sore, bleeding gums. If untreated, plaque build-up on teeth can result in cavities, receded gums and tooth loss. While bleeding gums are associated with higher levels of cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of developing heart disease can occur through periodontal treatment and regular dental check-ups.

As a Periodontist, it is my commitment to stay current on the latest findings surrounding the correlation between oral health and overall health connections. I am aware of the dire importance of saving natural teeth to one’s overall health that much of our population lacks, unfortunately. Although it may seem ‘easier’ to have teeth removed or cheaper to avoid dental visits, the long-term health repercussions will eventually emerge in costly ways — physically, emotionally and monetarily.

When your mouth is healthy, teeth and gums are easy to keep in good shape through a committed home care regimen and regular dental check-ups – all simple and affordable steps. For those who are contemplating dentures to ‘solve’ their dental problems, here’s my advice: Ask someone who has worn dentures for over ten years, if they could go back in time, would they have made more effort to keep their natural teeth?

Call us at (828) 274-9440 to begin on your path to a healthy smile.

Major Cause Of Oral Problems – Dental Fear!

Posted on May 21, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

In my office, I see some pretty rugged guys. Some patients are men who have fought in wars (some, more than one), have jobs that are physically challenging and think nothing of tackling projects like knocking out walls or cutting massive logs into nice wedges for firewood. I’ve also seen these guys break down in tears as they recall traumatic episodes during dental procedures. These often one-time occurrences leave otherwise strong men and women with an embedded fear of dental visits, so much so that many will endure severe pain rather than walk through a dental office entry.

As a dental specialist, most of my patients arrive here because their problems have become so severe that they can no longer postpone dental care. Many have already lost natural teeth and are at risk of losing more. Many have periodontal disease that can trigger an inflammatory reaction in the body. Gum disease bacteria has been associated with heart disease, stroke, arthritis, diabetes, impotency, preterm babies and more.

I pride myself and our entire team on our commitment to providing effective care with a gentle touch. We add Oral Sedation to treatment when appropriate for patients, whether for fear, anxiety or even to be more comfortable during lengthy appointments.

I also pride myself on working with some of the South’s finest dentists. These men and women have dedicated their careers to providing exceptional dental care and creating positive experiences for patients. Like me, they are appalled when learning of a dentist who hurt a patient yet continued the procedure. These practitioners have no place in today’s dental field.

The good news is — You CAN have gentle dentistry where you feel relaxed before, during and after your visit! Even better, you CAN regain a healthy mouth and confident smile without enduring a white-knuckled experience!

Dental fear is nothing to be ashamed of and can be overcome. There are millions of adults who walk into their 6-month dental visits with a smile, experience no discomfort throughout their exam and cleaning, and walk out feeling positive and pleased at their ‘no problems’ report. You CAN be one of  them, regardless of the level of fear you now have. In the right hands, you will find that dental visits are nothing to dread. And, you’ll regain a healthy, confident smile in the process!

For a friendly discussion in our private Consultation Room that is removed from the clinical side of the office, you can share your concerns and learn about options to help you move at a pace that’s right for you. Call (828) 274-9440.

Easy Ways To Save On Dentistry

Posted on May 14, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontal Specialist, I see many patients with various levels of periodontal (gum) disease, which is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. Depending on the extent of their periodontal disease, the amount of time and expense to restore a healthy mouth is never a welcome expense. However, gum disease does not improve without treatment and, in addition to eventual tooth loss, can trigger an inflammatory reaction in the body. The bacteria of gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, memory loss, preterm babies and impotency.

We have a ‘no lecture’ policy in our office, which means our patients are always treated with respect. Yet, when our treatment plan and fees are presented to periodontally-compromised patients, we often hear a little voice in the back of our subconscious whispering, “This could have been so easily prevented in the first place.”

While some people are simply more susceptible to the components of oral bacteria, there are simple, inexpensive ways to prevent the majority of problems that result in dental fees. And, the steps require mere minutes per day. They include:

– Brush with a medium or soft bristle toothbrush for at least 2 minutes twice a day. Use a fluoridated toothpaste.

– Use a tongue scrapper once a day to remove embedded bacteria in the tongue. Make several swipes starting at the back and moving forward, rinsing after each pass. These are inexpensive and available in most oral care sections of your nearest drug store. Until you purchase one, use your toothbrush to go over your tongue thoroughly after brushing. Swish with water several times.

– Floss your teeth daily. This seems such a difficult task for adults, yet, once in the habit, it’s easy, fast, and you’ll notice the ‘good feeling’ it provides so much that you’ll be able to tell when you’ve missed a day.

– If you take medications that are drying to the mouth, drink lots of water and purchase an oral rinse to supplement the moisture needed. Saliva is a natural cleanser to the mouth. Insufficient amounts, due to age or drying effects of medications, make you more susceptible to bacterial buildup.

– See your dentist for a cleaning and exam twice a year. People tend to delay these visits or assume they aren’t necessary. However, you wouldn’t wait for your automobile’s oil light to go on before you schedule an oil and filter change, would you? Of course not, because you know the risk and potential expense that this delay could mean for your vehicle. Your mouth is no different. As a matter of fact, gum disease begins silently. By the time symptoms are obvious (persistent bad breath, sore gums, gums that bleed when brushing), your mouth is in immediate need of treatment.

Periodontists WANT you to NOT need them by maintaining a healthy mouth and keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime. Think of the money you’ll save by being committed to these easy, simple steps! Additionally, you’ll be enhancing your overall health through lowered risk of serious problems that oral bacteria can trigger.

Need an appointment? Call us at (828) 274-9440.

Hoping For ACA Help With Dentistry?

Posted on May 12, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Although many Americans are hopeful that the Affordable Care Act (or ‘Obamacare’) may help with dental care, there are no signs that the ACA will provide much help.

In some states, dental care for children is being incorporated into supplemental Medicare coverage for low income families. For others, individual health care plans offer dental coverage as a separate option. Added dental coverage, in many cases, has a conservative maximum coverage, such as $2,000 a year. This may cover fees for two 6-month check-ups and cleanings and one or two crowns. For those who need extensive work, relying on dental insurance or Medicare supplements will likely fall short of providing the dentistry needed to restore good oral health.

Some states have increased Medicare funding for low-income families who have purchased insurance through the Affordable Care Act. However, the number of physicians, dentists, and dental specialists who accept Medicare is limited. Caregivers often avoid being a Medicare provider because of the low reimbursement level and extended time it takes for reimbursement.

Although Medicare has the most frustrating track record for the dental profession, HMO and PPO dental coverages can also leave dentists in challenging positions. While reimbursement is slightly better than Medicare, lag time between insurance filing and reimbursement is traditionally slow.

Resolving the nation’s health care issues will likely take years. In the meantime, don’t assume that ample dental coverages will emerge any time soon. While it may be a challenge to pay for quality dental care, it is an investment well worth the commitment. Your smile is a major part of your appearance, self-confidence and digestive system as well as an aid in lowering overall health risks. Research has linked the bacteria of periodontal (gum) disease to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and more.

Americans spend thousands on automobiles and wide screen televisions with access to hundreds of sports and entertainment channels while dental health ranks poorly on their budget’s priority list, regardless of insurance coverage. Until dentistry is deemed a necessity rather than an elective option, insurance coverage or supplemental plans will mean little in providing a confident smile that lasts your lifetime. That’s up to you.