7 Easy Tips for White and Healthy Teeth

Who isn't on the quest to acquire the perfect set of teeth?

It was Hippocrates and Aristotle who wrote about repairing decaying teeth and fractured jaws centuries ago, and today, cosmetic bonding and cosmetic dentistry are all the rage. Many of us looking for the perfect smile will waste no time in thronging their dentist's office with such requests.

Having a great set of pearly whites can boost your self-confidence like few other things can. However, keeping your teeth in great shape will require you to put in a little time and effort on an everyday basis.

The daily brushing-and-flossing routine is a must for maintaining dental hygiene. Additionally, making sure that you stick to the following oral-hygiene tips and tricks will help you protect and care for your teeth better.

1. Keep Stains Away

Can't keep away from your cup of black coffee, but want to avoid those ghastly stains on your teeth? The good news is that you can lighten and remove most teeth stains.

With technological advancements, several teeth-whitening procedures have been developed that can treat tooth discoloration effectively. While most are performed at the dentist's, taking a few precautionary measures yourself can help you avoid these stains all together.

Sip your dark-colored soda, red wine, and coffee with a straw in small quantities, instead of drinking them from a glass/mug as doing so can ensure that your teeth never stain.

2. Keep Your Teeth Naturally Clean and Strong

Woke up late and rushing to work? Seems like flossing isn't going to be possible today? No worries! Munch on fibrous fruits and veggies like apples and lettuce for breakfast. Fiber prevents the buildup of tartar and plaque on your teeth, thus making them appear cleaner.

Fibrous foods also serve as exfoliating agents and prevent stain molecules from attaching themselves to teeth. Also, because these crunchy foods require a lot of chewing, they keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.

To read the entire article written by Lawrence Calagna, please visit WebDental.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Lifestyle and Oral Health

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about lifestyle and oral health.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Preventative Dentistry

Preventive Health Care with Wellness Dentistry

Most people go to a doctor only when they become ill. But what about going to a doctor when you are NOT sick? That is taking preventive measures to stop potential problems before they develop. 

Although we take care of any current issues with your teeth and gums, we go an extra step to avoid future dental problems. We assess your dental health with a very thorough exam and look for oral cancer, gum disease, how your bite comes together, and signs of wear and tear that cause other problems. We believe this exam will keep you healthier and happier, saving you time and money in the long run!

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Bioactive Glass Leads to Longer-Lasting Fillings

Dentists complete 122 million composite tooth restorations in the United States each year, according to Oregon State University (OSU). But the average lifetime of posterior dental composites is only 6 years. Bioactive glass may improve their durability and provide some of the minerals that have been lost to tooth decay.

“Bioactive glass, which is a type of crushed glass that is able to interact with the body, has been used in some types of bone healing for decades,” said Jamie Kruzic, a professor at the OSU college of engineering. The hard and stiff material can replace the inert glass fillers now mixed with polymers to make modern composite tooth fillings.

“This type of glass is only beginning to see use in dentistry, and our research shows it may be very promising for tooth fillings,” he said. “The bacteria in the mouth that help cause cavities don’t seem to like this type of glass and are less likely to colonize on fillings that incorporate it. This could have a significant impact on the future of dentistry.”

Bioactive glass is made with compounds such as silicon oxide, calcium oxide, and phosphorous oxide, and it looks like powdered glass. Its antimicrobial effect is attributed, in part, to the release of ions such as those from calcium and phosphate that have a toxic effect on oral bacteria and tend to neutralize the local acidic environment.

“Almost all fillings will eventually fail,” Kruzic said. “New tooth decay often begins at the interface of a filling and the tooth and is called secondary tooth decay. The tooth is literally being eroded and demineralized at that surface.” 

To read the entire article, please visit DentistryToday.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Your Smile is Important

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about why your smile is important

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Gum Disease and Diabetes

Are You Diabetic or Pre-Diabetic?

Many patients may not be aware of dental conditions that can interfere with controlling blood sugar levels. Gum disease can make diabetes worse and diabetes can make gum disease worse. Not all dentists are prepared to assist a patient with this vicious cycle.

Dr. Ushma Patel has received the specialized training to help a diabetic or borderline diabetic control these health problems. We offer a complimentary consultation, and you can be assured we are nonjudgmental in providing you information and care.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Understanding Your Dental Plan

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about understanding your dental plan.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Root Canals

Root Canals Will Save a Tooth

It is now well recognized that saving a tooth, if at all possible, is essential to avoid other dental problems later on. In the past, a tooth with damaged or infected roots was extracted, but today's advanced therapies will save it. During this procedure, the interior pulp of the tooth is removed and replaced with a special filling material. Sometimes a crown is necessary to put over the tooth to give it added strength. Patients need dread this treatment no longer. Modern techniques and advanced anesthetics make it easy and less time consuming for patients, and your natural tooth will be saved and fully functional again.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Chew on this: Six dental myths debunked

Myth 1: The consequences of poor oral health are restricted to the mouth

Expectant mothers may not know that what they eat affects the tooth development of the fetus. Poor nutrition during pregnancy may make the unborn child more likely to have tooth decay later in life. “Between the ages of 14 weeks to four months, deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, protein and calories could result in oral defects,” says Carole Palmer, EdD, RD, professor at TUSDM and head of the division of nutrition and oral health promotion in the department of public health and community service. Some data also suggest that lack of adequate vitamin B6 or B12 could be a risk factor for cleft lip and cleft palate formation.

In children, tooth decay is the most prevalent disease, about five times more common than childhood asthma. “If a child’s mouth hurts due to tooth decay, he/she is less likely to be able to concentrate at school and is more likely to be eating foods that are easier to chew but that are less nutritious. Foods such as donuts and pastries are often lower in nutritional quality and higher in sugar content than more nutritious foods that require chewing, like fruits and vegetables,” says Palmer. “Oral complications combined with poor diet can also contribute to cognitive and growth problems and can contribute to obesity.”

Myth 2: More sugar means more tooth decay

It isn’t the amount of sugar you eat; it is the amount of time that the sugar has contact with the teeth. “Foods such as slowly-dissolving candies and soda are in the mouth for longer periods of time. This increases the amount of time teeth are exposed to the acids formed by oral bacteria from the sugars,” says Palmer.

Some research shows that teens obtain about 40 percent of their carbohydrate intake from soft drinks. This constant beverage use increases the risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free carbonated drinks and acidic beverages, such as lemonade, are often considered safer for teeth than sugared beverages but can also contribute to demineralization of tooth enamel if consumed regularly.

To read the entire article written by Medardo Chua, please visit IDentalAccess.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Tobacco Risks on Oral Health

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about tobacco risks on oral health.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Three Oral Hygiene Tips for Men

When it comes to personal oral hygiene, not all men are as attentive to their teeth as women. Starting with the checkup, surveys suggests men are more likely to see a dentist only in the event of a problem. So, guys, learn how to step up your oral care routine with the following tips for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health problems before they start.

Toothbrush Tips
Brushing is just one part of keeping your mouth clean - doing so twice a day, in particular. However, the average man brushes his teeth 1.9 times a day, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). It's not enough to brush quickly and be on your way; two minutes of thorough cleaning is your most effective approach. Keep in mind you don't need to brush hard during this process. Use a soft-bristled brush such as Colgate® Slim Soft™ and brush gently at a 45-degree angle.

Some helpful hints: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, rinse it after each use and store it in an upright position to air dry. Storing it in a container actually allows microorganisms to grow on the brush, explains the American Dental Association (ADA), so it's best to avoid this method.

Sports and Dental Injuries
Playing contact sports can lead to trauma in unexpected places, and this includes broken, chipped or lost teeth. Wear a mouthguard when you're on the field and a helmet when you're on your bike. Ultimately, see your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing an incident to quickly assess the damage and determine what can be done to fix it.


To read the entire article written by Margie Monin Dombrowski, please visit Colgate.com 

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Sleep Apnea Dental Treatment

Get a Good Night's Rest

Do you find yourself unrested after a night's sleep? Have you been told you snore throughout the night? You may have already been diagnosed with sleep apnea and even given the CPAP device to solve the problem. This device is a machine that continually pumps air into a mask that fits over a person's nose and mouth. Although it solves the problem of interrupted breathing, it can be an uncomfortable appliance to wear. After only a short time of using the CPAP, many patients put it aside and the problem returns. 

If you have gone through this frustration and drag through your day from lack of proper sleep, we have a small miracle for you. We can fit you with a small oral appliance that fits over your upper and lower teeth. It works by realigning your tongue and jaw so your air passage is clear and you can continually breathe on your own throughout your sleep. There has been an overwhelming 90% success rate for users. The appliance is convenient for use and easy to take with you when you travel. If you want a good night's rest and to stop the snoring, let us return you to a healthier and happier quality of life with this alternative solution.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about regular dental check-ups.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

A New Year's You: Dental Health Resolutions

Your dental health is an important part of your overall wellness, and the New Year is a great time to create resolutions for improving your health. Many people have dental health resolutions that range from improving their toothbrushing habits to completing delayed dental treatment. Understanding the benefits of your particular resolutions can be motivating and rewarding. Whatever your goals might be, it is important to take small steps to achieve them. Consistency is key with any resolution that you make.

Improving Toothbrushing and Flossing Habits
Perhaps you would like to improve your oral health. Daily toothbrushing and flossing is a sure and simple way to improve your oral health. For successful bacterial plaque removal, it is important to brush at least twice a day using an appropriately sized, soft-bristle, manual or electric toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, gently position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and move the toothbrush across the teeth to effectively remove bacterial plaque. It is also important to floss at least once per day to remove bacterial plaque and food that has accumulated throughout the day. Your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months, as well as after you have a cold or flu or if the bristles are frayed. Daily toothbrushing and flossing help to prevent gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decay and halitosis (bad breath). The daily use of antimicrobial and fluoride mouthrinses also helps to improve your oral health.

To read the entire article written by Yolanda Eddis, please visit Colgate.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Gum Disease Treatment

Defeating Gum Disease the Easy Way

Dr. Ushma Patel makes the treatment of gum disease easier than ever. She uses a very effective antibiotic called ARESTIN™, which is applied directly to the infected pockets in the gum tissue. It is invisible but works over time to combat the infection and allow your gums to become healthy again. Best of all, it does its work painlessly!

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

After-Hours Emergency Dentistry

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about after-hours emergency dentistry.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Crowns

Crowns to Restore a Broken Tooth

Sometimes a filling will not be a suitable restoration if the tooth is too damaged. A crown can be made to go over the remaining tooth structure. It provides full functionality and looks like your natural tooth. We use the best-quality materials for a long-lasting and properly fitting crown.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Are You Flossing Or Just Lying About Flossing? The Dentist Knows

There's nothing like jamming a waxed piece of string between your tightest molars and sliding it back and forth. And who doesn't do that once a day, just as the dentist prescribes?

Well, a lot of us. Twenty-seven percent of adults lie to their dentists about how often they floss their teeth, a survey released Tuesday found. Not only that, but more than a third of people surveyed would rather be doing unpleasant chores than flossing their teeth daily. Fourteen percent would rather clean the toilet. Nine percent would rather sit in gridlock traffic for an hour. And 7 percent would rather listen to small children crying on a plane.

Actually, that 27 percent sounds awfully low. When we called up Dr. Joan Otomo-Corgel, a periodontist and president of the American Academy of Periodontology, which conducted the survey, she said: "Is that all?"
More than a third of Americans would rather do an unpleasant activity than floss.
American Academy of Periodontology

She's not the only oral health professional who thinks many patients are fibbing when they say they're flossing. "I am shocked," says Dr. Sally Cram, a periodontist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, via email. "Given my experience with patients in my practice I thought it would be higher!"

To read the entire article written by Jessie Rack, please visit NPR.org

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

20 Mistakes You're Making With Your Teeth

Taking care of your pearly whites isn't rocket science, but it's easy to slip into habits that could cause heartache -- er, toothache -- in the long run. We got the latest on giving your teeth the TLC they need from two New York City pros: Alice Lee, DDS, an assistant professor in the Department of Dentistry for Montefiore Health System, and Alison Newgard, DDS, an assistant professor of clinical dentistry at Columbia University College of Dentistry, will clue you in on where you could be going wrong.

Multitasking while you brush
Every minute in the morning feels precious, so it's tempting to brush your teeth in the shower or while scrolling through your Twitter feed. "To each his own," says Dr. Newgard, "but I prefer patients to be in front of a mirror, over the sink; you can be sure to hit all the surfaces of your teeth, and you'll do a more thorough job when you're not distracted." Better to leave the bathroom a few minutes later having given proper attention to each step of your prep.

Overcleaning your toothbrush
Thinking about running your brush through the dishwasher or zapping it in the microwave to disinfect it? Think again: While we've all seen those stories about toothbrushes harboring gross bacteria, the CDC says there's no evidence that anyone has ever gotten sick from their own toothbrush. Just give your brush a good rinse with regular old tap water, let it air-dry, and store it upright where it's not touching anyone else's brush. More drastic cleaning measures may damage your brush, the CDC notes, which defeats its purpose.

Using social media as your dentist
The web is full of weird and (seemingly) wonderful DIY dental tips that can hurt much more than they'll help. Read our lips: Don't even go there. "I've heard of patients who go on Pinterest and find ways to whiten their teeth there--by swishing with straight peroxide, for example--which are not good for their teeth," Dr. Newgard says. "Use ADA-approved products that have been tested." (Another online tip to skip: trying to close up a gap in your teeth with DIY rubber band braces.) 

To read the entire article written by Lauren Oster, please visit HuffingtonPost.com 

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Antibiotics & Your Heart

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about antibiotics and your heart.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Intra-Oral Imaging

Taking the Guesswork Out of Decision-Making

Dr. Ushma Patel works with each patient to form a bond of teamwork. The intra-oral miniature video camera allows you to have a clear, magnified image of the interior of your mouth. This easily lets you view the areas of your teeth that have problems so you can make informed decisions about necessary treatment. Patients have been very pleased to work together with Dr. Patel for their best oral health. 

When you are considering cosmetic changes, SNAP™ Dental Imaging lets you see your new smile before any work begins so you can move forward with confidence. We take a digital photo of your smile, and then Dr. Patel creates the simulation of your new smile that can be achieved with a variety of techniques, such as veneers or whitening. Within five minutes, the computer makes the transition and displays the side-by-side images of your current smile and your desired smile. What could be easier than that?

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

More Than a Quarter of Americans Have This Untreated Disease

Let's just say, it might be time to get your pearly whites checked.

It's time for Americans to get over their fear of the dentist. According to new data published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics, more than 25% of U.S. adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. Additionally, 1 in 5 adults aged 65 and older may have it as well.

And if that's not motivation enough to take a seat in the dental chair, 91% have one tooth (or more) that has been treated for tooth decay or needs to be.

To read the entire article written by Samantha Toscano, please visit GoodHouseKeeping.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Power Toothbrushes

Learn what the American Dental Association has to say about power toothbrushes.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Implants

What Problems Do Missing Teeth Cause?

You may think an unattractive appearance is the only problem with missing teeth. But there are other issues you may not have considered. 

You do not obtain as much nutrition from your food as you do with a full set of teeth. Other teeth may start to loosen or shift as well, resulting in additional tooth losses. Your speech may not always be clear, which can be embarrassing. Your face can appear sunken not only because of the gaps, but because of bone loss that begins as soon as the tooth is lost. Finally, your overall health may take a change for the worse as chewing becomes more difficult. Favoring softer foods over healthier choices often results in weight gain.

We recommend dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth. They look completely natural and function to let you eat whatever you like. You will once again recapture a beautiful smile.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Risks to Oral Health During Pregnancy

Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to about risks to your oral health during pregnancy.

The above video is found on the American Dental Association YouTube Channel.

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Dental Smile Makeovers

A New Smile for You

There is no reason to put off having the smile of your dreams. With the latest advancements in smile makeovers, they are now more affordable and less time consuming than ever! We offer the best care for your dental health as well as state-of-the-art makeover treatments. Come into our office and let us show you what veneers, bonding, crowns, and whitening can do to put a new smile on your face!

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com

Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth

Halloween is just around the corner, and although candy consumption is almost unavoidable this time of year, the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) wants parents and children to know that there are both good and bad candy options, both of which may find their way into children's trick-or-treat bags this fall. 
  
"Of course, dentists do not advocate that children eat large amounts of sugary treats, but it is that time of year, so we want to clarify for parents which treats are better for their kids' teeth and which ones may increase the risk of developing cavities," says AGD spokesperson Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, FAGD. 

To read the entire article, visit: KnowYourTeeth.com

Center for Advanced Dentistry   
Ushma Patel, DMD   
6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500   
Suwanee, GA 30024   
(770) 623-8750   
JohnsCreekSedationDentist.com