Imagine That Ideal Smile!


Posted on Oct 21, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When children pretend, they enjoy time with friends and learn by role playing. For a few minutes, ‘pretend’ you have the smile of your dreams. Perhaps you have all of your natural teeth again instead of a partial or crown-&-bridge. Maybe you no longer have a ‘gummy smile’ or worry about persistent bad breath.

Now, imagine smiling with that fabulous, confident smile. How do you feel — more confident? Do you smile more often? Is your smile bigger or do you laugh easily with more pleasure? Are you more outgoing since eating and speaking with others is more comfortable?

You CAN have that smile! I see patients all the time who overcome dental fears, financial constraints and other concerns who are now smiling how once was felt to be a distant dream. Often, just a consultation allows us to address obstacles that are often perceived, but may actually be dealt with easier than you thought.

A healthy, confident smile is a significant part of your overall health as well as your appearance, self-confidence, and even self-esteem. Let’s discuss the smile you’ve always wanted and address those concerns. Call 828-274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

Bridge Vs. Dental Implants?


Posted on Oct 03, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you are missing one or more teeth in one area, an option growing in popularity is an implant-supported bridge. Anchored by the jaw bone, Dental Implants can replace missing teeth without requiring adjacent, natural teeth for support (as in Crown-&-Bridge combinations).

Although a fixed bridge or partial denture replace the presence of teeth, an implant-supported bridge helps to preserve the bone that previously surrounded tooth roots. The implanted portion acts as a tooth root replacement and halts “resorption” (or shrinking in mass) of the jaw bone. Since implants recreate the stimulation once provided by natural tooth roots, they help to preserve your jaw bone.

Dental Implants also restore the look feel, and comfort of natural teeth. Gums and bone can recede around a fixed bridge or removable partial denture, leaving a visible defect. Additionally, removable partial dentures can move around while chewing, which interferes with your ability to eat all the foods you love.

Whether you opt for an implant supported bridge, a fixed bridge, or partial denture, we feel you deserve to know all the advantages and challenges of each. The only obstacle with Dental Implants, for some people, is the cost. However, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime with proper care. They are an excellent investment.

Ask us about Dental Implants before making your final decision regarding tooth replacement. We’ll be happy to answer all of your questions during a Consultation appointment. Call (828) 274-9440.

The Appeal Of All-On-4 Dental Implants


Posted on Sep 24, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you are missing all of your upper or lower teeth (or all teeth in your mouth), you probably experience the common frustrations of most denture wearers. Typical complaints are difficulty chewing, embarrassing slips and sore spots where dentures have rubbed gum tissue.

It’s no surprise that many denture wearers are turning to the All-On-4 Dental Implant system. This is a highly-successful type of implant that is:

• Affordable – Since the cost of implant treatment is largely based on the number of implants placed, this system uses just 4 implants on the upper arch and 4 on the lower, creating a less expensive option.
• Non-Removable Teeth – Once the implants are secured, the attached teeth are designed to remain in the mouth always. You’ll wake up with a terrific smile and brush your teeth in your mouth again!
• Provides Immediate Attachment of Teeth – Many adults fear having to go without their teeth during various stages of treatment. Not with the All-On-4 system that allows for the attachment of teeth as soon as your implants are placed.
• Overcomes Bone Loss Issues – Some adults have been told they are not candidates for dental implants because they’ve experienced too much bone loss. Because the All-On-4 system was designed with unique angles, it does not need the same amount of bone depth as traditional implant types.
• Existing Dentures May Be Used – Some adults have good-condition dentures and like the appearance. In some cases, we can attach an existing denture to All-On-4 implants for additional savings.
• Designed For A Lifetime – Like traditional dental implants, the All-On-4 system is designed to last a lifetime. With proper maintenance, you’ll enjoy a secure, confident smile for all of your life!

The All-On-4 implant system restores your ability to bite, chew and savor all the foods you love. You’ll be able to laugh and even sneeze again without worry!

Begin with a consultation appointment. I’ll explain your options and answer all of your questions so you can make the decision that is best for you. Call (828) 274-9440.

Stand Out This Holiday Season With A Terrific Smile!


Posted on Sep 19, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As we near the beginning of the holiday season, when group gatherings are at the year’s peak, rethink the money you’ll spend on that sparkly new dress or designer shoes. Research shows that the first thing people notice about others is their SMILE! If you truly want to sparkle and stand out in a positive way, give your smile a close look in the mirror.

Is your smile a brown tint or has it yellowed?
Does your smile look healthy and clean?
Is your breath fresh? Does your mouth ‘taste’ clean?
Are missing teeth on the sides obvious when you smile?

A healthy smile projects positively on the one who shares it. Be sure your at-home oral hygiene routine includes twice-daily brushing and flossing each night. In the morning, use a tongue-scrapper to remove bacteria embedded in the tongue. And, keep those 6-month cleaning appointments that remove plaque build-up.

A good cleaning can also help to remove surface stains from teeth. Whitening your teeth may be needed for deep stains. Most general dentists offer affordable whitening systems that creates dramatic, long-lasting results quickly, safely and comfortably. This can also help to camouflage flaws such as chipped or crooked teeth.

Missing teeth can be replaced with Dental Implants, which is a ‘lifetime’ replacement method and exceptional investment in your smile’s appearance AND health. Because implants do not reply on adjacent teeth for support (as in Crown-&-Bridge combinations), neighboring teeth are held in proper position and you’ll avoid having them shaved down for crowns to support a bridge.

Rethink your party clothes, jewelry or accessories this year. Stand out beautifully with your smile! That’s the terrific ‘sparkle’ they’ll remember!

Get your smile healthy and holiday-ready! Call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation to discuss a terrific smile for this holiday – and beyond!

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