Arthritis Patients Urged To Keep Oral Health In Tip-Top Shape

Posted on Feb 06, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I have spent my career seeing how destructive periodontal (gum) disease can be to the mouth. Imagine an infectious bacteria so potent it destroys gums, eats into tooth enamel, an damages the bone and tissues that support tooth roots.

To no surprise, gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. It affects an estimated 47% of American adults yet is often ignored until symptoms become unbearable. Symptoms include gums that bleed easily when brushing, sore and swollen gums, gums that darken in color, gums that recede from teeth, persistent bad breath, pus pockets that form on gums at the base of some teeth and loosening teeth.

Modern research has found a link between the bacteria of gum disease and serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, memory loss, preterm babies, diabetes and impotency. The connection occurs from inflammation that is triggered when the infectious oral bacteria of gum disease enters the bloodstream through weakened gum tissues.

For people who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), research is showing a strong connection to periodontal disease through the inflammatory triggers brought on by this potent oral bacteria.

Research has found that gum disease and RA share a genetic likeness. Their clinical makeup shows similar structures, primarily in pathogens, which are agents in the body that cause disease or illness. Studies have shown that the pathological processes that occur in periodontal disease and RA are almost identical.

Both conditions cause chronic inflammation in tissues that connect to bone. Yet, researchers have also noted that both diseases have a similar inflammatory trigger. Also alike is the particular species of bacteria found in periodontally-diseased oral tissues and tissues that surround joints in those who suffer with RA.

In another study, a particular pathogen associated with periodontal disease was found to activate the same destructive process of rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been shown that, by treating periodontal disease in RA patients, RA symptoms often improve. This is likely due to the system’s reduced burden of oral inflammation.

RA is a debilitating and painful disease that destroys joints. RA typically emerges on a gradual basis, often beginning with morning stiffness and weak, aching muscles. Joints that are stiff and sore follow, typically affecting the fingers, wrists, elbows, ankles, toes, hips, knees, shoulder and neck.

As inflammation from RA increases, joints swell and are often accompanied by fever, disfiguring of hands and feet, numbness and tingling. There is no cure for RA and lifelong treatment is required, including medications, physical therapy or surgery for certain cases.

These research findings show just how closely our oral health relates to our overall health. Hopefully, as more Americans become aware of how gum disease can increase one’s risk of serious health conditions, its prevalence will decline. With proper oral hygiene measures, including a thorough oral hygiene regimen at home, gum disease rates will drop.

Be committed to your oral well-being just as you are your heart health, prevention of cancers and your vision. If you have signs of gum disease (as mentioned above), call 828-274-9440 to arrange an appointment, and promptly. As a specialist in this field, I can assure you that gum disease will only worsen without treatment.

Protect Heart With A Healthy Smile

Posted on Feb 02, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

The human body is not only built to house bacteria, it is made to utilize some bacteria in a healthy way. For example, much of your gut bacteria help the digestive system operate more efficiently.

However, most of us know that a great number of bacteria strains can be harmful. This can happen when a cut becomes infected, the result of too much ‘bad’ bacteria. Although the body’s immune system responds to infection by sending white blood cells to conquer the ‘bad’ bacteria. At certain levels, however, rapidly growing bacteria can overwhelm white blood cells. This is when a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to give your white blood cells added reinforcement.

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection in the mouth. It begins when oral bacteria have accumulated beyond what the immune system can manage. As the infection spreads, gum disease destroys oral tissues and tooth-supporting structures, including bone, ligaments and tooth roots. Periodontal disease, not surprisingly, is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S.

As harmful as oral can be to the mouth, the problem can easily become more widespread, and more severe. Through tears in diseased gum tissues, this infectious bacteria can enter the bloodstream. As it travels throughout the body, research has found that it can trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere. Studies have shown that the bacteria of gum disease is related to heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, some cancers, preterm babies and even impotency. Research is also finding a correlation between gum disease bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the first correlations between oral bacteria and other serious health problems was found in heart disease. One notation of this was published in Harvard Medical School’s newsletter, Harvard Health Publications:

“In people with periodontitis (erosion of tissue and bone that support the teeth), chewing and toothbrushing release bacteria into the bloodstream. Several species of bacteria that cause periodontitis have been found in the atherosclerotic plaque in arteries in the heart and elsewhere. This plaque can lead to heart attack.

“Oral bacteria could also harm blood vessels or cause blood clots by releasing toxins that resemble proteins found in artery walls or the bloodstream. The immune system’s response to these toxins could harm vessel walls or make blood clot more easily. It is also possible that inflammation in the mouth revs up inflammation throughout the body, including in the arteries, where it can lead to heart attack and stroke.”

Generations ago, maintaining a healthy mouth was not the priority it has become today. And, the priority has garnered favor that goes far beyond the appearance of a smile. Because we now know our oral health is so closely related to our overall health, the medical community is taking a stronger standing in encouraging their patients to achieve good oral health.

As a matter of fact, a growing number of surgeons are advising their adult patients to have a periodontal check-up to ensure bacteria levels in their mouths will not burden the immune system’s ability in efficient healing. Ob-Gyn’s are also encouraging pregnant women to ensure their gums are healthy – for the sake of both the mother and their unborn baby.

Research has also shown that, by improving the oral health in diabetic patients, their insulin levels improve. This is also true for men who have elevated PSI levels, even when they receive no treatment for prostrate problems.

It is important to know the symptoms of gum disease. These include gums that bleed easily when brushing, tender or swollen gums, gum tissue that recedes from teeth, frequent bad breath, gums that deepen in color from a healthy pink, and pus pockets that form near the base of some teeth.

Don’t delay care. Gum disease will only worsen without treatment. Begin by seeing a Periodontist, who specializes in treating all levels of gum disease. Then, be committed to your at-home oral hygiene regimen. Twice daily brushing and daily flossing is necessary to keep oral bacteria at a manageable level. Also, stay current with your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings, which give you a periodic clean slate and can catch problems while still small.

For more information, call 828-274-9440 or schedule a consultation. Your smile – and your body – will thank you!

Understanding Terms Associated With Gum Disease

Posted on Jan 23, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Occasionally, I catch myself using dental terminology during patient conversations. As a Periodontist, ‘perio-talk’ is second nature to me. Deep down, however, I know it isn’t always clear to my patients.

I believe that patients are better participants in their oral health when they understand specifics of their individual needs. When I say ‘perio’ instead of ‘gum tissue,’ the patient doesn’t always ask for a better explanation, even though they may not be sure of the term’s meaning. This leaves us both at a loss – the patient doesn’t fully grasp their needs and recommended solution and I have a patient who is unsure of the ‘why’ and ‘how.’

Although dental implant placement and gum recontouring are regular treatments we provide, periodontal (gum) disease is the most frequent problem we treat. Gum disease affects over 47% of American adults and is the nation’s leading cause of tooth loss. It has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, memory loss, arthritis, diabetes, preterm babies and impotency.

Because gum disease begins without obvious symptoms, people often ignore the warning signs. This tends to allow the disease to progress further. As a basic explanation of how gum disease forms, I’ve listed the progression below — with dental terminology omitted!

• Oral bacteria – Bacteria in our mouths is normal. However, an overload of bacteria is how the problem begins. When oral bacteria are not removed on a daily basis, they amass and form plaque.

• Plaque – This is a sticky film that coats teeth and covers the gums and tongue. It can be felt by running the tongue over teeth at the end of the day before you brush. Plaque forms quickly, from the time you brush in the morning to the time of your evening brushing. The presence of plaque signals that your mouth is harboring more bacteria than saliva flow can rinse away. When plaque is not removed on a daily basis, oral bacteria thrive, reproduce, and harden into calculus.

• Calculus – Also known as tartar, calculus is a cement-hard mass of bacteria that develops from plaque. This colony of bacteria attaches to tooth enamel and can only be removed with special instruments used by dental professionals. This is why your 6-month check-ups and cleanings are so important. By preventing the formation of calculus or having it scraped off on a regular basis, you can avoid damage to gums and enamel.

• Gingivitis – This is the first stage of gum disease. Here, oral bacteria reproduce at a rapid rate while attacking gum tissues and tooth enamel. Signs of gingivitis are gums that bleed easily when brushing, sore gums, and frequent bad breath. When tended to promptly, gingivitis can be halted and reversed. Treatment requires twice daily brushing (at least two minutes) with a soft to medium bristle tooth brush and flouride toothpaste. Daily flossing is also needed to remove food particles and bacteria between teeth. Tongue scraping is advised to remove oral bacteria embedded in the grooves of the tongue. An alternative to a tongue scraper is to brush the tongue with your tooth brush. Be sure to get to the back of the tongue where the greatest concentration of bacteria are embedded. Drink lots of water and swish daily with an oral rinse that kills bacteria. Limit sugar-laden foods and beverages as well as caffeine (which is drying to oral tissues).

• Periodontal (Gum) Disease – When gingivitis progresses, the next stage is periodontal disease. This is when oral bacteria are at a deeper level, eating gum tissues and tooth enamel while creating inflammation. Typical symptoms are red and swollen gums, gums that recede and expose sensitive tooth root areas, and persistent bad breath.

• Periodontitis – This advanced stage of gum disease includes infectious bacteria that cause the gums to be red and tender all the time. In addition to the symptoms of previous stages of gum disease, pus pockets form at the base of some teeth. Some teeth will loosen as bacteria attack the structures that support tooth roots. Eventually, teeth will require removal. Even worse, this potent bacteria can enter the bloodstream through tears in diseased gum tissues. This has been found to trigger internal inflammation that has been found to contribute to the severe health problems mentioned prior (heart disease, arthritis, etc.).

I believe if the general population were more aware of the sequence that leads to full-blown gum disease, we’d have healthier adults, far less people who wear dentures or partials, and people who are enjoying confident smiles. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, please remember that these will only worsen when treatment is delayed.

I hope I’ve provided a helpful explanation of how oral bacteria progresses and how it effects your oral and overall health. For an examination to assess the health of your gums along with recommended treatment options, call 828-274-9440 to arrange a consultation appointment. We will discuss your current situation and potential treatment options.

Is It Your Bad Breath They’ll Remember?

Posted on Jan 05, 2017 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Business Insider says you have just 7 seconds to make a first impression. (http://www.businessinsider.com/only-7-seconds-to-make-first-impression-2013-4). That’s not a lot of time, but just enough to make a lasting impression. If you’ve ever met someone who has bad breath, that memory seems to stand out far more than if they had a piece of spinach in their teeth, for example.

No one wants to be associated with bad breath. If you suspect you have bad breath, you probably do. We all have occasional bad breath, but frequent bad breath is a symptom of periodontal disease. This is often accompanied by tender gums that bleed when brushing. As the disease progresses, your gums will darken in color and recede from teeth. Without treatment, teeth will eventually loosen and may require removal.

However, occasional bad breath has one origin – oral bacteria. Accumulated oral bacteria are the source of about every problem that occurs in your mouth. A few simple measures can help you keep oral bacteria to a minimum an enjoy the confidence of fresh breath and being close with others.

Oral bacteria are living, eating and reproducing organisms that thrive on rotting food in the mouth. As they accumulate, a sticky film known as plaque forms. If not brushed away daily, plaque hardens on teeth into tartar (or calculus). This cement-hard form of bacteria attacks tooth enamel and eats away at tender gum tissues.

When gum disease is the source of persistent bad breath, it produces a foul odor in the mouth even shortly after brushing. Gum chewing and mints may temporarily camouflage the odor, but not for long. Because the tissues in the mouth are continuously being destroyed, the lingering odor prevails, even after brushing.

Dry mouth is a contributing factor to bad breath, primarily because oral bacteria can rapidly reproduce when not regularly cleansed away through saliva. Saliva is designed to sweep bacteria from the mouth on a consistent basis. Without sufficient saliva flow, bacteria are able to accumulate at a more rapid pace.

Some causes for dry mouth are smoking, certain illnesses, snoring, mouth-breathing, and side effects of some medications. Drinking alcohol and caffeinated beverages are also drying to the mouth. The aging process can leave adults with insufficient saliva flow as well.

When you feel your mouth is dry, the ideal aid to saliva is drinking filtered water. Water is the perfect beverage when it comes to supporting your oral health. It also helps to keep your body hydrated, which aids in its overall function. Chewing sugarless gum is another way to help saliva flow and advised after meals when brushing is not possible.

The tongue is another source of oral bacteria. With its tiny grooves, bacteria embed in the tongue and enjoy a warm, moist haven for reproduction. This is why using a tongue scrapper daily or brushing the tongue with your tooth brush can significantly reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Be sure to get to the back of the tongue where the majority of oral bacteria are embedded.

The bottom line to having fresh breath is to control the bacteria levels in your mouth. Begin with a clean mouth through your six-month dental cleanings and exams. These appointments help to remove buildup that has accumulated between visits, reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth.

Then, renew your commitment for a thorough at-home regimen. Brush for at least two minutes twice daily, floss daily and use a tongue scraper or brush your tongue. Drink lots of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary treats and drinks since bacteria are super-charged by sugars and carbohydrates. Limit caffeine and quit smoking. Swish after eating or drinking, especially caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, to counteract drying effects.

Love your mouth and your reward will be fresh breath and a healthy smile. If your breath is frequent or you are seeing blood in the sink when brushing, call 828-274-9440 to schedule an appointment. Gum disease will only worsen without treatment.