Replace Your Missing Teeth with a Dental Implant, not a Dental Bridge say Marietta Cosmetic Dentist

Do you have missing teeth and were thinking about replacing the missing tooth or teeth?  It's important to understand your options.  Kirk Kimmerling DDS delivers facts on treatment options and their long term prognosis, and the difference in treatment expenses.  The expert insight by Marietta dentist Kirk Kimmerling DDS is information from the perspective of someone who understands and breaks it down in laymans terms.

Have Missing Teeth? Read How an Expert Would Replace them.

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Dental Implants Make People Healthier And Happier

Are you missing a tooth or multiple teeth and it's negatively affecting your life?  Many people with missing teeth have difficulty chewing food, speaking and even suffer low self-esteem due to the loss. The next best thing to having your natural teeth is replacing them with a dental implant says a dentist in Marietta, GA.  Dental implants are readily used, look natural and allow people to gain back the beautiful smile they once had.
Why replace missing teeth with implants?

1. Dental implants can restore your appearance.
2. Having the teeth replaced raises self-esteem.
3. Dental implants can improve speech.
4. Dental implants make eating more pleasurable and satisfying.
5. The proper teeth aid in better digestion for a healthier you.
6. The procedure is highly successful, as most people have a good result.
7. There is little discomfort after surgery, and over the counter medicine usually keeps a patient comfortable.
8. Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or secure a full denture.
9. Only your dentist needs to know you were missing teeth.
10. Dental Financing with companies such as Care Credit make it possible for some to afford the care.

The loss of a tooth can occur for many reasons.  Some of the most common include a cracked tooth, sport injuries, accidents, dental decay, gum disease, and root canal failure.  Regardless of how it is lost, dental implants are the procedure of choice and the best alternative to replace the missing teeth.
Let's look at the implant procedure.
An implant procedure is basically the same whether you are missing one tooth or multiple teeth.  However, some people require extra procedures such as bone graft or a sinus lift.  An implant can be quite simple  in uncomplicated cases.  The gum tissue is opened and the jawbone exposed.  If a bone graft is recommended, it is placed to help anchor the implant more securely in place.  A special drill is used to prepare the bone, and the implant is placed.  After the procedure, sutures are used to secure the tissue during healing.  Some people will require a sinus lift to make room for the implant to fit.  Both the bone graft and sinus lift adds expense to the overall cost if they are necessary.  The implant is now left to osseointegrated with the bone.  A  crown (tooth)  is later placed on top.  The implant will be secure enough to chew, speak and brush your teeth with confidence.  Best of all, it will look like a natural tooth.
Let's look at the time involved in the implant process.
After the surgery, the osseointegration of the implant takes approximately three to six months.   After healing and integrating, the implant will be uncovered and a post attached to support the artificial tooth.  An impression is taken, and a crown is specifically fabricated with a shade to match existing teeth. It usually takes two to three weeks to fabricate a crown.  It is then attached to the implant.
Dental implants are the latest technology.  They are a permanent solution for those missing a single or multiple teeth.  They are the durable, permanent and the best solution to replace teeth. Dental implants are widely available and people should consider the option says Marietta, GA  dentist.

Periodontal disease and Your Health Explains Marietta Dentist

Preventing gum (periodontal) disease is an important factor in maintaining healthy hygiene in your mouth.  Knowing the link between gum disease and systemic disease, any person interested in maintaining optimal health should have the best oral hygiene possible.  Brushing twice a day, flossing daily and trips to the dentist for a dental prophylaxis is a must says Marietta dentist.

Unhealthy gums are linked to diseases such as; bacterial pneumonia, respiratory infection, cardiovascular disease, and a compromised immune system.  Many pregnant women with gum disease have a higher incidence of  premature birth and babies with a lower birth weight.  Studies show diabetes and periodontal disease can be closely related.  People with diabetes have a more difficult time controlling blood sugar, and as their periodontal health improves, so does controlling their blood sugar.  Therefore, a relationship between a healthy mouth and healthy body exists.

Lets explore what gum, periodontal disease is...

It's a disease that can destroy not only your gums but also the bone and other tissues that support teeth.  A sticky film of bacteria builds up on teeth called plaque that starts the process of gum disease.  Proper daily routine of brushing and flossing removes the plaque not allowing gum (periodontal) disease to take hold says Marietta, GA dentist.  A good routine keeps your gums from infection from the harmful plaque caused by bacteria. Proper oral hygiene prevents gums from becoming red and swollen, a condition called gingivitis; the early stages of periodontal disease. Eventually the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, a more difficult substance to remove.  If left untreated, it progresses to the next stage called periodontitis.  The gums begin to separate from the teeth and create deep spaces called pockets.  The pockets begin to collect bacteria that produce toxins and destroy the bone anchoring teeth.  If the disease is allowed to progress, teeth will become loose and eventually fall out.  A dentist may remove the teeth that affected. Bacteria present will have access to the bloodstream and begins to travel in the blood causing a harmful inflammation process.

Ideally, brushing twice a day using an ADA (American Dental Association) approved toothpaste with fluoride, and flossing helps maintain healthy gums.  Flossing removes bacteria and plaque that form in between teeth that a toothbrush can not remove.  It is important to  get on a schedule of regular professional dental cleanings to ensure that you are taking proper care of your teeth.  Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar that traps bacteria along the gum line.

Your dentist can also suggest ideas and answer any questions you may have about your oral hygiene.  Make sure you let your dentist know about your overall health, especially if you have had any chronic conditions or recent illnesses.  Let him know any medication you are on, or if your health has changed since you saw them last.  Your dentist needs to have a good idea of what is going on with your health so they can provide you with the best care possible.

Good oral hygiene is a very important step to ensure the best health and life possible says cosmetic dentist in Marietta GA.

Community Contributor, Kirk Kimmerling DDS Repeats Goodwill

Dr. Kirk Kimmerling, Marietta, GA dentist plays a big role in the community offering goodwill.  He is working hand-in-hand with Judge Juanita Stedman's Family Dependency Treatment Court rehabilitating smiles.  One of the recipients is Tosha Phillips, a Douglas County resident and referral from Judge Stedman.  She is appreciative of Dr. Kimmerling's efforts and is excited to have an improved smile. Since a healthy smile helps the women re-enter the workforce and community, he has agreed to rejuvenate two more smiles.   " When I hear that a person has overcome terrible odds and turned their life around, I want to keep the positive momentum  moving in the right direction with a smile they can be proud of," says Dr. Kimmerling, a Marietta dentist.

Dr. Kimmerling has completed Tosha Phillips smile, and is currently working on the others.  Born and raised in Georgia, Phillips has finished the treatment program and vows to continue living her changed life.  "This has just done wonders for my self-esteem,"says Phillips.

Dr Kimmerling trusts Judge Stedman to chose those that she feels are a success story and likely to succeed.  "It's obvious that she has experience with drug dependency and has good understanding who I should treat," says Dr. Kimmerling.  The partnership seems to be working out well for both Judge Stedman and the dental office.

Dr. Kimmerling was introduced to Judge Stedman through Jim Ruether and George Tingley, both patients of Dr. Kimmerling.  They are members of Reconnecting Families, a Cobb County agency designed to help people reconnect to society after a drug addiction.

Judge Stedman and Dr. Kimmerling have partnered to help people who have completed the treatment program and are well on their way to becoming productive citizens.  It is difficult to get a job if your smile is unattractive, and Dr. Kimmerling wants to give people the confidence to converse freely and smile.  The women chosen are very grateful to Judge Stedman and Dr. Kimmerling for caring and giving them the opportunity to turn their lives around.  "They key is to show people that someone cares, when they move their life in the right direction," says Dr. Kimmerling.

Dr. Kimmerling has great compassion for the well-being of others.   He is known to be a big part of the community and insists on doing so.  He also provides Calvary Children's Home dental services at no charge.  "Many of these children have had a difficult start to life, and I want them to have healthy smiles. It's my gift to them," says  Dr. Kimmerling.  He has taken care of these children for many years and plans to continue.  "Dr. Kimmerling is a wonderful person. He takes care of a multitude of children without hesitation.  Many years ago they asked Dr. Kimmerling how many children he could take, and without hesitation, he said all of them.  It profoundly revealed his heart," says Katherine Worsham, Accounts Receivable Manager at the dental office.

Dr. Kimmerling is known not only for his compassion in dentistry, but believes in new starts.  This compassionate dentist in Marietta, GA has changed many lives in his community and plans to always do so.   The world would be a much brighter place if more people had the compassion of Dr. Kimmerling.   He has a big heart.

Why Replace Old Fillings Explains Marietta Dentist

Dental fillings do not last forever says dentists in Marietta.   So, how do you know when one needs replaced?   Many patients wait until a tooth hurts to seek treatment. Dentists hear, "Why should I replace it, it doesn't hurt?"   However, waiting on a filling that needs replaced is not smart.  By the time a tooth hurts, more expensive treatment is usually necessary.

Old fillings overtime discolor, darken, crack, leak and can pull apart from tooth.  A filling is considered leaking if does not fit tightly against the tooth.  In some circumstances, the leaking causes sensitivity and it  is obvious it needs replaced with a new filling.  If decay has advanced deep into the center of the tooth, the nerve will die requiring costly root canal therapy.  Since it is not possible to brush between a filling and the tooth, the decay process may not noticeable until it causes pain.  It is important to repair the tooth before it progresses to root canal therapy.

An old filling can be detrimental to your gums.  It can trap plaque along the gumline causing a periodontal gum condition. Unhealthy gum tissue allows bacteria to enter the blood stream causing an inflammatory response linked to disease.  As a professional Marietta, Ga dentist, we will let you know at your cleaning appointment if it is time to replace your old fillings.

If you clench or grind your teeth, the stress may cause fillings to need replacement sooner.  Clenching and grinding can crack your teeth and cause small craze lines to develop. Although, not all cracks and craze lines need repaired, this  may be an indication that you need to ask your dentist if an appliance will help your fillings last longer.   At your cleanings, ask your dentist if you are a candidate for special fluoride that can be applied at home.  It helps strengthen teeth and possibly remineralize beginning decay.

Techniques in restoring teeth from decay have come a long way says dentist in Marietta, GA.  Teeth that have discolored spots are not necessarily cavity, but could be.  The most common method for a dentist to determine if a tooth needs repaired is a simple examination with a dental instrument called an explorer.  Decay in a tooth is softer and the explorer will stick to the tooth.  Healthy dentin is much harder and the explorer will not stick.  Other methods are also available to detect decay.  X-rays show large decay, but are more difficult for the dentist to detect smaller areas of decay.  Cavity-dye is another option.  It can be placed on the tooth and does not rinse away from the decay.  This allows a dentist to clearly discern a cavity.  Diagnodent by Kavo is a laser that helps detect a cavity early.  A wand scans your tooth, and indicates if decay exists.  Your dentist also has access to a software called Logicon that compares your personal x-ray to a database of x-rays.  It is sophisticated and able to accurately diagnose.

See your dentist twice a year for  a checkup and cleaning.  He will let you know if an old filling needs replaced.  It may save you from a more extensive problem in the future.


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Kirk Kimmerling 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.

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

Black Hairy Tongue...What Is It And Who Has It?

Black Hairy Tongue, medically known as lingua villosa nigra is an unsightly condition where hundreds of papillae on the tongue grow and form hairlike structures says Marietta dentist.  The tongue discolors and looks furry just like hair.  Normally papillae wear away and stay short.  The sloughing off cells is normal.  Papillae, finger-like projections grow continually, and in rare cases grow unusually long.  Normally, these cells stay short and wear away from normal eating and oral hygiene, but in black hairy tongue, they do not.  The hair-like projections can turn the color of food consumed, although many times they turn black.  The tongue can turn brown, pink, white or green depending on the food consumed or even the color of mouth rinse used.  Bacteria and other organisms become trapped in the elongated papillae.   Although it rarely occurs in healthy people, it's cause is not definitive.  It is neither an infection or cancer and usually goes away on its own.

Black hairy tongue has an overgrowth of bacteria on the tongue. It is found on the top of the tongue and not underneath, and in most cases, coats the middle to back half of the tongue.  Although, no known cause has been determined, it is usually harmless and temporary.  Your chances of developing the condition can be increased by certain medications (such as antibiotics &  anti-diarrhea).   Antibiotics in particular can kill the "good bacteria" in your system and allow an over abundance of yeast to form in the mouth.  Poor oral hygiene and mouth breathing also has been known to contribute to getting Black Hairy Tongue, as well as smoking, drug addiction and alcoholism.  Treatments for diseases such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy also put people at a higher risk.  Mouth washes and certain products with witch hazel can promote over growth in the mouth.

Diseases such as; cancer, AIDS, dehydration, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), heartburn, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus, and others can set the stage for Hairy Tongue.  Diabetics with uncontrolled glucose level also are at a higher risk.

People with Black Hairy Tongue suffer with halitosis, (bad breath) and can have a choking sensation as the tongue feels altered.  The sensation of taste can be interrupted and food may not taste as it normally does.

If the condition is contracted, use a toothbrush twice a day and brush the tongue well. A tongue scraper can be purchased in a local drugstore and can promote the return of good oral hygiene.  Keeping the papillae  shortened and unable to trap bacteria, will prevent Black Hairy Tongue.

Consistent, excellent oral hygiene helps prevent Black Hairy Tongue.  Since it is very rare, it is unlikely that most people will ever acquire the condition.  Brushing and flossing not only your teeth but tongue twice a day will help keep the papillae cells shortened.  A tongue scraper used in conjunction with brushing can also keep the cells from over growing, removes dead cells, bacteria and food debris.  A tongue scraper can be purchased at any drug store over the counter.  Since the condition is harmless, there is no need to seek medical advice unless it persists longer than two weeks.  However, if you have concerns or the condition doesn't clear up, seek a dentist for consult.  The health of your teeth is important, and so is your tongue says Marietta, GA dentist.

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Kirk Kimmerling 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, teeth whitening and veneers. 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.

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

What Shade Are Your Teeth And Do You Need Teeth Whitening Asks Marietta Dentist

Healthy teeth are not the only concern people have with their mouth, says Marietta, GA dentist. Whiter teeth have become very desirable, and more and more people want to know what method to use.  Adults and teens alike wonder where their teeth stand on color. Dentists have an in-office color scale that compares teeth.  However, if a visit to the dentist is not possible, a do-it-at-home test can be done.  Compare your teeth to the white of your eyes.  If your teeth are darker, perhaps it is time to look for a product to whiten your teeth.

People are genetically programmed with different colors of teeth, but whitening can lighten the color for the better.  As a person ages, teeth begin to darken and naturally change color.  Stains appear in a multitude of colors.  The colors can range from yellow and brown to black, gray and even pink.  Since natural tooth color is genetic, many family members have the same base shade.  Teeth whitening lightens natural shades and can rid the teeth of discoloration from many stains.

Trauma to a tooth can change the color of a tooth.  This condition requires a visit to the dentist, as it is likely that the internal, nerve portion of the tooth may have been damaged and need attention.  In some instances, after a traumatized tooth has been treated, the inside of the tooth can be treated with a whitening agent, reverting the tooth back to a more natural, lighter color.

Many products are available for people to whiten their teeth, and some are better than others.  Whitening strips can be quite effective, as they are gentle on your teeth.  Toothpaste and mouthwashes are not as effective, because they do not stay in contact with your teeth to work as well as other techniques. Gels can be used in conjunction with a mouth tray, allowing your teeth to soak in solution.  Although harsher, it has a longer effect.  Other methods are laser bleaching and bleaching pens.  Some only whiten the surface of the teeth, and others actually penetrate the teeth and have the ability to whiten deeper stains.  A chemical beaching product must be present to remove deep stains.  The effects of teeth whitening is seldom permanent, and younger people usually have longer effects.

Other methods other than bleaching and whitening agents are available to lighten your teeth. Composite resin (filling material) can be bonded to the front of your tooth to lighten the color.  Veneer, a shell-like porcelain facing can be attached to the front of your tooth in a lighter shade. Although both methods work well, they are more expensive and invasive to your teeth.  A dentist can help you decide what method is best for you.

Tips and Warnings

   
• Teeth whitening  can be difficult for some people, as gum recession can expose parts of your teeth that are too sensitive to bleach
   
• Cracked teeth may also be too sensitive to bleach
   
• Find a whitening product with the American Dental Association's seal of approval
   
• Brush and floss your teeth well before whitening
   
• Follow directions to avoid unwanted damage to your teeth and gum

Once teeth have been whitened, stains can reappear. Many stains can be removed during a standard cleaning at the dentist office.   Coffee, cigarette smoking, tea, soda and red wines bond more readily to teeth after whitening. Eventually teeth return to their natural shade, so occasional whitening may be a necessary touch-up.  If you are looking to whiten your teeth, you are not alone, says teeth whitening Marietta, GA dentist.