Family Dentistry

Family Dentistry Services in Cumming, Georgia

Family Dentistry Services in Milton, Georgia

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

Our Team wants your child to have a positive experience each time they come to our office. We pace our approach based on your child's interest and response to the dental environment.

Oral Health — Child with Dentist in Cumming, GA

Sometimes our first meeting is just a ride in the "spaceship" (dental chair), or a teeth cleaning while your child holds "Mr. Thirsty" (the suction) and learns what we are all about. We will also teach both you and your child how to make brushing and healthy eating habits fun and rewarding to help take care of that precious smile!

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

Our Team wants your child to have a positive experience each time they come to our office. We pace our approach based on your child's interest and response to the dental environment.

We will recommend periodic digital x-rays to help monitor your child's progress as permanent teeth erupt and advise you of important preventive measures such as dental fluoride treatments or sealants to prevent cavities.

Maintaining Your Oral Health

Regular visits to the dentist have been proven to help prevent dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Drs. Bryan and Bryan work together with our Dental Hygiene Team to monitor your dental health and perform preventive treatments to help keep your smile healthy.

Our Recommended Preventive Dental Care Regimen Includes Routine Cleanings and Examinations

We recommend that our patients visit our office every 3-6 months for a complete examination, cleaning and periodontal maintenance.

At your checkup visit, we will take necessary digital x-rays, and our doctors will perform a thorough dental examination that includes an assessment of the condition of your teeth and jaw joints, along with an oral cancer screening.
Periodontal (gum) Disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults. Our hygienists and doctors will measure your gums to look for signs of periodontal (gum) disease. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and infection. Read more about Periodontal Therapy.

Dental Sealants

A dental sealant is a plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surface of a tooth to seal deep grooves that can sometimes be an entry point for decay-causing bacteria. Sealants create a smooth surface that is easier to keep clean and can last for years.

Sealants require no drilling or anesthetic and are a great preventive procedure for children to help protect permanent teeth.

Periodontal (Gum) Therapy

Did You Know?

An estimated 75% of Americans have some form of Periodontal Disease*

Periodontal Disease (formerly known as Pyorrhea) is a progressive disease that begins when bacteria penetrate and grow beneath the gums. As the disease spreads, gum tissue and eventually bone become infected and are destroyed. If left untreated, periodontal disease can break down enough bone and gum tissue to cause teeth in the affected area to become loose and eventually fall out. Periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults*.

(*American Dental Hygienists' Association, 2010)

Common signs of Periodontal Disease

Have bleeding or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums or "loose" teeth that do not have a history of trauma.

In most cases, periodontal disease does not hurt.

Stress, smoking and poor nutrition can be contributing factors to gum disease.

Recent studies also indicate that there is a link between the bacteria that cause periodontal disease and increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and preterm low birth weight.

Early detection helps minimize treatment and avoid emergencies. As part of your complete dental examination, we will measure the space between your teeth and gums. Combined with diagnostic dental x-rays, this process will help reveal any abnormal "pockets" - an indication of areas of gum disease in need of treatment.

If periodontal disease is present, we may perform non-surgical gum therapy in our office. In some cases, we may refer you to a Periodontist (gum specialist) for your care, and work closely with this provider to help you achieve proper oral health.

Prevent this Destructive Disease! Call Us Today to Schedule Your Appointment! (770) 887-3223

Nightguards/Bite Protection

Protecting your Teeth

Nightguards (or mouth splints) are custom-fitted plastic appliances that are worn over the teeth to protect them from damage due to clenching or grinding - a condition known as Bruxism.

Bruxism is usually associated with stress, but can be related to sleep disorders, poor bite or jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ/TMD).

Because it usually occurs during sleep, bruxism can go unnoticed for years. Common symptoms of bruxism include headaches, tired or sore facial muscles and cracked or sensitive teeth.

Extensive grinding can cause severe wear of tooth enamel, making the teeth appear shorter and flattened. Left untreated, bruxism can eventually result in serious damage to the teeth that may require extensive restorative procedures to repair.

TMJ/TMD Therapy

Nightguards are often recommended as part of treatment of dysfunctional jaw joint movement, or TMJ/TMD.

Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ), or “jaw joints,” are the hinged joints on either side of the jaw that are responsible for opening and closing the mouth

Some patients suffer from a condition known as "Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction" (TMD) in which one or both joints do not move in a smooth, fluid manner.

In some cases, a therapeutic approach using a nightguard to protect the jaw joints from bruxism or clenching can help manage more chronic symptoms. The long-term effects of TMJ disorders can lead to serious dental problems and pain management issues if not addressed.

As part of your complete dental examination, our doctors will evaluate both jaw joints (TMJ) and each tooth surface to observe for signs of distress and address any problems as needed to keep to your teeth and jaw joints healthy and pain-free.