Happy New Year from 19th Street Dental!

The 2010 holiday season is upon us, and our team at 19th Street Dental would like to wish all our patients and their families the merriest of holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

We thought we’d ask: what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Let us know by commenting below this post or on our Facebook page.

Have a safe and happy New Year, from all of us at 19th Street Dental!

Beware of those Christmas goodies!

19th Street Dental knows that maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, our friends at the American Dental Association recommend nuts or dried fruit, which are a nice alternative to sugars and have a greater nutritional value—and can satisfy your sweet tooth! Both nuts and fruit are a great source of fiber and act as an appetite suppressant. In addition, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B9, nutrients that contribute to a healthy immune system. Nuts are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with reducing heart disease and lower blood pressure.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

--Drs. Patel, Zeineddin and Team

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist!

Happy Wednesday everyone! 19th Street Dental has a treat (a sugarless one, of course) to help you through the rest of the week. Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. We loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”! If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know!

Flossing 101

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth. Many people think that flossing is only to get the food out from in between your teeth, when actually flossing should be done every day on every tooth to help protect your teeth and gums.



If you have any additional questions about flossing don't hesitate to ask Dr. Patel or Dr. Zeineddin during your next visit to 19th Street Dental.

Your pal, fluoride

There are so many ways you protect your teeth. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentists' office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (Next time you visit 19th Street Dental, ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Happy Thanksgiving

Dr. Patel and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great thanksgiving food! What are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Staying connected with 19th Street Dental

At 19th Street Dental, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

Cold and Flu Season is Here- Replace Your Toothbrush!

Fall is here, and with it the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!


Hope this tip helps! Feel free to call us at 19th Street Dental you have any questions.

What do you enjoy most about fall?

It’s fall here for us at 19th Street Dental, and now that Halloween is passed, we bet you and your families have begun to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Atlanta area. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Halloween and Cavity Prevention

For moms and dads worried about kids going overboard on candies, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which can ruin enamel.

So what's a parent to do?

This Halloween season, try to limit the amount of these candies that your child eats, and when your child does eat them, either have him rinse his mouth with water afterward or have him drink some milk or eat a piece of cheese.

Hope this helps!

All of us at 19th Street Dental wish you and your family a happy, safe Halloween!

Write a Review of 19th Street Dental

Whether you have visited 19th Street Dental for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!
You may write a review here.

Thank you!

Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month

Would you believe it's already October? For our staff, October means one thing: National Dental Hygiene Month. This month, we join the American Dental Hygienists' Association in spreading the word that good dental habits are easy to develop and even easier to maintain.

Here are a few tips to help you build good oral hygiene habits this month:

* Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two to three minutes. Make sure to get the outer and inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of each tooth.

* Floss once a day to remove plaque from between teeth. Help children learn healthy flossing habits so when they're capable, they know how to do it properly.

* Visit us on a regular basis. Children should start seeing a dentist within six months of getting their first tooth.

* Ask us what toothpaste family members should use. Remember that not all toothpaste is appropriate for all ages.

* Eat a healthy diet, rich in fruit and veggies. Avoid sugary foods and eat a high fiber diet of fruits and veggies such as apples and carrots to help prevent tooth decay.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our convenient Atlanta office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the ADHA's National Dental Hygiene Month website for tips on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to 19th Street Dental? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment.

Understanding cavities

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Ask Us: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with 19th Street Dental than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. Patel the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Ma”ny people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at 19th Street Dental wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Happy Baby Safety Month, from 19th Street Dental

In honor of Baby Safety Month, we would like to encourage all of our patients and their families to become educated on the importance of childproofing your home. We would like to remind all of our patients to be mindful of some of the common hazards that may be in your home.

Children are vulnerable, and it is important that you take the necessary precautions in your kitchen, bathroom, nursery, and around the home to minimize the risk to your baby. For example, never leave poisons or toxic materials under the sink where they can be easily reached by a child. In the bathroom, remember to remove soaps, razors, and shampoos from the edge of the tub and close the toilet lid. Children are naturally curious, so it is necessary that you cover all electrical outlets, keep all trash containers locked, and ensure that hanging cords from phones, lamps, and appliances are kept out of reach.

We hope that these baby safety tips help! For more tips, visit the Royal Baby Safety website.

Zoom!® Whitening at 19th Street Dental

A whiter smile is one just one dentist visit away! ZOOM!® Smile Whitening brightens and whitens your teeth in just 45 minutes. Once you have gone through the Zoom!® treatment we will send you home with an at-home whitening bleaching kit with custom made trays. Using the take home trays will allow you to maintain your desired level of whitening over several months.

While Zoom!® Smile Whitening is a great way to enhance the appearance of your smile, it's not always for everyone. Those with deep, dark stains that remain unaffected by whitening treatments and patients with regular tooth sensitivity may not be good candidates. Find out more about Zoom!® Smile Whitening at our web site; and when you are ready to have a whiter, brighter smile contact Dr. Patel for an evaluation!

The importance of oral cancer screenings, from 19th Street Dental

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, we screen our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Dr. Patel about a screening at your next appointment!

What oral issues should you be aware of during pregnancy?

Maintaining your oral health is an important part of keeping your entire body well, and never more so than when you’re expecting. If you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy, schedule an appointment with us, and remember to raise the issue of your oral health at prenatal appointments with Dr. Patel.

If pregnant, we want you to be aware of the following issues:

• Tooth Decay
Excessive morning sickness can also contribute to tooth decay, as the acids in your stomach introduced to the mouth during vomiting wear away the protective enamel coating on your teeth.

• Gingivitis & Gum Disease
This is a major issue. The precursor to gum disease is gingivitis, a condition in which plaque buildup on teeth irritates the gums, making them red, swollen and sensitive. The high levels of hormones in the bloodstream brought on by pregnancy exaggerate your gums’ reaction to irritation from plaque.

• Loose Teeth
Another risk faced during pregnancy is loosening teeth. The large amounts of hormones in your bloodstream can have an unfavorable affect on the bones and ligaments that create the foundation of your teeth, weakening them to the point that teeth may loosen.

The ideal time to schedule an appointment at 19th Street Dental is before becoming pregnant. Dr. Patel will perform a check-up to determine the state of your oral health and how pregnancy might affect you. We will discuss completing any necessary treatments prior to your pregnancy. Give us a call today!

Gum Disease Can Sneak Up On You

It’s easy to tell when you have a cavity; but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you even knowing. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s important to watch for warning signs in order to prevent the disease from worsening!

Signs to watch for:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you or someone in your family is showing these signs, schedule an appointment right away by calling 19th Street Dental, serving Atlantic Station. We can diagnose the problem and begin treatment to save your teeth and give you back a healthy mouth!
 

At 19th Street Dental , what puts you at ease?

19th Street Dental and team understand not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. Patel?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!
 

Meet Dr. Tammy Zeineddin

Dr. Zeineddin has been practicing dentistry for over 18 years in Atlanta area. She began her undergraduate studies at Georgia Tech and completed her degree in bachelor of science in microbiology from Georgia State University.

Even though she has always considered Atlanta her home, she pursued her dream of being a dentist by attending the School of Dentistry at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she graduated with honors and was the youngest person in her graduating class of 1992. With Dentistry being her passion she strives to be as proficient and comprehensive about her approach as possible while providing a courteous and relaxed atmosphere for her patients.

She considers herself a general dentist with a strong focus in preventative dentistry and a special interest in esthetic and cosmetic dentistry. her motto is " prevention is better than treatment", and her "before and after " pictures are a work of art.

Aside from dentistry, she enjoys all forms of art from acrylic and oil paintings to sculpture art; hence, her talent in art is incorporated to her daily routine as a dentist. To her cosmetic dentistry is a delicate combination of science, techniques and artistry. "Although we stay very current with the cutting edge technologies and new things in dentistry, what sets us apart from our peers is that our team is willing to listen, educate, and communicate the needs of each patient individually, in order to address their specific dental needs and to create masterpiece."

Patient question: "Is nail biting really that harmful?"

OK, so you know that biting your nails is a bad habit, but many people still wonder: what’s so awful about biting your nails once in a while? Recently, Dr. Trushar Patel and our staff came across an interesting article in the Huffington Post on biting nails and the effect it has on your teeth and oral hygiene.

Not only is nail biting unsanitary, it's also unattractive, unhealthy for your teeth and expensive!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good those pearly whites. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth, contributing to teeth misalignment.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Really? Yes! Yikes!

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your that pesky habit of biting your nails. Questions? Ask Dr. Patel the next time you're in for a visit.

Ask Dr. Patel: How do I avoid bad breath?

At 19th Street Dental, we know bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you're out on a date or at an important social function! However, we want you to know bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as Dr. Trushar Patel calls it “halitosis,” is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grows in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and release sulfur compounds making your breath smell.

Here are three ways you can prevent bad breath, courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil:

1. Brush your tongue.

2. Keep your mouth hydrated.

3. Freshen your mouth.

Also, here are some common myths about halitosis:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.

For more information on halitosis, we encourage you to give us a call at 404-567-8900!

What are happy patients saying about Dr. Patel and 19th Street Dental?

About a month ago, we asked you, our loyal patients, what you liked most about Atlanta dentist Dr. Trushar Patel and 19th Street Dental. Well, we received a ton of responses and thought we'd share a few with you today! We hope you have a fantastic Fourth of July weekend, and we'll see you soon! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office!

"Great business model - best service I've ever received from a medical provider - every employee seems to truly enjoy coming to work and the patients they're working with. You should teach classes!" ~ Jennifer H.

"The doctor was very personable and detail oriented. He spent time with me and treated me as an individual. The staff was very professional and very efficient." ~ Amy K.

"Very friendly, welcoming, professional." ~ Michael T.

"You and your staff are doing an excellent job. I'm very satisfied." ~ Lakita N.

"I would like to acknowledge the staff from the front reception all the way to the dentist himself. The service your office provides is very courteous and professional. I love this office!" ~ Antonio C.

Patient question: How, exactly, does Invisalign work? [Video]

Have you ever wondered how Invisalign treatment at 19th street Dental manages to straighten teeth without having you go through traditional metallic braces?

The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient Atlantic Station office. Dr. Trushar Patel is a certified Invisalign provider in Atlanta, offering Invisalign for teens and adults. If you've been wanting to straighten your teeth but are unsure about going through traditional orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to give us a call at (404) 567-8900 to learn if Invisalign is the right option for you at 19th street Dental!

19th Street Dental, helping you save face this summer

At 19th Street Dental, we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. With summer a week away, we know the chance of people damaging their precious mouth and pearly whites increases over the summer months.

That’s why Atlanta dentist Dr. Trushar Patel and our team are doing our part to spread the word that mouth injuries can be avoided simply by reminding yourself and your kids to wear mouth guards.

In addition, please:


• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can people avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or other forms of facial protection.

Dr. Trushar Patel, supporting National Smile Month

Our friends at the American Dental Association discovered that a person's smile was important than their eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature. After all, there is a big reason why Americans spend as much as they do annually on general and cosmetic dentistry each year: people everywhere want to look (and feel) great.

That brings us to June, also known as National Smile Month. It's a great time for Dr. Trushar Patel to remind all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to 19th Street Dental.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health this month in-between visits to our office.

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit Dr. Patel on a regular basis

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at 404-567-8900. We hope you have a great weekend! Now get out there and share your smiles with Atlanta!

Post a review of 19th Street Dental!

Convenience and Comfort are the hallmarks of our practice. We are located in a trendy, urban environment that houses both the residential and commuter population. We want our patients to smile and that is the reason that we use the latest technologies and techniques to restore natural looking teeth and deliver optimum care in a timely and comfortable fashion.

Whether you've visited 19th Street Dental for a week, months or even years, Dr. Trushar Patel and team would love to hear your feedback about how our practice is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about us with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there. Or, you may review us on Yelp if you'd like. After all, reviews help Dr. Patel and team create and maintain more beautiful smiles in Atlanta!

You may write a review here. Thanks in advance and enjoy the rest of Memorial Day weekend! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Dr. Patel shares a few Invisalign® tips

Dr. Trushar Patel knows that image is everything. At an age when image and looks are so important, more and more people are opting to get their teeth straightened. Invisalign is a great option for anyone who is serious about fixing the way their teeth look but doesn't necessarily want the look and feel of traditional braces.

Great, we can help!

Invisalign aligners are made of a clear, thin medical-grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. Patel wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at 19th Street Dental, please do give us a call at 404-963-8235 and enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Oral cancer and you, from Dr. Patel and 19th Street Dental

In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, 19th Street Dental screens our patients for oral cancer. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved.

Early detection of pre-cancerous tissue can minimize or eliminate the potentially disfiguring effects of oral cancer and possibly save your life. Ask Dr. Trushar Patel about a screening at your next appointment and have a great weekend!

David Letterman's experience with a dentist

How about a treat today? Our staff at 19th Street Dental recently came across a really funny clip of funnyman David Letterman talking about his experience with a dentist. In the video, he jokes about his frustration with his dentist and the hole in his mouth "the size of an above-ground pool." We loved this clip, and think you will as well - Letterman at his best! You won't find the bad service Letterman had with his doctor at 19th Street Dental!

Have you been seen by Dr. Patel in the past six months? Give us a call at 404-963-8235!

Dr. Patel wants to know: Could you be a teeth whitening addict?

Dr. Patel knows that in an age—and culture—where looks matter as much as anything in life, more and more folks want to look and feel great - and that means more and more people compulsively whitening their teeth. Many of us feel that our smiles are most striking when our teeth look especially white, but unfortunately, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and tobacco can leave behind ugly stains.

But there can be too much of a good thing when it comes to teeth whitening. At 19th Street Dental, we are proud to offer one-hour in-office teeth whitening with ZOOM!™ Advanced Power. To help you restore your gleaming, bright white smile and to give you an added boost of confidence, we offer many options, including both in-office and take-home whitening procedures.

Lastly, if you suspect you may have a teeth whitening addiction, we encourage you to check out this helpful article from our friends at WebMD.

Ten Facebook tips for parents, from Dr. Patel

At 19th street Dental, we are well-aware that thousands of parents tend to sign up for Facebook accounts and ‘friend’ their children, often as a way to keep an eye on their online activities. But many parents in this digital age are still lost when it comes to monitoring their kids online, often stepping over boundaries. Late last year, parenting specialist Vicki Courtney wrote a helpful post on the things parents should and shouldn’t do while surfing through their kids’ Facebook profiles. We came across her article, “Top Ten Facebook No-Nos for Parents” recently and thought you might benefit from reading Vicki’s interesting piece.

The article is designed specifically for those moms and dads who aren’t sure whether they’ve crossed the line in monitoring their kids’ presence online. Dr. Patel and our team hope you find this article informational. Please let us know what you think!

Speaking of Facebook, have you stopped by the 19th Street Dental page recently? If not, stop by and 'Like' our page!

Oh no! Atlanta makes the ‘14 worst-teeth cities’ list!

What makes for a beautiful smile? Dr. Trushar Patel will tell you regular dental visits, brushing and flossing, not smoking, minimizing your intake of soda and coffee, among other factors, will maximize your chances of achieving great oral health.

Our friends at TotalBeauty in 2009 released their list of the “14 Worst-Teeth Cities,” and our team at 19th Street Dental is sad to report Atlanta was chosen among the fourteen. Here’s an excerpt from the article: “Atlanta has a few factors working against it. One, as the home of the Coke Corporation, it's no surprise that they rank no. 4 in cola consumption. That plus its rank of no. 9 in most teeth lost and no. 47 in dentists per capita means less than perfect smiles. Its one saving grace? Almost 95 percent of residents receive fluoridated water, which can help strengthen teeth."

Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting 19th Street Dental on a regular basis? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Dr. Patel, helping calm children's dental fears and anxieties

Dr. Trushar Patel knows that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our team at 19th street Dental found a great article on helping kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Dr. Patel and our team at 19th street Dental excel at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our young patients look forward to their next visit!

Has your child visited us in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Smile wider, live longer, from Dr. Trushar Patel

People with big smiles may live than those who don’t, according to a new study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. We’ve known for a long time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers there used information from the Baseball Register to look at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball before 1950.

The players' photos were enlarged, and a rating of their smile intensity was made (big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then corrected their analysis to account for other factors associated with longevity, such as body mass index, or BMI, career length and college attendance.
The researchers found that players who weren't smiling died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you tried perfecting your smile by visiting Dr. Patel lately? If not, give our team at 19th Street Dental a call at 404-963-8235.

March is National Nutrition Month! From Dr. Patel and 19th Street Dental

If it's March, it can only mean one thing: National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Trushar Patel and thousands of dentists and hygienists around the nation celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, Dr. Patel and our team at 19th Street Dental want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Atlanta and surrounding communities.

• Make each and every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Don't give in: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call! Dr. Patel and team would love to hear from you!

Your turn! From 19th Street Dental

Each week, Dr. Patel and team discuss topics pertinent to dental care. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

Five tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. Trushar Patel

Dr. Trushar Patel and our team at 19th Street Dental know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, avoiding a trip to 19th Street Dental is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting Dr. Patel at least twice a year, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

At 19th Street Dental, a pursuit of excellence

At 19th Street Dental we make every effort to provide you with the best dental treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Trushar Patel do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven dental technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about dental treatment, please give 19th Street Dental a call at (404) 963-8235. 19th Street Dental prides itself as Atlantic Station’s exclusive Dental Center. Atlantic Station, the city within a city, is an environmentally friendly live-work-play village situated at the crossroads of I-75 and I-85. We look forward to seeing you.

Dr. Patel and 19th Street Dental, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

Last week, we blogged about the need to screen for gum and heart disease during the month of February, which is designated "America's Heart Month." Well, February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Dr. Trushar Patel is here to tell you about the need for preventative oral care in kids. For 60 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. In 1981, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Dr. Patel and thousands of dental professionals focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Patel and our staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited 19th Street Dental the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

February is Heart Month, from Dr. Trushar Patel

Did you know February is Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Patel. Cardiovascular disease remains American's No.1 killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.

Visiting our office regularly can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit their dentist when they should, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to 19th Street Dental. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Patel says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment at 19th Street Dental, please give us a call today.

Connect with Dr. Patel on Facebook and Twitter!

Happy Friday, 19th Street Dental patients! Did you know Dr. Patel, in addition to having a Facebook fan page, has a Twitter account? That's right, news about specials at our office, personal updates from Dr. Patel and so much more! Head over to our fan page and become a "fan," or feel free to follow Dr. Patel on Twitter (@IMakeSmiles).

Valentine's Day whitening at 19th Street Dental!

We're only days away from Valentine's Day, and people are getting caught up in the excitement and anticipation. This year, 19th Street Dental is offering you an opportunity to make the most of Valentine’s Day:

Zoom! 1 Hour Whitening is now $399 (originally $550!)

Nite White Take Home Whitening is now $199! (originally $350!)

Give us a call to make your appointment today! Dr. Patel and our team look forward to seeing you!

Help the team at 19th Street Dental shed a few pounds!

Like millions of Americans this time of year, Dr. Trushar Patel and the staff at 19th Street Dental is on a mission to lose weight. Did you know a pound of weight is about 3,500 calories? That's according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To help us get started, we thought we'd ask you, our loyal patients: what strategy you use to lose weight? Do you cut back on the fries and soda (and the calories)? Do you jog? Do you swim?

Please share your tips and strategies with us, and who knows, maybe we'll post your answers on our social networks! As always, please feel free to give us a call!

Get those wisdom teeth out, says Dr. Patel!

Dr. Patel recently read an article in People Magazine about Brooke Mueller (actor Charlie Sheen's wife) and her struggle with pneumonia. Her mother said part of the reason for her illness was that Brooke "waited too long to get her impacted wisdom tooth removed and the infection has spread all over. It is in her bloodstream."

This is where Dr. Patel and our team would remind you about the dangers of not removing wisdom teeth, which first start appearing between the ages of 16 and 25. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, or AAOMS, has a very helpful page on wisdom teeth.

Also, did you know Dr. Patel specializes in dental implants? Dental implants, which are an excellent solution to missing individual teeth, are intended only for candidates with sufficient bone and healthy gums. For more information on dental implants, please visit 19th Street Dental's web site.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

January specials on veneers at 19th Street Dental!

Thinking about life changes? A new custom smile can your look—and your future. Now though February, 19th Street Dental is offering a deal on veneers: Enhance your smile with six or more veneers, and save $2,000 off! An excellent alternative to crowns, veneers can perfect your smile by masking stains, hiding chips, correcting misalignment and creating uniformity.

Veneers, which are made of thin, custom created porcelain, that are designed to slide over the teeth with minimal if any tooth preparation. They look incredibly natural, are long lasting and will give you the smile you have always dreamed of.

We are located on the 2nd floor above Cold Stone Creamery and Café Nineteen on 19th Street. Give us a call at (404) 567-8900.

Where Beautiful smiles come to Life!

Dr. Patel wants to know: What puts you at ease at 19th Street Dental?

Dr. Trushar Patel understands not everyone is thrilled to see their dentist. But at 19th Street Dental, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our office that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Dr. Patel himself?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call, and enjoy the rest of your week!