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Be in the Clear with a Membership Plan

South Charlotte Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has a very exciting and cost-effective options for all our patients who might have great medical and even vision health coverage, but lack good (or any) dental benefits. We know that employers, when putting together a benefits package for their employees, can sometimes make medical the priority (which is great!) but forget that dental benefits are a huge importance in our lives.

So, we have some good news for anyone that needs good dental benefits and coverage at an affordable price: we offer a Membership Plan through Kleer to ensure that all our patients will have access to professional oral care. In this blog, we want to highlight the tiers of the plan and make it as simple to understand as possible.

Firstly, here’s the good news: we offer the plan directly to you. You don’t have an agency that you have to work through, and there isn’t an insurance company you need to call to get approval for braces or to consult with to see if your plan will cover a root canal. In other words, you set up a Membership Plan with us and it’s your dentist or oral surgeon with whom you consult—not a corporate work on the phone, elsewhere. No middleman, just your dentist and you making the decisions. That’s the way oral care should work. Hassle-free and cost-effective savings are the things we offer to you, our patients, to make your oral healthcare our top priority.

Let’s review some of the basic benefits, then look at the various tiers of coverage, as well as options for choosing the best fit for your life.

Benefits

All of our plans include the following services or features:

• Cleanings, exams, and routine x-rays are included in the plan. You pay nothing extra for these parts of our basic coverage.
• You receive discounts for other procedures, such as fillings, crowns, root canals, and more.
• Benefits begin the moment you join. Join today and your benefits begin immediately.
• We offer full-price transparency. There are no hidden costs or fees. We will discuss the treatments recommended, and the costs of each treatment, in an upfront and honest way at the time of the consultation.
• A membership cycle covers 12 months from the date you join.
• You do not have to deal with any of the following (which are typical to most insurance plans): deductibles, waiting periods, pre-approvals, annual maximums, or denials of claims. Because this is our plan that we offer to you, and we are both the provider of coverage and the provider of care, you don’t have to deal with a middleman and the hassle it brings.
• This is not insurance but a Membership Plan, so that means you get access to regular, standard treatments as part of the plan, as well as, access to discounts for other procedures. (Because this is not an insurance plan, it will not satisfy the Affordable Care Act’s requirements.)

Plans

We offer up to 5 plans, to ensure that both you and your family members have access to consistent, reliable, and affordable dental health care. Let’s review some of the plans and the main features included in each.

All the plans, listed below, include a 20% discount on other dental procedures, which our practice offers.

1. Adult Start (14-years-old and older): One professional cleaning and checkup. This includes a professional cleaning and a regular exam, an oral screening, routine x-rays, and one emergency exam.
   1. This plan costs $21/month, totaling $252 annually.
   2. This saves you $99 off of regular dental visits at our practice, over a year’s time.

2. Adult Complete (14-years-old and older): Two professional cleanings and checkups. This includes two professional cleanings and two regular exams, along with two oral screenings, routine x-rays, and one emergency exam.
   1. This plan costs $32/month, totaling $384 annually.
   2. That adds up to $137 off the cost of what these procedures would be at regular pricing.

3. Perio (14-years-old and older): Three perio maintenance procedures and checkups. This includes three perio maintenance and two regular exams, along with two oral screenings, routine x-rays, and one emergency exam.
   1. This plan costs $46/month, totaling $552 annually.
   2. This plan can save you $312/year, compared to the regular cost of these treatments without our Membership Plan.

4. Child Start (13-years-old and younger): One professional cleaning and checkup. This includes a professional cleaning and a regular exam, a fluoride treatment, routine x-rays, and one emergency exam.
   1. This plan costs $19/month, totaling $228 annually.
   2. This plan can save you $134/year and help set your child on the path of good dental hygiene.

5. Child Complete (13-years-old and younger): Two professional cleanings and checkups. This includes two professional cleanings and two regular exams, a fluoride treatment, routine x-rays, and one emergency exam.
   1. This plan costs $25/month, totaling $300 annually.
   2. This plan keeps $199/year in your pocket, compared with regular prices.

But Why Sign Up?

So those plans set out the practicalities of what you need to know, including what’s covered and at what cost. In other words, just by signing up for a year’s membership, you are paying less than if you just set up an appointment for the same treatments and paid out of pocket, on the spot. You save more by jumping onboard our Membership Plan, and that’s worth the monthly investment.

The plan also lays out the 20% discount on such procedures as the following: diagnostics, orthodontics, preventative, endodontics, restorative, periodontics, implant services, and more. As long as you do the work with us, at our practice, you will get the discount from us for our services.

Just be sure to keep your Membership Plan payments current (you can pay monthly or upfront, for the whole year) so that you can access all of the benefits and discounts available to you at South Charlotte Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.

And we are so confident you will like our Membership Plan that we offer a 30-day money back guarantee. Within the first 30 days, so long as you’ve not used the benefits, you can get a full refund. But we are certain you won’t need to cancel, because our commitment to your oral and dental health is so complete that we are sure you will love working with us to achieve your dental hygiene goals. The money-back guarantee is to ensure your own peace of mind.

Get Preventative!

Part of the value of signing up is spreading out the cost of a treatment into 12 equal, regular payments over time—and saving money off all of the yearly procedures you will need for regular oral hygienic care. Let’s walk through an example or two.

We recommend an adult has two cleanings in a year, to maintain good oral health. With the Adult Complete plan, what would have been $218 ($109/singular cleaning) costs you $0 at the time of treatment—and you are only paying $21 month. The value of spreading out the cost is that you won’t have to shell out $109 on the spot to get a cleaning, and you don’t have to put it off for 3 more months until there is room in your budget for a cleaning. At $21/month, every month, what could feel unaffordable without insurance becomes easily affordable on a month-by-month basis.

And, also with the Adult Complete plan, two regular exams along with two oral screenings (valued at $61 each) and routine x-rays ($80 for a round of them) are part of the plan. And if you need an emergency exam (normally $101/exam), the plan has you covered! So you and your spouse both joining in on the plan means that, together, you would save $274 ($137 each). Can anyone say 2-3 date nights, with those savings?

What are the costs for children? Let’s consider the costs for treatments without the plan so you can see how the savings add up when you sign up your child for the Child Complete plan. A professional cleaning costs $76, so with this plan that adds up to $152—but the plan covers that as part of its basic benefits. A regular exam can run $61/exam (the Complete plan gives you two exams/year) and your child’s annual fluoride treatment is $67—also covered by the annual plan. Routine x-rays would be $57 without the plan and an emergency exam would cost $101. But, on the plan, this all comes as part of the basic benefits afforded to you as a participant in the Membership plan. Overall, the Child Completeplan would save your family $199/year, per child. Have two or three children who need oral care? Well, that could add up to $398 (two children) or $597 (three children) in savings per year, with our Child Complete Membership Plan! Those savings could add up to the cost of a season’s soccer lessons for one of your children.

Let’s consider the cost-savings afforded to you for one last plan: Perio. This plan, designed for those who need a bit more maintenance and care, especially care for any periodontal diseases, offers you some great savings off of regular care. One  maintenance visit costs $187, and since the Perio plan covers three of those maintenance visits (totaling $561), that means you basically cannot lose by signing up. The Perio plan costs only $552/year, and so the annual cost already saves you some money just off perio maintenance—but the plan also includes two regular exams (totaling $122 for both), x-rays valued at $80, and an emergency exam included in the plan (which would normally cost $101). So, all in all, you save $312/year with the Perio plan, ensuring the regular visits you need to beat back early onsets of periodontal diseases. Can you measure such savings, year after year, when you’ve saved your gums and teeth from decay and disease?

So, we think that the Membership Plan is actually better than insurance: no hassle with a middleman, no denials or insurance maximums, and no pre-approvals needed to get the care you require. As a participant in the Membership Plan, you speak directly with Dr. Wells or a dental hygienist about the treatments you need, so you can make a decision on the spot to go ahead with the treatment. And remember, we offer a 20% discount to all participants on any treatments or procedures they do on site at our practice. So that’s savings upon savings.

Dr. James Wells, and the whole team here at South Charlotte Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, hope you will give some real thought to the five tiers of our Membership Plan, through Kleer, and sign up with us so that we can get you the savings that you and your family need and deserve. If you have questions about the particulars of any plan, we are more than glad to talk you through, in detail, with what a plan covers, how the coverage works, or how we process your Membership payments.

Don’t fret about the cost of making your smile bright. We are here to help!

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The Dangers of High-Protein Diets

Summer is right around the corner, which means most of us are looking to get that beach-worthy physique back. Popular these days are diets of high protein because they can help quickly shed the pounds. But, you might want to think twice about jumping right into such a plan, as high protein consumption can have negative impacts on your oral health if you’re not careful.

The potential problem with these protein-based diets is that protein promotes acid-production in your saliva. The more protein you eat, the more your saliva will fill up with acid in order to help with the digestion of the protein. The chemicals that protein content can actually harm your teeth in the long run. High-protein foods contain sulfur and phosphorous, which turn into sulfuric and phosphoric acids as your body digests the protein. So, get this: your body makes acid to digest the proteins you eat, plus, many foods you eat already have acidic components in them. That’s a lot of acid!

Too much acid in your saliva and mouth will de-mineralize your teeth, making them weak and brittle. The acids eat away at the minerals and enamel of your teeth, exposing them to various kinds of harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay and loss, cavities, or periodontal disease (which affects your gum tissues). Sugar and other simple carbs can also put your mouth in danger of such oral health problems.

Did you know that the recommended protein consumption for men is 63 grams of protein, and for women it is 50 grams in a day? Yet most of us eat far more than that in a given day. So, when you purposely up the level of your protein intake, you also are further increasing risks to your teeth. Such diets might trim your waistline but just be aware that they can also trim your tooth enamel.

It is so important to think about increasing your intake of fruits and veggies, especially when consuming a lot of protein, because they are good for your health and your teeth.  Americans do not eat nearly enough fruits and vegetables, so perhaps the better dieting strategy would be to eat those plus lean proteins and to cut out processed foods and ready-made snacks. Reach for nuts over chips, for some blueberries instead of a cupcake, lean meats over fattening pizza. Your waistline will trim down and you don’t risk so much damage to your teeth’s enamel.

Tips for Oral Health and Special Diets:

Still want to go on that high-protein, low-carb diet? That’s ok—go for it. Just follow a few preventative steps to ensure you don’t lose weight and also, eventually, lose teeth too.

1.      Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste with you, as well as, dental floss and travel-size Listerine. Store a set at the office, or keep them together in a zip-lock baggie in your gym bag or purse. If you keep these items with you, you can easily floss, brush, and use mouthwash after every meal when you are away from home.

2.      Brush after every meal and snack. The more consistent you are with brushing, the more consistent you will be at removing the acids that can eat away your teeth.

3.      Don’t forget to floss! Brushing alone removes some, but not all, of the food material that can become plaque—and it is plaque that is the culprit, acting like acidic paste sitting on your teeth. Flossing gets the extra bits of food out from between your teeth, which ensures less acidity in your mouth.

4.      Use a fluoride mouthwash. This is the best way to repair tooth enamel, because fluoride strengthens the enamel you already have and, when used consistently, can promote the rebuilding of tooth enamel over the long run. Use at least once a day, before bed (after a good brushing and flossing!), and it is not a bad idea to use it in the morning before you head to work. The key is not to drink any liquids for 30 minutes after using a fluoride mouthwash so that the fluoride has that half-hour window in which to act on your teeth.

The key is to think about moderation when selecting the diet you follow to get your body ready for summer! Moderately increase your intake of protein as well as fruits and veggies, and decrease eating sugary or processed foods. Talk with your dental hygienist about the best practices to follow for good oral health when changing your diet.

Written by Andrae Bergeron - CCP Web Design

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Back To the Future!—of Dentistry

Ah, the eighties! Shoulder pads, big hair, bigger braces! Times and trends have changed, both in fashion and in dentistry.

Gone are the days of walking into an uncomfortable waiting room with stacks of decade-old magazines and the sounds of drilling in the background. Today’s waiting rooms, by and large, are comfortable with music, televisions, and a welcoming face behind the desk there to help you.

Scheduling options have improved with more offices offering expanded hours and online appointment scheduling. Reminders can be emailed to you or maybe you prefer a text message, helping you keep your busy day on track.

Dentists today explain procedures to you as they go along, openly discuss treatment options, and use hi-tech equipment. And though the drills are still there, they are more precise and not nearly as noisy!

Here are some ways visiting the dentist has changed in recent years:

Hygiene and safety are serious business at the dentist. You will see clean and sanitized and newly opened equipment in use. Staff are wearing gloves and masks for your protection and comfort and will ask you if you have any medical conditions they need to be aware of.

Teamwork! Your dentist and dental team are there to help you. More than ever, you will notice that the dentist or hygienist is telling you what they are doing as they go along, taking away some of the fear of years gone by when you just laid in the chair and hoped for the best! They will explain every step as they go and make sure you are as comfortable as possible. For your benefit, be clear about any discomfort or issues you have been having prior to your examination.

Dental insurance. Decades ago, many people did not have the option of obtaining dental insurance through their employer or on their own. With multiple options available now, the staff at the dentist is able to discuss what your procedure will cost in advance whenever possible so you will not be caught unaware. Many dentists will work with you if you don’t have insurance, and another popular option that did not used to exist is buying a dental care package directly through your dentist. This annual plan will include cleanings, x-rays, and discounted procedures.

Extended office hours are becoming more common at dental offices around the country. Knowing that many people have day jobs and limited flexibility, South Charlotte Dentistry opens at 7:30 a.m. Monday-Thursday so you can arrive at work with a smile! In many communities, there are emergency dental offices open in the evenings and weekends for those issues that just cannot wait.

Advancements in X-rays. These aren’t your grandma’s X-rays! The first use of x-rays within dentistry, in the United States, took place in 1896. Advances in dentistry and the availability of the equipment grew and x-rays became part of the normal dental routine in the 1950s.

3-D imaging has become more popular as machines have become more advanced and more available in the medical community. Popular for ultrasounds, mammograms, and other uses, they are helping doctors and dentists better diagnose health issues, while making it easier on the patient. This truly is technology changing lives.

A cavity’s best friend. Fillings used to appear silver and were in fact made of a combination of metals including: tin, zinc, copper, and silver. White fillings (a composite material) started becoming popular in the 1980s. The silver amalgam and white fillings are both still used in dental practices. So, what’s new? We now know that fillings, while strong, don’t last forever and advancements in X-rays and exam techniques will help discover issues much sooner.

A brighter smile is now possible!

A designer smile can now be yours! 30 or so years ago, you pretty much had to work with what you had. According to the ADA (American Dental Association), around 1990 there was a turning point with new tooth-colored restorative materials, plus increased usage of bleaching, veneers, and implants.

Whitening of teeth was very rare until recent years. Before, it seemed like only movie stars and models had truly pearly whites. Today you can choose from whitening options including bleaching and whitening trays.

Restorative dentistry has seen great advancements in the last twenty years. In the past, if you had a tooth removed, you learned to live with that gap in your mouth, or many gaps. Missing teeth can be unattractive, but missing teeth also make the remaining teeth work harder.  We provide restorative, or prosthodontic, dentistry at South Charlotte Dentistry. This process involves repairing or replacing bad teeth in order to restore the mouth. This can involve are multiple procedures, including using fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, dental implants, and partial dentures. The main goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve the natural teeth as much as possible and to give you the smile you deserve. The use of dental implants, partial dentures, and other restorative tools is important if teeth must be removed.

Braces used to be the first thing you noticed if someone had them and some kids just wanted to avoid having them altogether.  Traditional braces caused sores, were tricky to keep clean, and restricted enjoying many favorite snacks. Having straighter teeth is beneficial for appearance, but also the health of your teeth. A popular option for youth and adults today is Invisilign Braces. Less invasive and more attractive, this modern approach utilizes a series of custom-made aligners.

New ideas:

Pediatric dentistry. Specialty dentists for kids began popping up around 15 years ago. Dentists can be intimidating for kids and grown-ups alike, so these new specialty pediatric practices feature graphics, games, and friendly and familiar themes making kids feel engaged and safe. (In general, they’ve had additional and specialized training in pediatric dentistry and can work with babies through teens.)

No gain from pain. Many people tended to only go the dentist when they were in pain, thus, the opportunity to prevent issues was often lost and going to the dentist became associated with discomfort and, for some, trauma. Getting into the habit of twice-yearly check-ups with cleanings will allow the dentist to look for problems in advance of you having to have a dental emergency. X-rays, oral exams, and cleanings will detect current and potential future problems. Most dental insurance plans cover much, if not all, of this cost and offer discounts on any additional procedures required. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Though he was actually referring to fire safety, it works for teeth too!

Gum disease used to be something patients just “lived with.” Gum disease is generally not curable but it is treatable and more importantly, preventable. Prevent gum disease by seeing your dentist on a regular basis. Early stages can be treated with a dental hygiene therapy called scaling and root planning. Periodontitis, or gum disease, affects nearly half of all American adults, but at South Charlotte Dentistry, we have a two-step plan in place with dental scaling and root planning.  While it might sound scary or like an outdoor adventure, the treatment is actually a deep cleaning measure that helps fight back against gum disease. This is a nonsurgical procedure to treat your teeth and gums against plaque, bacteria, and tartar deposits.

Beyond the teeth. Checking for oral cancer is another recent addition to a routine dental check-up. Your dentist can examine your oral tissues easily by looking at your lips and inside your mouth, as well as, check your gingivae (gums) carefully, the inside of your cheeks, and your tongue (the sides and underneath).

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 53,000 people in the United States will be newly diagnosed with some form of oral cancer in 2019. Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat), can be life threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

Relax, there are options. Many people fear going to the dentist and the potential pain of dental treatments. In the past, they had little options and would avoid getting badly needed dental work and even check-ups, but today there is I.V. sedation. Intravenous (I.V.) sedation has become more common and works well for those with fear of the dentist and dental procedures. It is also ideal for patients whose fear of dentistry has led to a large amount of dental work needing to be completed.  I.V. Sedation is also used for outpatient procedures, like colonoscopies. Referred to as “twilight sleep,” you will wake with little or no memory of the procedure. Anesthesia is given via the I.V. and recovery requires someone take you to/from the procedure.

Healthy at home, advancements and options:

Toothbrushes, flossing, and water piks, oh my! Advances in types of toothbrushes have made cleaning your teeth much more thorough and even fun! Gone is the “one size fits all” toothbrushes of 20-30 years ago. Now there are multiple sizes, types of bristles, easy to grip handles, and electronic versions on the market in all price ranges. Be sure to brush at least twice a day.

Flossing is an important thing to do at least daily (after every meal is ideal) to remove plaque and excess food particles. Many types of floss are on the market now (vs. one type fits all 20 or so years ago). Flavored floss, flosser sticks (or picks), waxed and unwaxed string floss, dental tape, electric flossers, and natural floss are all available options.

Water picks (the most commonly known one being manufactured by Waterpik) are water flossers that are handy for reaching those hard to get to teeth in the back.  These come in a variety of price points and models, from table top to hand held.

With all dental tools, check with your dentist about the best fit for you before making any purchases.

Because of advancements in knowledge, we can now clearly connect heart disease to poor oral health: *

Poor oral health has been debated as a possible cause of heart disease for many years. In 2012, experts from the American Heart Association reviewed the available scientific evidence and concluded that poor oral health hasn’t been proven to cause heart disease — and that treating existing gum disease hasn’t been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease. Still, studies have shown:

• Gum disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease.
• Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important if you have artificial heart valves.
• Tooth loss patterns are connected to coronary artery disease.
• There is a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.

Even though oral health isn’t a key to heart disease prevention, it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Floss daily.
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.

The connection between oral health and overall health:*

Did you know that your oral health offers clues about your overall health — or that problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body? Protect yourself by learning more about the connection between your oral health and overall health.

• Like many areas of the body, your mouth is teeming with bacteria — most of them harmless. Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
• In addition, certain medications — such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics and antidepressants — can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease.
• Studies also suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis — a severe form of gum disease — might play a role in some diseases. In addition, certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, can lower the body’s resistance to infection, making oral health problems more severe.

Your oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions, including: Endocarditis, Premature birth and low birth weight, Diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Even if you still have big hair, shoulder pads or drive your DeLorean to the office, the team here at South Charlotte Dentistry is ready to treat your dental health needs now, and into the future!

*Mayo Clinic

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Bone Loss & Dental Implants – What You Need to Know

If you are considering dental implants to replace broken or missing teeth, there’s something important to know. Dental implants are only successful if there is enough bone to secure the implant. Bone loss most often is the result of periodontitis or tooth loss.

At South Charlotte Dentistry, we want you to do your best to maintain a healthy mouth now so that if the time comes that you need dental implants, you will have the best case scenario. If you are considering dental implants in the near future, you need to learn more about how to better ensure implants will work for you.

What Are Dental Implants

An implant is a titanium “root” which is placed into the jawbone in order to support a crown, bridge or denture. Ceramic crowns, onlays or veneers address the appearance of the “new tooth.” Over time, the human body completes the process, by growing bone and tissue around the tooth. This provides the artificial implanted tooth with even more stability and permanence.

Each implant stands on its own unlike traditional bridgework, which relies on the teeth next to it for support. Because it stands on its own, an implant can actually save the teeth around it, as they don’t have to be altered to accommodate the implant.

Are Dental Implants Right For You

Dental implants can be an option at just about any age, as long a patient has healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant and is committed to maintaining basic oral care. Implants do not require any more care than one would provide for natural teeth, such as rinsing, flossing, and brushing a few times a day.

• Are you insecure about your smile due to missing teeth?No matter the reason for the missing teeth (or tooth), if you find yourself hiding your smile, this is an indicator that you should consider dental implants.
• Do you avoid eating certain foods because it hurts when you chew? The pain you feel when eating your favorite food could be due to dead, decaying, or infected teeth. And you don’t have to continue living this way. After consulting with your dentist you could find that the teeth need pulled and replaced with dental implants.
• Are you tired of the continual maintenance and discomfort of your current dentures or bridges? Imagine not having to clean your dentures anymore, or never having to schedule recurring appointments to have your dental bridge readjusted!

Benefits of Implants versus Dentures and Bridges

• Durable — Take care of your implants and they will last forever.
• Permanent — No messy adhesive. No embarrassing slippage. Implants are comfortable and part of you. No removal necessary!
• Natural Look — Because they are designed to fuse with your bone, implants look and feel like your own teeth. You’ll brush and floss just as you do with your own teeth, so caring for them isn’t complicated.
• Easier Eating — People who have missing teeth, sensitive teeth, or dental prosthetics such as dentures or bridges may need to avoid eating certain foods. Dental implants can make it easier to eat with more security and stability.
• Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem – You’ll want to show off your beautiful smile. According to a 2016 report from the North Carolina Oral Health Collaborative: Poor oral health can significantly diminish quality of life in a number of ways – the most obvious being a person’s ability to eat, sleep and speak. However, there are also social and economic consequences that can impact a person’s job readiness and performance, and ultimately the economic stability of communities. A survey of North Carolina adults revealed that the impact of oral health on job readiness is greatest among those from low-income households.

How Dental Implants Work

Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months, according to the American Dental Association:

Step 1) The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering. The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it fuses with the bone, a process called “osseointegration.” There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.

Step 2) The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Some implants require a second surgical procedure in which a post is attached to connect the replacement teeth. With other implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.

Step 3) The dentist makes a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.

Why Bone Loss Matters

The portion of the jawbone that supports our teeth is known as the alveolar process. According to the National Institute of Health, several studies have found a link between the loss of alveolar bone and an increase in loose teeth and tooth loss.

Bone loss in the jawbone happens as a result of periodontal disease or tooth loss.

In the case of periodontitis, bacteria gradually eat away at the underlying jawbone and periodontal ligaments that connect the tooth to the bone. Teeth may become loose and eventually come out either by accident or because there simply is no health tissue left to hold them in place.

Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Bright red, dusky red or purplish gums
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Gums that bleed easily
• Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede), making your teeth look longer than normal
• New spaces developing between your teeth
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Painful chewing
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

A missing tooth also will cause bone loss. Whether a tooth is missing because it was removed or fell out, the underlying jawbone no longer experiences the pressure and stimulus of chewing that preserves it. Once a tooth is missing, 25 percent of bone underneath it is lost in the first year.

Think of a dental implant’s titanium root that is placed into the jawbone much like a screw you would use to hang a very heavy picture on the wall. That screw needs to be firmly embedded in the wall to hold the picture’s weight.

Putting a dental implant into healthy bone is like driving that screw right into the building stud — it’s not going anywhere! However, trying to put a dental implant in where there has been bone loss is like putting that screw into thin, old sheetrock. There’s not enough thickness to the wall to hold the screw in place, and when you hang the picture, its weight places stress all around the screw and the wall breaks apart and the picture falls. When there’s too little bone and not enough material into which to drive the screw, the screw could potentially go all the way through the bone into the sinus cavity. That’s not a good thing!

Replacing missing teeth with full or partial dentures doesn’t really solve the problem of bone loss because dentures put a very small amount of chewing pressure on the bone compared to natural teeth. Plus dentures can actually accelerate bone loss by slowly rubbing away at the jawbone much like how you see worn spots on old steps or handrails after years of use.

How to Treat Bone Loss

In cases where bone has already been lost, bone grafting might be needed to provide enough bone for dental implant placement. A bone graft not only replaces lost bone, it also stimulates the jawbone to regrow and eventually replaces the bone graft with the patient’s own, healthy bone. 

When your upper back teeth have been removed, the ridge bone resorbs and the sinus cavity expands, so that eventually the bone separating the sinus cavity and the oral cavity is very thin. In a sinus lift, the sinus is raised by gently pushing up the membrane lining the sinus away from your jaw and packing in bone graft material into the space where the sinus cavity was. 

You can take steps to prevent bone loss throughout your body now.

• Eat a well-balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Engage in regular physical activity or exercise. Weight-bearing activities—such as walking, jogging, dancing, and weight training—are the best for keeping bones strong.
• Don’t smoke, and limit alcohol intake.
• Report any problems with loose teeth, detached or receding gums, and loose or ill-fitting dentures to your dentist and your doctor.
• Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day — in the morning and before bed — and floss at least once a day.
• See your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for cleanings, usually every six to 12 months. If you have risk factors that increase your chance of developing periodontitis — such as having dry mouth, taking certain medications or smoking — you may need professional cleaning more often.

Note that is has not been found that treatments for osteoporosis have any beneficial effects on oral health and bone loss.

What To Do If You’re Considering Dental Implants

Talk with your dentist about your oral health. With a careful evaluation of your current oral health and imaging to look at what’s going on beneath the gums, you and your dentist can discuss your options and come up with a plan.

Do all that you can to get your teeth and gums in the best health possible — talk about the deep cleaning of a dental scaling and planing, consider whether an electric toothbrush will make brushing more fun or using a waterpik be better than not flossing at all.

In the event that you have bone loss and want to proceed with dental implants, you can begin the process of treating the bone loss through grafting or sinus lift.

Take a renewed dedication to oral health and focus on your overall health too! For healthy living and for healthy teeth and gums, think before you eat and drink. 

• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups, including: whole grain; fruits and vegetables; lean sources of protein such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish, dry beans, peas and other legumes; low-fat and fat-free dairy foods
• Make smarter decisions by chewing sugarless gum, avoiding sodas, putting down the sticky or hard candies

At South Charlotte Dentistry, we’d love to talk to you about your oral health and how we can help you achieve the smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Call us at 704.759.0908 or visit us online at southcharlottedentistry.com to make an appointment.

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2018 South Charlotte Dentistry’s Ultimate Holiday Gift Giving Guide

When we were children, we would share our wish list with Santa, whether by letter or by lap, and according to our membership on the naughty or nice list, we’d be rewarded. It’s a system that has worked well for generations. As grown-ups we often find ourselves playing Santa more often than not seeking the perfect gifts for our spouses and partners, our kindly neighbors who watch the house while we’re away, the postal carrier, the paper carrier, the babysitter, the dog walker, caregivers, family and friends.

While practical gifts tend to lean toward the wearable — socks, underwear, a scarf — we at South Charlotte Dentistryhave another idea. Give the gift of dental health! Here are some toothy gift ideas to put a smile on any face this holiday season.

HOMEMADE GIFTS FROM THE HEART

Do you have a small child on your list who has not yet lost their first tooth? Sew up a customized Tooth Fairy Pillowwith a little pocket in it for the tooth (and later the money)!

Not crafty? No worries! The artists of Etsy have you covered. There is a wide selection of dental-themed gifts available, sure to initiate grins from lots on your list like personalized tooth ornaments, tooth-shaped earrings and charms, tooth-shaped soap, wall art, and even a Tooth Fairy wand (should she need a hand during busy season). Meanwhile, Shutterflycan help you put together a customized mug or calendar or mousepad featuring photos of all your family members’ smiles.

If you’re a baker, there are tooth-shaped cookie cutters perfect for whipping up a batch of cookies for your dental office or dental student.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

Books are a great gift and there are many available with a take on teeth. For the beginning reader, “I Lost My Tooth” by Mo Willems features an ensemble cast of squirrels and “The Tooth Fairy” with Peppa Pig both help explain the process of losing and regrowing teeth. Adult readers with an interest in non-fiction will find the “The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth: And Other Curiosities from the History of Medicine” by Thomas Morris a fascinating jaunt through the things we’ve done to the human body in what’s described as a “wryly humorous collection of stories about bizarre medical treatments and cases offers a unique portrait of a bygone era in all its jaw-dropping weirdness.” And keeping with the science theme, “Evolution’s Bite: A Story of Teeth, Diet, and Human Origins” by paleoanthropologist Peter Ungar studies human evolution and climate change through the records stored in fossilized teeth.

Surprise your family with a vacation to Baltimore, Maryland! The world’s first dental school was founded there in 1840 by Horace Hayden and Chapin Harris. The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery (which later merged with the University of Maryland) taught generations of dentists. You can visit the National Museum of Dentistry located on the campus and explore dozens of exhibits featuring some of the objects from their 40,000-piece collection.

Vintage dental tools can make for a wonderful (if not quite unusual) conversation starter. Forceps, pelicans and toothkeys were commonplace in by-gone dental offices and some were made by blacksmiths. Many pelicans, aptly named for their shape, are made of silver and have hallmarks from a variety of countries, including England and France. Old dental chairs and equipment can be found at local antique shops and online as well as old dental advertising for products or services. In the early days, the local barber doubled as the neighborhood dentist!

LUXE GIFTS FOR DELUXE SMILES

Rhythm is Love (Ylang Ylang + Mint) Organic Toothpaste, made in France, is a collaboration between dental and artistic professionals. Uniquely flavored with ylang ylang, yuzu, and mint, the toothpaaste is sure to add a flavor and flair to anyone’s brushing routine.

Twice Early Bird and Twilight Toothpaste is a morning and night duo lights. The Early Bird formula is wintergreen and peppermint, and the Twilight blend combines lavender and mint for a relaxing finish to a long day.

The Burst Sonic Toothbrush is a powerful electric toothbrush with charcoal bristles that sonically vibrate 66,000 times in two minutes to get teeth super clean. It also features a quadpacer that will gently buzz every 30 seconds to ensure that every area of the mouth gets equal attention.

Minimalist, metallic and cool, the electric toothbrushes from Quip were one of the first approved by the American Dental Association. Compact and lightweight, the design looks and works great. Quip brushes suction cup to surfaces like mirrors or counter tops and are shower safe!

Cocofloss bills itself as freshening, whitening, and soothing this colorful alternative to traditional floss adds a colorful and fun twist to the flossing routine. The 9-piece Floss Fanatic Set is available in a variety of flavors including coco, vanilla, mint, strawberry, and orange.

An electronic UV toothbrush sanitizer from Pursonic protects your toothbrush from germs and bacteria floating around and uses ozone and photo catalyst technology to kill germs and bacteria left behind.

Steripod makes an easy to use toothbrush protector great for home or travel as well as a razor protector and tongue scraper. The protective pods are designed to prevent cross-contamination like beard whiskers in toothbrush bristles.

Dental care can be part of a luxurious self care routine with a whitening treatment followed by a massage, manicure, and facial. South Charlotte Dentistry offers Crest White Strips, Opalescence whitening products and Obagi skincare products.

PRACTICAL PRESENTS

Do you have a co-worker that likes to travel or travels a lot for work? Consider travel-sized toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss and other small packables (like shampoos) and put them together in an attractive travel bag. Tuck in a small first-aid kit, sewing kit, shower cap, earplugs and other travel must-haves or comfort items. Travel items are also great for anyone planning a get-away. Combine the above items with a travel journal, pen, or guide book.

Got a college kid? Put together a semester’s worth of dental supplies including a toothbrush in their favorite or school colors, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, sugar-free gum, breath mints, single use travel brushes for those late nights in the library in a reusable tote.

And if you’ve got a sports fan, use the same idea but customize it for the team. You can find a Carolina Panthers toothbrush and partner it with a black, blue and silver toothbrush holder or rinse cup. Or consider a Charlotte Hornets toothbrush with a purple or teal hand towel.

Kids can benefit from the same kind of package featuring their favorite characters like Spider-Man, Hello Kitty, Star Wars, and The Secret Life of Pets.

Dental insurance for a year would make a wonderful gift for someone who might need an extra hand with expenses in the short-term, a student, or someone waiting for benefits with a new employer. Many options can be found online with different levels of coverage, so check carefully before signing up. In North Carolina, options include: Blue Cross Blue Shield NC, Aflac, Humana, and United Health Care.

SPECIAL TREATS

Giving something sweet to eat seems like a holiday tradition. If you’re shopping for someone with braces or orthodontic work, avoid these foods in order to protect their teeth: popcorn, nuts, hard candy, caramel, pretzels, and peanut brittle. Foods that are good for teeth are whole grains, fruits, lean meats, and vegetables. Get creative when putting together a basket of goodies. Don’t forget treats for all family members! Pick up some dental chews for Fido or tartar cleaning snacks for Fluffy too.

If you’re looking for another way to recognize a caregiver such as a dental professional or nurse, think about things that will help them care for themselves. Massages, pedicures, manicures, a trip to the salt cave, compression socks, aromatherapy treatments, and meal delivery kits are great ways to support those whose job is to focus on others.

GIVING BACK

For the person who has everything, consider making a donation to a dental organization such as Operation Smile, Dental Lifeline, the American Dental Association initiative Give Kids a Smile, or America’s Dentists Care Foundation’s Missions of Mercy. Helping others guarantees a smile. You can also ask your dental practice how they are involved with the community and support their individual efforts.

We at South Charlotte Dentistry hope that all our patients have a wonderful holiday season and joyous celebrations. We’re so glad to have been part of your care team throughout 2018 and wish you and yours a happy, healthy 2019. Don’t forget to floss!