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.

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.