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Diabetes is quickly becoming one of the most frequently diagnosed systemic diseases for both children and adults. There are a wide range of factors affecting the surge in diabetes, including increased added sugar in the modern American diet, the prevalence of obesity and a more sedentary lifestyle. Although you may not think of your dental health when considering the affects of diabetes, Monroe, NC Dentist Dr. Leonard Hess sees the affects that diabetes can have on the teeth and gums and works with diabetic patients to improve both oral and overall health through better oral hygiene. How Does Diabetes Affect Dental Health? When someone is diabetic, the body is either unable to produce insulin or is struggling to use insulin properly in order to remain healthy. In both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, patients need to monitor blood sugar daily and alter their lifestyle habits to avoid serious health complications. What does this mean for your dental health? Fluctuations in blood sugar affect the health of the teeth and gums, but this can also be a two way street! Patients with diabetes who do not have their blood sugar in control are more likely to develop periodontal disease. But advanced gum disease can also adversely affect the progression of diabetes. Either way- maintaining good oral health is important for diabetic patients to both control disease and avoid complex dental concerns. Diabetic patients experience tooth loss at a higher rate than the rest of the adult population. Diabetes affects the integrity of the immune system and put patients at a higher risk for bacterial infections such as advanced gum disease. Routine dental care provides Dr. Hess the opportunity to closely monitor the gum health of diabetic patients and offer individualized oral hygiene advice to help maintain oral health between visits. In addition to regular dental care, keeping blood sugar stable through diet, exercise and proper medication will provide the best possible quality of life and reduce the risk of stroke, vision problems and other health issues commonly associated with diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and have oral health concerns or have been away from the dentist for some time, contact our Monroe, NC dentist office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Hess. We accept new patients and can help you to restore a healthy smile .

Dental anxiety or fear of the dentist is one of the most common reasons people avoid routine dental care. Dental anxiety is a real condition affecting many people, and can often be the result of a previous bad experience in the dentist chair. Monroe dentist, Dr. Hess wants to help patients feel calm, confident and in control while they receive dental treatments. Dr. Hess understands the struggles of dental anxiety and takes the time to discuss your dental concerns. Simply discussing the dental treatment may put you at ease. Dr. Hess will also take the time to fully explain a dental procedure as well as answer any questions you may have. For many, this can reduce their anxious feelings and enable them to overcome dental fears without sedation. If you postpone your routine visits with the dentist for too long, there can be serious negative outcomes. Losing your teeth is one of the most serous consequences of avoiding the dentist. Periodontal disease or tooth decay can form and if left untreated, will lead to major problems including tooth loss. Painful toothaches, stained teeth and bad breath are other outcomes of skipping your routine visits with us. Dr. Hess and his team know patients can be scared of coming to the dentist and we want to help. We never judge patients for their dental anxiety and want to work with you to help you feel calm and relaxed. Our caring and experienced staff will talk with you during a cleaning, let you see any dental instrument that will be used and explain what is going to happen during your visit before getting started.

Are you embarrassed to smile? Are you afraid to show your teeth? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then cosmetic dentistry can help you gain the confidence to share your natural smile once again while improving your dental health. Monroe, NC cosmetic dentist Dr. Leonard Hess has gone through advanced training to be able to help meet your unique cosmetic needs and goals. Cosmetic dentistry enhances the appearance of your smile and there are many options to fix unwanted gaps, discoloration and even damaged or missing teeth. Looking for inspiration or want to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry and treatment options? Visit yoursmilebecomesyou.com before visiting our Monroe, NC office for your consultation. The most common cosmetic dentistry procedure requested today is professional teeth whitening, where the dentist uses a bleaching agent to restore a brighter, whiter smile. Discoloration of teeth is a frequent concern and Dr. Hess offers services that are far superior to those that are available over-the-counter for a long-lasting white smile. For chipped, damaged or worn teeth, Dr. Hess offers tooth bonding and dental crowns that look and feel natural. A dental crown restores a tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance. This type of treatment places a “cap” over the tooth to protect and reinforce it, preventing further deterioration. Another common cosmetic treatment option is invisible braces. This treatment is an alternative to metal braces used to align the teeth and correct mild to moderate bite concerns. Invisalign uses clear, removable retainers to address crowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite and underbite. Porcelain veneers are another cosmetic option that can close gaps, repair teeth, cover stained teeth, and improve the overall appearance of your smile. With today’s technology, porcelain veneers cover the teeth with an ultra thin porcelain shell that looks and feels like your natural teeth. There is no reason to be embarrassed by your teeth when there are a variety of options that can enhance your smile. Let Dr. Hess in Monroe, NC help decide which cosmetic treatment is best for you. After discussing your concerns, goals, and budget, Dr. Monroe will recommend a viable solution. Improving your smile will boost your confidence and your overall quality of life.