Teeth Can Last A Lifetime

Did you know that teeth can actually last a lifetime?  It's true.  For many of us, proper brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist ensure our teeth last a lifetime says a dentist in Marietta, GA.  Teeth are composed of a soft center and hard outer surface.  Surprisingly, this outer surface, the enamel is the hardest substance in our body, and it's found on our teeth. Teeth need the enamel to help withstand the incredible forces of chewing and grinding food.

The inside of the tooth is filled with nerve tissue, blood vessels and connective tissues. This part of your tooth is living.  It will die if decay reaches its chamber, as  the nerve can not withstand the insult.  It is bacteria in your mouth that causes decay, and as it multiplies, it creates an acidic by-product that erodes teeth.  Eating sugar and sweets feeds the bacteria and provides the necessary fuel to proliferate it into overdrive.

If decay is present on a tooth, it can continue until it affects the central part of the tooth. The nerve will begin to die and a root canal will be necessary.  The living portion of your tooth has died and now needs to be removed.  During a root canal, the dead nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue must be cleaned out and bacteria removed.  If the dead tissue is not removed, the bacteria can begin to multiply and once the chamber is filled, it will extrude out the bottom of the tooth into the gum tissue and cause an abscess.  Most patients will then visit the dentist for relief.  After the tooth is cleaned and the root canal is completed, it will require a  final filling or other appropriate procedure to make the tooth complete.

Natural teeth are important to keep, as they aid in proper chewing and digestion.

Crooked teeth can actually trap more bacteria than straight teeth.  Crooked teeth are more difficult to keep clean, as the bacteria and plaque have more places to hide and multiply.  Proliferation of bacteria can result in gum issues and periodontal disease progressing until the gums, bone structure and teeth are lost.  Many adults now choose braces to correct the problem to keep their teeth.  Braces reposition the teeth for better straighter, easier to clean teeth resulting in better oral hygiene and a better looking smile. They can help some people keep their natural teeth  so they last a lifetime.

Fluoride helps strengthen teeth against cavities and the acidic insult of bacteria.

Many studies document the importance of taking care of your teeth and gums.  There are proper techniques in brushing and flossing that can make a difference.  Your dentist will be able to tell you areas that you are missing and need attention at a hygiene visit.  Make the changes, as teeth with proper hygiene can last a lifetime and serve you well says Marietta dentist.

Teething...What to Expect!

When will my baby start teething so I'm prepared, asks many new mothers?  Most babies usually start the teething process between four and seven months says Marietta dentist.  Early bloomers can see a tooth appear as early as three months and for late bloomers, it's almost a year.  In rare cases, a child is born with a tooth already erupted.  Teeth start developing while the fetus is still in the womb as little tooth buds sitting right below the gums.  After the child is born, it takes many months for all baby teeth to come in, which can unfortunately be very uncomfortable for the child.  In most cases, the first two teeth appear in the front on the bottom, then the front two on the top usually come in.  The rest will follow, but not in any specific order.  Don't stress if they aren't coming in straight because these are their first set of teeth that eventually the child will lose.  The last teeth to appear are the back molars.  Most children have molars and all twenty baby teeth by the age of three.  The child usually keeps their baby teeth until around the age of six, where the permanent teeth start pushing through.  The second set of teeth called "permanent" are the teeth they will keep life long.

Here are some symptoms of teething;

1.  Sleep problems

2.  Biting or nibbling on anything they can get their little hands on.

3.  Not eating

4.  Fussiness, whining or irritability

5.  Swollen or Sensitive gums

6.  Drooling

7.  Some cases babies can spike a fever right before the tooth pushes through

Babies go through a lot their first year of life and teething is just one of the developments.  As awful as teething seems there are some ways to help alleviate baby's pain.  Below is a list of a few safe helpful tricks.......

1. Ice a towel for baby to put in their mouths

2.  Frozen teething ring can help numb the gums while they gnaw it

3.  Massage their gums with your finger

4.  Get a teething biscuit for them to gnaw on

5.  Cold applesauce is cold on the gums and tasty

6.  Try a children's pain reliever like Tylenol, etc.

7.  Try Orajel (or something like it) to numb their gums.  It usually works for about thirty-five to forty-five minutes of relief.

8.  Frozen fruit pieces which are soothing and tasty

9.  Rubbing vanilla extract onto the gums.  Its warming and has a calming effect.

10.  Clove oil although potent is very soothing as you would rub it onto their gums.  You only need a few drops which you would dilute with water before applying.

Although teething can be a very stressful time for you and baby, it's important to understand your baby hurts. Try to make your baby as comfortable as possible, or it will only make it harder for you.  The  tips above are some safe ways to try to alleviate discomfort for a happy teething baby.  Once your baby's teeth are in, you will be happy to see how much your baby is growing and developing says Marietta, GA Cosmetic Dentist.

Body, Mouth And Mind Connection

Have you seen information in the news about a "healthier mouth means a  healthier you?"  Although there are many aesthetic reasons to maintain a healthy mouth, the most important is the rest of your body, says Marietta dentist.  There is a growing wealth of scientific evidence demonstrating the connection between oral health and the risk of serious disease.  Gums and teeth are not only important for your appearance, but should be kept in tip-top shape if you want to be healthy. It's never too early or late to make necessary changes.  Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits are your first line of defense, and here are a few reasons why...

1. Self-Esteem

Decaying teeth or gum disease can be unsightly which may result in low self-esteem, low confidence or even low self-image. Having a confident smile is important and can result in a better quality of life while interacting with others.  It affects how you ultimately feel about yourself.

2. Heart disease, strokes and blood vessels

The risk of heart disease is lower with proper daily oral hygiene. Studies show that chronic inflammation from gum disease might be associated with problems such as heart disease, strokes and blockages of blood vessels. The link between a healthy mouth and the cardiovascular system is now well documented proving the connection.

3. Pregnancy

Pregnant women may be prone to increased gingivitis or gum disease. Research has shown links between gum disease and preterm, low birth weight infants. Although the research is still ongoing, there is enough data to demonstrate the importance of maintaining good oral health and having a healthy infant.  Visiting the dentist during pregnancy should be a part of prenatal care.  It's important to make sure that all aspect of health are good to ensure a healthy full term pregnancy.

4. Memory

Having a good memory is important to remember the priceless moments throughout life. Studies have shown that adults with gum diseases performed worse on memory and cognitive tests.  Interestingly enough, good oral hygiene just might help retain those special moments that have filled your life with joy.

5. Blood Sugar

Diabetes in itself is a difficult disease to manage, as diabetics have more difficulty fighting infections in the body. Since gum disease is an infection, it can rapidly progress out of control.   Once it has taken a foot-hold, it makes controlling blood sugar levels more difficult, an important reason for diabetics to take proper care of gum tissue.  Daily brushing and flossing helps control blood sugar levels.

6. Your body and inflammation

Poor oral hygiene has been shown to be linked with the development of infection in other parts of the body. Studies between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis, a painful autoimmune disease-causing inflammation of joints is another example of poor oral hygiene affecting overall health. Infections from the mouth can spread throughout the body leading to a poor quality of life.

Daily brushing and flossing are the key steps to maintaining great overall health, and visits to the dentist for regular visits can mean a healthier you says Marietta dentist.

Kirk Kimmerling DDS Continues Participation In Child Assistance Program

Kirk Kimmerling DDS contributes to the dental needs of Cobb Dental Society's Child Assistance Program (CAP) another year.

CAP is a Cobb County and Marietta City School Social Work Program serving the dental needs of families not quite able to make ends meet.

The program welcomes volunteer dentists from a variety of specialties including orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists and general practitioners that are willing to donate free dental services to children in need in Cobb County and Marietta City.  The program helps about 120 students a year, and the families are very appreciative of Dr. Kimmerling and the social workers hail him and the other dentists as "heroes."

The families are pre-screened, and the children in need are enrolled in the program to get the appropriate dental services.  "Dentists, like Dr. Kimmerling help them and before long, they are back focusing on their education," says Penny Warren, M.S.W. and Director of the CAP Dental Program for 8 years, and a social worker since 1976.

Most children referred are not an emergency dental situation, as the typical patient has decayed teeth, swollen and bleeding gums or are in need only of a dental cleaning and check-up. Dental needs can seriously affect learning, and put a child at a grave disadvantage.  The students get their needs met by improving their child's dental health, allowing parents to have one less concern.

In total, about 58 dentists participate in the program with Dr. Kimmerling, and they pick the number of students they see.  The dentists receive a detailed form when a child is referred.

Students come from all types of backgrounds; single mothers, domestic violence, homeless or some just need a little help to get by.   "If we help people when they are not quite making ends meet, then we will keep them off government programs.  This could include a food pantry, school supply give away, clothes closet, Christmas gifts or the dental program.  If the community steps up to the plate, then the families make it with a little support in various ways according to their needs," says Ms. Warren.  These families have fallen in the cracks of society.  They are not eligible for any assistance, such as Peachcare or Medicaid programs, and it is clear that dentists like Dr. Kimmerling make a real difference filling the gaps in Cobb County.

Dr. Kimmerling makes the effort to give back, and makes the world a better place.  "Dr. Kimmerling has a one of a kind, beautiful, high-tech office and I believe he is successful because he gives so much," says Katherine Worsham, Insurance Administrator at Verde Pointe Dental Associates in Marietta.

"Treating the students of Cobb County has been an absolute pleasure.  These children are grateful, wonderful kids, and it is my pleasure to shine a little light in their lives," says Dr. Kimmerling.

The distinguished group of caring professions do a terrific job every year for Cobb County.  They have helped the county in a big way.  Many Marietta dentists like Dr. Kimmerling participate, however we have a great need in our county and more are always welcome to help.

The program is a success thanks to dentists like Dr. Kimmerling.  He has provided dental services free of charge to those that otherwise would go without.  He is to be commended as a community leader and Dentist in Marietta.

Dental Implants Can Restore A Smile And Quality Of Life

People missing a single or multiple teeth now have an excellent solution to restore their smile.  Dental implants can be the best option for many good reasons says Marietta cosmetic dentist.  Implants look and chew food like natural teeth, and only your dentist needs to know you have them.  Implants look beautiful, feel natural and give the confidence to eat, laugh and enjoy life.  Although they can be costly, implants are worth the value. When understood, it's easy to see why they have become the option people prefer when replacing missing teeth.  They give back the smile people desire.

A dentist will decide how many implants and what options are available to restore smiles with multiple missing teeth. Implants require several visits and multiple steps.  A metal implant, usually titanium is placed into the jaw for the bone to osseointegrate.  A second, smaller procedure exposes the implant and an extension is placed to anchor the crown (tooth).  Not every person is a candidate for implants.  Your dentist will make sure there is a sufficient natural bone ridge to support the implant.  After an extraction, the body may not fill in the area with bone well enough on its own.  It may be necessary for your dentist to place bone in the area where the tooth was extracted.  Many times, it can be done as the implant is placed.

Dental implants can keep a person looking younger.  When a tooth is lost, the jaw bone naturally begins to atrophy and dissolve.  Missing teeth result in an older appearance as teeth are lost and the bone deteriorates.  The face begins to change shape.  An implant and crown can help hold the bone level stable resulting in a fuller more natural shaped face.

Dental implants have many benefits.  Millions of adults with missing teeth understand the unpleasant consequences that accompany the loss of teeth.  Speaking and eating become more difficult. Teeth nearby eventually suffer by laying down to fill the open space. Teeth on the opposing arch eject from the gums, also trying to fill the space.  Movement of the teeth compromise the overall condition of the mouth, and wreak havoc beyond speech and eating.  Teeth that have laid down become more difficult to clean and can cause a periodontal (gum) condition.  Restored implants keep teeth in their natural position.

Implants are an excellent option because they anchor teeth securely.  Foods of choice can be chewed without  worry or embarrassment of falling out.  Implant teeth do not cause gum irritations or sores like removable appliances.  They are a positive advancement in dentistry that allow people to eat and smile more naturally.

Dental implants require excellent home care.  Regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist help them last a lifetime.  If you are missing teeth, do not compromise your life any longer. Seek a consultation from a dentist that places implants.   Missing teeth no longer hold people back from the full life they desire.   Dental implants may be the solution to restore your smile says Marietta Dentist .

Is Flossing A Waste Of Time?

Patients often ask the question “Why is it important to floss on a regular basis?”  The truth is next to vigorously brushing, flossing is the next best thing to ensure excellent oral health says Marietta dentist.  Millions of microscopic bacteria use your mouth as a home to multiply.  Flossing and brushing highly reduce their number.  When left alone, the mouth is an excellent environment for them to multiply and wreak havoc.  The bacteria produce plaque, tartar, and gum disease if not kept under control.   Brushing and flossing are the tools to keep the mouth clean with less bacteria, as it feeds on food left on or in between your teeth.  If undisturbed, it produces an acid that can cause cavities by eroding teeth.

Bad breath can also be a very unattractive result of not properly flossing.  Flossing removes bacteria between teeth in the tiny spaces that a toothbrush cannot reach. The American Dental Society and Verde Pointe Dental Associates recommend that you floss at least once a day!

Now let’s discuss what happens if you choose not to floss on a regular basis…

When a person chooses not to floss, a buildup of bacteria and plaque between teeth occurs.  If left alone, the plaque will eventually harden into tartar that only your dentist can fully remove.  As time goes on, tartar can contain higher levels of more dangerous bacteria.  The bacteria will produce toxins that can irritate and inflame gum tissue. You will notice bleeding while you floss and brush.  This condition is known as gingivitis.  Gingivitis means plaque deposits are not cleaned away and a build-up causes gum and tooth issues.  Your gums can also become very swollen and tender.  Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease; a condition where not only are your gums infected by the bacteria but so is the bone and structures supporting your teeth.  The worst cases can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, and teeth that fall out.  Plaque can be removed by normal brushing, however using a Sonicare electronic toothbrush removes the plaque even better.  It is important to floss on a regular basis, because the health of your gums is just as important as the health of your teeth.

If you haven’t flossed in a while it’s time to start now...

If you happen to see a little tint of blood on the floss, this just indicates that your gums are slightly inflamed and in need of better flossing to remove unwanted bacteria.  Once, a better and correct regimen of flossing and brushing occur; the tint eventually will go away.  This means that you are on your way to better oral hygiene.   Just remember to floss first then brush. Good oral hygiene helps eliminate bacteria that can lead to problems such as bad breath, cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.  If you have been flossing on a regular basis, GOOD JOB!  Please make sure to continue.  Otherwise, if you start today, you will get on track to better oral hygiene and a beautiful smile.  A bright smile ensures great confidence, says cosmetic dentist, Marietta.

Reshaping Teeth Or Gums May Give You A Better Smile

Healthy, well-contoured teeth and gums can make a significant difference in a smile says Marietta dentist. "It's always a treat to makeover a person's smile by contouring their teeth or gums, and see them elated with the way they look. It's a rewarding and enjoyable part of dentistry," says cosmetic Marietta dentist. A person's gum tissue frames the top of their tooth and should be within certain dimensions and parameters for a more attractive smile.  Many times, the shape of the tissue can be altered to expose the appropriate amount of enamel.  Teeth can also be re-shaped by contouring.  Dental contouring changes the length, edges and position of teeth making a smile more appealing.  Candidates for contouring must have healthy teeth and gums before these cosmetic procedures are considered.

Reshaping can often correct chipped, cracked or misalignment teeth due to bruxism (tooth grinding) and heredity. If the damage is minor,  the teeth can be smoothed to eliminate the appearance of rough and uneven teeth.  It is possible to re-damage teeth if continual grinding and clenching continue.  An appliance may then be considered to protect teeth from continual damage.  An impression is necessary for a perfect fit.  Contouring without anesthesia is performed unless the re-shaping is major.  In this case, a dentist may take an x-ray to determine the location of the pulp of the tooth. Otherwise only small quantities of tooth will be removed for a more perfect shape.

Well-contoured gums compliment well-contoured teeth.  People can be born with unsymmetrical gum tissue that can be trimmed for a better appearance. Gingival margins, the area where the teeth and gums meet should be a certain height. Gum tissue on certain teeth should be higher than others.  The front two teeth and canines should be the same, and the lateral incisors should be lower.  People with a gummy smile, have the appearance of small "chicklet" teeth because of lengthy gum tissue.  Many times it can be trimmed exposing more tooth creating a more balanced and attractive smile. Although, not all gum issues can be resolved with contouring, much can.

Removed gum tissue can sometimes grow back says Marietta dentist.  In this case, it may be possible to remove bone to keep the tissue from re-growing.  Although more invasive with a lengthier recovery, it can yield a beautiful result.  A "gumlift"  is  a cosmetic surgery that can be done by a dentist. Since cosmetic surgery and a youthful appearance the craze of today, this may be an inexpensive procedure to consider.

Healthy well-contoured gums and teeth can make a smile more beautiful.  Teeth and gum contouring can be a relatively simple procedure that makes a tremendous difference in a person's smile with relative ease.  It can be an inexpensive alternative to consider.  A smile is important to the way people feel about themselves and the way others perceive you. Teeth and gum contouring is a dental procedure that can make a significant difference in a smile with relative ease, say Marietta, GA cosmetic dentist.

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Kirk Kimmerling DDS is a cosmetic dentist in Marietta, Georgia (GA) at Verde Pointe Dental Associates. Dr. Kimmerling is extremely passionate about helping every patient reach their optimum dental health. Having practiced as a dentist in Marietta, Georgia (GA) for over 26 years, Dr. Kimmerling strives to provide the very best treatment in a secure, relaxing environment. While Dr. Kimmerling specializes in cosmetic dentistry, he runs a full-service practice that provides everything from routine cleanings to dental implants. He and the courteous staff at his state-of-the-art office are dedicated to helping patients achieve beautiful smiles and maintaining a lifetime of excellent dental health.  He has a full service practice from teeth cleanings and teeth whitening to dental veneers, implants, root canals, tooth colored fillings, periodontal, toothaches, extractions and more.

For the top cosmetic dentist in Marietta, Georgia (GA), please call Kirk Kimmerling DDS at Verde Pointe Dental Associates, or visit the website for more information. www.drkirkkimmerling.com

Additional Online Scheduling Choices Now Available For Marietta Cosmetic Dentists

Outstanding cosmetic dentists in Marietta, GA., Drs. Kirk Kimmerling and Alex Krempa have added additional online scheduling choices. Patients can now request appointments through the internet from a host of sites.   They have been added to give internet savvy patients an opportunity to schedule with ease.  It is now possible to request an appointment through their website, Facebook and Demandforce.  All three choices make it easy to communicate with the office during or after hours.  It is possible to request any type of appointment through all three.  A Demandforce page designed with practice information and an Easy Scheduler is now available.  Facebook and Verde Pointe's website also offers the capability.  "It is our goal to make it as simple as possible for our patients to schedule an appointment with our office by whatever means is easiest for them," says the cosmetic dentists Marietta GA.   "Some patients would rather not use the phone, and it is these people we wish to accommodate."

"Our website, Facebook and Demandforce help us keep up in tune with our patient's needs and see first-hand the comments and concerns they have about our office," says Dr. Kimmerling.   They are very excited about the sites and technology. Their patients have begun using the technology to schedule in force recently.  Verde Pointe Dental Associates have a large patient base and a strong following, and patients of all ages give them the thumbs up on the technology.  It is convenient to set an appointment without using the phone and unnecessarily having to liaise with the staff.

Verde Pointe's website is currently designed, hosted and  created by Officite, a web firm with internet solutions that is pro-patient.  In addition to designing a premier website, the firm also added a blog to help keep patients informed on all that's new with Verde Pointe dental.  The blog is updated at least once a week with good information concerning oral health and the dental practice.  The blog automatically updates Facebook and Twitter with the interesting and fun articles.  Patients say they are amazed at how interesting dental information can be.

The website and Facebook have a coupon online that new patients can use towards services.  "It really helps pay the deductible and out-of-pocket towards any services needed," says Katherine Worsham, Insurance Administrator at Verde Pointe Dental.

Ease of scheduling a dental appointment in Marietta, GA is an important criteria for patients because of todays time challenges and hectic life schedules.  Many patients are commenting in the office that they prefer to schedule online.

Dr. Kimmerling and Dr. Krempa are well-known cosmetic dentists in Marietta, GA.  They not only provide excellent quality dental care, but also have staff of the same caliber. Drs. Kimmerling and Krempa are committed to providing quality gentle care to their patients in a modern office.  It is a full-service practice providing a wide array of procedures from cosmetic dentistry, cleanings, teeth whitening, crowns, dental implants, veneers, root canal therapy, emergency services and other assorted cosmetic procedures.  The award-winning doctors make scheduling much easier for the internet savvy.  Their ability to offer new and innovative ways to schedule is all the better for the patient.