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(706) 453-1333 1011 Parkside Main,
Greensboro, GA 30642

April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

April 28, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort,Your Health — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — @ 4:43 pm

Drs. Bradley and Dr. Boswell Remind All Of Our Valued Patients That Early Oral Cancer Detection Saves Lives

IT’S SOMEWHAT SURPRISING THAT ORAL CANCER DOESN’T GET THE “PRESS” that other types of cancer seem to get. The numbers are significant. In the United States alone, over 35,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Here at Lake Oconee Dentistry, PC, early detection is very important because it can boost survival rates to 80–90%! Unfortunately, many times if people do not see their dentist regularly, the cancer is not diagnosed before it reaches a more advanced stage.So, why does oral cancer so often go undetected? Dr. David Bradley says, “One of the reasons is because many of the symptoms are not painful, and people just don’t know.” Sadly, detecting oral cancer in its later stages significantly lowers survival rates.According to the Oral Cancer Foundation,if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should have Drs. Bradley and our team take a look:

  • A sore inside your mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks
  • A lump or thickening of your cheek
  • A white or red patch on any part of your inner mouth or throat
  • Chronic difficulty swallowing or chewing
  • Difficulty moving your tongue or jaw
  • Numbness inside your mouth
  • Jaw swelling

Although there may be other causes for these symptoms, having them checked here at Lake Oconee Dentistry, PCwill provide peace of mind in knowing the cause.And of course, it goes without saying—the best offense is a great defense… That is, keep those regularly scheduled cleaning appointments and screenings. Doing so GREATLY increases the likelihood that any problems will be detected early. It’s absolutely worth it, so make your appointment today.As your trusted, lifelong oral health partner, we want to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible. Let us know if you have any questions about oral cancer or any of the symptoms mentioned above. And share this information with someone you love! Staying informed helps us all stay healthier.If you haven’t had a chance to LIKE our Facebook page, now would be a great time by clicking on the image below:

Let’s Talk About Some Root Canal Basics

April 20, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort,Your Health — Tags: , , , , , , , , — @ 5:16 am

IF YOU’RE LIKE SOME OF DRS. BRADLEY AND DR. BOSWELL’SPATIENTS HERE IN LAKE OCONEE DENTISTRY, PC, you may have heard rumors that root canal therapy is painful and/or difficult. However, surveys continue to show that most people’s dental procedure fears are more about “perception” than they are about “reality”.The sad thing is that inaccurate information about root canals (and other dental procedures) can cause people to make uninformed—and often unwise—decisions that can cause additional expense, hassle, and unneccesary damage to their teeth, their oral health, and possibly their overall health. So, before you believe any rumors or hype, we thought we’d help clear up the top five myths about root canal therapy.

MYTH #1: Root Canal Treatments Are Painful

Typically, it isn’t that the actual root canal treatment is painful—rather, the irreversible condition that is requiring the treatment is far from comfortable in the first place! Most people who have root canal therapy admit that the pain they experienced was prior to the procedure, not during it… And, they felt so much better after.

MYTH #2: Root Canals Always Require Several Appointments

Typically, a root canal treatment can be completed in as few as one or two visits with any one of our dentists. Some cases require a tooth to be restored after the root canal is completed, but these appointments are not part of the actual root canal process.

If you are already scheduled for root canal therapy with our dentists, and if you’re experiencing discomfort, here are a few ideas from our friends at eHow:

MYTH #3: Root Canal Therapy Leads to Illnesses

This myth stems from some research that is 100 years old—and, has NEVER been duplicated or confirmed through modern research. That is, the bacteria that may be present from doing the root canal procedure can somehow make you sick after your root canal therapy. The fact is that all kinds of bacteria can be found in your mouth at any time, even if you don’t have decaying teeth, gum disease, or an upcoming root canal treatment. This myth truly is just that—a myth you don’t need to worry about.

MYTH #4: Root Canal Therapy Isn’t Necessary Until Your Tooth Hurts

Teeth in need of root canal therapy don’t always hurt. In fact, some dead teeth may just require a root canal to prevent infection. You may have a tooth in need of a root canal and not even know it.

MYTH #5: The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy Don’t Last Long

This fifth myth probably starts with people who have had a tooth crack at some point after having had a root canal treatment. While it’s true that when a nerve is removed from a tooth, the blood supply is eliminated and the tooth can become brittle—making it more fragile and susceptible to cracking. Technically, this means that although the complete restoration solution may need to be examined, it doesn’t mean that root canal therapy doesn’t “last”. Often, our dentists will recommend having a crown placed over your tooth to prevent this from being an issue.

Well, there you go…the top five myths about root canal therapy shattered right before your eyes! We hope that you now feel a little less fearful of root canals, and much more informed.

If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or connect with us via our Facebook Page. Thank you for being our valued patients and friends!

Be sure to “Like” our Facebook page for offers and promotions by clicking on the image below:

Tooth Knocked Out? Drs. Bradley Remind Us What To Do…

April 12, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort,Your Health — Tags: , , , , , , , — @ 5:57 pm

REGARDLESS OF HOW WELL YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR TEETH, something as common as an overly aggressive flag football game, or something as unexpected as tripping over a curb can result in a knocked-out tooth. If that happens, don’t just sit there and fret about it! If you act quickly, there’s likely no need to look like a pirate for the rest of your life!

Even if your tooth is completely removed from its socket, our dentists here at Lake Oconee Dentistry, PCcan probably successfully replace it. But in part, it depends on YOU!

Here are the steps you should take if you find yourself, a friend, or a family member with a knocked out tooth:

• Act quickly.

• Hold the tooth by the crown, NOT by its root.

• Never try to wipe off the tooth because remnants of the ligaments that attach the tooth to your jaw may still be present and are vital to replacing it.

• If possible, place the tooth back into the socket immediately.

• Keeping your tooth moist is one of the most important things! If you are unable to replace the tooth in the socket, keep the tooth moist inside your cheek or in a glass of milk until you can see one of our dentists.

• Talk to us as soon as possible. Your best chance for saving your tooth is to see any of our doctors within 30 minutes of it being knocked out.

Once you are under our care we can likely replant and stabilize the tooth. We may not be able to tell what other procedures, if any, may be necessary at a later date.

If your tooth can’t be saved, don’t worry. It’s not the end of the world. Modern dentistry, as practiced here in our office, offers many attractive, viable solutions for tooth loss.

Here’s a great video about what to do if you knock out a tooth:

Please contact us if you have any additional questions or if you need to make an appointment!

Drs. Bradley Talk About Gum Disease

March 26, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort — Tags: , , , , , , — @ 4:13 pm

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN ADVISED TO WATCH FOR SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE? Chances are, if you’ve ever visited a dentist, you’ve been checked—to some extent—for symptoms of this problem. Here at our practice, for many of our patients, a routine check typically reveals healthy, disease-free gums. We’re glad for that… But sometimes people with healthy gums forget that it’s still important to regularly look for early signs of a problem.

Dr. Patti Bradley suggests, “If you have early signs of gum disease, the best thing that can be done is to take care of it before it gets out of hand.” For many of you that may mean being well informed about gum disease, including symptoms to watch for.

As the video below outlines, gum disease can be divided into three stages, which can range from a simple amount of gum inflammation to major tissue damage and tooth loss. It’s been said before, but as a reminder, the sooner periodontal disease is caught the more we can do to successfully reverse the effects.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms as listed below, and outlined in the video, be sure to have any of our doctors take a look:

  • Gums bleed easily while flossing or brushing
  • Swollen, red or tender gums
  • Receding or separated gums that are exposing teeth
  • Changes in how your teeth fit together
  • Constant bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth

Of course, never having gum disease is the best scenario.

Because gum disease starts with bacteria in the plaque on your teeth, paying close attention to your oral hygiene is your greatest defense. This includes your daily care—thorough brushing and regular flossing, as well as your regular checkups. If plaque hardens to your teeth, only a dental cleaning can completely remove it and stop gum disease from starting.

We want to keep you informed and healthy with information on many aspects of your oral health.

We invite you to contact our office or join us on Facebook. Liking our Facebook page gives you access to discussions on our wall about your oral health, as well as updates about current promotions in our office. Click below:

We look forward to seeing you during your next visit!

It’s Extra Important To Take Care Of Your Teeth With Braces!

March 20, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort — Tags: , , , , , , — @ 4:35 pm

DO YOU HAVE BRACES? Or does someone you love have braces? Underneath all that metal, your beautiful pearly whites are moving—and, inching you ever closer each day toward an absolutely fantastic smile!Dr. Patti Bradleyreminds us, “Wouldn’t it be a shame, if once those braces came off, you had a bunch of cavities under there!? That would be awful!”

So, don’t let that happen!

All the gadgetry in your mouth—from the springs and the wires to the rubber bands and spacers—can attract food AND plaque. Dr. David Bradley, here at Lake Oconee Dental, reminds each of us with braces, “It’s important to brush properly and to use floss and/or mouthwash per your orthodontist’s recommendations. When plaque is left behind on your teeth and around your braces it can cause your gums to swell, your teeth to become discolored, chronic bad breath and even (sometimes) cavities.”

Cleaning Your Braces The Right Way Is A Chore, But It’s Worth It

Millions and millions of people wear braces. If you’re one of them (or your child) be sure to take the time to pay attention to detail. While it requires spending a little more effort before bedtime… In the long run it WILL be worth it.

The purpose of today’s post isn’tto go over all the details of caring for teeth with braces. We just want to focus on cleaning them. Your orthodontist has likely already told you lots of do’s and don’ts. But here are a couple little reminders: There are foods you should probably just avoid including taffy, caramels, and hard nuts. And don’t chew ice or bubble gum. Be careful with things that are hard to bite like bagels and apples.

Take a minute to learn from this video created by the good folks at Howcast:

Please contact us if you have any additional questions, and if you haven’t yet had a chance to become a fan of our Facebook page, do it now by clicking on the image below:

We look forward to seeing you the next time you visit!

Designing Your Perfect Smile With Smile Design

March 5, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance — Tags: , , , , — @ 11:56 pm

HERE’S THE TRUTH… Not all of us are in love with the way our smiles look. It’s understandable. Through genetics and the wear and tear that occurs day in and day out, many of us end up with a smile that we’re not so crazy about. But no need to worry. That’s where cosmetic dentistry here at Lake Oconee Dentalin Greensboro can make a difference.

Cosmetic dentistry, also referred to as smile design, consists of any procedure used to improve the look of your smile. This can include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and dental implants. All of which are provided by the dentists at Lake Oconee Dental and their experienced, friendly team.

“Smile Design” utilizes the leading-edge techniques, artistic skills, and knowledge the dentists have developed—combined with their eye for aesthetic appeal that creates smiles their patients proudly display. All of the doctors here strive for perfection in every service they offer, and the cosmetic dentistry options are no different. Your complete satisfaction and confidence with your new smile is our highest priority.Studies show that an investment in your smile is one of the easiest and least invasive things you can do to improve your self confidence. Do you remember ABC’s Extreme Makeover show a few years ago? When many of the makeover recipients were asked, “What is the one thing you did that made the biggest difference in the way you feel about yourself?” they replied “My smile makeover.”Not all of us can look like the movie stars below, but think of the self confidence you could have if you loved your smile:

After an initial consultation with Dr. Bradley, Dr. Bradley, or Dr. Boswell we can provide the custom-designed cosmetic dentistry procedures that are tailored to your needs. Call 706.453.1333 or eMail us today to learn more about what we can do for you—and that perfect smile that awaits.

And The Winner Is… Susan Brosman!

February 28, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort,Your Health — Tags: , , , , , , — @ 1:37 am

OK… THIS WAS JUST GOOD OL’ FASHIONED FUN! As many of you know, we recently ran a little drawing in our practice for a brand new, shiny, cool Apple iPad! And we want to sincerely thank ALL of our friends who LIKED our page and entered the drawing.

We just took the “prize patrol” approach and showed up at Susan’s workplace to award her the big prize!

We want ALL of our valued patients to know how much we appreciate the trust you place in our practice. We’re honored to be your lifelong, oral health partners.

Are Dentures A Good Fit For You?

February 27, 2011

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort — Tags: , , , — @ 5:56 pm

IT’S NOT LIKE THE OLD DAYS when it comes to denture technology, materials and fit. If your parents or grandparents had dentures, chances are their experience was very different than what yours would be. The stereotypes and thoughts commonly associated with dentures have been changing.

First of all, some people think that dentures, or partial dentures, are only for “old people”. Not true. While Drs. Bradley and Boswelldo everything possible to save existing teeth, sometimes dentures are the best alternative—regardless of your age. Our dentists may recommend full dentures if you’ve lost—or are in danger of losing—allof your teeth. If you have some missing teeth, but other healthy teeth (and gums), then partial dentures can utilize those teethfor better support.

Dentures can make a huge difference in everyday life.

Dentures help you eat more normally and speak more clearly. One of the great things about today’s modern dentures is that they look and feel like natural teeth, and are made of the finest, modern dental materials. Our Lake Oconee dentists spend as much time determining proper fit and function as they do making them look natural. Each tooth is individually designed, positioned, and color matched for a “realistic” look that’s nearly always mistaken for one’s natural teeth.

Here’s a little trivia…

Despite what people commonly think, George Washington’s different sets of dentures were not made of wood. Materials at that time included hippopotamus ivory, gold pivots, springs, other people’s human teeth, cow’s teeth, and rivets.

One more quick thought…

We work with the very finest dental laboratories to fashion your dentures—featuring premium, low-staining, long-lasting teeth with a strong, high-impact acrylic base. There are companies that often sell dentures that are “self-fitting,” often offered with discounting pricing. Not only can these types of dentures lead to other oral health problems because of improper fit, if they hurt or are uncomfortable you won’t want wear them.

Speaking of improper fit… Do you mind if we have a little fun for a minute?

If you think dentures may be the solution for you, let’s visit. You can make an appointment directly, or give us a call at 706.453.1333.

And, be sure to become a fan of OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. There, you’ll come to best understand the culture that surrounds our dental practice. Culture, you ask? Yes… Culture. It’s a culture that helps you feel comfortable knowing that you’re receiving the very best oral health care—from people who care.We treat people, not teeth.

Some Simple Basics About Dental Implants

December 14, 2010

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance,Your Comfort,Your Health — Tags: , , , , — @ 3:14 pm

FROM THE MOST COMMON THINGS, INCLUDING WEAR AND TEAR, TO TRAUMA OR DISEASE, many adults have experienced permanent tooth loss.Regardless of the level of loss, discomfort and/or lack of confidence are common side effects. Of course, permanent tooth loss is something Drs. Patti, David and Phil and their team always do their best to prevent. However, it isn’t always possible. The great news is that today there are beautiful and functional solutions.Implant dentistry is not something new, although from its original origins in the 50’s it has indeed come a long way. Initial discoveries came when scientists learned how bones can fuse with titanium, making natural bone support possible. Today, Lake Oconee Dentistry uses this original discovery to copy the root and tooth system that your mouth naturally has.

Implants are first placed within the gum line. Then, they are given about 3–6 months healing time to ensure that there is complete and proper fusion with the bone. After the implants have healed, the custom crown, bridge, or dentures can be placed. After this placement (unlike traditional dentures or bridges) the solution is much stronger and long lasting, giving you the confident smile you deserve.

As with most dental procedures, dental implants begin with a consultation with Dr. Patti Bradley, Dr. David Bradley, or Dr. Phil Boswell to help with any questions and allow them the chance to create a custom-tailored plan that best meets your needs.

Here is a simple video illustration of just how simply dental implants work:

To learn more about how implant dentistry corrects and enhances smiles, schedule an appointment to visit with us.

Be sure to take a minute to connect with us on Facebook by clicking on the logo below!

Let Us Know What You Think!

December 4, 2010

Filed under: Blog,Your Appearance — Tags: , , , — @ 11:42 pm

HERE AT LAKE OCONEE, YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED WE TALK about smiles a lot. We’ll admit, we’re a little obsessed with them. So for today, we’re interested in your opinions about smiles! Please take a moment and let us know what you think…

Does A Smile Need “Perfection” To Be Wonderful?Recently we came across an article from a teeth whitening review website. In the article they reviewed 5,000 female celebrity smiles and made a judgment on who they thought have the top 10 best smiles. The list and judgements are completely subjective, of course, but still fun to look at.And now for our opinion…a smile does not need to be perfect to be beautiful. From the pictures we see, of course we can tell that some of the celebrity’s smiles are closer to “textbook” perfect than others. What we think is that it has a lot to do with how comfortable someone is when they smile! We all know those types of people–maybe they don’t have a Hollywood “perfect” smile, but it’s engaging, attractive, and remarkable. It’s their comfort level showing through!Are you comfortable with the smile you have? Having that level of comfort can make such a big difference in the way you live your life. We see it time and time again at our office. Even small, subtle changes make a huge difference in the lives of many of our patients. Please, never feel hesitant or embarrassed about visiting with any of our staff. Dr. Patti or David Bradley or Dr. Phil Boswell are always available to talk about your smile.

OK… Now We’d Like To Hear What You Think!

Do you agree with the list above? Is there anyone you would want to include or exclude?You can submit a comment below, or even better, click on the Facebook logo and comment on our Facebook wall. You could even upload a photo there of somebody you know who has a remarkable smile. Share! We look forward to hearing from you.And, as always, thanks for being our valued friends and patients.

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