CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF SERVICE!
Welcome to our Dental Blog
Stanley NC Dentist Ronald M. Cox DDS
Ronald M. Cox, D.D.S.
115 East College Street
Stanley, NC

Monday, December 17, 2012

Dentures & Partial Dentures

Dentures & Partial DenturesView Photos

A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue.  They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures - complete and partial dentures.  Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.  A Partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A Complete denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks.  During this time the patient will go without teeth.  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process.  Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.
Reasons for dentures:
  • Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in an arch.
  • Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in an arch.
  • Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
  • Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.
What does getting dentures involve?
The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks.  Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture.  Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit.  At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.
It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.
You will be given care instructions for your new dentures.  Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

View Photos

Our Prayers For Sandy Hook Families

Our prayers go out to each Mother, Father, Grandparent, Sister, Brother, Teacher and Caregivers.  May we come together at this time of sorrow and tragedy.  The entire world grieves with you.   

We will never forget. 
Praying for comfort and peace for your families.
We also pray for protection over our children and teachers.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Make 2013 More About You

Thinking about a New Year makeover?   Your smile can build more confidence and boost self esteem.  Just think about looking into the mirror with a brighter, healthier smile.  This will increase your smile appeal, laughter and eye contact with people.  A smile that you enjoy seeing will make you want to share with others.  Did you know that employers focus on teeth?  How about even during dating?  Yes, a better smile is more attractive.   Take a look at the before and after photos at our website:


Consider some of these options:

Monday, December 3, 2012

Looking for a Fixed Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
There are several types of bridges.  You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case.  The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal.  This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
Reasons for a fixed bridge:
  • Fill space of missing teeth.
  • Maintain facial shape.
  • Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
  • Restore chewing and speaking ability.
  • Restore your smile.
  • Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits.  While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown.  Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.  In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit.  Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge.  The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.
You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

Contact our office today at  704-263-8845

Monday, November 5, 2012

Why Teeth Cleaning?

5 Great Reasons To Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned:

  1. To remove food, beverage or tobacco stains on the surface of your teeth that cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing.
  2. To remove tartar, a hardened substance that makes keeping your teeth clean difficult.
  3. To prevent gum disease, a condition that may lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
  4. To learn the best way to keep you teeth clean on a daily basis.
  5. To keep you teeth healthy, which will help to keep your body healthy overall.
Call today for an appointment  704-263-8845

Teeth Whitening Coupon : Save Now

Whiten Your Smile for 2013
 "New Year  ~ New Smile"
$25.00 off Professional Teeth Whitening with Exam

Whiten Your Smile Today

"It feels great to have a healthy smile.  I've enjoyed visiting Dr. Cox and his wonderful staff for several years.  Thank you for my beautiful smile Dr. Cox!" ~ Kelly, Charlotte NC 

PRINT THIS & CALL US!  

OFFER EXPIRES  01/31/13

Call today for an appointment.

Ronald M. Cox, DDS
Family Dentistry in Stanley, NC
115 E. College Street
Stanley, NC 28164
Phone: (704) 263-8845

Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits

YEAR END INSURANCE REMINDER

Request an appointment online or call our office to schedule an appointment before the end of the year to take advantage of your insurance benefits or flex plan benefits. Don’t let your hard earned money go down the drain by not using your insurance before the end of the year! Call us at 704-263-8845 to schedule your appointment today.

Monday, October 29, 2012

Quit Smoking Benefits

Quitting Improves Your Health

No matter when you quit smoking, the increased risk of death from smoking goes down shortly after you stop.  The risk continues to decrease for at least 1- - 15 years.  Smokers who quit before age 50 have half the risk of dying within the next 15 years compared to those who continue to smoke. 

Think about the benefits of being smoke-free:
  • You will reduce the risk of mouth, throat, lung and possibly other cancers.
  • You will have healthier teeth and gums.
  • You will improve your overall health.
  • You will taste and enjoy food again.
  • You will not have "smoker's breath"
  • You will save money
Mouth cancer is one type of cancer that can be cause by smoking.
Resources to Quit Smoking
  • www.smokefree.gov - this website provide a Step-By-Step Quit Guide and other tools to help you quit.
National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines
1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
1-800-332-8615 (TTY)
Callers can speak with a counselor in your state, as well as receive information and referrals to other helpful sources.


Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Mouth - Body Connection : Periodontal Disease


Research studies have shown that there is a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.
Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gum tissue, periodontal infection below the gum line and a presence of disease-causing bacteria in the oral region.  Halting the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining excellent standards of oral hygiene will not only reduce the risk of gum disease and bone loss, but also reduce the chances of developing other serious illnesses.

Common cofactors associated with periodontal disease:
Diabetes
A research study has shown that individuals with pre-existing diabetic conditions are more likely to either have, or be more susceptible to periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease can increase blood sugar levels which makes controlling the amount of glucose in the blood difficult.  This factor alone can increase the risk of serious diabetic complications.  Conversely, diabetes thickens blood vessels and therefore makes it harder for the mouth to rid itself of excess sugar.  Excess sugar in the mouth creates a breeding ground for the types of oral bacteria that cause gum disease.

Heart Disease
There are several theories which explain the link between heart disease and periodontitis.  One such theory is that the oral bacteria strains which exacerbate periodontal disease attach themselves to the coronary arteries when they enter the bloodstream.  This in turn contributes to both blood clot formation and the narrowing of the coronary arteries, possibly leading to a heart attack.
A second possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease causes a significant plaque build up.  This can swell the arteries and worsen pre-existing heart conditions.  An article published by the American Academy of Periodontology suggests that patients whose bodies react to periodontal bacteria have an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Pregnancy Complications
Women in general are at increased risk of developing periodontal disease because of hormone fluctuations that occur during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.  Research suggests that pregnant women suffering from periodontal disease are more at risk of preeclampsia and delivering underweight, premature babies.
Periodontitis increases levels of prostaglandin, which is one of the labor-inducing chemicals.  Elevated levels prostaglandin may trigger premature labor, and increase the chances of delivering an underweight baby.  Periodontal disease also elevates C-reactive proteins (which have previously been linked to heart disease).  Heightened levels of these proteins can amplify the inflammatory response of the body and increase the chances of preeclampsia and low birth weight babies.

Respiratory Disease
Oral bacterium linked with gum disease has been shown to possibly cause or worsen conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  Oral bacteria can be drawn into the lower respiratory tract during the course of normal inhalation and colonize; causing bacterial infections.  Studies have shown that the repeated infections which characterize COPD may be linked with periodontitis.

In addition to the bacterial risk, inflammation in gum tissue can lead to severe inflammation in the lining of the lungs, which aggravates pneumonia.  Individuals who suffer from chronic or persistent respiratory issues generally have low immunity.  This means that bacteria can readily colonize beneath the gum line unchallenged by body’s immune system.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and the mouth-body connection, please ask us. We care about your overall health and your smile!   Visit us at  Ronald M. Cox, DDS or call us today 704-263-8845

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Back To School Dental Care For Stanley NC


Stanley, NC Family Dentistry 1-704-263-8845

School is almost in session in Stanley NC!  Now is the time to make your child's dental appointment for the new school year.  Start your family dental history of keeping good oral hygiene habits.  Show your children how important dental care is and you've taught them a valuable lifelong gift.  The gift of good health, starts with proper dental care.   Call us today for your child's dental check up.   View dental tips and resources at our dental website.

Monday, June 4, 2012

Special Teeth Whitening Offer Extended!!!!

How to whiten your teeth?

Not just for a special day, but any day!
Stanley NC Dentist Ronald M Cox, DDS
Print this coupon and call us ASAP
1-704-263-8845
Ronald M. Cox, DDS

Monday, April 30, 2012

Brighten A Bride's Smile

$25.00 off Professional Teeth Whitening with Exam*
PRINT COUPON  
Save on Teeth Whitening : 

PRINT THIS COUPON  Offer expires 08/31/2012


*$25.00 off Professional Teeth Whitening with Exam.  With a whiter smile your confidence will boost, plus people notice you smiling even more. It's a great feeling! Let us help.  Please share this coupon with others too! 
Call today for an appointment.
Ronald M. Cox, DDS
Family Dentistry in Stanley, NC
115 E. College Street
Stanley, NC 28164
Phone: (704) 263-8845
http://coxdds.com/

How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?


You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.
Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.  At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities.  Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health.  These include:
  • Medical history review: Knowing the status of any current medical conditions, new medications, and illnesses, gives us insight to your overall health and also your dental health.
  • Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
  • Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
  • Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
  • Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for sometime and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
  • Teeth polishing: Removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during toothbrushing and scaling.
  • Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed (electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, fluorides, rinses, etc.).
  • Review dietary habits: Your eating habits play a very important role in your dental health.
As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves quite a lot more than just checking for cavities and polishing your teeth.  We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular check-ups and cleanings.

Call us today for your appointment!
704-263-8845
Ronald M. Cox, DDS
http://coxdds.com/

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Happy Easter To You and Yours!

The Easter Feeling

The Easter feeling does not end.
It signals a new beginning,
Of nature, spring, and brand new life,
And friendship, peace, and giving.
The spirit of Easter is all about
Hope, love, and joyful living.

From:  Story Soup Kids
************

Thank you for your continued friendship and letting our office help you with your dental needs.   We look forward to seeing you soon.
 Have a wonderful Easter and a safe Spring!

Ronald M. Cox, D.D.S.
Call us at  1-704-263-8845
 

Monday, February 27, 2012

Before and Afters

Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

Porcelain Crowns (Caps)
Crowns (Caps)


Porcelain Crowns (Caps)


Dental Implants
Crowns (Caps)
Porcelain Crowns (Caps)


Dentures & Partial Dentures
Crowns (Caps)
Dental Implants
Porcelain Crowns (Caps)


Dental Implants
Crowns (Caps)
Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

See what Dr. Ronald M. Cox can do for you!
Call today  704-263-8845
Visit our website

Spring Into a Brighter Smile

Save on Teeth Whitening

Spring is coming and now it's a great time for change.  Can your smile be improved?  Would you feel more confident with a brighter, whiter smile?  It's easy to erase most stains with our customized professional teeth whitening procedure. 
What would a brighter smile do for you personally and professionally?  Most people experience higher levels of self confidence.  Whiter smiles generally get noticed more because of giving more smiles away. 
Take advantage of this coupon.  PRINT THIS PAGE! THIS IS YOUR COUPON!   Here at Dr. Ronald M. Cox, DDS we would love to make you smile even more. 

*** $25.00 off Professional Teeth Whitening with Exam. 
Please share this coupon with others too!
Call today for an appointment.
Ronald M. Cox, DDS
Family Dentistry in Stanley, NC

115 E. College Street
Stanley, NC 28164
Phone: (704) 263-8845

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

February is National Children's Dental Health Month

Many people are unaware of the important role early dental care plays in children's overall health. The ADA recommends that parents take action early to insure the health of their children's teeth because attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life.
  • Dental Visits
    The ADA recommends regular dental check-ups, including a visit to the dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, and no later than the child's first birthday. Preventive care such as cleanings and fluoride treatment provide your child with "smile" insurance. Routine dental exams uncover problems that can be treated in the early stages, when damage is minimal and restorations may be small. When necessary, X-rays are taken to see how the teeth are developing and to spot hidden decay.



  • Early Childhood Caries (Baby Bottle Tooth Decay)
    Baby bottle tooth decay can destroy your child's teeth. It occurs when a child is frequently exposed to sugary liquids such as milk, including breast milk, fruit juice and other sweet liquids. The ADA recommends the following steps to prevent your child from getting baby bottle tooth decay.
    • Begin clearing your baby's mouth during the first few days after birth. After every feeding, wipe the baby's gums with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to remove plaque.
    • Never allow your child to nurse or breast feed for prolonged periods and don't give him or her a bottle with milk, formula, sugar water or fruit juice during naps or at night in bed.
    • Encourage children to drink from a cup by their first birthday.
    • Discourage frequent use of a training cup.
    • Help your child develop good eating habits early and choose sensible, nutritious snacks.

  • Mouth Protectors
    Any child involved in a recreational activity, such as soccer, hockey, football, roller blading, riding a scooter and even bicycling should wear a mouth protector. There are "stock" mouth protectors available in stores and a better-fitting variety, which are custom fitted by your dentist. Ask your dentist about using a mouth protector.
  • Dental EmergenciesKnowing how to handle your child's dental emergency can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. The ADA recommends the following tips on what to do for your child in case of:

    Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. If that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and get to the dentist as quickly as possible. Remember to take the tooth with you!

    Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth. Never put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth because it may burn the gum tissue. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.

    Bitten Lip or Tongue: Clean the area gently with a cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce any swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, go to a hospital emergency room immediately.
Give Kids A Smile Centerpiece to National Children’s Dental Health Month

While Give Kids A Smile is an annual centerpiece to National Children's Dental Health Month and is observed every year on the first Friday in February, National Children's Dental Health Month is celebrated during the entire month of February. National Children's Dental Health Month focuses on providing oral health education to all children despite their economic status.
Give Kids A Smile is designed to provide education, preventive and restorative care to children from low-income families who do not have access to care and to encourage parents, health professionals and policymakers to address this important health issue.

About the American Dental Association

The not-for-profit ADA is the nation's largest dental association, representing more than 156,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public's health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA's state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive.

The ADA Seal of Acceptance long has been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The monthly Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) is the ADA's flagship publication and the best-read scientific journal in dentistry. For more information about the ADA, visit the Association's Web site at http://www.ada.org/

Call us today for your child's dental check up! 
704-263-8845 or visit  http://www.coxdds.com/

Business of The Month

Thank you BB&T Stanley for 
choosing us as company of the month!

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Oral Cancer Exam

According to research conducted by the American Cancer society, more than 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year. More than 7,000 of these cases result in the death of the patient. The good news is that oral cancer can easily be diagnosed with an annual oral cancer exam, and effectively treated when caught in its earliest stages.

Oral cancer is a pathologic process which begins with an asymptomatic stage during which the usual cancer signs may not be readily noticeable. This makes the oral cancer examinations performed by the dentist critically important. Oral cancers can be of varied histologic types such as teratoma, adenocarcinoma and melanoma. The most common type of oral cancer is the malignant squamous cell carcinoma. This oral cancer type usually originates in lip and mouth tissues.
There are many different places in the oral cavity and maxillofacial region in which oral cancers commonly occur, including:
  • Lips
  • Mouth
  • Tongue
  • Salivary Glands
  • Oropharyngeal Region (throat)
  • Gums
  • Face
Reasons for oral cancer examinations
It is important to note that around 75 percent of oral cancers are linked with modifiable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. Your dentist can provide literature and education on making lifestyle changes and smoking cessation.

When oral cancer is diagnosed in its earliest stages, treatment is generally very effective. Any noticeable abnormalities in the tongue, gums, mouth or surrounding area should be evaluated by a health professional as quickly as possible. During the oral cancer exam, the dentist and dental hygienist will be scrutinizing the maxillofacial and oral regions carefully for signs of pathologic changes.

The following signs will be investigated during a routine oral cancer exam:
  • Red patches and sores – Red patches on the floor of the mouth, the front and sides of the tongue, white or pink patches which fail to heal and slow healing sores that bleed easily can be indicative of pathologic (cancerous) changes.
  • Leukoplakia – This is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear anywhere inside the mouth. Leukoplakia can be cancerous, or may become cancerous if treatment is not sought.
  • Lumps – Soreness, lumps or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal pathological problems.
Oral cancer exams, diagnosis and treatment
The oral cancer examination is a completely painless process. During the visual part of the examination, the dentist will look for abnormality and feel the face, glands and neck for unusual bumps. Lasers which can highlight pathologic changes are also a wonderful tool for oral cancer checks. The laser can “look” below the surface for abnormal signs and lesions which would be invisible to the naked eye.

If abnormalities, lesions, leukoplakia or lumps are apparent, the dentist will implement a diagnostic impression and treatment plan. In the event that the initial treatment plan is ineffective, a biopsy of the area will be performed. The biopsy includes a clinical evaluation which will identify the precise stage and grade of the oral lesion.

Oral cancer is deemed to be present when the basement membrane of the epithelium has been broken. Malignant types of cancer can readily spread to other places in the oral and maxillofacial regions, posing additional secondary threats. Treatment methods vary according to the precise diagnosis, but may include excision, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
During bi-annual check-ups, the dentist and hygienist will thoroughly look for changes and lesions in the mouth, but a dedicated comprehensive oral cancer screening should be performed at least once each year.

If you have any questions or concerns about oral cancer, please ask your dentist or dental hygienist.

See Our Website "Oral Cancer Exam"

Happy 2012 to All!