A general dentists spends a fair share of their time performing preventative and restorative treatments, but they also perform treatments that are primarily aimed at improving the way that the teeth look. Cosmetic procedures and restorations focus on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, but some, like crowns, also provide restorative benefits.
Wondering what cosmetic dentistry procedures a patient can get during their next visit to a general dentist? Here are three popular ones.
Teeth whitening treatment is a fast way to enhance the color of a patient’s teeth. The procedure involves coating the patient’s teeth with a bleaching product that contains hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide as its active ingredient. The solution is typically applied to the patient’s teeth using a customized mouthguard that they bite down on for 60 to 90 minutes. The bleaching agents used by dentists are significantly more concentrated than over-the-counter alternatives, so patients get faster results. A single teeth whitening session provided by a dentist can improve the color of a person’s teeth by up to eight shades. Laser whitening is another popular treatment performed by dentists. It involves coating the patient’s teeth with a bleaching paste and using a laser to speed up the reaction between stains on teeth and the bleaching agent.
Composite bonding is an affordable treatment that can be used to fix a variety of issues, from broken teeth to deformed teeth. The process is completely reversible, and it involves rebuilding teeth with a composite mixture of plastics and glass that is color-matched with the patient’s teeth. Teeth are prepared for composite bonding by applying phosphoric acid to them to roughen their exterior. This leads to a better bond with the composite when it is applied. The semi-solid material is applied to teeth in layers and hardened with ultraviolet light. It is polished to give it a natural shine like real teeth.
Crowns are one of the most popular restorations used by general dentists. Also called caps, these restorations can be used to cover up cosmetic issues like badly decayed teeth, discoloration, or deformities. Crowns also restore the function of damaged teeth. These restorations do not require special care and can last up to 25 years. Installing a crown requires the removal of enamel from all four sides of a tooth. This creates a better fit for the crown, but it is an irreversible process. The tooth will always need a crown to protect it from that point on. Once the patient’s tooth has been prepared for a crown, the dentist will take an impression of their teeth. The impression will be sent to a lab where restorations are made, and it should get back to the dentist within a couple of weeks. The patient gets a temporary crown while they wait for their customized restoration.
Not happy with the appearance of some of your teeth? Schedule a consultation with our dentist and explore your options. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Buford, GA.
When it comes to visiting a dentist in Buford, many patients worry about the number of cavities that they may have that need fillings. Cavities are often caused by poor oral health or improper brushing and flossing, which can lead to growth of bacteria causing tooth decay. Once a cavity forms, it is important that the damage is attended to by a dentist. Patients who need many fillings done may wonder how many teeth a dentist can fill in one appointment. The answer can vary for a number of reasons.
Since the mouth of each patient is different and the state of oral health can differ, there is no one answer to how many teeth a dentist can fill at once. There are a few factors that can affect how many teeth a dentist can fill in one sitting:
If the cavities are spread out in different places in the mouth, the dentist may choose to only work on one side of the mouth and schedule a further appointment for making fillings in the other side of the mouth. This is due to the potential discomfort the patient may experience from having the mouth totally numbed during the process of drilling and filling. Many patients prefer having only part of the mouth numbed, so these is less inconvenience than if the entire mouth were totally numb. When the cavities are in adjoining teeth or teeth that are near each other, it is often easier for the dentist to fill several cavities in the same appointment.
The more cavities that a patient has, the longer the process of filling take. This can lead to jaw aches and headaches in the patient from sitting for a long period of time with the mouth open. Therefore, a dentist may choose to spread fillings out over multiple appointments to keep the patient comfortable and in a good mood. Impatience and pain should occur infrequently when visiting a dentist, so a patient who chooses a more comfortable schedule for fillings can have a better experience.
Cavities can range in size and shape, and smaller cavities can generally be filled more quickly than larger ones. If a patient has many tiny cavities, the dentist may be able to fill more of them in a single appointment. In some cases, a dentist could take the same amount of time to fill a single large cavity as it would take to fill several tiny cavities. The condition of each patient is different, however.
A dentist in Buford can suggest a schedule for cavity filling that takes into account the particular cavities, the pain tolerance of the patient and the experience of the dental team. Patients should discuss with their dentist the recommended number of fillings at a time for their situation. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office.
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December 12, 2024
Regular dental cleanings reduce the risk of developing oral health concerns such as cavities, gum disease and oral infections. However, the majority of oral health care should take place at home, and general dentists can educate their patients on effective ways to care for oral health between check-up visits.
Every patient should assess their daily routine and oral care routine to ensure they are doing all they can to reduce the risk of oral health and cosmetic issues developing. The following are five tips from a general dentist to help patients practice good oral hygiene each day in order to keep their smiles looking great and healthy.
Good oral health starts with an oral hygiene schedule. This should include proper brushing several times each day. When brushing, be sure to brush all areas of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, cheeks and back of teeth in the back of the mouth. It is important to floss consistently as well. Floss thoroughly, but be sure not to damage the gums in the process. The general dentistsshould provide instructions for how often to use mouthwash, which is typically once each night before bed.
Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and certain other carbohydrates, along with citrus fruits and tomato-based dishes, can harm teeth and increase the overall risk of dental cavities, oral infections and gum disease. Therefore, limiting the overall sugar intake is encouraged by general dentists. Instead, consider drinking water throughout the day to wash away food and bacteria.
Anyone who plays a contact sport should wear a mouthguard to prevent teeth and gum damage that results from a blow to the face. Also, those who have signs of or are diagnosed with bruxism (teeth grinding at night) should wear a dental guard while they sleep. General dentists can customize a dental guard depending on the specific purpose.
General dentists also encourage checking for signs of oral health or cosmetic concerns each day. This includes checking for weakened or eroded enamel, signs of gum disease (red, swollen or bleeding gums) and signs of teeth damage (chips, cracks, etc.).
Lastly, be sure to schedule a check-up visit every four to six months with the general dentist as they are able to detect oral health concerns that you may not be able to see or feel.
Our general dentist team takes great pride in helping patients maintain good oral health long-term and keep a beautiful smile. While good oral care at home is important, it is not a substitute for regular dental cleanings and check-ups. Talk to us today if you are in need of a dental visit. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Buford, GA.
If you have ever searched for a dentist, then you may have been confused by the terms general dentist and family. Often, the two terms are used interchangeably, and general dentists may practice under the title of a family dentist and vice versa. However, there may be subtle differences between the two that are important to be familiar with.
By learning more about the possible differences between a general dentist and a family dentist and the benefits of each type, patients can decide which dentist is right for them (and their family). This review goes into depth on what a family dentist is, what a general dentist is, the benefits of each type and how to choose the right dentist.
A family dentist offers treatment to patients of all ages, from children to seniors. They are referred to as family dentists as they are able to treat all members of the family. Family dentists typically have a dentist office that is more welcoming and warm to teenagers and children, while they are still able to treat adults effectively. They differ from a pediatric dentist as a pediatric dentist may only treat children and teenagers.
For adults that have children and want to receive their dental care in the same place as their children, a family dentist may be the best option. This can reduce the overall cost of treatment and ensure their children can receive care in a friendly and welcoming environment.
As mentioned, a general dentist is often the same thing as a family dentist. However, not all general dentists may place an emphasis on treating patients of all ages. They may instead tread adults and teenagers and refer younger children to a pediatric dentist or another family dentist. With that said, the services are very similar between a family dentist and a general dentist in most cases.
Adults that simply need care for themselves may prefer a general dentist that focuses treatment primarily on adult patients. In some instances, this allows for services that are more tailored for adult needs, rather than offering treatments that are more tailored for younger patients.
As discussed, there is little difference between a family dentist and a general dentist, and both are good options for treating and preventing oral health concerns. However, quite simply, those who have a family and need treatment for their children, as well as themselves, may prefer a family dentist over a general dentist that does not offer treatment to younger patients.
Here at our family dentistry, we treat all types of patients and offer a range of oral health and cosmetic services. Reach out to our team today to learn how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams and ideal oral health. Are you considering a family dentist in the Buford area? Get more information at https://buforddentist.com. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Buford, GA.
December 12, 2024
Regular dentist appointments may be a walk in the park for you, but you may be worried if it is your first time visiting a cosmetic dentist. The fear of the unknown might discourage many people from going to the dental office, but some aspects of the visit will be familiar. In this article, you will learn what to expect when you visit the cosmetic dentist for the first time.
During the consultation, patients can expect the staff at the dental office to ask several questions about their oral health and general wellbeing. Also, they may request access to dental records to know about the patient’s dental health history. By collecting the needed personal information, the cosmetic dentist can provide the most appropriate treatment based on the patient’s needs. The dentist will also listen to the patient’s concerns about their smile. After the consultation, most of the first appointment will be spent determining the treatment options to undergo based on the current condition of the patient’s smile and previous dental procedures. The dentist will perform an evaluation to get a full overview of the patient’s oral health needs. Aspects of the visit will include:
The next part of the cosmetic dental appointment is discussing how to improve the patient’s smile. Patients will need to share the goals that they have for their smile: whiter smile, well-aligned teeth, a less gummy smile or proportionate smile, for example. They can also check pictures to see what the potential outcome will be. The visit will involve choosing the cosmetic procedures to undergo and the order in which they will be performed if multiple treatments are necessary. Cosmetic dental procedures sometimes take time and multiple dental visits, so patients need to ensure that they are satisfied with the treatment options recommended. If there are additional questions or concerns, patients need to clarify them before proceeding with the treatment. The dentist will be happy to go over the details to ensure that the patient understands what they are signing up for. Once the questions are sorted, the dentist will decide the treatment plan, and a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to begin the process.
Since most cosmetic procedures are not irreversible, patients need to take their time to determine the right treatment and work with the dentist’s recommendations. If you feel nervous about dental procedures, be sure to share those feelings with the cosmetic dentist. The professional team at the dental office will ensure that you get all the information you need and help you get on track to achieving the smile that you want. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Buford, GA.
Looking for a general dentist to address your GERD diagnosis? Also known as acid reflux, this disease happens when the muscle located at the end of your esophagus opens when it is not supposed to or does not close properly. People who are diagnosed with this disease will often experience a burning sensation in their chest area or their throats because they are no longer protected from the digestive juices in their stomach. How often those diagnosed will experience this burning sensation will simply depend on each particular patient’s individual situation, with most people experiencing this particular symptom at least once or twice a week.
This digestive disorder is often treated by dental professionals as well as medical professionals. A dentist can detect acid reflux disease in their patients because it is one of the more common causes of dental erosion. When stomach acids reach the mouth, it is only a matter of time before these acids begin to break down the surfaces of one’s teeth. This type of damage is to be avoided as it leads to tooth pain and sensitivity due to the effects it has on a tooth’s enamel.
The following is a list of some of the more common questions dental patients have about their GERD diagnosis.
Yes, tooth erosion is indeed permanent. Once the enamel on the teeth begins to wear away, it cannot be replaced. Tooth erosion problems include tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, a yellowing of the teeth and a higher risk of being diagnosed with cavities.
No. Brushing the teeth right after a reflux episode could potentially damage the enamel even more and therefore should be avoided. Instead, rinsing the mouth with water or chewing some sugar-free gum to increase saliva flow is suggested, as this helps to reduce any acids in the mouth.
Yes. Risk factors include being obese, pregnant, being diagnosed with a hernia and being diagnosed with a connective tissue disorder.
Yes, making changes to one’s lifestyle can help reduce the frequency and severity of GERD. Examples include maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, chewing food slowly and thoroughly, avoiding consuming foods and drinks that cause the reflux and not lying down for at least three hours after consuming food.
We are currently accepting new patients and so we invite you to contact us now if acid reflux is affecting your oral health. There are treatment options available to you and in order for you to understand which of these options are going to work for your particular situation, you will need to make a consultation appointment with our dentist. Are you considering a general dentist in the Buford area? Get more information at https://buforddentist.com. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Buford, GA.
December 12, 2024
A dental checkup or exam is a very important part of preventive health care. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to treat and prevent oral health problems. Catching problems early makes it much easier to manage them. Dental checkups can help you avoid cavities and many other dental problems. It is advisable to visit your family dentist near Buford two times every year or as recommended. Read on to find out how regular dental checkups can help prevent cavities and tooth decay.
A cavity is basically a hole that forms in someone’s tooth. Cavities often start small. If left untreated, they gradually become bigger. Many cavities usually do not cause pain in the beginning, making it harder to realize there is a problem. Tooth cavities are usually caused by plaque, which is a combination of bacteria, food particles, saliva, and acid.
While brushing and flossing regularly is very important, these can still miss small areas in the mouth. When plaque builds up, it often becomes more difficult to remove. It can solidify and turn into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental provider. Regular dental cleanings prevent tartar from creating holes in teeth or eroding them. These cleanings usually allow a dental provider to take care of plaque and tartar before they become destructive.
A dental checkup is very beneficial for cavity prevention. A dental checkup or exam will include a thorough cleaning, X-rays on specific visits, and a checkup of the mouth. During a cleaning, the dental provider will scrape the teeth to get rid of plaque and tartar around the gumline and in between the teeth. Another important step of the cleaning process is the application of a fluoride foam or gel to the teeth. Fluoride is widely used because it prevents tooth decay that can lead to cavities. A fluoride treatment is used as a protectant for the teeth to help fight against cavities for a couple of months. Dental X-rays are images that can show gum disease, cavities, and other problems that are difficult to see by just looking at the mouth. X-rays may be taken during the dental checkup, but they are not needed at every dental visit. The dentist will consider various factors to determine how often X-rays are needed. These include the risk of developing cavities. During the dentist’s checkup, the provider will check X-rays for cavities and other issues. If a patient has a cavity, the individual may have to schedule another appointment with the dentist to treat it.
Visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and regular oral exams can help prevent cavities and other problems or to detect them early. Good dental hygiene can help you avoid tooth decay and cavities. During a dental exam, your dentist will clean your teeth and check for cavities and other issues. If you have gum disease, cavities, or other problems, your dentist will talk to you about the next steps. Your dentist will also explain what needs to be done and all the available options. If you have questions about how cavities are treated, speak to your dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office.
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Professional dental cleaning is not just to keep the teeth looking white; it also affects oral health. Poor oral health is associated with many ailments, including gum disease, diabetes, and heart problems. Regular brushing and flossing at home are important, but to keep the teeth and gums healthy and completely clean, an appointment with the dentist in Buford for a dental cleaning and checkup is important.
Dental cleaning has many long-term benefits that go far beyond having a good-looking smile. The following are some of the reasons to undergo regular dental cleaning:
Maintaining healthy, strong teeth is vital for long-term health and the appearance of the smile. Therefore, this is one of the biggest reasons to take care of the teeth. Tooth decay is caused by plaque buildup. Now, it is important to brush twice daily, but the truth is that most people do not brush their teeth thoroughly. Professional dental cleaning is required to prevent the formation of cavities. If untreated, the cavities can worsen, potentially leading to tooth loss and extraction. It is necessary to augment standard oral care routine with regular tooth cleaning. This is an effective way to eliminate stubborn plaque. This will not just stop tooth decay but also prevent gum disease, thus ensuring a healthy oral cavity.
The appearance of the smile is important to many people. A dental cleaning can lead to a better-looking smile and help remove coffee stains and other surface discoloration from your teeth. The benefits of healthy teeth go beyond aesthetics. Many studies have linked good oral hygiene and self-esteem. When the teeth look good, a person is more inclined to smile and interact confidently. Another aspect is the smell of the person’s breath. Someone who smokes or deals with unpleasant breath may feel self-conscious. It is often hard to get rid of the condition, even by brushing and flossing regularly. Regular dental cleaning by the dentist can help prevent gum disease, plaque accumulation, and tooth decay — all of which are serious conditions that can cause bad breath.
Dental health is related to overall wellbeing. There have been studies linking poor oral hygiene and inflammatory conditions like diabetes and stroke. The dentist can detect some of these conditions during a dental cleaning, giving the patient a better chance at treatment and prevention. Untreated gum disease can lead to further spread of infection into the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening.
Knowing how to maintain good oral health is important. During the cleaning process, the dentist can provide specific information about the patient’s oral health and give recommendations. For instance, they might suggest the proper way to brush the teeth and the right dental tools to get — all to ensure proper oral hygiene practices.
Good dental hygiene is important for many reasons. It is important to go for regular cleanings as it helps to prevent complications, maintain good oral health, and save money. If you are interested in dental cleaning near Buford, book an appointment with a general dentist to discuss the options. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office. Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Buford, GA.
A dentist in Buford will recommend teeth whitening to improve patients’ smiles. The appearance of your teeth can affect how you engage with others on a personal and social level. Dentists offer in-office treatments to brighten smiles. These are almost always more effective than at-home alternatives. Still, there are certain products you can buy in stores and use at home that many dentists approve. When you purchase these, make sure they have the right ingredients.
Many patients prefer to go into the office of a dentist in Buford for teeth whitening treatment. This is not everyone’s choice. In-office methods will require a significant financial commitment. But products that people can get at supermarkets and drug stores are lighter on the budget. Other patients may not currently have a dentist. Other patients’ dentists may not offer whitening methods. People who choose to whiten their teeth at home can find effective products with well-known ingredients. These systems include whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste.
This is perhaps the most common and useful ingredient in teeth whitening products and systems. Treatments that the dentist in Buford will use have as much as 40% or more hydrogen peroxide. It is much more concentrated in store-bought products, sometimes as little as 5%. This is one reason why the treatment time is longer for at-home systems than what a patient would experience in the dental chair. Hydrogen peroxide works to break down the molecules that stain teeth unsightly colors. The compound passes through the tooth and bleaches it.
Many teeth whitening kits use a combination of this ingredient along with hydrogen peroxide. Others may use carbamide peroxide alone. This ingredient works similarly to hydrogen peroxide, removing the stains that discolor teeth. Users should be cautious to use products with small doses of carbamide peroxide. Too much of it or leaving it on any of the teeth for too long can start to wear away the enamel and dentin layers.
This is common to find in the treatments that patients would have in the office. It is also in some strips, gels, and teeth whitening toothpaste products. Sodium perborate releases hydrogen peroxide after it comes into contact with water. As with other ingredients, there is less of this one in at-home systems than the treatments the dentist will use. This active form of oxygen is also used in a variety of household products to clean, whiten, and deodorize.
An in-office teeth whitening system is not right for everyone. If you want to try a product at home, there is a wide variety of options available. When you purchase one, make sure it contains these ingredients so you can be sure the results will meet your goals. You can also get in touch with a dentist to find out what other ingredients should be present in a whitening product. Always make sure to follow the directions for use so you can have a successful treatment. Get the smile you have always wanted by removing those unattractive stains from your teeth. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office.
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Mercury fillings are replaced by dentists through safe removal techniques that prevent mercury exposure, followed by placement of tooth-colored alternatives such as composite or porcelain. Choosing a SMART-trained, mercury-safe dentist ensures the process is safe, effective, and improves both oral health and aesthetics.
Mercury fillings, also called dental amalgam, are a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. For decades, dentists used them because they were strong and lasted many years. They were cost-effective and easy to place.
Today, they are less common. The main reasons:
Buford Dentist educates patients about these factors so they understand why replacement is often recommended.
You might replace mercury fillings for several reasons:
Replacing them helps protect health, enhances your smile, and supports eco-friendly dentistry.
Dentists trained in SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) follow strict protocols. The goal is to reduce exposure for patients, staff, and the environment.
Steps in SMART removal include:
Buford Dentist follows these safe removal steps to protect patients during the procedure.
After safe removal, you need a replacement material. Common options are:
|
Option |
Appearance |
Durability |
Best For |
|
Composite |
Natural |
5–10 years |
Small to medium fillings |
|
Porcelain |
Natural |
10–15 years |
Larger cavities, inlays |
Your dentist will discuss which material fits your needs, budget, and oral health.
Patients often want to know what happens step by step. Here is the typical process:
The cost depends on the number and size of fillings and the material chosen.
Factors that affect cost:
Insurance often covers part of the cost if the replacement is needed for health reasons. Financing options like CareCredit may be available. Buford Dentist helps patients review coverage and payment plans before starting treatment.
Not every dentist follows SMART protocols. Look for these signs:
Choosing the right professional ensures you stay safe during the replacement process. Working with an experienced general dentist also means you receive comprehensive care that addresses both the health and appearance of your teeth.
Certain groups require extra care:
Environmental safety is also a concern. Dentists must properly collect and dispose of mercury waste to prevent contamination. Buford Dentist follows strict environmental standards.
Patients often feel relief after replacing mercury fillings. Many report improved confidence with tooth-colored restorations. Others appreciate knowing they have reduced their mercury exposure.
One patient at Buford Dentist had four amalgam fillings replaced with porcelain. The result was a natural look, improved comfort, and peace of mind about long-term safety.
Replacing mercury fillings is more than cosmetic. It improves oral health, reduces exposure risks, and prevents cracks or fractures in teeth. Modern materials blend seamlessly with natural teeth, offering both strength and beauty.
Buford Dentist guides patients through every step, from consultation to aftercare, ensuring safe, effective, and lasting results.
