Inflammation in the body is a naturally-occurring process that creates beneficial responses. It’s a reaction of your immune system that sends T-cells to combat disease and destructive cell invaders.

However, it is also inflammation that stokes the fire of cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, memory loss, and even erectile dysfuntion (ED). While some folks are genetically pre-dispositioned for high levels of inflammation, excess fat, stress, a diet high in sugar and fat, age, and gum disease can accelerate inflammation to risky levels.

Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which is an overload of bacteria that ‘feeds” on oral tissues. As the bacteria multiply, the initial phase of periodontal (gum) disease begins as the body becomes unable to tackle the bacterial build-up. The result is infection that penetrates the oral tissues and eventually bones supporting natural teeth.

This infection causes the bloodstream to be bombarded with inflammation. In turn, this distorts how the body processes blood sugar, freeing up plaque in the arteries that can lead to blood clots or heart attacks. It can also warp cells that form cancer and damage pathways in the brain and brain cells, increasing the risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Some drugs help to lower inflammation, although it’s wisest to control levels through proper diet, sufficient exercise, not smoking, and keeping the gums in good health. If you don’t floss, this daily habit is tremendously beneficial to the prevention of bacteria build-up. If you have sore, tender gums or have bleeding when you brush, schedule a periodontal exam by calling 828-274-9440. These are signs of gum disease and will only worsen without treatment.

The sooner you restore your mouth to a healthy state, the less time and expense you’ll incur from treatment. Plus, a healthy mouth can contribute to maintaining good, overall health. Be committed to excellent oral health and know your smile is not the only thing that gains the benefits!

It seems the most common reason I hear why people stick with a denture rather than have dental implants is the cost of implant treatment. Yet, I’ve never once heard a patient say their dental implants weren’t worth every cent.

Think of dental implants as a third set of teeth. This is because they look, feel and function just like the natural teeth you once had. They allow you to eat a healthy diet of foods you love, laugh and smile confidently, and wake up with a smile (in your mouth, not in a glass).

I’ve had some people tell me about their new car, but then say they can’t afford dental implants. Yet, others on fixed incomes work very hard to find the means to achieve a “new smile” so they can live a healthier, more active life with greater social confidence.

Let’s make the coming year your ‘Lucky ’13!’ Think about the things that are of true value to your life. Then, call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation appointment so we can discuss how you CAN chew in comfort and smile with confidence!

I often consult with patients who are contemplating a bridge replacement for Dental Implants. The only obstacle, for most, is the higher cost for implants. However, there are many reasons why a bridge is not necessarily the best investment or the best option for your oral well-being.

When a bridge is used to replace missing teeth, it must be attached to natural teeth for support. These natural teeth must be crowned (or ‘capped’). Once a natural tooth is shaved down in order to have this crown covering, it is never the same. Unlike your natural tooth, it will always need a crown to protect it and is also susceptible to requiring a root canal.

Underneath the gum tissue in the area where you have missing teeth, bone ‘resorption’ is occurring from the absence of tooth roots. ‘Resorption’ is the term used to describe the shrinking process of the bone that once supported natural teeth. As the bone shrinks, susceptibility increases for the natural teeth supporting the bridge. On average, the next teeth you’ll lose are teeth adjacent to areas of missing teeth. Because Dental Implants recreate the presence of tooth roots, they halt the process of bone resorption.

When a Dental Implant is placed, it does not need the support of other teeth. It is held by the jaw bone, just as a natural tooth root. This also gives you dependable biting and chewing strength.

For those who are missing several teeth, one Dental Implant can often support a ‘bridge’ of several teeth. Since the cost of implant treatment depends greatly on the number of implants used, this keeps overall expenses lower.

Dental Implants are made from a material that bonds successfully with your jaw bone. Once placed and properly maintained, an implant should last your lifetime. The initial costs are higher since placement is a surgical procedure and due to the materials used. However, the lifelong advantages are a bargain by comparison.

Dental Implants need no root canals, do not decay and do not compromise the well-being of adjacent natural teeth. Unlike a crown-&-bridge combination, they become a ‘part of you’ that can actually enhance your overall oral health. If you are contemplating replacing a bridge with Dental Implants, please call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation.

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!