Lafayette, LA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/02/2016 -- Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in the last few years. Porcelain leads the way in material used for crowns, bridges, and veneers. Dr. Ken LeBlanc impresses his patients with beautiful porcelain dental work.

Large fillings of amalgam (silver fillings) were neither attractive nor especially healthy for a tooth back in the day. Each time that decay was found in the same tooth, the filling was drilled out and a bigger filling took its place. "When the fillings get larger, the teeth get weaker. Eventually, when half of the tooth has been filled in that manner, and another restoration is necessary, it's time to get a crown," remarks Dr. LeBlanc.

Porcelain crowns are perfect to use where an old silver filling has used up its shelf life. What will happen is the tooth starts to break away from the filling and that's when a crown is required. Dr. LeBlanc uses metal-free crowns so there is no ugly metallic line on the edge of the crown. Dr. LeBlanc emphasizes, "At our dental practice we use durable, esthetic, natural looking materials that appear exactly like your own teeth."

A patient who has a missing tooth or a couple of missing teeth will be excited to hear that those gaps can be easily replaced with a fixed porcelain bridge. The porcelain can be sculpted to duplicate the look of natural tooth enamel. Bridges are semi-permanent, but are long-lasting and strong.

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain that are bonded onto the front side of teeth. The primary purpose for placing veneers is to improve the appearance of teeth. If an individual has dental problems such as teeth that are discolored, worn, chipped or misshapen, or are slightly misaligned, dental veneers are the solution for such issues. Deep, tetracycline stains can also be removed from a smile with this procedure. Dr. LeBlanc can also use veneers to close large gaps between teeth for a flawless smile.

About Dr. Ken LeBlanc
A proud native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Dr. Ken LeBlanc draws on his 37+ years of dental experience to craft impeccable smiles for his patients. Dr. Leblanc sees himself not only as a highly trained dentist, but as an artist, creating beautiful smiles on the living canvasses of his patient's lives.

To make an appointment with Dr. Ken LeBlanc, call 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/16/2016 -- Endodontics deals with diseases of the tissue, blood vessels, and nerves inside the tooth. The most common endodontic treatment is called a "root canal," a procedure used to remove infected tissue and refill the nerve canal inside the tooth. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental treatment for removing infection from inside of a tooth. A root canal procedure allows the patient to keep his natural tooth while eliminating the infection.

"Once the infection is removed, I'll clean, shape and sterilize the empty area using tiny rotary files. Next, I'll fill the tooth with a rubber-like material and special cement which seals all the canals," remarks Dr. LeBlanc. "After root canal therapy, the tooth is dead. The patient will no longer feel any pain in that tooth because the nerve tissue has been removed, and the infection is eliminated."

There are a number of myths surrounding "root canals". The most common myth is that root canal therapy is terribly painful. This couldn't be further from the truth when the treatment is performed by a dentist who has had intense training in root canal therapy or an endodontist. An endodontist, as defined by the American Board of Endodontists, is a dental specialist in the treatment of diseases and injuries to the dental pulp, root and surrounding tissues of the teeth who receive a "certificate in Endodontics" after an additional 2-3 years of training after completing dental school.

Another myth is that root canal treatment causes illness and disease elsewhere in the body. This false claim is based on long-debunked and poorly designed research conducted nearly a century ago by Dr. Weston A. Price, at a time before medicine understood the causes of many diseases. "There is no valid, scientific evidence linking root canal-treated teeth and disease elsewhere in the body," says Dr. LeBlanc.

An old ''wives tale'' also contributes to these myths claiming that the best way to deal with a painful tooth is to pull it. Dr. Ken LeBlanc states, "Nothing could be further from the truth. Saving natural teeth is the very best option."

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc didn't stop learning once he graduated from dental school. He keeps up with the latest developments in his field by taking continuing education courses. He teaches second year dental students at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/19/2016 -- One of the most important issues to be concerned about when aging is the importance of taking good care of one's teeth and oral health. People think that losing their teeth is a foregone conclusion, but that is not true. If cared for properly, teeth can last a lifetime.

"A lot of changes occur as individuals get older. The nerves of the teeth get smaller, making teeth less sensitive to cavities or other problems. Of added concern may be the presence of systemic disease that not only influences the patient's ability to maintain good oral hygiene and promotion of oral health, but can actually be related to the occurrence of certain oral diseases," states Dr. LeBlanc.

Follow the tips listed below to keep a healthy mouth:

-Brush twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles. Some people benefit from using an electric toothbrush.

-Clean between teeth once a day with floss or another flossing tool.

-If an individual wears full or partial dentures, don't forget to clean them on a daily basis. Take dentures out for at least four hours every day. It's best to remove them at night.

-Drink tap water. Since most contains fluoride, it helps prevent tooth decay no matter a person's age.

-Quit smoking. Besides being at greater risk for lung and other cancers, smoking increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.

-Visit the dentist regularly for a complete dental check-up.

-Adequate nutrition is a vital factor in promoting health and the wellbeing of the aged.

By adopting healthy oral habits at home, making smart choices about diet and lifestyle, and seeking regular dental care, helps teeth last a lifetime. The above tips also apply to caretakers for older parents, a spouse or a friend that can't maintain good oral health anymore. These steps can prevent many problems, but tasks that once seemed so simple can become very challenging.

When caring for someone who is confined to bed, they may have so many health problems that it's easy to forget about oral health. Dr. LeBlanc remarks, "However, it's still very important because bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs and cause pneumonia."

A proud native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Dr. Ken LeBlanc draws on his 36+ years of dental experience to provide impeccable smiles for his patients.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/13/2016 -- Thirty million Americans, who have diabetes, know the damaging impact the disease can have on nerves, eyes, kidneys, heart and other organs. Diabetes can also impact dental health.

People with diabetes are at risk of developing serious gum disease which may make it more difficult to control blood glucose. The higher a person's blood sugar, the higher the glucose levels in saliva. This situation can lead to an increase in harmful bacteria in the mouth, which can cause tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

With time, plaque hardens into tartar that collects above the gum line and makes it harder to brush and clean between the teeth. The buildup can also cause gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease which causes gums to become red, swollen, and more likely to bleed when brushed and flossed.

Dr. LeBlanc says, "Diabetics need to be diligent in the health care of their teeth and gums. It will require more work and attention, but following these tips can help to prevent excessive tartar buildup, gingivitis and periodontal disease."

- Control glucose levels through blood monitoring and A1C tests
- Brush teeth at least twice a day with a soft brush with rounded ends on the bristles
- Floss teeth every day to reduce plaque and tartar buildup
- Teeth should be professionally cleaned at least every six months
- Be sure to let the dentist know if any changes occur
- Quit smoking

Gingivitis and serious gum disease can sometimes be painless. In addition to regular cleanings, call the dentist right away if any of these warning signs appear.

- Bleeding gums or gums that are swollen, tender or red
- Gums pulled away from teeth that expose some of a tooth's root
- Pus between the teeth and gums (when pressing on the gums)
- Bad breath, even after brushing teeth regularly
- Sores that don't heal
- Permanent teeth that are loose

"Good dental habits combined with ongoing and regular professional care from your dentist are smart ways to protect a healthy smile, but for diabetics, they're essential steps in diabetes management and can help slow the progression of the disease," states Dr. LeBlanc.

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc feels deeply gratified when he is able to literally change someone's life because of his skills. He considers himself fortunate to be able to craft beautiful smiles for patients who have been told by others that nothing could be done for them.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/22/2016 -- Dr. Ken LeBlanc, knows that implants are very important and encouraging to those who have lost teeth. Dental implants are focused on opening up more possibilities for patients with missing teeth, as they do not limit the patient in the area of diet or functionality.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. "Dental implants can dramatically change how you feel about your smile, whether you are missing one, a few, or all of your teeth," states Dr. LeBlanc. Dental implants keep your jaw strong and youthful looking. It is as if you have your natural smile back– the look, feel and function. Many patients who are missing some or all of their teeth are best served with implants rather than other forms of dentistry. "It's your life, why not enjoy it?" says Dr. Ken LeBlanc.

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in the jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dr. LeBlanc will work with a patient to make their dream of a beautiful smile come true.

Dental implants can be used to support a number of dental prostheses, including crowns, implant-supported bridges or dentures. For a dental implant procedure to work, there must be enough bone in the jaw, and the bone has to be strong enough to hold and support the implant. In the case where there is not enough bone, more may need to be added with a bone graft procedure.

In addition, natural teeth and supporting tissues near where the implant will be placed must be in good health. The amount of healing time is different for each patient and depends on variables such as the quality and quantity of bone, as well as the type of implant placed.

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc has chosen not only to serve his existing patients, but to have a meaningful impact on countless other patients by passing his skills onto a new generation of dentists. Dr. LeBlanc teaches Clinical Operative Dentistry to Second Year Dental Students.

Make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc by calling, 337-406-9994

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/02/2015 -- Implants are very encouraging to those who have lost a tooth or a number of teeth. They do not limit the patient in regard to diet or functionality. Dental implants keep the jaw strong and youthful looking. Can we say that about dentures?

Dr. Ken LeBlanc can help his patients who have lost all or some of their teeth on either the top or the bottom or both with implant supported dentures. These patients will enjoy all the attributes of regular implants and they will be better served than other forms of dentistry, like full dentures, partials or fixed bridges. As Dr. LeBlanc is fond of saying about implants, "It's your life, why not enjoy it?"

Any number of implants from two to six can be used to stabilize dentures with the average being four. They are placed where there is the most jawbone, just as though the person was getting regular implants. If there isn't enough jawbone, autogenous bone (grafts taken from the patient's own rib or the iliac crest of the hip) or freeze dried cadaver bone can be used to build up the jawbone to the necessary density.

Denture implants consist of the same material and procedure as regular implants. A titanium screw is placed in the jawbone, but instead of a crown being placed atop the implant, a snap or a clip is secured. The denture receives the other half of the snap and is snapped onto the implant in the jawbone. Stabilization of the denture is the biggest asset to implant supported dentures as it keeps the denture from coming loose, slipping or falling out and greatly increases chewing ability.

Regular dentures are removed and cleaned every day whereas some implant supported dentures are affixed permanently in the mouth and have to be removed by the dentist to be professionally cleaned. Most Implant supported dentures using an o-ring type retentive snap (the most common form of denture attachments) are removed by the patient to clean on a regular daily basis. The Implants are brushed clean with a tooth brush just as anybody would brush their natural teeth. The denture can be cleaned by using a soft tooth brush and/or using commercially available denture cleansers. The cleaned Denture is then "snapped" back into place by the patient.

About Dr. Ken LeBlanc
A proud native of Lafayette, LA, Dr. Ken LeBlanc draws on his 36+ years of dental experience to craft impeccable smiles for his patients. Dr. LeBlanc sees himself not only as a highly trained dentist, but as an artist creating beautiful smiles on the living canvasses of his patient's lives.

To make an appointment with Dr. Ken LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/08/2015 -- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in America. It affects about 12.7 million adults. Stopping smoking helps reduce complications of COPD and recent research has shown that good oral hygiene also may reduce the disease's toll on people's health. Tobacco use also increases the risk for oral cancer, leads to tooth decay, and causes bad breath. Kicking the habit is key to improving both overall well-being and oral health.

"Something as easy as brushing twice a day and flossing regularly may not feel like much, but doing so rids harmful bacteria from your mouth and helps protect overall health, explains Dr. LeBlanc.

Without regular brushing, bacteria build up along the gums, teeth, and tongue. Bacteria that stick around too long can cause infection along the teeth and gums and increase inflammation in the mouth.

Poor oral health and inadequate dental care may actually worsen COPD symptoms. For example, bacteria from the mouth have been linked to respiratory infections in the airways. It's not completely clear how poor oral hygiene is connected to COPD flare-ups, but researchers suspect that oral health may indicate an individual's overall health status.

Dr. Ken LeBlanc says, "By following the tips below you can know that you are contributing to good health. Always use a toothbrush with a soft bristle. These brushes are labeled "soft" on the packaging. Using brushes labeled "medium," for example, may irritate your gum line allowing bacteria to get in. This can be a sensitive area if you have COPD."

- Change out that old toothbrush every three to four months. Worn toothbrushes don't do a good job of getting rid of bacteria and food particles.

- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums when brushing. Make short, tooth-wide, back-and-forth strokes.

- Don't forget to brush the tongue. Bacteria live there, too.

- Use toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride matters because it strengthens tooth enamel.

- Floss. Toothpaste and brushing don't catch everything. Floss at least once a day between each tooth. Floss grabs bacteria between the teeth before they can form into plaque.

Dr. LeBlanc considers himself an artist in cosmetic dentistry because of his ability to create beautiful smiles for patients who thought nothing could be done for them.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/26/2015 -- In the past, an individual who lost a tooth due to decay, an accident, or gum disease was faced with only two options—they could either get a bridge placed or simply live with an imperfect smile, dietary restrictions, and jaw shrinkage. Today, Dr. Ken LeBlanc makes use of technological advancements to provide many more solutions that aid in restoring a smile to its natural beauty.

Patients missing only one tooth may opt for a bridge, which will prevent the remaining teeth from shifting. This preserves the bite and the shape of the face. A bridge consists of two crowns placed on either side of the gap to hold a false tooth in between. The downside is that it requires two good teeth to be sacrificed; these adjacent teeth will have to be ground down to stubs in order for the crowns to be placed.

Those with multiple missing teeth may require a partial denture, which is attached to the surrounding teeth with clasps or crowns. Partial dentures can be removed for easy cleaning.

Dr. LeBlanc personally believes that dental implants are the best solution for missing teeth because of their natural look and durability. Dental implants can be used to support a single restoration, a bridge, or even full dentures. They are constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material that effectively attaches to bone.

Dr. LeBlanc explains, "Implants serve as the artificial root to which new teeth are bonded. The placement of dental implants can help prevent jawbone loss, a very common problem associated with missing teeth."

The procedure for dental implant placement typically involves three steps: the implant insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of healing for the jawbone), and the placing of the crown or new tooth.

"Ultimately, cosmetic dentistry gives me a chance to bring out a patient's true character and beauty," concludes Dr. LeBlanc, "It helps to restore their self-confidence."

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc, call (337) 406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/26/2015 -- A recent innovation in dental treatment, laser dentistry is now being used to treat a myriad of dental problems.

The beneficial effects of lasers have been proven through years of research in medicine and, in the last decade, by researchers in the dental field. "Laser dentistry is a safe, easy, and effective tool that eliminates the need for traditional gum surgery, particularly in the area of gum disease treatment," notes Dr. Ken LeBlanc.

Dental lasers make use of a strong beam of concentrated light energy that is aimed at a selected area. The accuracy of the light energy, directed exactly where it is needed, is a huge advantage uniquely associated with laser dentistry. These directed laser beams can treat gum disease, de-sensitize teeth, and even whiten teeth.

Dr. LeBlanc adds, "The thing about laser dentistry that my patients appreciate the most is that there is virtually no pain involved in the procedure. Therefore, no local anesthetic such as Novocain is needed. This is because the lasers allow us to have such highly selective, precise control."

Other benefits of laser dentistry include reduced bleeding, post-op pain, and trauma. The lasers encourage the healing process, minimizing the discomfort that is typically associated with most surgical dental procedures. In addition, having the laser procedure performed also kills bacteria in the mouth.

An example of a dental procedure that makes use of laser dentistry is gum tissue contouring, a cosmetic procedure performed in Dr. LeBlanc's office. Gum tissue contouring involves having a patient's gums reshaped in order to improve the appearance of their smile, or as part of other periodontal procedures, such as crown lengthening or pocket reduction.

"Most dentists use scalpels, lasers, and radio-surgery to perform the gum tissue contouring procedure. We use a no-scalpel surgical method called electro-surgery or radio wave surgery," says Dr. LeBlanc, "but we explain the differences in treatment methods so our patients can make an informed decision."

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc offers comprehensive, preventive, esthetic, and restorative care for the quality-focused patient. His practice provides care that combines artistry with the latest dental technologies for a healthier and more confident smile.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc, call (337) 406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/19/2014 -- Diabetes is not a condition that can be reversed. Because of this, diabetics have to take special steps in order to stay healthy and to avoid oral diseases such as periodontitis (gum disease). Being diabetic puts an individual at a greater risk of developing oral health problems. Regular visits with Dr. Ken LeBlanc can help to minimize these risks.

Dr. LeBlanc explains, "Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects your body's ability to process sugar. The resulting high blood sugar negatively affects your eyes, nerves, organs and your gums and teeth. Diabetics often suffer from diminished saliva production, which can hinder the cleansing of bacteria from the mouth."

Gum disease can be a major problem for diabetics as research shows that diabetes increases the likelihood of gum disease. As a result of lowered resistance, diabetics with gum disease are more likely to incur infections, slowing down their healing time. This is because blood sugar is hard to control, especially if the patient has an infection. Treating gum disease in people with diabetes can therefore help improve blood sugar control.

Diabetics are also susceptible to fungal infections that result in painful sores in the mouth, making swallowing difficult. A dentist should be consulted immediately if a fungal infection develops.

In the event that a diabetic requires substantial oral surgery, the dentist will probably prescribe antibiotics to ward off infections. It is important for the blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels to be kept under control before, during and after the surgery.

Additionally, good care must be taken care of the teeth and overall health. Professional cleanings at the dental office can help control the progression of gum disease and other oral health problems. The dentist may also recommend more frequent evaluations and preventive procedures to maintain good oral health.

"Patients who are smokers should quit smoking as soon as possible," advises Dr. LeBlanc, "There are numerous support groups available to help them kick the habit. A well-known support group can be reached at 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669)."

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc has taken hundreds of hours of Continuing Education courses in all areas of dentistry.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc, call 337-406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/14/2014 -- Southern hospitality, defined by graciousness and warmth, means Dr. LeBlanc and his dental team roll out the red carpet to welcome patients. The practice is located in Lafayette, LA in Cajun country where Dr. LeBlanc's father, Dr. Andrew LeBlanc began providing dentistry over seventy years ago.

Upon entering the practice, patients will feel a sense of the stereotypical Old South with its fine decor and beautiful furnishings. It can make a person feel like they have stepped into another era, but that is as far as the "old" goes, because this is definitely not an old-time dental practice. Modern, cosmetic dentistry is practiced here and it has been honed to a fine art.

Dr. LeBlanc's favorite pastime is collecting antique paintings and painting portraits of family members and local residents. His penchant for portrait painting has been featured in Lifestyle Lafayette, a local society magazine. Dr. LeBlanc uses only oil paints and is a self-taught artist.

Dr. LeBlanc and his staff take advantage of up-to-date technology and employ successful cosmetic procedures to change a smile so it is gallery worthy.

Call (337) 406-9994 to set up a consultation with Dr. LeBlanc.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Many individuals who have stained teeth wish their teeth were whiter and brighter. They may have tried whitening strips, whitening toothpaste or an over the counter whitening treatment – but the products have not worked. Now, there is a whitening system by KöR that guarantees a healthy and natural looking white smile.

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/30/2014 -- Dr. Ken LeBlanc recently incorporated the KoeR Whitening System into the cosmetic services he offers his patients. Other whitening systems are able to rid teeth of stains caused by coffee, tea, or red wine, but none of them have been effective on tetracycline-stained teeth, which tend to be gray or bluish in color. "The fact that the KoeR Whitening System can whiten tetracycline-stained teeth is great for my patients who were given tetracycline at a young age while their teeth were still developing," states Dr. LeBlanc. The results of the system are permanent and safe for teeth and gums.

Tetracycline was invented to replace penicillin, but the developers of the antibiotic were not aware the drug would interfere with the coloring of the tooth enamel in developing teeth. Before KoeR Whitening System came on the market, people were left with few options to whiten their stained teeth. Individuals learned to live with their stained teeth or opted for porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns, but only certain veneers would work because veneers are very thin and the stain would show through the veneer. Financially, whitening your teeth is a much less expensive option than veneers or crowns.

Dr. LeBlanc remarks, "It has been a challenge to find something that would whiten tetracycline-stained teeth. Patients that suffer from this condition have given up on the whitening systems that have been available up until recently. The KoeR Whitening System has given them a reason to be excited. Finally, they will be able to have a bright white smile."

Cosmetic dentist and bleaching expert Dr. Rod Kurthy developed the KoeR Whitening System. Some teeth-whitening products cause teeth to become sensitive, but the KoeR Whitening System has low to no sensitivity issues and is a comfortable, easy process. Dr. LeBlanc comments, "Since it is permanent there is no need to give up coffee, tea or red wine and it's perfect for ages 14 to 90 years old."

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc has taken hundreds of hours of continuing education courses in all areas of dentistry with a focus on cosmetic dentistry. To make an appointment call (337) 406-9994.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), as many as 24 million Americans suffer from some form of eating disorder. There is no fast cure, but in the last few years there has been a focus on preventive methodologies of eating disorders before the onset of the disorder. Dr. Ken LeBlanc says, “Programs have sprung-up everywhere, designed to promote early identification, so that eating disorders can be treated before they spiral out of control.”

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/29/2014 -- There are two main eating disorders most often heard and talked about; bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa. In contrast to bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that is basically self-imposed starvation. Long-term problems associated with eating disorders include osteoporosis, infertility and anemia. "Poor dental health is another unfortunate side-effect of eating disorders," remarks Dr. LeBlanc. If a person suffers from bulimia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by a cycle of food binges and vomiting, the person's teeth may show signs of tooth erosion from the acids in the stomach that constantly bathe the teeth.

Dental diseases in each disorder happen for different reasons, in bulimia, tooth erosion is caused by stomach acid, which is highly acidic and damaging. How often a person engages in this activity will determine how badly the teeth are affected. Usually, the erosion is first noticed on the upper front teeth. The salivary glands can become enlarged in more severe cases causing the side of the face to become puffy. Anorexics, on the other hand, may have dental problems because they are often negligent about hygiene and grooming in general, including oral hygiene.

"Every time your teenager visits our office, we will conduct a thorough examination, which includes looking out for the specific signs of eating disorders. If we do find that your teenager has severe tooth erosion, we'll be sure to discuss our findings with you," remarks Dr. LeBlanc. Dr. LeBlanc may recommend a sodium fluoride mouth rinse to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce its loss. Most importantly, Dr. LeBlanc urges speaking with the child and seeking guidance from a professional to help deal with the issue.

Signs of eating disorders include obsessing about dieting, continuously talking about calories, fats, and carbs, becoming anxious around food and panicking if unable to exercise or work out. If a friend or child has these symptoms call Dr. LeBlanc at (337) 406-9994 for help.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Periodontal disease, usually called gum disease, is a silently-destructive infection that comes from about 500 species of bacteria in your mouth that are known to also infect the organs of the body. These circulating bacteria cause an inflammatory response throughout the body.

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/26/2014 -- "According to published statistics, more than 60 million people in the U.S. show signs of periodontal (gum) disease, a slowly-developing bacterial infection that affects gum tissue and even the bone that anchors the teeth. When gum disease advances, enzymes excreted by the bacteria break down the gum tissue. Soon, gum tissues are breached and bacteria are free to enter the body's circulatory system," remarks Dr. Ken LeBlanc. For "at risk" patients, this additional stress is likely to have a complicating effect on pre-existing medical conditions.

The red flags of periodontal disease are easily noticeable. The most obvious signs are blood on your toothbrush after brushing, gums bleeding after flossing and aching, inflamed or puffy gums. Other indicators are pus around the base of the teeth and sharp pain when chewing or biting.

Periodontal disease triggers a series of chemical events that increase an inflammatory response. If the heart and arteries become swollen, it can result in blood clots, leading to heart attack or stroke. In addition, periodontal bacteria might also adhere to the lining inside the heart, which may cause infective endocarditis (IE). Also called bacterial endocarditis (BE), it is an infection caused by bacteria that enter the bloodstream and settle in the heart lining, a heart valve or a blood vessel. People with good oral hygiene are less likely to develop endocarditis.

Researchers in Finland studied the correlation between the number of missing teeth lost due to gum disease in a person and the rate of diagnosed heart disease in the group. They concluded gum disease was found to increase the risk of heart attack by as much as 25%. It increases the risk of stroke by 1,000%. "When you visit our hygienists to treat your gum disease, you are helping prevent cardiovascular problems from developing," states Dr. LeBlanc.

While people with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease, it hasn't been clear which comes first. Two decades ago, scientists at Columbia University's School of Public Health did research on individuals who were not diabetics. The results showed if a person had advanced periodontal disease, they doubled the chance of contracting diabetes.

Dr. Ken LeBlanc concludes, "It is no longer good enough to just keep watch on trouble spots in the gums. Instead, aggressively controlling periodontal disease will be a critical action step in preserving and improving our patients' overall health and their enjoyment of life. In fact, it will mean that if our patients' teeth and gums are not healthy, we can assume that they are not healthy overall." If you develop any of the symptoms of periodontal disease call Dr. Ken LeBlanc at 337-406-9994 and make an appointment.

About Dr. LeBlanc
Dr. LeBlanc considers himself an artist in cosmetic dentistry because of his ability to create beautiful smiles for patients who thought nothing could be done for them. Dr. LeBlanc is a member of the following professional organizations: The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (general member since 1993), The Academy of General Dentistry (since 1979), The American Dental Association (since 1979), The Louisiana Dental Association (since 1979) and many more.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Dr. Ken LeBlanc, located in Lafayette, LA, knows implants are very encouraging to those who have lost teeth. The focus of dental implants are include opening up more possibilities for missing teeth without limiting the patient in the area of diet or functionality.

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/20/2013 -- A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. "Dental implants can dramatically change how you feel about your smile today, and for the rest of your life, whether you are missing one, a few, or all of your teeth," states Dr. LeBlanc. Dentures many times weaken your jaw and cause it to recede. Dental implants keep your jaw strong and youthful looking. It is as if you have your natural smile back – the look, feel and function. Many patients who are missing some or all of their teeth are better served with implants rather than other forms of dentistry, like full dentures, partials, or fixed bridges. "It's your life, why not enjoy it?" adds Dr. LeBlanc.

The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dr. LeBlanc will work with you to make your dreams come true.

A dental implant is a "root" device, usually made of titanium, used in dentistry to support restorations that resemble a tooth or group of teeth to replace missing teeth. Virtually all dental implants placed today are root-form implants. They appear similar to an actual tooth root and are placed within the jaw bone. The bone of the jaw accepts and fuses with the titanium post. Dental implants can be used to support a number of dental prostheses, including crowns, implant-supported bridges or dentures. For a dental implant procedure to work, there must be enough bone in the jaw, and the bone has to be strong enough to hold and support the implant. If there is not enough bone, more may need to be added with a bone graft procedure. In addition, natural teeth and supporting tissues near where the implant will be placed must be in good health. The amount of healing time is different for each patient and depends on variables such as the quality and quantity of bone, as well as the type of implant placed. When Dr. LeBlanc determines that the patient has healed adequately, he will use the implant to support a crown, bridge, or denture—completing the process and leaving your smile looking 100% natural.

Dr. LeBlanc's goal is a completely successful procedure, which includes placing enough implants to secure the restorations needed for a healthy, whole smile. It's a waste of time and money to have an implant fail due to an inadequate number of implants being placed to support the teeth. Dr. LeBlanc and his friendly, experienced team will develop a plan that takes into account your individual needs and resources.

After treatment, Dr. LeBlanc will work closely with you to develop the best care plan for your complete oral health. Periodic follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your implant, teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy.

"Your own teeth require conscientious at-home oral care and regular dental visits. Dental implants are like your own teeth and will require the same care. In order to keep your implant clean and plaque-free, brushing and flossing still apply," remarks Dr. LeBlanc.

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Dr. Ken LeBlanc has been invited by The Dental Library national organization to launch and take the helm as a contributing author for TheDentalLibraryOfLafayette.com.

Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/02/2013 -- Dr. Ken LeBlanc is actively involved in the communities of Lafayette, Louisiana and the surrounding area.

After graduating from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in 1979, Dr. LeBlanc practiced with his father until 1984, at which time his father retired. Since that time, he has continued to provide quality dental care to the people of Lafayette and the nearby parishes.

Dr. LeBlanc considers himself an artist in cosmetic dentistry because of his ability to create beautiful smiles for patients who thought nothing could be done for them. "I've always been involved in doing things with an artistic leaning and always working with my hands. Cosmetic dentistry gives me a chance to bring out a patient's true character and beauty. It helps to restore their self-confidence," says Dr. LeBlanc.

The Dental Library is an assembly of local, prominent dental professionals who have agreed to research and write about dental issues and developments for their local area.

TheDentalLibraryOfLafayette.com is meant to offer important news and information about changes and opportunities in dentistry specific to this geographic area.

The Dental Library finds related information on technologies, trends and techniques in today's dental world. On your local Dental Library website, you'll discover up-to-date news about dentistry and the potential impact on your family's future dental care.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm