Friday, September 18, 2015

Keeping your teeth white by voiding these foods and habits

Did you just recently whitening your teeth? Are you determined to keep those pearly whites? Or are you interested in professional teeth whitening? It can be normal for teeth to become stained or discolored, even with proper oral hygiene and care. If you have stains on your teeth that are getting in the way of your beautiful smile, then fight back
.
Here are some foods that stain your teeth:

  1.   Red Wine- it’s an acidic beverage that contains tannins, known for staining teeth.
  2.    Tea – just like wine, it contains tannins. You should stick with herbal green and white teas          instead of black teas.
  3.    Coffee –although, it’s low in tannins, it contains chromogens, also known for staining teeth.
  4.  Cola Drinks – it’s an acidic beverage that contains chromogens. Even light colored colas can stain your teeth. Most carbonated beverages have similar acidity to battery acid and it promotes staining. 
  5. Sport Drinks – it’s a high acidic beverage that softens up your enamel and it sets the stage for staining.
  6.  Berries – strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cranberries are all intensely colored fruits that cause stains.
  7.  Sauces – tomato sauce, curry sauce, soy sauce also contain dark colors that cause stains.
  8. Candies – if your tongue turns a funny color then chances are your teeth will too.  Besides, eating candies allows you more prone to dental cavities.


Here are some habits that can help keep your teeth bright:
1.       Brush, Floss and Rinse
2.       Drink with a straw
3.       Swish with water after drinking or eating high-staining foods
4.       Don’t smoke
5.       Whitening your teeth professionally
6.       Use take-home professional whitening kits

Professional teeth whitening are generally safer than those bought online or in a store because not everything is approved by the American Dental Association (there’s usually a good reason for that). However, professional teeth whitening kits aren’t for everyone and should always be consulted with your dentist first. If you have sensitive teeth, gum disease, dental cavities, or excessive white spots on your teeth then those need to be addressed prior to any whitening.


 Our Marietta Dentist, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to learn more about teeth whitening and how to get the smile you always dreamed of. Please contact our office at 770-423-4900 or schedule an appointment for a consultation. 

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Health Mouth = Healthy Body

Healthy Mouth = Healthy Body

Researchers are still studying how bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease play a role in “systemic” problems, meaning it affects the body as a whole. The mouth is a considered a window of the body by showing signs in nutritional deficiencies and general infection. Diabetes, AIDS, Sjogren’s syndrome become apparent because of mouth lesions and other oral problems. Maintaining healthy gums is important for people who are susceptible to bacterial pneumonia including the elderly, people prone to respiratory infections and weak immune systems.

The mouth is filled with countless bacteria linked to tooth decay and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can destroy bone and tissues that support the teeth. Cardiovascular disease, strokes, diabetes, pre-term deliveries in pregnant women and low birth weight are all potential links with periodontal gum. Preventing periodontal disease is an important step in maintaining your overall health.

We all live in a health-conscious society and all ages recognize the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Cleaning thoroughly by brushing and flossing at least twice a day is important part of in preventing gum disease. Scheduling regular dental visits, eating a balanced diet, limiting unhealthy foods and snacks will also reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease and dental cavities.


Our Marietta Dentists, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to our office to learn more about to keep your mouth and body healthy. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment if you are already showing signs of periodontal disease which include: bleeding gums during brushing and flossing, red or swollen gums, receding gums, and loose teeth.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Why Dental X-rays are Necessary


What are dental x-rays used for?
Dental x-rays are radiographic images that allows your local dentist in Marietta to diagnose and treat any oral health conditions. Dental x-rays help dentists visualize conditions of the teeth and surrounding tissue that cannot be seen with the naked eye during an oral exam.  Dental abscesses, cysts, tumors, periodontal gum disease, decay underneath fillings or in between teeth and the location of impacted or unerupted teeth are all detected with dental x-rays.

How often should teeth be x-rayed?

The frequency depends on your current dental or medical history and even your dentist’s preference. Many people get dental x-rays are often as every 6 months while others may only get them once a year, or every couple of years or for a dental emergency.  People, who fall into the high risk category, requiring x-rays more often, include: children, adults with current or existing extensive dental work, people who assume a lot of sugary drinks, smokers, adults who have periodontal disease history, and those who suffer from dry mouth.

How safe are dental x-rays?

Any exposure to radiation has its risk; however, there have been many advances in dentistry regarding digital x-rays that has helped in making the radiation exposure small.  Patients who receive chest x-rays, mammograms, and/or CT scans are exposed to far more radiation than dental x-rays. Radiation exposure can come from the sun, flying in an airplane, minerals in the soil, home appliances, and even sleeping next to someone. During the dental exposure process, you will be provided with a lead apron to wear for your protection and safety.

Our Marietta Dentists, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to learn more about the benefits of dental x-rays, please contact our office at 770-423-4900 or schedule an appointment for a consultation. 

Monday, August 17, 2015

Why Are you Avoiding the Dentist?

I'm terrified! 

If you’re a dentist hater, your reasons don’t usually include hating the actually dentist.  Instead it’s all the stuff that dentists do that creep you out – the drilling, the filling, and the billing. You are not alone because many people dread going to the dental office but if you learn to understand why you avoid them it might help you overcome your fear(s). It’s unfortunate because by avoiding the dentist office you risk your overall dental health.  

So why are you avoiding the dental office? The answer may include a range of reasons including:

  • Cost – Many people avoid the dental office because they are afraid of what it might cost but the truth is that if you take good care of your teeth and mouth, yearly visits and dental cleanings won’t cost a ton of money. If dental concerns are addressed early enough, your solutions may be easier and less expensive. 

  • Anxiety – Many people are simply just afraid of the dentist, however, there are a number of things at Verde Pointe Dental Associates to help minimize any fear. There’s always pleasant music playing, warm blankets, and a cinemizer to allow patients to watch movies. But, most of all there’s always a positive working environment and excellent communication with all patients. 

  • Being Lectured - Its human nature to want to avoid bad news, especially, if you’ve been neglecting your oral health, such as brushing and flossing. Many patients have the fear of lecture on their minds due to guilt as they know better and they just simply don’t want to hear about it. The best way to address this is by voicing your fear to your local dentist and allowing them the opportunity to reassure you so you can get back on track. 

  • Bad Past Experiences – Did you ever have a bad experience?  If so, sometimes it’s hard to let go and move on. Unfortunately, your brain is wired for fear so you have a hard time trusting a new dentist, therefore, you just avoid them all together.  Again, by talking about it and addressing your concerns it will not only help you feel more comfortable but it will also help your new dentist understand your fears.  


Unfortunately, dental horror stories are retold like spooky campfire tales. Don’t let a friend-of-a friend’s story stop you from getting the dental care you need. Our Marietta Dentist, KirkKimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to our dental practice to learn more about what is offered and how we can help you overcome your dental fears. Please contact our office at 770-423-4900 or schedule an appointment for a consultation. 

Monday, August 10, 2015

Why Everyone Needs Fluoride


Fluoride makes my teeth happy and healthy :)


Fluoride is the most important reason why there has been a decrease in dental cavities. Fluoride works by stopping or even reversing the tooth decay process. During tooth decay, bacteria are present because of sugars or carbohydrates which transforms into an acid.  During the demineralization process, a biofilm called “plaque” creates acid in the mouth which causes calcium to be removed from the tooth.  Fluoride has the ability to re-mineralize a tooth if it’s caught early enough because decay does not start off as a cavity but only has a white lesion. Fluoride is most ideal for patients with high caries risk, patients who have crown and bridge work and orthodontic decalcification.

However, there are many debates and concerns with using fluoride. Many people think that fluoride doesn’t belong in drinking water, but it actually occurs naturally in water and it’s rarely at the level needed to protect your teeth. Fluoride is not a medication but more so a mineral and when it’s presented at the right level, fluoride works to prevent tooth decay and contributes to healthy bones. Also, fluoride is not unsafe for small children; in fact, it is highly recommended and plays a critical part to promote strengthening of the teeth. Fluoride toothpaste is only not recommended for children under 2 because they swallow the most when brushing their teeth.

Fluoride gel or toothpaste at higher concentrations can only be purchased with a prescription or from a licensed dentist. Our Marietta Dentists, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to our office to learn more about the importance of fluoride toothpastes, please contact our office at 770-423-4900.


Monday, August 3, 2015

Morning Breath- YUCK!

Oh no, morning breath!


Do you ever wake up in the morning and immediately cover your mouth? To some degree, everyone has morning breath. The reason being is because your mouth dries out when you sleep causing odor-producing bacteria to increase.  During the day, bacteria is still at work to break down all the chemicals, protein and amino acids left behind from food but your own saliva is more present to help wash away the bacteria. When we fall asleep, your saliva production takes a rest also which causes the smelly-bacteria to run wild and the grand unveiling of morning breath.

However, if you have a toothache associated with bad breath, this could be caused by other factors. Bad breath has nothing to do with age, but bacteria that causes bad breath may have several health implications. Having bad breath are the first signs of periodontal issues, which has been proven to be involved with diabetes and heart disease.  Make sure you always schedule your dental teeth cleanings at least every 6 months so that periodontal disease can be detected early enough.

So, how do we treat or get rid of morning breath? Unfortunately, there isn’t a foolproof prevention for it but there are some things you can do to help reduce it. When you brush, go directly to bed. Do not eat or drink anything afterwards so you are not leaving anything behind. Make sure you always brush your tongue, including the back of your tongue because statistics say 85% of bad breath comes from the tongue. Invest into a tongue scraper to help clean your tongue thoroughly and floss because brushing along will not remove all the food partials stuck in between your teeth. 

Our Marietta Dentists, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invite you to learn more about bad breath prevention, please contact our office at 770-423-4900 to schedule your next dental cleaning appointment.




Tuesday, July 28, 2015

The Next Best Thing - Dental Implants

If you are a candidate for dental implants, we highly recommend going this route over any other dental alternative for replacing missing teeth. Unlike a traditional bridge, it does not involve prepping the adjacent teeth. Dental implants is one of the strongest methods for replacing teeth because it’s anchored into the bone which allows it to act and feel like your natural tooth. Dental implants help restore proper chewing function and to stop the progression of bone loss by mimicking the roots of your tooth.
Mr. Dental Implant is ready to help you achieve the perfect smile!
First, our dentists at VerdePointe Dental Associates will determine whether you are candidate for dental implants by completing a comprehensive exam and taking any necessary dental x-rays to see if you have enough bone to support the implant(s) and that your overall oral health is good. During the planning process, your dentist will determine exactly how and where to place the implant based on your jaw and tooth structure.

Next, your dentist will surgically place the implant which is made of titanium. Titanium implants are used because your body does not recognize it as a foreign object, therefore, allowing your actually bone to graft itself around the implant making it just as strong as your original tooth and root. A healing cap will then be placed over the implant, which could take several months to heal. In some instances, a temporary retainer (flipper denture) or temporary crown may be fabricated prior to the implant and inserted immediately after surgery for cosmetic reasons.


After the healing process, your implant is ready to be restored and fitted for a new custom dental crown. Your temporary appliance or healing cap will be replaced by a permanent post. This post, also known as an abutment, is what holds your new dental crown in place over the implant. 

Our Marietta Dentist, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD, and Garrick McGrath DMD invited you to learn more about this procedure, please contact our office at 770-423-4900 or schedule an appointment for a consultation. 

Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Timeline of Dental Advances

Some interesting dental facts;  
Interesting dental Time Line Facts                   

In 1866, Lucy Beaman Hobbs became the first woman to earn a dental degree.

In 1917, Irene Newman received the world's first dental hygiene license in the state of Connecticut.

In 1938, the first nylon toothbrush with synthetic bristles was on the market.

In 1950, fluoride toothpaste hits the market.

In 1958, the first fully recline-able dental chair was introduced.

In 1989, the first home commercial teeth bleach became available on the market. 

Verde Pointe Dental Associates offers the comforts of excellent dental care.   Our tooth repair techniques helps us offer excellent dental care. Whether emergency dentistry or cosmetic dentistry, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD and Garrick McGrath DMD 


Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Great Aid for Those Wearing Braces

Braces are a substantial investment, so the last thing people want after wearing braces is for their teeth to be covered with white spots. These spots are the beginning of dental decay caused by bacteria.
There's help in avoiding white spots, the beginning of decay  during braces.

A Swedish study from Malmo University suggested that a high fluoride toothpaste may help those wearing braces not to develop the spots.  Since 85 percent of people wearing braces develop these lesions, a high fluoride toothpaste was studied.  

Five dental practices with over 400 people participated.  Half  were given a 4 times the amount of fluoride in a toothpaste, while the others used a regular fluoride toothpaste.  After the 20 months, it was determined that the high fluoride is effective in stopping one third of white lesions in age group 11 to 16.  Forty five percent with regular toothpaste showed signs of white spots while 34.6 that used the high fluoride showed the spots.

Verde Pointe Dental Associates offers prescription strength high fluoridated toothpastes at the dental office.  Marietta dentists can determine if a high fluoride toothpaste is right for you. Whether you have braces or are cavity prone,  Kirk Kimmeling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD and Garrick McGrath can offer advice on your specific situation. Teeth need to last a lifetime, so high fluoride may be right for you.  

Monday, April 20, 2015

No Dental Insurance, No Problem

Keeping gums and teeth healthy and attractive is a must, and for many people finding the extra money can seem impossible.  However, there are options available.  Third party financing companies, such as CareCredit are available for qualified dental patients. It's getting the dental care you need, and the financing to make it happen.
For those using Care Credit between April 14 and May 31, there's a chance to win $15,000.

How does it work?

  • It's easy to apply, as patients receive an answer while in the office within minutes.  
  • Purchases over $200, no interest is charged to the patient if paid within 6 or 12 months and paid on time.  
  • Payments will be fixed monthly payments.
  • Care Credit card holders can use their card over and over again without applying.
  • The Care Credit card can be used in many healthcare practices such as dental, Veterinary, Dermatology, Chiropractic care.
  • Cardholders using their card between April 14 to May 31 are automatically enrolled in a chance to win $15,000.  For details, see CareCredit.com/TicketSweeps.
Care Credit helps people get the care they need when they need it.  Verde Pointe Dental Associates, and Marietta Dentists Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD and Garrick McGrath accepting Care Credit in Marietta, GA.  

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Dental Implants Gone Wild

Dental implants truly have become popular, "going wild" across the world as an excellent option to replace missing teeth.  However, there is a downside people considering implants should understand.

Dental implants can fail, and if you are one of these people, the process is upsetting for the obvious reasons.  Patient knowledge coupled with an experienced dentist can increase the likelihood dental implant success.

For those considering dental implants, or already have implants, knowledge is always good.

Read Dentists, Dental Patients and Dental Implant Understanding for expert information.

The cosmetic dentists at Verde Pointe Dental Associates want every patient to be informed about dental treatment they are considering.  That's why they are excellent to go to for information.

Offering a new patient $100 dental coupon towards services

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Famous People and other People's Mouths

Did You know that Audrey Hepburn was a dental assistant before becoming a model and movie star?  She was fluent in English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Italian and Flemish.  



Jack Miller was a famous dentist that participated in the Indy Racing League until the year 2001, and the Indianapolis 500 until 1999.  He was known as the "The Racing Dentist," as he was the only driver to compete in every race in the B-series car.



Did you know that the famous photograph of a "Nurse" and "Kissing Sailor" didn't actually portray a nurse.  She was actually a dental hygienist named Greta Friedman.

Mark Spitz could have been your dentist.  He was a famous nine-time Olympic champion for swimming that was accepted to dental school  but went to the Olympics instead. He was also a former world record-holder in multiple events. 


Verde Pointe Dental Associates and Marietta Dentists, Kirk Kimmerling DDS, Suzanna Aguilera DMD and Garrick McGrath DMD welcome new patients for dental care at their dental practice.  Offering dental work from teeth cleanings to root canals, dental implants, teeth whitening, crowns, bridges, and more.  

Monday, March 16, 2015

Verde Pointe Dental Associates offers Dental Assisting School

Verde Pointe Dental Associates, and Marietta, GA dentists+Kirk Kimmerling DDS, +Suzanna Aguilera DMD and +Garrick McGrath DMD are happy to announce the opening of a dental assisting school at the Marietta dentist office.  Our own +Jessie Kilgore is the lead dental assisting trainer.  She was chosen because of her great talent.

The Atlanta dental assisting school offers students interested in the dental profession an opportunity to obtain a certificate and the required skills necessary for dental assisting.  The education will prepare setudents fo the real-world of dentistry and able to perform the necessary skills to excel in dentistry.

The school offers;

1. schooling in a state of the art facility
2. Convenient class times
3. Comfortable working environment
4. Excellent hands-on training
5. Low tuition with a variety of interest free payment programs
6. Convenient Saturday and evening classes
7. Three payment options

For added information, click here. http://atlantadentalassistantschool.com

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Tooth Decay May Stunt Growth in Children

A new study concerning dental decay recently appeared online in the Pediatrics journal suggesting decay may stunt growth and weight in children.  The University College London and King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital in Saudi Arabia conducted the study, exploring the relationship between oral health and growth.

A team of researchers analyzed statistics based on the relationship between height/weight and decay in children 6 to 8 years old from Saudia Arabia.  Children with severe decay had a better chance of being underweight and of shorter stature compared to their peers when having severe decay.  Even when secondary factors such as demographics and social values were analyzed, the correlation still existed.  More research needs to be conducted to confirm the findings.

+Verde Pointe Dental Associates and Marietta cosmetic dentists+Kirk Kimmerling +Suzanna Aguilera and +Garrick McGrath understand the importance of dental health in children.  Welcoming patients from three years old for a dental cleaning or advice on necessary dental fillings.



Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Only an Emoticon is Happy with a Discolored Front Tooth

Have you noticed someone with one dark front tooth?  A dark, discolored front tooth becomes the focal point of a person's face.  It changes their entire appearance, resulting for many in an embarrassing smile.
Only an Emoticon is Happy with a Discolored Front Tooth!

The good new is that a discolored front tooth can be fixed by a dentist.  

A. Let's look at why the tooth turned dark.

Perhaps the number one reason a tooth turns dark is due to trauma.  The tooth has been injured and the internal nerve tissue has died and is staining the inside of the tooth dark.  

B. What does a dentist do to fix the tooth?

If a tooth has died from trauma, a dentist will need to perform a procedure called a root canal. The procedure is designed to remove the dead tissue, clean the internal structure, and fill it with Gutta Percha, a rubber material.  Sometimes, a dentist will suggest a few extra appointments to internally bleach the tooth before it is filled.  These procedures usually take care of the dark tooth problem, giving back the beautiful smile once enjoyed. 

The dentists at +Verde Pointe Dental Associates believe a beautiful smile is important to how people feel about themselves.  If you are suffering from a less than perfect smile, let our Marietta cosmetic dentists help by offering new patients a $100 dental coupon good towards services in the dental office.  

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Dental Decay and Your Baby

Most people do not realize that dental decay is a communicable disease.  A parent's harmful dental decay causing bacteria can be passed to your baby's mouth, putting your child at an increased risk for cavities.

One of the nation's leading dental benefits providers, Delta Dental Plans Association has determined that less than one third of American caregivers realize that they can pass dental disease to a baby.

You can protect your baby with a little forethought. Let's take a look at the facts.

Tooth decay bacteria called Streptococcus mutans is commonly found in the human oral cavity. This bacteria can be passed when contaminated saliva from an adult enters a child's mouth. Typically, primary care givers and family contaminate the baby.  Streptococcus mutans metabolize sugars and ferment-able carbohydrates into tooth dissolving acids.

1. Brushing, flossing and will help prevent decay by reducing bacteria in the mouth.

2. Reducing the intake of processed sugars, such as in candies, juices and cokes will reduce the colonization of bacteria causing decay.

3. Brushing after eating or at least rinsing with water helps protect against tooth decay leading to dental fillings, crowns, root canals, toothaches, dental emergencies and more.

The doctors at +Verde Pointe Dental Associates+Kirk Kimmerling DDS, +Suzanna Aguilera DMD and +Garrick McGrath DMD welcome new dental patients to the state of the art facility.