Blog

The average American spends 38.5 total days brushing their teeth over a lifetime. People who drink 3 or more glasses of soda each day have 62% more tooth decay, fillings and tooth loss than others. Put down the pop and sports drinks and pick up some nice fresh water instead. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. However, we do not recommend that you use your pearly whites to open bottle caps! If you don’t floss, you miss cleaning 40% of your tooth surfaces. Make sure you brush and floss twice a day! If you’re right handed, you will chew your food on your right side. If you’re left handed, you will tend to chew your food on your left side. Every year, kids in North America spend close to half a million dollars on chewing gum. More people use blue toothbrushes than red ones. Like fingerprints, everyone’s tongue print is different The average woman smiles 62 times a day. The average man smiles about 8 times a day. Kids laugh around 400 times a day, adults just 15 times a day. Giraffes only have bottom teeth. 1882 was the year commercial floss was first manufactured. The most valuable tooth belonged to Sir Isaac Newton. In 1816 one of his teeth was sold in London for $3,633, or in today’s terms $35,700. The tooth was set in a ring! (source: Guinness World Records 2002).

Between 18 and 20 million people in the US suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Apnea is the obstruction of breathing which occurs when the tissues in the upper airway come too close together during sleep, temporarily blocking the inflow of air. Until very recently, only the most severe cases were able to be detected and diagnosed, and non-surgical treatment was limited to the CPAP, an air pressure device worn as a mask during sleep. This left those with mild to moderate apnea, if diagnosed, with the most inconvenient and expensive option in treatment. Oral Appliances are an Effective Alternative While the CPAP is the most familiar treatment, it is not the only treatment available for eliminating or reducing the interrupted breathing caused by sleep apnea. In many patients, oral appliance therapy (OAT) is an effective alternative. Oral appliance therapy refers to the use of a specially made dental appliance worn to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. Dentists trained in sleep medicine make the devices, and fit them specifically to each patient. Oral appliance therapy is more appealing and affordable than other therapies, and also well-tolerated by a larger group of sleep apnea patients. How Do Oral Appliances Work? After an initial evaluation by a dentist, technicians create the oral appliance specific to the patient’s mouth and indications. The device helps reposition the lower jaw forward during sleep, creating an open airway and helping prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues of the throat. What are the Advantages of Oral Appliances? The oral appliance is easier and more convenient to use than other standard therapies, which leads to increased compliance and greater treatment success. Unlike the CPAP which forces air into the patient’s airway and is not well tolerated by many patients, the oral appliance gently moves the lower mouth forward during sleep letting the patient breathe naturally. Are Over-the-counter Appliances a Good Option? Sleep apnea is a serious medical disorder, so proper treatment is important to the patient’s health. Because of this, custom-made oral appliances are always recommended over mail-order or over-the-counter devices for many reasons: Custom devices are much more successful in treatment Dental professionals use health grade materials in creating oral appliances Oral appliance therapy requires short-term and long-term follow-up to assure proper treatment Medical professionals need to monitor the patient’s physical response to the oral appliance While the oral appliance is an effective treatment for many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, it is important that each patient only use devices specifically made for them by a dentist trained in sleep medicine. Contact us at GreenBriar Dental in Atlanta now to learn more.

Few people look forward to the dental chair, but for some, that apprehension can turn in to full blown dental anxiety. This fear can stem from many things, such as the sound of the equipment, smell of the office, and anticipation of the treatment. Whatever the reason for dental anxiety, this fear causes many Americans to delay dental care– indefinitely. Though common, dental anxiety can be successfully managed so patients at Greenbriar Dental Care in Atlanta can get the care they need, before avoiding care leads to additional oral health issues. What Causes Dental Anxiety? There are many different reasons people are fearful of going to the dentist. Sometimes, it’s a previous experience, the sound of the tools, or simply the fear of local anesthetic. There are lots of unfamiliar tools, sounds and smells in the dentist office and all of those elements can make some feel some extreme apprehension. Technically, it’s called dentophobia or odontophobia and you don’t have to have any particular dental trauma in your past to currently experience it. Signs of dental anxiety include: Trouble sleeping the night or nights before a scheduled dental appointment Crying or feeling ill at the thought of visiting the dentist Uneasiness when objects are placed near your mouth Feeling as if it’s difficult to breathe when you get in the dentist chair Feeling helpless and out of control when in the dental chair Overcoming Dental Fear Patients that experience dental anxiety need to know that there are ways to manage that fear, and make going to the dentist a lot more comfortable, if not stress-free. These tips and techniques are effective in reducing the anxiety associated with going to the dental office. Find a dentist at Greenbriar Dental Center that specializes in dealing with fearful patients. Remember, dentists are healthcare professionals that have training in dealing with patients that have anxiety. Talk to your dentist about your fears prior to your visit. The dentist will discuss options such as medication, to help you manage your visit. Understand that dentistry is more sophisticated and comfortable than ever. Many patients envision scenes from westerns when they think of dentistry. Today, treatment is safe, fast, and in many cases nearly pain-free. Use relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves. Practice deep breathing or envision yourself on a beautiful beach. If the sound of drilling or suctioning makes you feel tense, listen to your favorite music to drown out the sound. Avoid caffeine or other stimulants the day before and day of the appointment. Avoid sugary foods that provide temporary energy. Instead, eat protein rich foods that produce a calming effect. Have friend or family go with you. Get to know the dentist before you appointment so you already feel comfortable. Try following them on social media or giving them a call. It’s hard to trust someone you don’t know. These positive techniques work wonders. Give them a try for your next visit at Greenbriar Dental Center in Atlanta.

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE? Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums and can affect the bone structure that supports your teeth. In severe cases, it can make your teeth fall out. Smoking is an important cause of severe gum disease in the United States. Gum disease starts with bacteria (germs) on your teeth that get under your gums. If the germs stay on your teeth for too long, layers of plaque (film) and tartar (hardened plaque) develop. This buildup leads to early gum disease, called gingivitis. When gum disease gets worse, your gums can pull away from your teeth and form spaces that get infected. This is severe gum disease, also called periodontitis. The bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place can break down, and your teeth may loosen and need to be pulled out. WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE Red or swollen gums Tender or bleeding gums Painful chewing Loose teeth Sensitive teeth Gums that have pulled away from your teeth HOW IS SMOKING RELATED TO GUM DISEASE? Smoking weakens your body’s infection fighters (your immune system). This makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. Once you have gum damage, smoking also makes it harder for your gums to heal.4,5,6 What does this mean for me if I am a smoker? You have twice the risk for gum disease compared with a nonsmoker. The more cigarettes you smoke, the greater your risk for gum disease. The longer you smoke, the greater your risk for gum disease. Treatments for gum disease may not work as well for people who smoke. Tobacco use in any form—cigarettes, pipes, and smokeless (spit) tobacco—raises your risk for gum disease. HOW CAN GUM DISEASE BE PREVENTED? You can help avoid gum disease with good dental habits.3 Brush your teeth twice a day. Floss often to remove plaque. See a dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit. HOW IS GUM DISEASE TREATED? Regular cleanings at your dentist’s office and daily brushing and flossing can help treat early gum disease (gingivitis). More severe gum disease may require: Deep cleaning below the gum line. Prescription mouth rinse or medicine. Surgery to remove tartar deep under the gums. Surgery to help heal bone or gums lost to periodontitis. Your dentist may use small bits of bone to fill places where bone has been lost. Or your dentist may move tissue from one place in your mouth to cover exposed tooth roots. If you smoke or use spit tobacco, quitting will help your gums heal after treatment. REFERENCES Eke PI, Dye BA, Wei L, et al. Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010. Journal of Dental Research 2012; 91(10):914–20 [accessed 2014 Jul 18]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Periodontal Disease [last updated 2013 Jul 10; accessed 2014 Jul 18]. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments [last updated 2012 Aug; accessed 2014 Jul 18]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Highlights: Smoking Among Adults in the United States: Other Health Effects [last updated 2004 May 27; accessed 2014 Jul 18]. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. A Report of the Surgeon General. The Health Consequences of Smoking. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health, 2004 [accessed 2014 Jul 18]. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Health Consequences of Smoking—50 Years of Progress: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Office on Smoking and Health, 2014 [accessed 2014 Jul 18]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral Health for Adults [last updated 2013 Jul 10; accessed 2014 Jul 18].

Root Canals are one of the most commonly practiced dental procedures in the world. Unfortunately, root canals are described as one of the most painful dental therapies and has a reputation of being excruciating. But in reality it isn’t any more painful than getting your filling done. The patient might experience high levels of discomfort prior to the procedure but heals completely after the therapy. Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal, or endodontic treatment. Learn more about how root canal treatment can relieve your tooth pain and save your smile at Greenbriar Dental in Atlanta, Georgia. Our team at Greenbriar Dental Care is committed to our patients and believes that they deserve the best dental experience. Call today to schedule your appointment online!

Cosmetic dental procedures have come a long way. In our society, appearance means everything. Your smile is one of the first things people will notice about you. Are you unhappy with stained or discolored teeth? Do you want to impress social acquaintances? Do you have a job interview and want to leave a positive lasting impression? A professional in-office teeth whitening procedure is certainly a great advantage. Your Time Is Valuable We all lead a busy lifestyle. Between work, our family, and social responsibilities, you don’t have time for an at-home treatment system. While you can achieve a dazzling smile at-home, these results take weeks to achieve. You also need to avoid staining foods and drinks while using these systems. However, a professional in-office whitening process allows you to get back to enjoying these foods and beverages within two days. In just an hour or two, you can leave your dentist’s office with a dazzling, white smile. Receive Safe and Comfortable Results Sure, you can whiten your teeth at-home, but there are a few concerns. For one, you may be unaware of just how sensitive your teeth and gums are. At-home whitening systems may not be your best choice because they can irritate your teeth and gums. This is caused by leaving the treatment on too long, or it comes into direct contact with your gums. This leaves days of pain and uncomfortableness. Wearing porcelain veneers, dental bonds, or even braces is not a challenge for your dentist. Trying to find the perfect system at-home to use can have adverse effects on these dental items. Your dentist can target troublesome stains and areas of the teeth you may not notice. This gives you a total confident smile. Your dentist is specially trained to use the latest innovative techniques with teeth whitening procedures. An in-office procedure is considered a more comfortable and safe approach as your dentist can adjust the whitening strength needed for your perfect smile. Your unique needs are met, such as the desired color you want and adjusting the treatment if it feels uncomfortable. Your dentist will carefully ensure the whitening agents are not exposed to your sensitive gums. They even have desensitizers for thorough protection. Stains that are Best Removed with In-Office Whitening Some stains just aren’t able to be removed with any whitening process. If you have experienced trauma to your teeth or have overexposure to fluoride, you may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. However, organic stains caused by consumption of red wine, coffee, dark colored fruits and veggies and tobacco use are treatable with whitening procedures. Even discolored teeth due to aging are treatable. If you’re looking to boost your confidence, you may be an excellent candidate for an in-office teeth whitening plan. For more information on a professional in-office teeth whitening treatment and discover if it’s best for you, contact us today.

Routine cleanings are one of the most important things you can do to keep your teeth healthy. Brushing and flossing daily are not enough to protect you from tooth decay, tooth loss and gum disease. Dr. Clarke recommends that you come in for a routine cleaning every six months. Routine visits can prevent plaque from building up and causing more serious problems. During your teeth cleaning, one of our wonderful dental hygienists will remove plaque, tartar and bacteria that can’t be removed with your regular toothbrush. Let’s not forget about the importance of routine cleaning for kids: cavity prevention! During your child’s routine cleaning, Dr. Clarke can apply sealants, which are a thin, plastic material that gets painted onto teeth to prevent bacteria from attaching to the tooth. Fluoride can an also be applied during a routine cleaning to strengthen the enamel of your teeth. So what are you waiting for? Make an appointment today with Dr. Clarke at Greenbriar Dental Care in Atlanta, GA.

Routine Dental Care | Greenbriar Dental Care When most people think of brushing and flossing, they think about keeping a healthy smile, preventing dental carries and gum disease, and decreasing the incidence of halitosis. Maintaining Good oral hygiene is much more than the best way to keep your teeth a lifetime though; it is one of the best ways to help maintain good overall health. Improved Nutrition Chewing is the first step in the process of digestion. Practicing good oral hygiene habits helps maintain the health, strength, and durability of the teeth and gums which helps in the process of chewing food. Poor habits lead to cavities, tooth loss, and infected or inflamed gums, all of which hamper eating nutritious foods. When your teeth are causing pain, you are more likely to avoid eating fresh, vitamin rich foods which leads to better long-term health. Poor Oral Health Can Lead to Other Health Problems It’s easy to assume that oral health only concerns the mouth, but doing so could lead to other potentially serious health concerns. Continued research proves the many direct links between oral and general health. Examples include: Women with Gum disease show a greater incidence of pre-term, low-birth-weight babies. Those with poor oral care show an increased risk of developing heart disease. Mouth infections affect major organs. Problems chewing can lead to intestinal failure, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders. What is Good Oral Hygiene? Good oral hygiene is everything you do to keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy. Doing this though requires more than brushing once a day. Make sure your daily oral care includes: Brushing thoroughly at least twice a day Flossing daily Using a mouthwash to kill germs In addition to daily care, good oral hygiene includes regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist. Dental professionals at Greenbriar Dental Care in Atlanta, GA use additional tools to help give your mouth the attention it deserves. Your dentist can also spot problem areas and treat any issues before they become more problematic. A dental professional can also help by telling you ways you can improve oral care techniques between visits. It is important to schedule regular visits at least once a year, and immediately if you notice any unusual wear, sores, swelling, or discoloration. Great oral care should start at a young age and last throughout your lifetime. Not only with the effort pay off in a beautiful smile, it will also benefit your general health by improving nutrition and decreasing your risks for certain other diseases.

Over time, teeth yellow or become stained from food and drink. Unfortunately, toothpaste alone cannot keep teeth at their whitest, and at home whitening kits only deliver marginal results. If your pearly whites are not quite so pearly anymore, professional teeth whitening at Greenbriar Dental Care might just be the thing that gets you smiling again. At first glint, getting your teeth whitened might seem like an extra on your list. Look a little closer though, and you’ll see there are some important reasons for going for that beautiful glow. Better First Impressions First impressions are lasting ones so we all want to make the best one possible. Noticeably white teeth are associated with a positive and conscientious personality, and traits such as intelligence and reliability. Increased Self Esteem Having a beautiful smile gives you a boost of positivity. Feeling good about yourself is important in your daily life. When you feel good about yourself you are more likely to take chances and believe that you can achieve your goals. Look Younger Teeth discolor with age and can make you look much older. Having your teeth whitened can restore a more youthful look, and attitude. It is a simple way to celebrate a brand-new you. Look Your Best For Pictures and Special Occasions Birthdays, weddings, holidays, and school pictures all get immortalized… forever. Since those pictures will be widely shared, it is a great excuse to make sure you have a camera-ready smile. An Affordable and Surgery-Free Cosmetic Enhancement We all have a few things we would like to improve and teeth whitening is the most cost-effective and painless option in cosmetic enhancements. Cosmetic plastic surgery comes with a set of risks and a hefty bill. Teeth whitening delivers a dramatic difference in appearance without the cost, hassle, or recovery time. Immediate Gratification One of the best reasons to have your teeth whitened is that it provides immediate gratification. Professional whitening can be done on your lunch hour and instantly improves your appearance, and your outlook on life. There are many reasons why getting your teeth whitened is not just fun, but practical. However, one of the most important reasons is that nothing beats a confident and beautiful smile. Contact us at Greenbriar Dental Care in Southwest Atlanta now to learn more.