Dental fillings rarely start with a patient that is looking for their teeth to get a filling, despite the fact that the gold fillings do look very snazzy. The reality is that most patients come in for a regularly scheduled checkup and we find that there are sufficient wear and tear. Thus, the tooth requires a filling to keep the tooth viable. Occasionally, although rare these days, will we get a patient who is young or lucky with great teeth and has no idea what a filling is or why it is necessary.
A dental filling is a material that replaces damaged tooth enamel or a tooth that has a cavity. At other times, we will find what is known as a soft spot, where the enamel has almost given way to a cavity but not quite. We prefer to fill these as well since it is only a matter of time before the decay breaks through.
Considering that a dental filling usually starts with an examination, we cannot stress enough the importance of coming in for regular checkups. The best rule of thumb is to try and make an appointment at least twice a year, which allows us to find things like soft spots or identify areas that have excessive plaque buildup. Regular appointments allows North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry to help prevent these issues from damaging patient's teeth.
The first thing we do with a filling is to numb the area around the tooth so that the patient does not feel any discomfort. We mainly use an application of local anesthetic directly into the gums to numb the mouth. Once the patient's mouth is numb, he or she will not feel any discomfort besides a little pressure as we work on the teeth.
In order to make sure that we get rid of all the decay and that the decay has no chance of spreading or coming back, we will shave off all the portions of the tooth that have decay. While the dentist is removing this bad enamel, we will also take the opportunity to shape where the cavity had been so that it is a good shape for a filling. This will allow the filling itself to be more secure.
From this point on, the tooth is ready to receive the filling. We will make any specific preparations to the patient's needs before placing the filling. A bonded filling, for example, we need to etch the tooth whereas some fillings require resin. If a resin is used, we apply it and then use the cool blue light to harden and strengthen it.
We use crowns and bridges to repair damaged teeth at our Buford dentist office. Crowns, which are also known as dental crowns or dental caps by popular culture, are the most popular way of fixing damaged teeth. When we combine multiple crowns with your natural teeth, we create dental bridges. We use both crowns and bridges to repair teeth. These treatment options serve to address the three main problems that occur with broken teeth. The three problems with broken, cracked, or chipped teeth are the vulnerability, functionality, and aesthetic value.
Speaking of vulnerability, most people do not realize that their mouth is actually awash with multiple kinds of oral bacteria. This bacteria is what causes decay and bad breath; however, under normal circumstances, it has no access to the soft inner part of the tooth, which is called the pulp. When you have a broken tooth, the bacteria can much more easily get to the tooth's pulp or even the root and cause a serious infection.
To prevent this, it becomes essential to quickly seal up the damage with crowns and bridges at your dentist.The second challenge with damaged teeth is that they are no longer able to perform their core function, which is to chew and help you digest your food. Teeth are designed to tear and break down food, making it essential that as we treat them. We will provide you with an excellent chewing device and an undamaged chewing surface on one or multiple teeth with the help of crowns and bridges.
Finally, it is important for people to look good and smile confidently. We know that a confident smile cannot happen with broken, cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth. To that end, having us place a crown or bridge will give a patient back the aesthetic value of his or her teeth.
When we are placing crowns and bridges, we will begin with a comprehensive preparation stage. What this entails depends on several factors, like how many teeth we need to replace, the material we will be using for the crowns, and what other fillings we have to remove.
When placing dental crowns, one of the added procedures that often becomes necessary is a root canal if the tooth has an infected root. Then we would need to shave away the enamel so the crowns can properly fit over the tooth and be secure. At the same time, we would want to remove any damaged or decayed enamel. Several things we pay close attention to at the dentist office are margins and cusps.
The margin is the smooth edge of the new dental crown that would meet the gum. It is essential that these are smooth, with no gaps or ledges. We also pay close attention to the cusps, which are the pointy part of the tooth essential for chewing. If you have a damaged cusp on your natural teeth, you will need dental crowns to replace them.
When you need to improve the appearance of your gums, laser dentistry is the most effective and most precise way to do so. Our laser dentistry gum improvements procedure provides the most attractive results and a quick healing process. If you are uncomfortable with the shape of your gums, we can help you. Our methods are safe, reliable and do not cause discomfort during or after the procedure.
These are only a few of the many benefits and uses of laser dentistry. Whatever your needs are, whether they are related to improving the appearance of your gums or removing cold sores or cavities, we can help. Primarily our laser methods are used for gum treatment.
Our laser gum shaping, also know as gum contouring or gum improving, is used to either remove excess gum tissue to correct your gum line length or placement. If you feel as though your gums make your teeth look too long or too short, or are disproportionate, our gum contouring practices can fix the imperfections. Our patients choose to undergo a laser treatment for many of the reasons mentioned above, and specifically due to the painless and efficient procedure it provides. We will apply an anesthetic to the area that will be worked on to ensure it remains numb, but the laser itself will also contribute to a painless procedure.
Our lasers are so precise that they can finely shape your gum line into the placement we know will improve your smile. Following our laser dentistry treatment, you will have very little swelling and very little bleeding. You will have a fast recovery time, and you will get to enjoy your perfected results much quicker than with a traditional gum treatments.
Our laser dentistry services can improve the appearance of your gums in a short visit to our office. Don't remain frustrated with your appearance, and don't let your gums distract others from your beautiful smile. When you visit our office, we will come up with a custom plan to address your needs and wants. Once we perform our laser dentistry gum improvements, you will be able to boast about your brand new, beautiful smile.
As orthodontics specialists, we can straighten your teeth and transform your smile. Orthodontic treatment is often necessary to straighten your teeth and to prevent decay in hard to reach areas like overcrowded teeth. Straightening treatments should be a priority for you and your loved ones in order to ensure long-term oral health. A beautiful smile can result from having teeth straightened using braces or aligners. Many people are so distracted by their straightening process that they often forget the importance of keeping their teeth clean during the alignment process. Here are some ways that you can care for your teeth during an orthodontics treatment.
No matter what form of dental straightening a patient chooses, whether it is an aligner or traditional braces, there are certain cleaning guidelines to keep in mind. Patients will not only want to keep the teeth stain-free but will also want to prevent decay. Aligners may be easier when it comes to cleaning teeth, but many people assume their chances of decay are less with aligners which are not true.
Flossing
Flossing with braces can be challenging. Sometimes it can be helpful to use products like a Waterpik, which uses a water stream to rinse between teeth. As orthodontics specialists, we can also provide patients with tools to try. Traditional flossing, however, is hard to beat, which is why one needs to also attempt normal flossing methods. With braces, patients can stick one end of the floss through the crease between the teeth above the top wire of the braces. After this, grab both ends and gently pull back and forth. Repeat this process with all of the teeth. During this process, do not pull down on the wires as this can bend them out of shape. During the orthodontics treatment, flossing will be easier if one does not eat sticky foods or things that have the potential to get lodged in the teeth, like popcorn kernel shells.
With an aligner, flossing is much easier. Patients simply remove the aligner whenever they want to floss. While wearing aligners, it can be helpful to floss after each meal before placing the aligner back on the teeth. This will prevent bacteria build-up, gum disease and decay by removing food particles.
Brushing
Brushing one's teeth is slightly easier than flossing during orthodontics treatment, but it can still be tricky to get the best clean possible. For traditional braces, there are special brushes a patient can get that is angled. Thus, patients can reach from above and below to brush hard to reach areas. After using this special brush also referred to as a proxy brush, patients should use a classic toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste to ensure they attain an all-over clean. After rinsing thoroughly, patients can use mouthwash for good measure.
With an aligner, patients just remove the aligner and brush with a normal toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after every meal. Patients also need to continue regular brushing every morning and night. During this time, it is important also to clean the aligner so that bacteria does not build up, and grime does not stain the clear plastic material. The use of mouthwash is also important after brushing, but do not use it to clean the aligner.
As meticulous as it can be to care for your teeth during an orthodontics treatment, it is vital to ensure you do not experience any dental decay or staining that can counter your current correction method. As orthodontic specialists, we can help you to keep your teeth clean and healthy so that your smile is truly stunning when your treatment is complete.
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December 12, 2024
The Buford Dentist’s Key to Replacing Missing Teeth Are you tired of dealing with missing teeth and longing for a confident smile? Look no further! This comprehensive guide’ll explore their incredible benefits and explain the surgical procedure involved in replacing missing teeth. Get ready to discover how dental implants can support your natural teeth in the long term. Let’s dive in! What Are Dental Implants? Dental implants are the ultimate solution for replacing missing teeth. They act as artificial tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. By attaching replacement teeth to the implants, you can enjoy a […]
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December 12, 2024
Transform Your Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry in Buford, Georgia Are you tired of hiding your smile due to dental imperfections? Look no further than cosmetic dentistry in Buford, Georgia! Whether you want to whiten your teeth, fix crooked teeth, restore damaged teeth with dental crowns, or explore other cosmetic dental treatments, Buford offers a range of options to help you achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of. Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhancing Your Smile Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your teeth, resulting in a more confident and radiant smile. Here’s everything you need to […]
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Are you searching for a trusted dentist in Buford, GA? Look no further! At North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, your Buford Dentist, we are dedicated to giving excellent dental care to people in Buford and nearby areas. Our skilled team and modern facilities allow us to provide many different dental services to take care of your oral health. Whether you require routine check-ups, cosmetic dentistry, or restorative treatments, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore why Buford Dentist is the go-to choice for exceptional dental care. Why Choose NACCID as your Buford Dentist? 1. Expert […]
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December 12, 2024
Are you tired of hiding your teeth when you smile? Do you dream of having a flawless, picture-perfect smile? Look no further than dental veneers! These remarkable cosmetic dental treatments can transform your smile and boost your confidence. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits, procedure, and incredible results of dental veneers right here in Buford, GA. What Are Dental Veneers? Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that enhance your smile by covering the front surfaces of your teeth. Made from high-quality porcelain or composite resin, veneers are the perfect solution to correct a variety of dental imperfections, […]
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December 12, 2024
Are you longing for a dazzling, confident smile that lights up the room? Look no further! In Buford, GA, teeth whitening treatments can help you achieve the pearly whites of your dreams. Say goodbye to stained teeth and hello to a radiant grin. Let’s dive into the world of teeth whitening and uncover the secrets to a picture-perfect smile! Is Teeth Whitening Right for You? When it comes to teeth whitening, determining if you’re a good candidate is essential to ensure optimal results and avoid any potential complications. Generally, individuals with healthy teeth and gums are ideal candidates for teeth […]
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December 4, 2024
How Long Does TMJ Last, and Does It Go Away on Its Own? The temporomandibular joint, commonly known as the TMJ, is a crucial hinge joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. TMJ disorders can be both painful and disruptive, affecting daily activities like eating, speaking, and even sleeping. A common question among those experiencing this discomfort is, “How long does TMJ last, and does it go away on its own?” This blog explores the various factors that influence TMJ duration, treatment options, and management strategies for both short-term relief and long-term improvement. Understanding TMJ Disorder: What Causes It and […]
As a dentist in Buford, we focus on keeping our patients in excellent oral health and part of that process is understanding how the entire body works together. Oral health, as with the health of any part of your body, is not isolated. This is why something like gum disease can impact your gums, teeth and even your heart. Even your breathing connects to your oral health.
In Sleep Interrupted by Steven Y. Park, M.D there is discussion around the negative side effects of breathing through your mouth. While it may seem natural to switch between the mouth and nose breathing, there are distinct health advantages to breathing through your nose. The first of these is that you will receive more oxygen. Nitric oxide helps the body to receive more oxygen. When you breathe through your nose, you create small amounts of this gas that helps your lungs to absorb oxygen. As a result, you will receive 10 to 25 percent more oxygen and have more energy.
As a dentist in Buford, I frequently work with patients that do not get enough oxygen while they sleep due to obstructive sleep apnea. This condition is generally caused by the lower jaw and tongue falling backward and blocking the airway. This condition can lead people to feel so incredibly fatigued that they cannot stay up past dinner, fall asleep when doing activities like watching television or working on the computer, etc. I treat this condition using a non-invasive, removable oral appliance.
The results are consistent and dramatic as patients begin to breathe freely at night and wake up feeling refreshed for the first time in months or years. Through these treatments, I witness firsthand the importance of getting the right amount of oxygen. This makes the studies on nose breathing even more interesting because if you could change how you are breathing, you could start to feel more energized than you have in years and begin to enjoy life more thoroughly.
Simultaneously, this makes it important to treat any problems that you have with your nose right away. If you have a sinus infection or too much mucus, it needs treatment with a visit to your primary care doctor. Clearing the mucus can help you to breathe through your nose during the day and improve your breathing at night.
While obstructive sleep apnea is typically a result of the tongue blocking the airways, it worsens from a plugged up nose. In this case, wearing a removable oral appliance while sleeping becomes even more important.
As a dentist, I can examine you and suggest steps for an at-home sleep study to determine if you have obstructive sleep apnea. If you do, we will make an impression of your mouth and take measurements. This information will then be sent to the dental lab for your oral appliance to be created. It will fit perfectly so that you can sleep without it moving out of place or causing you any discomfort. This, combined with treating any sinus problems that you have, can help you to get more oxygen while sleeping. Breathing through your nose during the day will further improve your oxygen levels, making it possible to have the energy you need to enjoy more strenuous activities.
Braces have advanced with new technologies that make teeth straightening faster, more comfortable, and less noticeable. Options like clear aligners, ceramic braces, and AI-driven systems give patients in Georgia and beyond more choices for effective and discreet orthodontic treatment. Buford Dentist provides expert care with modern braces that fit your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Braces are orthodontic devices that move teeth into proper alignment. They correct issues like crowding, gaps, bite problems, and rotations. Traditional braces used brackets and wires that required frequent tightening. Today, modern braces use lighter materials, advanced wires, and digital planning.
Key components of braces include:
Braces remain FDA-approved orthodontic appliances recommended for both teens and adults.
New technology makes braces more effective and appealing.
There are several options for patients today.
Treatment time is not the same for everyone.
Factors include:
Average treatment length is 12 to 24 months, but with new systems it can be shorter.
The cost of braces in Georgia varies by type and clinic. Buford Dentist provides clear pricing and flexible options.
Average ranges:
Costs in Atlanta are typically higher than rural Georgia due to overhead and demand.
Payment options at many orthodontists include:
Modern braces are designed with comfort in mind, but patients still experience adjustments.
For adults, discreet braces reduce self-consciousness at work or social events. For teens, colored elastics offer personalization, though many families also explore Alternative to Braces for Teens such as clear aligners or ceramic options for a more discreet look.
Straightening teeth does not end when braces come off. Retainers are critical to maintain results.
Types of retainers:
Relapse can occur without proper retention. Orthodontists recommend wearing retainers for life, at least at night. Long-term oral health also improves with aligned teeth, reducing risks of gum disease and uneven wear.
Finding the best provider is as important as choosing the right braces.
Look for:
Buford Dentist is a trusted choice for orthodontic treatment, offering personalized care with the latest braces technology.
Most cases take 12–24 months, but with fast systems some finish in less than a year.
Discomfort is common in the first week and after adjustments, but modern braces are far less painful than older versions.
Yes, braces work for all ages. Adults often choose ceramic, lingual, or clear aligners for a discreet look.
Costs range from $3,000 for basic metal braces to $10,000 for lingual braces, depending on complexity and provider.
They are effective for mild to moderate misalignment. Severe cases still require metal or ceramic braces.
Recent studies show that self-ligating braces reduce treatment time by 4 to 6 months compared to traditional brackets. Aligners are effective for over 80 percent of orthodontic cases when patients follow instructions.
Buford Dentist patients often report improved confidence within months of starting treatment. One adult patient completed treatment with clear aligners in 14 months. A teen patient using Fastbraces finished in 11 months with a corrected bite and straightened smile.
Technology continues to evolve. AI-driven systems are shortening treatment. New materials are reducing discomfort and making braces less visible. Digital planning allows orthodontists to predict outcomes with higher accuracy.
Patients can expect faster, safer, and more comfortable treatments in the coming years. Orthodontics in Georgia is advancing rapidly, and Buford Dentist stays at the forefront to provide the best care.
Braces today are far different from the bulky metal brackets of the past. Patients now have choices tailored to their lifestyle, comfort, and budget. Buford Dentist offers modern orthodontic solutions that combine advanced technology with professional expertise. Straightening teeth has never been more effective, more comfortable, or more discreet.
North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry places mini-dental implants near Buford and if you have been looking for an innovative solution to your tooth loss - this is it. Mini implants have been one of the most revolutionary advances in restorative dentistry in the recent past and North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry is an industry leader. While mini-dental implants use exactly the same method to become part of the bone as conventional implants, the difference in size is the what distinguishes them. Traditional dental implants measure anywhere from 3.5mm to 6mm in diameter, whereas their mini counterparts measure less than 3.0 mm in diameter that we can place in much narrower areas of the bone.Approved by the FDA, mini-dental implants consist of the same Titanium alloy as the traditional ones. Mini implants make dental restoration accessible to millions of people who are not good candidates for regular dental implants due to a lack of bone density in the jaw. Mini implants are, therefore, a very good option for patients who are uncomfortable with removable dentures and want something smaller, lighter, more comfortable and permanent.
Because placing mini dental implants involves less drilling of bone, there is also less surgery, less postoperative discomfort and less recovery time. Mini dental implants also add the benefit of reducing the cost to the patient.
Mini dental implants are either just as strong as conventional ones or may even be slightly stronger. Regular implants are hollow in the center so that the abutments can be attached with a screw, whereas mini implants are solid throughout.
We can execute the placement of the implants quickly in a process that involves local anesthesia or light sedation to help make patients feel more comfortable during their treatment. Using a precise, minimally invasive surgical technique, we implant the mini titanium fixture into the jawbone. After placement, the head of the implant protrudes from the gum tissue providing a strong, solid foundation for securing the dentures. It is a procedure that does not involve any sutures, and the recovery time is much shorter than that of full-size dental implants.
Some of our patients cannot afford regular implants that tend to be very expensive. Mini dental implants are far more economical and offer a solution to this problem. They are easier to manufacture than their traditional counterparts because the titanium screw is much smaller in size. This makes them a far less costly option for those individuals looking to replace a missing a tooth, or teeth.
Simultaneously, regular dental implants require several visits to our office, extensive surgery that may involve expensive bone grafts, and numerous weeks of recovery time. Whereas, placing a mini dental implant is relatively simple, and far less invasive. They can often be fitted in one or two visits, which means it is possible that you will leave our dental office with an incredible smile after only one or two appointments, rather than visiting us over the course of several months.
If you have been told you in the past that you are not a good candidate for traditional dental implants, perhaps because your jaw is not wide or dense enough, or if you simply cannot afford traditional implants, you can now replace missing teeth with affordable permanent ones that look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth did. For more information, call (770) 932-1115 and schedule your consultation.
If there are aspects of your appearance that you wish to enhance, we can help as a dentist in Buford. While most people do not think of visiting the dentist for BOTOX, we offer this process as a stand-alone solution and as part of a full smile makeover. We understand that regardless of how much we improve a smile, an individual may still want to deal with the wrinkles on his or her face. Patients can have both their teeth and the skin around the smile improved at the same time. We make it so convenient to do both, you will wonder why you did not schedule the procedure sooner.
Our Buford dental office often schedules an appointment for our patients to receive a teeth whitening treatment and BOTOX® during the same visit. Both solutions are fast, have a quick recovery time and can make a significant difference in one's appearance. Upon visiting our office for a teeth whitening, we will quickly examine the teeth to ensure that the patient does not have any oral health problems or damage that we need to address. If so, we will resolve those issues before proceeding. Otherwise, we can place the whitening solution onto the teeth and use it to remove the deep stains and discoloration. Our solution is significantly stronger than what an individual can buy in the store, and the results are dramatic. Since white teeth are a sign of youth and vitality, this procedure will turn back the clock and help patients look years younger. This is why BOTOX® is such a natural fit for this procedure. After we whiten the teeth, we can use BOTOX® to remove the fine lines and wrinkles on the patient's face.
If a patient wants a full smile makeover and is looking to close gaps between his or her teeth, make them whiter, change their shape or size, or even replace missing ones, we can help. Our comprehensive cosmetic services include dental bonding, dental veneers, dental crowns, dental bridges, dental implants, and more. To complete the process, we recommend using BOTOX®. This treatment is a simple step that can serve as the finishing touch to help you appear much younger and more refreshed. As a benefit, we can perform the procedure here, so you do not need to visit a second provider to complete your new look.
When you visit our dental office in Buford, we can inject BOTOX® into your face, in between your eyebrows, around your mouth and more. It works by making it difficult for the muscles underneath your skin to contract and make wrinkles in the first place. By relaxing your muscles, your appearance will look youthful and beautiful.
As a provider of preventative dental care in Buford, we spend much time with patients, and one thing that is clear is how much most people do not know about dentistry. Even those who are fastidious about brushing and flossing are often operating under false premises. For example, generations of kids have gone to bed with a cup of milk. Since there is calcium in milk, parents have thought that this was healthy. The problem is that milk is full of sugar, and by drinking it at bedtime, that sugar stayed on their teeth. For plenty of kids, this resulted in baby bottle tooth decay. This is only one example of how a dental myth can be bad for you. Here are a few more:
As a local Buford dentist, we practice preventative care so that our patients can stay in excellent oral health and avoid common problems like cavities and gum disease. We begin by having the individual practice good oral hygiene at home and following it up with regular trips to our dentist office. During the appointment, we will remove any bacteria and plaque that you are unable to reach during regular brushing and flossing. There are, however, ways that you can increase the effectiveness of your daily health care routine.
In order to get a good clean, one needs to start with a good toothbrush. We recommend that patients use a soft toothbrush because a hard one can irritate your gums and start to strip the enamel way from the teeth. This can lead to sensitivity and can even make one’s gums bleed.
Do not use a toothbrush for more than three months. The toothbrush starts to become ineffective when one uses it for too long, causing the bristles break and fray. Upon noticing that the toothbrush looks like it is in good condition or has stains, make sure to replace it. Otherwise, use the three-month rule for buying a new one or replacing the head on an electronic toothbrush. As a Buford dentist office, we also give out toothbrushes at teeth cleaning appointments.
The toothbrush needs to stay dry and clean. If an individual goes to brush his or her teeth and it is wet, more bacteria may be lingering on the brush itself. Use a toothbrush holder so that the toothbrush can air out during the day.
An individual’s tooth brushing technique can make a large difference in how clean the teeth get. Move the brush around in circles and go from top to bottom on the upper teeth, while also going from bottom to top on the lower teeth. This way, food and bacteria are brushed away from the gums and roots.
Many people make the mistake of only brushing the teeth when they need to actually brush their gumline as well. People also need to brush their tongue and the roof of their mouth, since these areas can harbor bacteria as well.
Use toothpaste that has the American Dental Association seal. We also recommend using one with fluoride because it can help to strengthen teeth by placing minerals directly onto them.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, more if possible. In the best case scenario, our patients would brush their teeth after every meal, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash. These habits will help to prevent both cavities and gum disease from forming. We can help you to stay in good oral health by removing the bacteria and plaque that you were unable to get with at home care. Call (770) 932-1115 today to schedule your exam.
