Dentist Duluth GA

Dental Health and Veneers

2012-03-09T13:27:00.000-08:00

Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length.

Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. Resin veneers are thinner and require removal of less of the tooth surface before placement. You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with your dentist.

What Types of Problems Do Dental Veneers Fix?

Veneers are routinely used to fix:

Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment; stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride or other causes; or the presence of large resin fillings that have discolored the tooth

· Teeth that are worn down

· Teeth that are chipped or broken

· Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped (for example, have craters or bulges in them)

· Teeth with gaps between them (to close the space between these teeth)

What's the Procedure for Getting a Dental Veneer?

Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist – one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers. One tooth or many teeth can simultaneously undergo the veneering process described below.

Diagnosis and treatment planning. This first step involves active participation between you and your dentist. Explain to your dentist the result that you are trying to achieve. During this appointment your dentist will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you and discuss what the procedure will involve and some of its limitations. He or she also may take X-rays and possibly make impressions of your mouth and teeth.

Preparation. To prepare a tooth for a veneer, your dentist will remove about 1/2 millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface, which is an amount nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added to the tooth surface. Before trimming off the enamel, you and your dentist will decide the need for a local anesthetic to numb the area. Next, your dentist will make a model or impression of your tooth. This model is sent out to a dental laboratory, which in turn constructs your veneer. It usually takes 1 to 2 weeks for your dentist to receive the veneers back from the laboratory. For very unsightly teeth, temporary dental veneers can be placed for an additional cost.

Bonding . Before the dental veneer is permanently cemented to your tooth, your dentist will temporarily place it on your tooth to examine its fit and color. He or she will repeatedly remove and trim the veneer as needed to achieve the proper fit; the veneer color can be adjusted with the shade of cement to be used. Next, to prepare your tooth to receive the veneer, your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched -- which roughens the tooth to allow for a strong bonding process. A special cement is applied to the veneer and the veneer is then placed on your tooth. Once properly position on the tooth, your dentist will apply a special light beam to the dental veneer, which activates chemicals in the cement causing it to harden or cure very quickly. The final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite and making any final adjustments in the veneer as necessary. Your dentist may ask you to return for a follow-up visit in a couple of weeks to check how your gums are responding to the presence of your veneer and to once again examine the veneer's placement.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Veneers?

Veneers offer the following advantages:

· They provide a natural tooth appearance.

· Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well.

· Porcelain veneers are stain resistant.

· The color of a porcelain veneer can be selected such that it makes dark teeth appear whiter.

· Veneers offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth's color and shape -- veneers generally don't require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.

What Are the Disadvantages of Dental Veneers?

The downside to dental veneers include:

The process is not reversible.
Veneers are more costly than composite resin bonding.
Veneers are usually not repairable should they chip or crack.
Because enamel has been removed, your tooth may become more sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages.
Veneers may not exactly match the color of your other teeth. Also, the veneer's color cannot be altered once in place. If you plan on whitening your teeth, you need to do so before getting veneers.
Though not likely, veneers can dislodge and fall off. To minimize the chance of this occurring, do not bite your nails; chew on pencils, ice, or other hard objects; or otherwise put excessive pressure on your teeth.
Teeth with veneers can still experience decay, possibly necessitating full coverage of the tooth with a crown.
Veneers are not a good choice for individuals with unhealthy teeth (for example, those with decay or active gum disease), weakened teeth (as a result of decay, fracture, large dental fillings), or for those who have an inadequate amount of existing enamel on the tooth surface.
Individuals who clench and grind their teeth are poor candidates for porcelain veneers, as these activities can cause the veneers to crack or chip.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

Veneers generally last between 5 and 10 years. After this time, the veneers would need to be replaced.

Above article from: WebMd.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Teeth Whitening

2012-03-07T13:23:00.002-08:00

Many teeth whitening systems are available, including whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, and trays, and whitening agents obtained from a dentist.

Teeth whitening is ideal for people who have healthy, unrestored teeth (no fillings) and gums. Individuals with yellow tones to their teeth respond best. But this cosmetic procedure is not recommended for everyone.

Find out if teeth whitening is right for you.

· Whitening Systems

· Whitening Toothpastes

All toothpastes help remove surface stains because they contain mild abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains only and do not contain bleach; over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that helps lighten the color deep in the tooth. Whitening toothpastes can lighten your tooth's color by about one shade. In contrast, light-activated whitening conducted in your dentist's office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips and Gels

Whitening gels are clear, peroxide-based gels applied with a small brush directly to the surface of your teeth. Instructions generally call for twice a day application for 14 days. Initial results are seen in a few days and final results are sustained for about four months.

Whitening strips are very thin, virtually invisible strips that are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. The strips are applied twice daily for 30 minutes for 14 days. Initial results are seen in a few days and final results are sustained for about four months.

Whitening Rinses

Among the newest whitening products available are whitening rinses. Like most mouthwashes, they freshen breath and help reduce dental plaque and gum disease. But these products also include ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide, which whiten teeth. Manufacturers say it may take 12 weeks to see results. You just swish them around in your mouth for 60 seconds twice a day before brushing your teeth. However, some experts say that rinses may not be as effective as other over-the-counter whitening products. Because a whitening rinse is only in contact with the teeth for such a short time -- just two minutes a day compared to 30 minutes for many strips -- it may have less of an effect.

Tray-Based Tooth Whiteners

Tray-based tooth whitening systems, purchased either over-the-counter or from your dentist, involve filling a mouth guard-like tray with a gel whitening solution -- which contains a peroxide-bleaching agent -- and wearing the tray for a period of time, generally from a couple hours a day to every day during the night for up to four weeks and even longer (depending on the degree of discoloration and desired level of whitening).

In-Office Whitening

In-office bleaching provides the quickest way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, and/or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment. But to achieve dramatic results, several appointments are usually needed. However, with in-office bleaching, dramatic results can be seen after the first treatment. This type of whitening is the most expensive technique.

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Effects Last?

Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. Those who avoid foods and beverages that stain may be able to wait one year or longer before another whitening treatment or touch-up is needed.

The degree of whiteness will vary from individual to individual depending on the condition of the teeth, nature of the stain, the type of bleaching system used, and for how long.

Above article from: WebMd.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Sedation Dentistry: Can You Really Relax in the Dentist's Chair?

2012-03-05T13:19:00.002-08:00

Does the thought of having your teeth cleaned make your entire body tense with fear? Would you rather endure the agony of a toothache than step foot in a dentist's office? You're not alone. A lot of people are so phobic about going to the dentist that they prefer not to have any treatment.

For people who avoid dentists like the plague, sedation dentistry may take away some of their anxiety. Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. How it's used depends on the severity of the fear.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although that's not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.

The levels of sedation used include:

· Minimal sedation -- you are awake but relaxed.

· Moderate sedation (formerly called "conscious sedation") -- You may slur your words when speaking and not remember much of the procedure.

· Deep sedation -- you are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.

· General anesthesia -- you are completely unconscious.

What Types of Sedation Are Used in Dentistry?

The following types of sedation are used in dentistry:

· Inhaled minimal sedation. You breathe nitrous oxide -- otherwise known as "laughing gas" -- combined with oxygen through a mask that's placed over your nose. The gas helps you relax. Your dentist can control the amount of sedation you receive, and the gas tends to wear off quickly. This is the only form of sedation where you may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.

· Oral sedation. Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill. Typically, the pill is Halcion, which is a member of the same drug family as Valium, and it's usually taken about an hour before the procedure. The pill will make you drowsy, although you'll still be awake. A larger dose may be given to produce moderate sedation. This is the type of anesthesia most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. Some people become groggy enough from moderate oral sedation to actually fall asleep during the procedure. They usually can, though, be awakened with a gentle shake.

· IV moderate sedation. You receive the sedative drug through a vein, so it goes to work more quickly. This method allows the dentist to continually adjust the level of sedation.

· Deep sedation and general anesthesia. You will get medications that will make you either almost unconscious or totally unconscious -- deeply asleep -- during the procedure. While you are under general anesthesia, you cannot easily be awakened until the effects of the anesthesia wear off or are reversed with medication.

Regardless of which type of sedation you receive, you'll also typically need a local anesthetic -- numbing medication at the site where the dentist is working in the mouth -- to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort.

Above article from: WebMd.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Oral Health Care - Dentist Duluth GA

2012-02-28T15:45:00.004-08:00

What is Dental Plaque?
Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that is constantly forming on the tooth surface. Saliva, food and fluids combine to produce these deposits that collect where the teeth and gums meet. Plaque buildup is the primary factor in periodontal (gum) disease, including gingivitis.

How to Get Rid of Plaque
To help prevent plaque buildup, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day with an anti-plaque toothpaste such as Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste for around the clock protection against plaque buildup, and floss once a day.

Adding a mouth rinse such as Crest Pro-Health Multi-Protection Rinse to your routine can help against plaque buildup, without the burning sensation of alcohol. Eating well-balanced meals and brushing after snacks will reduce the formation of plaque. Visit your dental office regularly for oral exams and cleanings, during which your dental professional will scrape away any accumulated plaque with a special instrument.

Above posting from: www.crest.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Gum Disease Treament - What is Gingivitis

2012-02-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease — an inflammation of the gum tissues surrounding the teeth. Bleeding and swollen gums are signs of gingivitis. In fact, what may seem like a little “problem area” in your gums can actually be the early stages of gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can be a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis can sometimes be painless and, therefore, people may be unaware they have it.

Causes of Gingivitis
One of the primary factors contributing to gingivitis is plaque buildup, a sticky colorless deposit of bacteria that regularly forms on teeth. These bacteria build up and can produce byproducts that damage the gums.

While gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of gum disease, it may lead to more serious, destructive forms if left untreated.

Help Prevent Gingivitis
Helping prevent gingivitis requires removing plaque buildup, and that starts with good brushing habits.But it’s also essential to have the right products on your side. That’s why we recommend the following dental hygiene routine:

Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled or power toothbrush, such as the Oral-B® Vitality™ Precision Clean electric rechargeable brush. It removes up to two times more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush.
Be sure to use an anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen teeth. Crest® Pro-Health™ Toothpaste is a good option because one of the medicinal ingredients it contains is therapeutic stannous fluoride, an effective anti-microbial agent that kills harmful bacteria that cause plaque and gingivitis.
Rinse thoroughly after brushing with an anti-bacterial rinse, such as Crest® Pro-Health™ Multi-Protection Rinse. It contains a clinically proven anti-microbial agent, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), which is attracted to bacteria in your mouth, making it effective at fighting plaque, gingivitis and bad breath.
Floss at least once a day with a product like Glide® to help remove food particles and plaque between teeth. Glide is the #1 dentist-recommended dental floss brand, and it gently stimulates gums and helps remove plaque to prevent gingivitis.
Removing plaque is an important step to help prevent gingivitis. Try using the Oral-B® Vitality™ Precision Clean toothbrush along with Crest® Pro-Health™ Toothpaste and Crest® Pro-Health™ Multi-Protection Rinse for up to 7x better cleaning.*
Visit your dentist regularly for oral exams and cleanings.

* On teeth with regular use versus a regular manual brush and regular anti-cavity toothpaste.

Gingivitis Symptoms
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, visit your dental office as soon as possible to determine if you have gingivitis.

Mild inflammation of the gums
Red or swollen gums
Gums that bleed easily

Above posting from: www.crest.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Dental Emergencies

2012-02-26T15:41:00.000-08:00

If a dental trauma occurs, the best advice is to remain cool, calm and collected. Read and learn the following steps now, and you'll know what to do in an emergency. Keep in mind that the advice of a dental professional should be sought any time there is an injury to the teeth or mouth.

Dental Emergencies

Unlike a chipped or cracked tooth, some dental hygiene injuries are not obvious. Trauma to the mouth can cause damage that may not be seen, but could result in loss of one or more teeth. So check with your dental professional as soon as possible after any injury to the teeth or mouth.

If a tooth is knocked out during an accident:

Do not scrub or clean the tooth.

Place the tooth in a small container of milk, saline solution if available, or a special tooth-preserving solution available at your pharmacy.

See your dental professional as soon as possible, preferably within 30 minutes. Don't forget to take the tooth with you.

With prompt attention, a permanent tooth may be re-implanted into the tooth socket and remain normal and healthy-looking.

Above posting from: www.crest.com

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Dental Crowns Dentist Duluth GA

2012-02-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Crowns in a Single-Visit
Welcome to dentistry in the 21st century! Dr. Christensen is pleased to offer crowns made with CEREC™, a highly precise computer milling machine that makes crowns right in the office, in about an hour. No more temporaries, additional visits, or crowns that don’t seem to fit right. Just because CEREC crowns are convenient and aesthetically desirable doesn’t mean you have to give up function. These modern restorations dramatically reduce cracking, lowering the likelihood of needing future root canal treatment. Due to the custom design and precise fit, CEREC restorations are bonded to the tooth with the optimum strength available. We are pleased to be one of the first in our community to offer crowns with the CEREC machine. If you have ever had a crown placed the traditional way, we are sure you will notice the difference!

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Orthodontics Dentist Duluth GA

2012-02-24T20:33:00.001-08:00

Straight Teeth in Six Months!
Clear Dental Braces
Have you endured crooked teeth or a gap in your smile for years because you didn’t want to commit to a long-term orthodontic plan? Well, now you can have it with Six Month Smiles™! This is accomplished using new techniques where the teeth that are visible in your smile are gently moved into the desired position using a new, low-force method. Six Month Smiles are hardly visible, because the very thin bands that are either clear or tooth colored are all that’s needed. And you’ll only need to come to the office for adjustments a few times.

We also feature Powerprox Six Month Braces™. In many cases, you can now have beautiful, straight teeth in just a few months instead of years, using effective, time-tested techniques combined with modern materials and technologies. Another wonderful advantage with Powerprox Six Month Braces is that you can hardly see them, because we use clear braces that are nearly invisible. Best of all, fewer visits means lower costs. Call today for a complimentary consultation and say hello to a new smile in just 6 months!

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Clear Dental Braces Duluth GA

2012-02-23T15:30:00.009-08:00

Orthodontics – The Clear Alternatives

Clear Dental Braces

We offer both Invisalign™ and ClearCorrect™ invisible aligners, innovative orthodontics that allow you to have straight teeth in as little as 9 - 15 months! These aligners can correct overcrowding, widely spaced teeth, overbite, underbite, or crossbite. The clear custom-made aligners are replaced every two weeks, with little time in the chair getting adjustments. Invisalign™ and ClearCorrect™ are removable, which means few eating and drinking restrictions, and brushing and flossing are no problem. Best of all, no one will know you’re straightening your teeth because they're invisible!

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Laser Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment

2012-01-27T11:47:00.000-08:00

Have You Been Told You Need Gum Surgery?
With new laser treatment, maybe you don’t! Dr. Christensen uses laser technology for the non-surgical treatment of gum disease, with results that might have been considered miraculous not too many years ago. The procedure is minimal and patient friendly, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive. We have successfully treated many cases of periodontal (gum) disease without the need for gum surgery. We use an advanced dental laser to ensure your treatment is virtually painless. This laser is safe and effective, and is FDA approved. This breakthrough process actually can regenerate bone lost through years of gum disease.

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

KOR Deep Bleaching - Teeth Whitening

2012-01-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

KöR Deep Bleaching™ – BEYOND Extreme!

Whitening methods such as ZOOM! Advanced Power work extremely well in competent, professional hands; however, even the best treatments sometimes don't work on severely stained teeth. An example of this is the staining that comes from having taken the antibiotic tetracycline. Not satisfied with the limitations of commercial whitening methods on these difficult cases, Dr. Christensen is proud to be among the area's first dentists to offer KöR Deep Bleaching. With this procedure, even severely stained teeth can go brilliantly white. If you've tried other whitening methods and been disappointed, you will be amazed at the results from this technique

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

ZOOM Teeth Whitening

2012-01-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Teeth Whitening – Dazzling
Results in Just One Visit!
Dr. Christensen features ZOOM! Advanced Power™ – the same teeth whitening treatment seen on the popular reality television show Extreme Makeover. You can have brilliantly white teeth, without stains or darkness, usually in just one visit. You've seen it on TV – shouldn't others see it in your smile?

We also offer custom whitening trays, made in our own lab. You will receive supplies and instructions and you finish the procedure at home. This technique is safe and effective. Results occur within 1 - 14 days.

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Cosmetic Dentistry - Smile Makeovers

2011-12-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

Don’t Hide Your Smile – Remake It!

Smile Makeovers Dentistry
We emphasize the aesthetic aspect in ALL our work because we know that when your smile looks good, you feel good! We use the best combination of preventive care, tooth-colored fillings, and restorative techniques for optimum dental health. Modern smile makeovers are so easy (and affordable!) that there’s simply no reason why you can’t have the perfectly beautiful, natural-looking smile you’ve always wanted. Ask us what veneers, crowns, bonding, and whitening can do for YOUR smile!

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Dental Office Duluth GA

2011-12-26T08:57:00.000-08:00

A Different Kind of
Dental Relationship
When you visit, our first goal is to establish a feeling of trust. Our job is to listen to you, respect your feelings and concerns, and educate you, rather than judge your decisions. We understand that you may be anxious about the process of receiving dental care; therefore, we make a point to carefully explain your proposed treatment plan and we take the time to answer all of your questions. Only then will we take you through your treatment with the utmost of care. Modern dentistry has many techniques, local anesthetics, and relaxation methods to increase your comfort. The more involved you are in making your dental health decisions, the less room there is for fear and uncertainty.

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790

Duluth GA Dentist - Kurt Christensen

2011-12-24T14:37:00.000-08:00

Kurt Christensen, DDS, is pleased to be able to offer beautiful smiles to his neighbors in Duluth and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Christensen earned his dental degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, after earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. He and his wife, Natalie, opened Dentistry at Sugarloaf in October 2003. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Northern District Dental Society, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Dr. Christensen has taken numerous postgraduate education courses, specifically selecting courses focusing on cosmetic dentistry. Recent training in short-term orthodontics allows him to provide his patients with straight teeth and brilliant smiles in an amazingly short time frame. As a CEREC™ trainer, he taught dentists all over the U.S. as well as in London, Canada, and Mexico how to use CEREC to make one-visit crowns.

Dr. Christensen is an active participant in the community, serving as a volunteer dentist at a local health center. You may also have seen his interview and photograph in the Gwinnett Daily Post article about cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening. He and his wife have two sons. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, traveling (especially to the beach!), reading, golfing, spending time with his family, and following any and all sports. He is a big Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Redwings fan!

Dentistry At Sugarloaf
6600 Sugarloaf Parkway
Suite 700
Duluth, GA 30097
Tel: (678) 475-1790