Verde Point Dental Associates || Dr Kirk Kimmerling

It’s a Big Deal When Your Gums Bleed

Julie Kimmerling — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:30:00 +0000

Gum disease is a problem that results from poor oral hygiene. If swollen bleeding, tender gums are present, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dentist. At the appointment, gum disease can be diagnosed and how progressed it has become. Only a dentist or periodontist can recognize and diagnose gum disease and its progression.

During an exam the dentist or periodontist will check for specific signs such as…

Gum bleeding
Red or swollen gums
Pocket depth in between the gum line and teeth, larger pockets can occur in severe cases
Loosened teeth, loss of teeth
Proper teeth alignment
Sensitivity of teeth
Jawbone structure and how much (if any) has broken down

After the exam, goals will be given to promote healthy gum improvement. The idea is to get the gums healthy so they reattach to teeth. Reduction of swelling and bleeding and pocket depths is important, so the mouth can stay free of infection and stop the progression of gum disease. The dentist will design a treatment plan based on the progression of disease. It can also be based on overall health to make sure general health is not a contributing factor. The options for treatment range from non-surgical treatments such as a deep cleaning (scaling and root planning) to remove harmful bacterial growth to full osseous bone surgery to restore supportive gum tissue. The dentist or periodontist will fully explain options available for a good treatment plan.

Smoking and other tobacco use has a great impact on gum disease. According to medical professionals, people that smoke are 7 times more likely to develop severe gum disease. Smoking weakens the immune system which makes it tough for the body to restore healthy gum tissue. Maintaining a well balance diet will help give the body the nutrients to fight harmful bacteria that causes gum disease. Foods that are high in antioxidant properties and vitamin C help the body to repair itself. Try to avoid grinding and clenching teeth because it can eventually have a part in destroying tissues.

Focusing on oral health can only help in the long run. Proper daily brushing and flossing is key to keeping harmful bacteria away. Regular dental visits and cleanings can only help ensure that oral health is on point. Taking care of the mouth can be vital to health in general.

The post It’s a Big Deal When Your Gums Bleed appeared first on Verde Point Dental Associates || Dr Kirk Kimmerling.

If You Are Over 50 and Have Always Wanted a Beautiful, Healthy Smile, You’re Trending

drkirkkimmerling — Thu, 09 May 2013 23:28:36 +0000

You ask yourself, “What could be trending in dentistry?” It is people over 50, who are empty nesters and are now deciding to give themselves the same beautiful smile they gave their children. It is braces, dental veneers, dental implants, crowns, bridges, teeth whitening and more. “A nice smile is for anyone at any age,” says Marietta dentist, Kirk Kimmerling DDS.

Kirk Kimmerling DDS and Suzanna Aguilera DMD have announced “The People over 50 Invest in a Stunning, Healthy and Straight Teeth” campaign. It’s popular with those over 50 and is now trending in the dental world. The Marietta Dentists are seeing people in this age bracket commit themselves to a beautiful smile and much healthier mouth. Congratulations, if you’re trending in the dental world.

Since people over 50 look and feel younger, a beautiful, healthy smile is a perfect part of that process. It’s not just reserved for the young any more, and since people only have one life to live, a healthy smile just makes sense.

Receiving a stunning smile is accomplished in different ways for different people. A dentist may suggest procedures such as; orthodontics, dental veneers, dental crowns, dental implants, bridges, tooth colored fillings, periodontal procedures or a combination. These procedures can be placed to improve the orientation of the teeth and to improve the color. The results can be amazing.

If you are missing teeth, there are implants that can be placed that act as the root of a tooth. A crown is then placed over the implant looking and feeling like a natural tooth. If implants are not an option, a bridge is also a possibility. Either way, no one will know any dental work was done.

Braces are also popular with this generation. Older adults are having their teeth straightened often allowing the face to have more support around the lips and cheeks creating a younger appearance without plastic surgery!

After thee teeth are straightened, it’s the perfect time to brighten a smile. Retainers can be used as whitening trays to the shade desired. A good tip is to consider the whites of your eyes as a natural shade of white for your teeth with your complexion.

If you are over 50 and have made the commitment to your smile, you’re trending.

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Avoid Tooth Decay Says Marietta Dentist

drkirkkimmerling — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:27:27 +0000

Do you ever wonder why tooth decay happens? Tooth decay happens because a bacteria in the mouth produces a by-product that erodes teeth. It is very common and can occur in anyone. Tooth decay isn’t always easy to detect and many times has no symptoms, so it’s important to get regular dental checkups.

The most common symptom of tooth decay is a toothache. The decay can cause irritation or infection of the tooth, and can be accompanied with mild to severe pain and even tooth loss. Decay can cause a foul taste in the mouth which usually results in bad breath.

Decay is very important to repair to maintain oral health.

Let’s take a look at ways to avoid dental decay.

Proper daily oral hygiene will help promote tooth health and reduce the chances of tooth decay developing. Brushing teeth twice daily will help, as regular brushing keeps the bacteria count low promoting healthy teeth.

Daily flossing is important in removing debris from between teeth. Debris left behind feeds bacteria. It eats the same food you do.

Professional cleanings every six months is critical to healthy teeth, and good health. Dentists and hygienists can give tips on the latest products that avoid decay.

It is important to avoid decay and keep teeth healthy says Marietta Dentist, Kirk Kimmerling DDS.

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Are There Other Alternatives to Floss?

drkirkkimmerling — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:26:01 +0000

In the office, we encounter this question all the time says Marietta cosmetic dentist: “Are there other alternatives to floss because I hate flossing!” People wish there were something that would take the place of flossing. What we have realized is that motivating patients to clean their teeth in different ways other than flossing will be beneficial to them too. Some other ways to improve oral hygiene in general are using a Sonicare toothbrush, an Airflosser, a Waterpik, a handheld flosser, fluoride mouth rinse, and fluoride varnish. It is important to have oral hygiene and it can be done many different ways.

Although flossing remains the best way to clean in between your teeth and gums, there are other products that can contribute to a healthy mouth. Even though these products will not take the place of flossing, they will together contribute to a healthy mouth and reduce the likelihood of problems in general. Many people really don’t like to floss everyday. Maybe we can encourage them to floss every other day and maybe use some other products the other days. More and more information comes out daily revealing the link between the health of the mouth and the health of the rest of the body.

Of course flossing and good oral hygiene can save thousands of dollars by avoiding dental work such as periodontal cleanings, dental fillings, tooth extraction and root canals. More importantly it can save someone’s life by reducing risk of heart disease, inflammation and chronic infection.

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Dental Emergencies and Cracked Teeth

drkirkkimmerling — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 23:25:21 +0000

Dental emergencies can arise as the result of many different situations. Toothaches, swollen jaws, cracked teeth, chipped teeth, broken teeth, lost fillings, inflamed gums, dental decay, tooth extractions, reinfected root canals are to name a few. In any of these situations, an emergency dentist appointment is necessary.

There are many types of fractured teeth, some serious and some not. Situations such as minor cracks, also called craze lines are only surface cracks in the teeth and usually do not require treatment. If the crack involves the whole tooth, treatment is probably necessary. Serious breaks are deep enough to cause sensitivity and pain. Many times, a dental fillings, a root canal or an extraction is the only option to relieve the pain. Minor chips or a broken cusp do not always need an appointment. More serious breaks or a vertically split tooth, especially a molar will require attention. If the tooth is broken due to decay, a dentist will decide the best repair. A repair could require a root canal, dental filling or a dental crown.

Any particular questions on a dental emergency or a cracked tooth can be addressed by calling the Marietta dentist office, and the question can given to one of the cosmetic dentists.

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Gums, Oral Hygiene and Disease

drkirkkimmerling — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 23:24:01 +0000

Gum disease is a problem that results from poor oral hygiene. If swollen bleeding, tender gums are present then it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dentist. At the appointment, gum disease can be diagnosed and how progressed it is. Only a dentist or periodontitis can recognize and diagnose gum disease and its progression.

During an exam the dentist or periodontist will check for specific signs such as……

Gum bleeding
Red or swollen gums
Pockets in between gum line and teeth, larger pockets can occur in severe cases
Loosened teeth
Proper teeth alignment
Sensitivity of teeth
Jawbone mass and how much (if any) has broken down

After the exam, goals will be given to promote healthy gum improvement. The ideal is to get the gums healthy so they reattach to teeth. Reducing swelling and bleeding or depth of pockets is ideal to stay free of infection and stop gum disease from progressing. Treatment plans will be based on the progression of the disease. It will also be based on overall health to make sure general health is up to par. The options for treatment range from non-surgical treatments to remove harmful bacterial growth to restoring supportive gum tissue. The dentist or periodontist will fully explain what they feel is a good treatment plan.

Smoking and other tobacco use has a great impact on gum disease. According to medical professionals, smokers are 7 times more likely to develop severe gum disease. Plus smoking weakens the immune system which makes it tough for the body to restore healthy gum tissue. Maintaining a well balance diet will help give the body the nutrients to fight harmful bacteria that causes gum disease. Food that are high in antioxidant properties and vitamin C help the body to repair itself. Try to avoid grinding and clenching teeth because it can eventually have a part in destroying tissues.

The post Gums, Oral Hygiene and Disease appeared first on Verde Point Dental Associates || Dr Kirk Kimmerling.

My Tooth Hurt a Little, but Really Hurts Now

drkirkkimmerling — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:51:31 +0000

Toothaches never seem to happen at a convenient time. Many times, there are warning signs that give people opportunity to have the tooth checked by a dentist. Ignoring those signs can result in seeing the emergency dentist at the most inconvenient time possible. What’s the moral of this story? Well, a toothache can happen on the weekends, in the middle of the night or when you really just don’t want to see a dentist. So, have the phone number of an emergency dentist figured out in advance.

At Kirk Kimmerling DDS, emergency patients are not only seen, but welcomed with a $100 coupon good towards the services rendered. ”We realize dental emergencies can require more extensive care, so we try to help defray some costs for new patients,” says Kirk Kimmerling DDS.

The dental office of Dr. Kimmerling not only sees you patients in a time of need, insurance is filed on behalf of the patient. The only expected payment is what the insurance is estimated not to pay, and less the $100 coupon. It’s a good deal for emergency dental situations.

If a tooth really hurts, Kirk Kimmerling DDS is a good place to go in a time of need.

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Gum Disease and Your Dentist

drkirkkimmerling — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 16:34:27 +0000

Oral health is very important to maintain by making sure your gums are healthy. If gums are not properly taken care of, gum disease begins to occur and ultimately result in tooth loss from damaged gum tissue. Lets take a look at gum disease and symptoms per the dentist.

Gingivitis involves inflammation. It begins with bacteria growth in the mouth, and proceeds to a more serious gum disease known as periodontitis. Early stages of gingivitis is caused from bacteria in plaque build up. This can cause the gums to be inflamed and bleed during brushing. Untreated gingivitis eventually advances to periodontitis, where the inner layer of gum and bone start to pull away from the teeth and form pockets trapping even more bacteria. Since the pocket filsl with bacteria, it may become infected. Tooth loss or a dental extraction occurs in advanced cases.

Many things can factor into gum disease. Hormonal changes such a puberty, menopause, pregnancy can make gums more sensitive which makes is easier for plaque to form. Illnesses such as cancer, HIV and diabetes can play a role in gum disease. The bodies immune system is down so it struggles to fight bacteria. Bad habits like smoking make it very hard for gum tissue to repair itself. Poor daily oral hygiene can play a major role in gum disease. Brushing and flossing properly at least twice a day can help remove harmful bacteria from the gum line.

Lets look at signs of gingivitis or periodontitis……

Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
Swollen red, tender gums
Receding gum line
Bad breath
Bad taste in mouth
Pockets forming between teeth and gums
Loose teeth

If you feel you have any of these signs, its important to schedule an appointment with a dentist. The dentist can examine and give instructions on what needs to be done. Regular dental cleanings can help reduce chances of developing gum disease. Oral health is very important and needs to be a priority in daily life.

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Smoking, Your Mouth and You

drkirkkimmerling — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 16:43:23 +0000

Smoking cigarettes can leave some major lasting impacts on your health. Health professionals say that 1 in 5 smokers will die from smoking related illnesses, and is a major contributor to creating many oral health problems. Smokeless tobacco, cigars and hookah water pipes are also a major concern. Lets take a closer look at problems that seem to be associated with tobacco products.

Risks for oral cancer are greatly increased. Cigarette and Cigars have many toxins that are related to oral cancer. Oral cancer can spread very quickly and may lead to death if not diagnosed and treated early. The risk of gum disease dramatically increases and can lead to tooth loss in many cases, and slower mouth healing can occur after tooth loss opening the gateway to other health problems. Smoking damages gum tissue and leads to receding gums with the root of the tooth exposed. This could lead to tooth decay and possible sensitivity to hot and cold. Bone loss in the jaw and inflammation in salivary glands may occur. Tobacco products can cause bad breath and stains that cannot be removed with regular tooth brushing. Only a hygienist can remove the stains. Tartar build up could accrue faster which may result in more frequent needed dental cleanings. Ongoing studies show that poor oral health can lead to heart disease, respiratory infections, rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers that are linked to bacteria from the mouth. Smoking doesn’t only affect the mouth, it’s affects overall health.

Quitting to smoke or use of tobacco products can be very difficult and challenging for most. It’s a good idea to talk to your dentist or physician about tips to get oral and general health back on track. Quitting can only lead to better health and a longer life. Organizations exist to help you through the journey.

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Does My Dentist Really Need X-rays?

drkirkkimmerling — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:52:22 +0000

It’s understandable when patients request the dentist to take as few of X-rays as possible. But, those fears are a problem of the past. X-rays today are a useful diagnostic tool that emit little radiation. The technology has come a long way.

X-rays are useful for many reasons. They examine fractures, infections of and hidden dental structures in the mouth. They help an emergency dentist diagnose. Dentists diagnose based on shades of black and gray. Teeth appear lighter on the X-ray because they are a denser structure. Fillings and crowns are lighter or darker depending on materials used by your dentist. The differentiation of density allows a dentist to spot problems that need addressed before it can become a significant problem. This usually means an earlier, less costly treatment.

So, why do people decline X-rays? Many fear the radiation, and others the cost. X-rays are actually inexpensive due to the early diagnostic capabilities, and fortunately, most dental insurance plans cover most of the cost. Second, the dosage of X-ray radiation received is typically quite small, even when a full series of x-rays are taken with the new digital technology according to the American Dental Association. The radiation has been compared to a few days of environmental exposure, well worth the exposure.

Many dental offices have digital X-rays, as it will soon be the standard of care.

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