Should You Whiten Your Teeth at Home? | Suwanee Dentist

Because your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, it’s important that you have one that puts your best foot forward. Unfortunately, for many of us, having pearly whites is a figurative term. And so, we begin our search for the whitest teeth possible.

White teeth aren’t the only ingredients of a bright and radiant smile, but it’s a main component so, let’s talk about whitening treatments.

Generally, there are two types of teeth whitening treatments – home tooth whitening systems and in-office teeth whitening. Even without the prescription or the supervision of a dentist, anyone can use over-the-counter teeth whitening products. The most common are paint-on tooth gel, mouth trays, whitening gum and toothpaste, as well as whitening strips.

Less popular compared to DIY tooth whitening systems, in-office teeth whitening is the preferred whitening method by most dental professionals. This is because these types of treatment are just much more effective and safer too.

There are various ways dentists can professionally whiten your teeth, but what’s widely accepted as the most effective is the use of a buffer in the gel, which protects the tooth enamel from any kind of damage. The use of such a gel makes the procedure not only safe, but also very effective and has been known to transform teeth many shades lighter in just a single visit.

With your cosmetic dentist’s help and proper oral care, as well as the use of dentist recommended home whitening products, not only will you have whiter and better-looking teeth, but they’ll also be much healthier too.

If you would like to find out more about teeth whitening, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy? | Suwanee Dentist

Going to the dentist may not be on the top of your “favorite things” list, but it’s necessary to keep our smiles healthy. Unfortunately, most of us hold off on regular visits until we get a toothache. Then we are the first in the dentist chair. And because our smile has been so neglected, it’s likely we will need root canal therapy.

But what exactly is a root canal and why does it hurt so much? Well, a root canal in your tooth can become infected due to a cavity or fracture that allows in bacteria. When a root canal becomes infected, it can die. At this point, you will begin to feel pain and pressure in and around the infected tooth. This is generally your first sign and when you become irritated by the sudden pain growing inside your mouth and you make that appointment. Without treatment, the infection spreads and could lead to tooth loss.

When you get treatment, expect the following steps: When the damaged pulp in the root canal of the tooth is cleaned out of all the diseased pulp and the canal is reshaped. Next, the canal is filled with material to prevent re-contamination of the tooth. Lastly, the tooth is permanently sealed with a post or crown to prevent issues from reoccurring.

We should maintain good dental hygiene practices in order to keep our mouths healthy, and as much as I hate to break it to you, this includes visiting the dentist regularly. But if things happen, you can rest assured that a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort, involving one to three visits, and it can save your tooth and your smile.

If you would like to find out more about root canal therapy, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

Chilly Weather and Your Teeth | Suwanee Dentist

As the cooler months tart to roll in, we begin to change our diets to reflect it. Iced tea and BBQ has been exchanged for hot cocoa and hearty stews, and with that comes tooth sensitivity. Yes, that little zing you get when you drink something too hot or cold – that’s caused be sensitive teeth. It’s a very common condition, at least 40 million Americans have some type of sensitive teeth.

And while we know that some foods in our diet that can send that electric charge through our mouth, there are some in particular you should try to avoid:

Soda. Soda has two ingredients that can irritate exposed teeth nerves: sugar and acid.

Hot coffee. Hot foods can also cause your teeth to hurt – sweetening it causing twice the issue. By adding some milk to your coffee, you slightly lower the temperature and its acidity.

Hard candy. When you have sensitive teeth, skip hard candy, not only for the sugar, but the tooth-breaking hazards.

Sticky candy. Similar to hard candies, chewy treats are not only full of sugar, but they stick to your teeth.

Citrus fruits. Pineapple, grapefruit, lemons, and limes are all highly acidic fruits that wear away at tooth enamel, and both eating these fruits and drinking the fruit juice can trigger tooth sensitivity and pain.

Tomatoes. Although tomatoes are a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, they’re also highly acidic, and this includes tomato sauce as well as raw tomatoes.

Ice. While we tend to drink warmer drinks during this time of year, we have encounters with ice year-round. Even if you can tolerate cold drinks, chewing ice can be problematic for sensitive teeth, because it’s both cold and hard.

If you would like to find out more about tooth sensitivity, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

Busting the Myths You Have About Dentures | Suwanee Dentist

If you are someone that needs to get dentures, you are likely to have a ton of questions. After all, dentures are generally linked to older people, and you aren’t an older person. Don’t worry – you aren’t going to have to overhaul your life. But you will need to make a few crucial adjustments to your daily activities. In order to bust the typical myths that you have in your head, here are some of the more common misconceptions with it comes to getting dentures:

Myth: Once I receive my new dentures, I’m set for life.

Fact: According to the American Dental Association, dentures should be replaced every 5-7 years due to wear and tear and natural changes in your mouth. Swapping them out every so often will keep your smile bright and intact.

Myth: I don’t have to go to the dentist once I receive my new dentures.

Fact: You will need to see your dentist at least once a year so that any corrective measures with the fit of your dentures may be taken and serious problems avoided.

Myth: Apples and corn on the cob are a thing of the past once I get my dentures.

Fact: Eating with dentures takes adjustment but over time you will likely be able to enjoy all the foods you weren’t too sure about.

Myth: It will take forever for me to adjust to my new dentures.

Fact: It will take a little adjusting for your facial muscles and oral tissue, but they will adapt to the dentures in a very short time, and you should soon feel quite comfortable with them.

If you would like to find out more about dentures, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

What do Dental Implants Do? | Suwanee Dentist

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are ideal for patients with good dental health who happen to have lost a tooth due to issues such as periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. Dental implants are natural-looking and feeling and under proper conditions, such as placement by a diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. Here are the common issues:

Replacing one or more teeth
Supporting a bridge and reduce the need for a partial denture
Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable

Types of Implants

Endosteal (in the bone): Most commonly used type of implant. Screws, cylinders or blades are surgically placed into the jawbone.

Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework

If you still aren’t sure if you should move forward with a dental implant, just know that there are many advantages to getting dental implants:

Esthetically dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often happen with bridgework and dentures.

Neighboring teeth are not changed to support the implant as with a bridge. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Dental implants are secure. You don’t have to worry when speaking or eating. No messy pastes and glue. You will go about your daily routine with confidence and comfort.

The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

If you would like to find out more about dental implants, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

Who Doesn’t Want to Wear a Crown? | Suwanee Dentist

It’s sparkly and regal. Some of the coolest people get to wear a crown. Official crowns may be hard to come by for the average joe, but dental crowns are for everyone. Unfortunately, it really isn’t an honor. Dental crowns are dental restorations that are placed over teeth to restore the strength and structure. So, how do you know if you need a dental crown? If your tooth is in danger of breaking a dental crown procedure may be the right solution for you.

A breaking or damaged tooth indicates that there is a significant amount of decay that causes the tooth to become frail. In order to restore your tooth to its natural strength, a dental crown will be used to improve the longevity and durability of your tooth. Discoloration on the tooth also indicates that you may need a dental crown. This can easily be solved with a dental crown that will not only improve your oral health but give you a confident and radiant smile.

Need more? Here are some more benefits:

Undergoing a cosmetic dental crown procedure can improve the look of broken or cracked teeth. If you are suffering from a loss of teeth, dental crowns are the solution to replace any missing teeth.

Dental crowns look extremely natural because the porcelain and composite resin crowns match the exact shade of your natural teeth.

Dental crowns are stain-resistant because they are made from porcelain, a material not prone to discoloration.

With durable materials used for your dental crowns, dental crowns can last up to 15 years.

Dental crowns also drastically decrease the amount of bacteria build-up that can lead to the loss of more teeth.

If you would like to find out more about missing teeth options, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.com for additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

When You’re Missing Some Teeth | Suwanee Dentist

There are many adults that have had a couple of decayed or missing teeth replaced. While replacing your missing teeth for aesthetic reasons is understandable, it’s important to have any missing teeth replaced for your oral health. Your teeth are meant to work together to help you chew, smile and speak. When you have missing teeth, these can be difficult to do. The loss of your back teeth may cause your mouth to shift and your face to appear older or sunken in.

So, what can be done if you happen to lose a tooth? Luck for you, with the help of modern dentistry, missing teeth can be replaced. Not only replaced, but undetectable to the average Joe. The following are some of the tooth replacement options that should be available to you by your dental care professional:

Dental implants. Many people opt for dental implants to replace a single tooth, several teeth, or to support a full set of dentures. The process of getting dental implants placed typically involves three phases that take place over several weeks, which is the main disadvantage.

Bridges. If your teeth can be fixed with a dental bridge, which is basically a dental appliance that is used to fill in the missing space. Unlike dental implants that are surgically placed and securely integrated into your jawbone, bridges rely on the neighboring teeth for support.

Dentures. Dentures are removable dental appliances that can replace a single tooth or a full set. Dentures usually have replacement teeth attached to a plastic base that matches the color of your gums and, depending on your case, are either partial dentures or full dentures.

If you would like to find out more about missing teeth options, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.comfor additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas

Five Ways to Soothe Dental Discomfort | Suwanee Dentist

There is little we dread more than a painful dental visit. This is one of the reasons we try to dodge our dental visits any chance we get. Unfortunately, ignoring issues like tooth decay will only lead to them worsening. You finally keep your appointment and soon you and your mouth have been treated and on the road to recovery. But you were right – it wasn’t a painless experience.

There’s no doubt that a root canal procedure can cause some of the worst temporary oral pain you could experience. But that’s all it is – temporary pain. And there are lots of ways you can temporarily ease some of that seemingly relentless pain. If you’ve just had a root canal or some other type of dental surgery, be sure to follow your dentist’s advice and keep this handful of remedies in mind to help ease and sooth the pain after your procedure is finished:

Make sure to take the antibiotics prescribed by your dentist.
Relieve pain with anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen.
Avoid eating hard, crunchy or tough foods for the first few days.
An ice pack applied to the affected area can help to relieve pain.
Use a numbing gel such as Oragel once the anesthesia wears off.

We all want healthy mouths. But we need to take the time to maintain proper dental hygiene in order for this to happen. Keeping our mouths in proper working order is our responsibility in between dental visits. Otherwise, you may be stuck to have a major dental procedure done to repair any damage done. If you find that nothing is soothing your sore mouth, contact your dental professional for advice.

If you would like to find out more about dental pain post-surgery, contact Dr. Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.comfor additional information.

Dr. Clarence Kegler II proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

When You Lose Friends Because of Your Breath | Suwanee Dentist

Many patients inquire about their foul breath affecting all aspects of their lives: work environment, social interactions, and feeling good about oneself. What is the bad breath coming from and how do you fix it?

A few of the factors that affect your breath are the diet you maintain (the food you ingest), the condition of your teeth (if cavities are present or not), as well as the bacteria in your mouth. A variety of foods can cause different scents, but the factor that plays the largest role is the bacteria in the mouth. Every mouth has bacteria, some of which are good, and some which aren’t. Removing the bacteria is essential to keeping good overall health as well as reducing the possibility of halitosis (bad breath).

It is necessary to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, but ideally after every meal. When brushing, it is essential to also brush your tongue. It is also critical to see your dentist and hygienist on a regular basis so they can take x-rays, and measure your gum pockets and determine the extent of the bacteria in your mouth, as well as remove the bacteria from above the gums. Occasionally, it is noted that bacteria may be able to get inside the gums and cause gum infections (gum disease) and tooth loss. This is the leading cause of bad breath, and removal of the bacteria is essential. Generally, when this is noted, a deep cleaning might be recommended to remove the bacteria causing the problems. This can be done with lasers and small cameras that show where the bacteria are. Removing these bacteria also removes the bad breath.

Once it has been determined you have gum disease, it is recommended to have cleanings done every 3 months to maintain the health of the gums. Generally, the gum measurements are made to determine how well the gums are responding to treatment and cleaned, to ensure the continued improvement of the bacteria removal. It is necessary to always brush and floss as often as possible throughout the day.

If you would like to find out more about bad breath, contact Dr. Clarence Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.comfor additional information.

Dr. Kegler proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.

The New Year Resolution You Should Keep | Suwanee Dentist

I know it’s hard to believe it, but we made it out of 2020. And while we may not be living in the same kind of world we had the year before, it doesn’t stop us from trying to improve upon ourselves when the new year hits. Yes, it’s resolution time again. Will they finally stick this year? That remains to be seen. One area that is generally overlooked but should be considered is your dental hygiene habits. Our dental health is important because it can influence other health issues.

FUN FACT: The average person spends around 30 seconds brushing their teeth, compared to the recommended minimum two minutes. Yes, two full minutes for optimal cleaning. So, for the new year, take a moment to look at your current dental practices – they may need a refresher course:

Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each session
Flossing once a day before you sleep
Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash before you brush to loosen particles
Limit the daily snacks consumed, especially those full of sugar
Visiting the dentist every 3-6 months for regular checkups and professional cleaning

When brushing your teeth, make sure that every surface is brushed and cleaned as thoroughly as possible. Use short, gentle strokes with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying extra attention to your gums, the back teeth and areas around dental work.

As for flossing, follow the following technique:

Start with about 18 inches or so of floss, hold it between your thumbs and index fingers, then gently slide it in between the gaps of your teeth. Slowly move the floss back-and-forth to bring it away from your teeth without causing any harm. Keep up the good work!

If you would like to find out more about dental hygiene, contact Dr. Clarence Kegler II at 770-476-9511 to schedule a consultation or visit www.artisticsmilesofga.comfor additional information.

Dr. Kegler proudly serves Suwanee and all surrounding areas.