Great Testimonials and Reviews

Just a few reviews for our dental office.....

***** Thank-you for taking such good care of my mom. She is 88 years old. I could not make it myself to take her to her appointment, and the in-home aid took her. I never would have done that if I did not have complete faith in the entire staff. Again, you have met my expectations, and then some. Take good care.

***** I had a great experience. Staff were friendly and helpful. Even offered me a blanket while I was there. I was there a long time but Dr. Cox and the rest of the staff made me very comfortable. Thanks so much.

***** I have a high level of anxiety when it comes to having dental work. Staff was very considerate, kind and understanding. The dental hygienist was patient and concerned about my comfort. I highly recommend Dr. Cox

***** I have been going to Dr.Cox for quiet some time. These is no where else I would rather go. He and his staff are wonderful to me and my 3 children. I would recommend to anyone.

99.5% of our patients would refer family and friends to us.

That's wonderful!!

Check out Ronald M Cox DDS Reviews

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

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.  Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone.  The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore a patient’s confident smile.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant.  While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months.  Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place.  With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor.  Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete.  After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed.  Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.

Call our office to make your dental appointment:  1-704-263-8845

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. The term “wisdom” stems from the idea that the molars surface at a time typically associated with increased maturity or “wisdom”.

In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.

There are several types, or degrees, of impaction based on the actual depth of the teeth within the jaw:

Soft Tissue Impaction: The upper portion of the tooth (the crown) has penetrated through the bone, but the gingiva (gum) is covering part or all of the tooth’s crown and has not positioned properly around the tooth. Because it is difficult to keep the area clean, food can become trapped below the gum and cause an infection and/or tooth decay, resulting in pain and swelling.

Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth has partially erupted, but a portion of the crown remains submerged below the gum and surrounding jawbone. Again, because it is difficult to keep the area clean, infection will commonly occur.

Complete Bony Impaction: The tooth is completely encased by jawbone. This will require more complex removal techniques.

Reasons to remove wisdom teeth

While not all wisdom teeth require removal, wisdom teeth extractions are most often performed because of an active problem such as pain, swelling, decay or infection, or as a preventative measure to avoid serious problems in the future. If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present, and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur, including:

• Damage to nearby teeth: Second molars (the teeth directly in front of the wisdom teeth) can be adversely affected by impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in tooth decay (cavities), periodontal disease (gum disease) and possible bone loss.
• Disease: Although uncommon, cysts and tumors can occur in the areas surrounding impacted wisdom teeth.
• Infection: Bacteria and food can become trapped under the gum tissue, resulting in an infection. The infection can cause considerable pain and danger.
• Tooth Crowding: It has been theorized that impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on other teeth and cause them to become misaligned (crowded or twisted). This theory isn’t universally accepted by all dental professionals, and it has never been validated by any scientific studies.

Read More about Wisdom Teeth Extractions  or visit

Ronald M. Cox, DDS, PA - Family Dentistry

Call us at 1-704-263-8845

Dental Testimonials

"I had a silver filling changed into a white filling today.  What a great job!  I feel like I have a new mouth.  Very gentle and wonderful experience.  I will return and continue telling everyone about your office.  Thank you again." ~ Kelly Tolar

See More Testimonials
Ronald M. Cox, DDS, PA
Call:  1-704-263-8845

Family Dentistry in Stanley, NC

Ronald M. Cox, DDS, PA

When you visit our office, your smile is our top priority.

Part of our commitment to serving our patients includes providing information that helps them to make more informed decisions about their oral health needs. 

We genuinely hope this site is helpful to you in learning more about our practice, dental conditions and treatments, dental recommendations, and more.  http://coxdds.com/

Please browse through our website and be sure to give us a call if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment.

Warm Regards,

Ronald M. Cox, DDS, PA
704-263-8845
http://coxdds.com/

Food Saks 4 Kids

One of Dr. Ronald M. Cox, DDS favorite ways to help the community is with a program called "FOOD SAKS 4 KIDS."   Every month, Dr. Ronald M. Cox gathers items for (5) food saks for the locals Kiser Elementary School in Stanley NC. 

"We (Ronald M. Cox, DDS : Family Dentistry of Stanley, NC) are hoping to set an example within the community to reach out to others in need.  We are giving a small amount, but hope that others will come forward to make their own food saks to give.  Kiser Elementary is helping out close to 50 children a week. Soon, we hope to do more personally.  It's hard to think of children not having enough to eat, especially on the weekends.  That's where these food saks are so important to help the children."

FOOD SAKS 4 KIDS, a local community program helps to feed children on the weekends.  This program only operates on food distributed and gathered from the local community.  The program started with a mere 8 - 10 kids and now is reaching close to 50 children every week.   Each food sak contains 3 dinners, 2 lunches, 2 breakfast, drinks and snacks.  Healthy items are choosen with a few sweets, given that kids are picky eaters.   Food Saks 4 Kids helps children have adequate meals during the weekends.

Please do your part in helping children eat properly.    Thank you Food Saks 4 Kids.  See a list of our charities that help the community on the EVENTS page of our website.

Future Dentist

Local East Gaston High School student, Valerie Park from Medical Science class of 2011.   Valerie is observing dental office techniques and procedures with Dr. Ronald M. Cox, DDS.
Best wishes to you!!

Jessica, Valerie and Dr. Cox

Cleanings & Prevention

Dental Exams & Cleanings | Digital X-Rays | Dental X-Rays | Fluoride Treatment | Sealants | Home Care

A preventive program is a cooperative effort by the patient, dentist, and dental staff to preserve the natural dentition and supporting structures by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions.

Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet.  It is continued in the dental office by the efforts of your dentist and dental hygienist to promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.

Prevention also includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also great preventive treatments that help protect the teeth.

Prevention helps avoid serious and costly dental problems and is the key to having a healthy, confident, beautiful smile.  See Our Website:  http://www.coxdds.com/ .  Visit our Stanley, NC Dental Office

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Upcoming Dental Conferences

Dr. Ronald M. Cox, DDS is committed to continuing education.   This November in Charlotte NC, The Blake Hotel is Celebrating 20th Holiday Dental Conference Anniversary. 
Topics include, but are not limited:

• Tooth Bleaching options and recommendations for the youngest to the oldest patient.
• Hypersensitivity:  Causes and Treatments
• The Art of Restoring implants today:  Abutment to Zircomium - How to get the results you want.
• Achieving natural restorations using a simple technique.

December Conference will be held at UNC School of Dentistry
Topics will include, but are not limited:

• An Endodontics Review (Root Canals)
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
• Single -Tooth Implants in Restorative Dentistry
• Update on Composite Resins ( White Fillings)
• Restoring Endodontically Treated Teeth/ Fiber Posts

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Dental Videos

Because we are committed to improving the oral healthcare knowledge of our patients, we are providing the following selection of dental videos which we hope you will find interesting and informative.  We have grouped the videos into various categories to provide quick access to the topics of greatest interest to you.
See our website to view the Dental Videos.

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How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?

Cosmetic Dentistry : If you’re feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth, or just want to improve your smile, cosmetic dental treatments may be the answer to a more beautiful, confident smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry has become very popular in the last several years, not only due to the many advances in cosmetic dental procedures and materials available today, but also because patients are becoming more and more focused on improving their overall health.  This includes dental prevention and having a healthier, whiter, more radiant smile.

There are many cosmetic dental procedures available to improve your teeth and enhance your smile.  Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full mouth make-over.  Ask your dentist how you can improve the health and beauty of your smile with cosmetic dentistry.

Cosmetic Procedures:


Teeth Whitening: Bleaching lightens teeth that have been stained or discolored by age, food, drink, and smoking.  Teeth darkened as a result of injury or taking certain medications can also be bleached, but the effectiveness depends on the degree of staining present.

Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings: Also known as “bonding”, composite fillings are now widely used instead of amalgam (silver) fillings to repair teeth with cavities, and also to replace old defective fillings.  Tooth-colored fillings are also used to repair chipped, broken, or discolored teeth.  This type of filling is also very useful to fill in gaps and to protect sensitive, exposed root surfaces caused by gum recession.

Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are thin custom-made, tooth-colored shells that are bonded onto the fronts of teeth to create a beautiful individual smile.  They can help restore or camouflage damaged, discolored, poorly shaped, or misaligned teeth.  Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal tooth structure to be removed from the surface of the tooth.

Porcelain Crowns (caps): A crown is a tooth-colored, custom-made covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size.  Crowns protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.  They are ideal for teeth that have large, fractured or broken fillings and also for those that are badly decayed.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial roots that are surgically placed into the jaw to replace one or more missing teeth.  Porcelain crowns, bridges, and dentures can be made specifically to fit and attach to implants, giving a patient a strong, stable, and durable solution to removable dental appliances.

Orthodontics: Less visible and more effective brackets and wires are making straightening teeth with orthodontics much more appealing to adult patients.  Also, in some cases, teeth may be straightened with custom-made, clear, removable aligners that require no braces.

Thanks to the advances in modern dentistry, cosmetic treatments can make a difference in making your smile shine!  Visit us at  http://coxdds.com/ or call today at  704-263-8845

How Important Is Dental Floss?

Brushing our teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth.  Unfortunately, our toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline.  Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

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 (acids) that cause cavities and irritate and inflame the gums.  Also, when plaque is not removed above and below the gumline, it hardens and turns into calculus (tartar).  This will further irritate and inflame the gums and also slowly destroy the bone.  This is the beginning of periodontal disease.

How to floss properly:

• 
  
  Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
• 
  
  Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
• 
  
  Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline.  Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!

Call Ronald M Cox, DDS  for Your Dental Appointment Today!