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

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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.

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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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.