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.

Plaque...The Enemy

Do you ever wonder why your dentist says plaque is so important to remove?  Most people have been told since childhood that regular brushing and flossing is the only way to avoid plaque on  their teeth says Marietta cosmetic dentist.  Let's examine plaque and take a look at some ways  to avoid its build up on your beautiful smile...

Have you ever wondered exactly what plaque is? It's starts off as a tacky substance of bacteria that produces a sticky chemical called mucopolysaccharides. The bacteria lives in a film on teeth called biofilm.  At first, it is a soft layer that's easy to remove with a tooth-brush.  If it's not removed, it releases acid which can affect the tooth's enamel.  The result is a hole in the tooth called a cavity.   Plaque, if not properly removed,  it will begin to harden and become a substance called tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with a tooth-brush.  If it gets to this point, your dentist or hygienist will have to remove it for you. "Being consistent with your oral hygiene helps keep plaque and tartar off your teeth" says Marietta dentist. Lets take a look at some bad habits to avoid so plaque does not build-up...

Habit 1.... Staying away from the dentist!

Brushing and flossing daily, although great for oral hygiene doesn't remove all the plaque on your teeth. It's very important to schedule professional cleanings regularly at your dental office to remove what you may have missed.  Some of the missed plaque could harden to form tartar and the only way to get it removed is with regular professional cleanings. It has been proven that people who go to the dentist have less cavities and less tooth loss.  Most dentists recommend professional cleanings at least twice a year to ensure complete removal of unwanted plaque.

Habit 2.... Not brushing properly

Other people might not notice your brushing habits aren't perfect, but your teeth will suffer. It's important to  brush at least twice daily to ensure the removal of unwanted plaque.   It's good idea to buy a Sonicare toothbrush and use it the recommended two minutes.  Also, the use a fluoride-containing toothpaste helps keep teeth strong.  Make sure you brush all surfaces of your teeth, and keep in mind that its very important to still schedule regular professional cleanings.

Habit 3.... Not flossing at all

Brushing your teeth itself doesn't remove all the plaque in the spaces between your teeth. Flossing is very important to help remove plaque in the spaces your tooth-brush can't reach. Daily flossing can help remove plaque before it becomes a serious problem. It removes any plaque along the gum line helping avoid the dreaded periodontal, gum disease. Flossing is one of the key ways to keep your teeth in the best possible health.

The three habits listed are three excellent ways to have healthy oral hygiene.  Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits ensure that you are on your way to or maintaining healthy oral hygiene.  Although plaque does not start out a serious problem, it becomes one over time.  It's very important to keep up with all three to keep a healthy beautiful smile, says dentist in Marietta, GA.

Reverse Gingivitis Before It's Too Late

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It is an inflammation and infection of the gingiva (gums) says a dentist in Marietta, GA.  Many times early gum disease can be reversed by a simple procedure called scaling and root planing performed by your dental office.  Others may need a more extensive gum tissue surgery to halt the disease.  Periodontal disease is usually the result of inadequate hygiene, so it can happen to people of all ages.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film that forms naturally in the mouth.  The plaque contains bacteria that produce toxins that inflame and damage the tissue and supporting bone structure of teeth. Gum tissue that is bright red, purplish-red or bleeds is usually a sign of gingivitis or more advanced disease.  If left untreated, it will advance and teeth will be lost.

Periodontal disease usually can be prevented with good oral hygiene.  Brushing, flossing and professional cleaning appointments are the best defense.  Many people do not realize they have gum disease, since discomfort is not present in the beginning.  At a regular professional cleaning, your dentist can recognize the signs and help patients reverse it, if it has not progressed too far.  If left alone, the health of the gum tissue will deteriorate and supporting bone structure will begin dissolve.  Tissue will recede and begin to pull away from the bacteria ridden teeth.  Pockets will form, continue to deepen, and teeth will eventually need extracted.

Let's examine some interesting facts concerning gum disease;

   
• Gum disease can make getting pregnant and carrying a full-term pregnancy more difficult.
   
• Hormonal changes, such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause make it easier to develop gingivitis.
   
• Certain illnesses such as HIV can put people at a higher risk for gum disease.
   
• Smoking promotes gum disease by making it more difficult for tissue to repair itself.
   
• Family's with a history of periodontal disease need to be aware it can contribute to developing gum disease.

What symptoms indicate possible gum disease?

   
• Red, purplish-red gums
   
• Bad breath
   
• Swollen gums
   
• Bleeding gums
   
• Shifting Teeth
   
• Receding gums
   
• Pocketing around teeth
   
• Change of your bite
   
• Plaque or tartar buildup around teeth

At your professional cleaning, the bacteria, plaque and tartar will be removed from your teeth allowing the dentist to access the health of your mouth.  He can check for pocketing and measure around each tooth.  A deeper pocket is an indication of more serious gum disease.

The best method to maintain a healthy mouth is to do the following.

   
• Purchase a Sonicare Toothbrush and brush at least twice a day for two minutes.
   
• Floss daily, and learn to do it properly
   
• Eat a well-balanced diet
   
• Avoid grinding of your teeth
   
• Avoid smoking
   
• See a dentist at least twice a year to have your teeth cleaned

Studies confirm the close relationship between oral health and some disease.  The close relationship is the best reason oral hygiene should be high on the daily priority list. Keep your mouth healthy , and your efforts will mean a healthier you, says Marietta Dentist.

Facts And Myths About Cavities

Can you guess which of these are a myth or fact about cavities?  Interestingly, many people are unaware of the truth about decay and how it happens. Can you answer the following questions asks Marietta dentist?

   
• Does treating a cavity mean the decay has stopped?
   
• Do acidic foods cause cavities?
   
• Can people always tell if they have a cavity?
   
•  Does sugar really cause cavities?
   
•  Do sensitive teeth mean decay?
   
• Do cracks or chips on teeth cause decay?
   
• Should people worry about their baby's teeth?

Let's take a look at some myths and facts...

1. Does treating a cavity mean the decay has stopped?

Answer:  This is a fact, but only if your dentist has removed all the decay.  A dentists can make sure all the decay is removed by using a caries detection stain.  It is a technique that helps identify remaining decay that can missed by the naked eye.  If all the decay is removed and the filling is done properly, the decay will stop.

2.  Do acidic foods cause cavities?

Answer:  This is a half-fact!  Acidic foods such as soft drinks and citrus foods don't cause cavities, they can weaken the enamel making it easier for decay to start.

3.  Can people always tell if they have a cavity?

Answer:  Myth!  This is a terrible myth because most people do not have symptoms with mild tooth decay.  Pain usually means that the decay is more advanced and has caused damage to the nerve, leading to more expensive procedures such as root canal therapy.  It is important to seek treatment and have a cavity repaired before the decay becomes advanced.

4.  Does sugar really cause cavities?

Answer:  This is a fact.  Bacteria in your mouth feeds off sugar and produces a decay causing acid.  Proper daily brushing and flossing helps remove bacteria and its acidic by product.

5.  Do sensitive teeth mean decay?

Answer:  This is an absolute myth!  Although sensitive teeth can be a result of decay, it can also come from other dental problems.  Sensitivity can occur from gum recession, cracked teeth and other dental problems.  Your dentist can help identify the problem and provide some helpful solutions.

6.  Do cracks or chips on teeth cause decay?

Answer:  This is half-truth!  Cracks or chips can create a hiding place for bacteria to harvest.  Sometimes a toothbrush cannot reach these areas properly to completely clean away the bacteria causing the teeth to become more prone to decay.  Although, not all cracks and chips result in decay, it is always important to alert your dentist.  Cracks and chips may need attention for other dental concerns.

8.  Should people worry about their baby's teeth?

Answer:  Fact.  Yes, people should worry about their baby's teeth!  Baby teeth with cavities can develop into agonizing pain and abscesses.  If left untreated, they may develop infection that possibly spreads to other parts of the body.  Baby teeth guide in the placement of adult teeth, also an important reason to keep them healthy.  Regular dental visits will help keep children on the right track to good oral hygiene.

Although, there are many reasons decay can develop, good daily oral hygiene can significantly reduce the chances.  Daily brushing and flossing are the first and best defense, says a dentist in Marietta, GA.

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Kirk Kimmerling DDS is a cosmetic dentist in Marietta, GA (near Kennesaw) at Verde Pointe Dental Associates.  He is very passionate about his patients dental health and has made it his mission to provide the best possible treatment. It would be his great pleasure to invite you as a new patient to experience the office and excellent treatment.

Dr. Kimmerling has been practicing dentistry for over 28 years.  He has a BA in chemistry and a Doctorate from Emory University in Dentistry. He completed a one year residency at Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York and received the coveted Oral Pathology Award from the American Academy of Oral Pathology.  Dr. Kimmerling is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association and the North West District Dental Association.

Dr. Kimmerling provides a full range of services including teeth cleaning, teeth whitening, extractions, root canals, dental veneers, dental implants, tooth colored fillings, crowns, bridges, same day emergencies and more.

Please visit the website for an exciting new Marietta Dentist Family Coupon, and watch our video for a better look.

A beautiful smile is something everyone can appreciate.

www.drkirkkimmerling.com

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.

Chronic Stress And Your Oral Health

Chronic stress is well-known to have destructive effects on oral health says Marietta dentist.   Millions of people are unaware that they clench and grind their teeth.  It can occur while awake or asleep, and the tempromandibular joint (TMJ) can be affected.  This is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull and if over-stressed, can become sore and radiate pain.  TMJ discomfort can be a manifestation of stress, and a dentist is your first stop for information.

The specific term for clenching and grinding teeth is bruxism.  Some people grind and clench without manifesting pain or complications, however others have excruciating, radiating pain.  Those with acute discomfort claim it feels like a migraine, sinus headache or even mimics wisdom tooth pain.  It can radiate down the shoulders and neck causing significant discomfort as the muscles in the face become increasingly stressed and tense. Grinding and clenching can cause teeth to become sensitive over time.  Some people are aware a problem exists years before seeking treatment, and wait for it to become acute.

TMJ can occur from a misaligned bite,  broken teeth, dental restorations, trauma, clenching or grinding. If the jaw develops degenerative changes, discs can swell, shift, click, and even lock.  The jaw can be sore enough to make chewing food difficult.

Teeth that are chipped, cracked or grinded down need repair from a dentist.  Repairing them helps keep the bite in the correct alignment.  Preventative treatment can be important before significant destruction to the tempromandibular joint occurs.   If a partner hears grinding at night, take action and alert your dentist.  He may suggest proactive treatment.

Treatments for TMJ include...

A dental appliance

Muscle relaxant medication

Anti-inflammatory medication

Chiropractic manipulation

Physical Therapy

Massage Therapy

Botox injections

Dry Needling

Surgery

Braces

The night guard provides a cover to the chewing surface of teeth, stopping the constant contact. Since, much grinding happens when people are asleep and unaware, a night guard may be the only needed remedy for many. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.  This can cause the  jaw to unnecessarily to strain.

How to reduce the stress...

Exercise on a regular basis

Eat a balanced healthy diet

Get plenty of rest every night

Focus on the positive in life

Focus on eliminating stressful triggers

Practice relaxation techniques or yoga

Engage in relaxing hobbies

Make an effort to maintain a positive mental attitude

Reducing stress is important to oral health, as the risk of periodontal disease (gums disease) doubles in those affected by significant stress. People with increased stress levels also tend to increase poor habits such as eating junk food, skipping exercise or even forgoing normal oral hygiene practices.   It is best to do what you can to keep stress under control.

If you have sore jaws in the morning or are aware you clench and grind, perhaps speaking to a dentist is wise.  It may allow early detection of  a TMJ problem  before it becomes acute.  A simple fix can prevent more severe future problems with degenerative changes, says the dentist in Marietta, GA.

Marietta Dentist Introduces Blog On Dentistry And Involvment In Polymer Chemistry

Verde Pointe Dental Associates introduces a new blog on the practice website for better informed patients.

Marietta, GA- Leading dentist in Marietta and Kennesaw at Verde Pointe Dental Associates, Kirk Kimmerling DDS introduces the launch of the practice's new blog library.  With involvement in creation of new dental products, the Marietta dentist has recognized the need for a new informational blog.  It is different than any other blog.  It not only covers dental procedures and news, but also Dr. Kimmerling's involvement in polymer chemistry and the introduction of new incredible dental products he is currently involved with.

Dr. Kimmerling is able to communicate new information to his patients about dental care, new treatments and new procedures as they come available.  "More patients than ever are interested in a healthy mouth, as they know it relates to a healthy body," says Dr. Kimmerling.  "My partners and I are planning on changing the chemistry of dentistry."  Patients of the Marietta dentist will have the ability to keep up to date on Dr. Kimmerling's polymer chemistry group and its effects on dentistry.  Dr. Kimmerling believes they have a product on the horizon that is one of the biggest products ever in dentistry.

Dr. Kimmerling is a part of an organization of incredible minds across the country.  They are working together to change dentistry for the betterment of the world health.  Dr. Kimmerling is a unique Marietta dentist, as he received a degree in chemistry from Emory University before attending dental school.  He has been practicing dentistry for over 29 years, giving him the unique ability to contribute significantly in changing the product world of dentistry.  He's involved with Universities, large corporations, and brilliant individuals, all contributing to further the development of the polymer chemistry.  It will not only be used to change dentistry, but also in far-reaching applications and directions.

The blog on the website will allow patients and interested people to be kept abreast on the group's upcoming innovations in dental product development.  Informed patients allow the practice to provide a better quality of service overall.  Patients not only learn about dental topics, such as bonding, root canals, dentures, toothaches, dental fillings, dental cleanings, teeth whitening, sealants, dental veneers and dental implants, it will include information on the new polymer products.

The dentists and staff at Verde Pointe Dental Office are schooled on not only the dental services and treatments, but on the exciting upcoming dental advancements.

Patients that have been coming to Dr. Kimmerling over the years for teeth cleanings and treatment are excited about the upcoming dental products.  Dr. Kimmerling expects to change the face of dentistry significantly, and wants his patients to benefit immediately.  Patients are glad to be apart of such a significant dental office.  "We expect the blog to be the place our patients go to learn more," says Marietta dentist.  "Dr. Kimmerling is no ordinary dentist, says Katherine Worsham, Insurance Coordinator at Verde Pointe Dental Associates.  "He is highly intelligent and is able to work with brilliant chemists on a new polymer.  I find that amazing."

Verde Pointe Dental Associates has a new and exciting blog by a Marietta dentist that will be different than any other.  It's exciting because patients can be apart of the changes coming to dentistry.