At 19th Street Dental, we know image is everything. May happens to be National Teen Self-Esteem Month, and during this time, parents are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among teenagers.

We know one of the great ways to improve your confidence is to improve your smile. And that begins with a visit to our office. Has your child visited Dr. Trushar Patel or Dr. Tammy Zeineddin in the past six months for his or her regular check-up? We invite you to give us a call to book your appointment!

See you soon!

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It’s a great time to take notice of the health of your heart, says Dr. Trushar Patel or Dr. Tammy Zeineddin. Cardiovascular disease remains American's number one killer, 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 on a regular basis 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. Trushar Patel or Dr. Tammy Zeineddin 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.

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!

-          Dr. Patel and team

Happy Monday! Dr. Trushar Patel and our staff at 19th Street Dental would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it's high time to schedule your dental visits so you optimize your benefit.

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us - space is limited and we tend to get busy, so don’t wait to give us a call at (404) 567-8900!

October is here, and for Dr. Trushar Patel and our team at 19th Street Dental, that means only one thing: National Dental Hygiene Month.

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 official National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Dr. Patel’s office? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call at (404) 567-8900 to set up an appointment.

We hope you’re having a wonderful Monday!

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

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at 19th Street Dental want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--19th Street Dental

Whether you’re 5 or 50, your health depends on your awareness of what’s good for you. But in a world filled with fad diets, blaring advertisements, and unintelligible ingredient lists, we at 19th Street Dental know it can be difficult to determine exactly what is good for you – and what’s not.

For straightforward guidance on how to live a long, healthy life, we recommend Brush Your Teeth! And Other Simple Ways to Stay Young and Healthy by Dr. David Ostreicher. The book sums up good health in six fundamental principles: hygiene, diet, attitude, exercise, sleep and personal safety.

Drawing on nearly three decades of experience as an orthodontist and professor of health and nutrition, Dr. Ostreicher definitively answers age-old debates, like the best way to prevent colds and flu (your mom was right: wash your hands). He provides straight talk on a variety of diet choices including salt, fats, carbs and organic food, and he documents the importance of regular sleep, stress reduction and positive thinking to your overall health. His suggestions throughout are simple, clear, and inexpensive.

Dr. Ostreicher advocates a back-to-basics, common-sense approach to staying young and healthy. We at 19th Street Dental couldn’t agree more, and we’d like to repeat the title of his book as our favorite piece of advice: don’t forget to Brush Your Teeth!

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today’s popular forms of “body art” and self-expression. If you’re thinking about getting a piercing – or if you already have one or more – we at 19th Street Dental want to share some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry (tongue barbells and lip and cheek labrettes) can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to regularly touch them – which is a perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter piercing sites. Also, food particles that collect around piercing sites can lead to infection.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue – the most popular piercing site in the mouth – could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing also can cause uncontrollable bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barbell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings – which can lead to cracked, scratched teeth; gum damage and recession; and sensitive teeth. There may also be a need for restorations, such as crowns or fillings, and additional dental treatment due to piercings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of piercing carefully before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life, and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you’re committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, pay special attention to it. Clean the piercing with antiseptic mouthwash after eating, and brush the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know at 19th Street Dental if you have any questions.

At 19th Street Dental we see lots of patients concerned about their bad breath. So we want to educate you about what you can do to really keep your chompers clean and breath minty fresh!

Naturally, good oral hygiene is the first set. With proper brushing and regular dental checkups you can keep bad breath (halitosis) in check.

Certain foods, medications, smoking, sinus issues, or even gum disease cause most bad breath. If the stink lingers for longer than 24 hours, you should see us at 19th Street Dental. It might be something more serious, like dehydration, zinc deficiency, diabetes, liver failure, kidney failure, or even certain kinds of cancers!

In the meantime, here are some home remedies to keep you smiling bright from 19th Street Dental.

--Spice Up Your Life
Snack on some cloves, fennel, or anise after each particularly odorous snack.
--Don’t forget the tongue
Lots of people brush their teeth regularly, but leave the tongue alone. One of the main causes of bad breath is food and plaque residue on the surface of your tongue. So give it a nice gentle brush-over too!
--Watch your drinking habits
The worst options are coffee, wine, whiskey, and beer.
--Frequent brushing
Carry a toothbrush with you so brushing after each meal is convenient and refreshing! Trust us, you’ll love the way it makes you feel. If you can’t brush, still swish around a couple sips of water to remove any lingering food.
--Make your own Gargle
Gargling with a home mixture of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum extracts four times a day should ward off that bad breath potential.
--Parsley’s there for a reason
Finish your parsley after you finish your dinner and you’ll find a refreshing breath enhancer. Hate the texture? Throw a couple sprigs in a blender to sip after each meal.
--Sugarless Gum
Always a good idea to carry some mints or sugarless gum for that quick spruce up before you meet the boss.
--Don’t cut that cheese
The stronger the cheese, the stinkier your breath can become. Think about blue cheese and Roquefort? They really get the party started in your mouth and it’s hard to make them leave!

On Earth day – we had an informational table at the Earth Day In Atlantic Station event, where we showcased how 19th Street dental is earth and environmentally conscious.

Here is a sampling of what we do at 19th Street Dental to strive to be kind and respectful to the environment:

--We are a “chartless” office. We use Digital Patient Charting which eliminates the need of paper charts.

--We use Digital x-rays which use 85% less radiation than regular x-rays. Digital x-rays also eliminate paper, plastic and lead waste from discarding empty film packets and also eliminate the need for chemical solutions used for developing regular x-rays. Digital x-ray machines also use less electricity to operate than traditional x-ray units.

--We send patient reminders via Email and Text Messaging to reduce paper waste.

--We use the most efficient Steam Based Autoclave on the market to sterilize instruments, which uses only water to sterilize instead of harsh chemicals.

--We have scheduled to have an Amalgam Separator installed in our office which is a device that helps prevent amalgam particles (mercury etc.) from being discharged into the public sewer system.

--Any paper waste we do produce gets shredded and donated to local animal shelters.

Eco-Tip from 19th Street Dental: Turn off the faucet while you are brushing your teeth, it’ll save about 2 gallons of water per brushing session. You’ll save a few pennies off your water bill and lighten your footprint in the process!

We at 19th Street Dental want to provide some information about the Swine flu Epidemic and what we can do to protect ourselves. We gathered information from the CDC.

What is Swine flu?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen.

Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?
In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well.

As of today there have been 91 cases of laboratory confirmed cases of Swine flu, in numerous states (Arizona, California, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York City, Ohio and Texas and also 1 confirmed death in Texas. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.

Is this swine flu virus contagious?
CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does swine flu spread?
Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?
First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. The use of Antibacterial wipes or Antibacterial hand-sanitizer.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
Yes. There are some antiviral medications that are prescription medications, so it is advisable to seek professional consultation with a physician to determine which medication will be best for you.

How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How long can viruses live outside the body?
We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health from 19th Street Dental:

--Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

--Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

--Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

--Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

--If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, or clean with alcohol-based hand wipes or gel sanitizers.

Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

We at 19th Street Dental are following all of these procedures closely. Let us know if you have any questions!

Hurry to 19th Street Dental to take advantage of our Teeth Whitening Special in the month of May!

Don’t miss this limited time opportunity to rejuvenate your smile, or the smile of a loved one! It is great for yourself or a great gift idea for Mother's Day, Prom, Graduation, or a Wedding! With so many events coming up in May this offer comes at a perfect time.

ZOOM! 1-hour Whitening for only $299 – that’s a saving of over $250!

Hurry, the offer ends Friday, May 29th.

Please visit or call 19th Street Dental at (404)567-8900 for more information.

Last week was Administrative Professional Day! And at 19th Street Dental, we want to take this opportunity to thank our great staff that make our office stand out as a premium dental provider!

Stephanie, our Front Office Coordinator has been with the practice since January 2008. Stephanie brings over 10 years of experience in the dental office setting. A Warm, Friendly and Caring person who takes care of our patient's appointments and billing, Stephanie is also highly trained professional. Since joining our team has undoubtedly improved our office flow and made it seamless for patients to schedule appointments, coordinate billing and handle insurance matters.

Jill, our Hygienist joined our practice in March 2008 and brought with her 10 years of hygiene and periodontal therapeutic care. One of the finest Dental Hygienist’s in Atlanta, we are lucky to have her as part of our team. Initially Jill was part-time with us and became our full time hygienist in January 2009.
Jill has implemented a Soft Tissue maintenance program, that we have developed together, for the improvement and betterment of our patients gums and overall oral health. She is also a social butterfly and is active in our social events and marketing campaigns.

Tatyana, our dental assistant is our longest serving team member and joined the practice in June 2007. Having worked with me at another dental office, I have known and worked with Taty for over 4 years and is an integral part of our team. Taty coordinates our back office and patient experience and is committed to making our patients feel welcome, comfortable and relaxed. She has a caring demeanor and always wants what’s best for our patients.

Show your kids the importance of oral health with this fun video from 19th Street Dental.

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Patel is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 19th Street Dental.

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – but in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat. Examples include an upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly, or a mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in.

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has “baby teeth.” Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly, such as a retainer. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent the patient’s permanent teeth have come in. Phase two often does involve braces and sometimes headgear.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit an orthodontist even sooner. For more information about two-phase orthodontics, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel, give us a call at 19th Street Dental.

In an effort to have people in Atlanta smiling brightly from ear to ear, we introduced our new whitening program at 19th Street Dental. If you purchase an in-office Zoom tooth whitening or take-home whitening, and are consistent with your routine cleanings and checkups at our office, you will receive a refill (1 syringe) every six months for free! Existing whitening customers can also take advantage of this offer. Terms and conditions apply, Please call 19th Street Dental at(404)567-8900 for details.

Today's brides want everything to be perfect on their wedding day - the weather, the dress, the party and of course their new husband! We know at 19th Street Dental that list also includes your smile! Just think as a bride and as groom, you will be the most photographed people on your special day. Those moments will be captured memories for a lifetime, enhance your smile now and captivate your memories.

According to a recent study conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to members of the opposite sex. If you are one of the thousands of people who is considering enhancing your smile, why not do it before you walk down the aisle?

Call our office (404)567-8900 to see how we can enhance and rejuvenate your smile before a big event. Check out the whitening services offered by 19th Street Dental.

At 19th Street Dental, we provide the latest in dental care with the most advanced technology that our patients are raving about. Come see for yourself!Dr. Patel is a true professional and is very patient, thorough, and his office is the most amazing state-of-the-art facility! Wow! I thought I was in the future but the future of dentistry has arrived at 19th St. Dental.
-Duane H.

At 19th Street Dental, they focus on one on one interaction. Dr. Patel is very invested in personal attention. He cares about everything from the goals and outcome of treatment to the patient’s happiness. THIS IS CRUCIAL!
-David B.

Dr. Patel is very friendly, relatable, and down to earth. He is very professional, but never stuffy.
-Catherine M.

19th Street Dental is convenient, professional, and uses latest most-up-to-date procedures. Dr. Patel is excellent, friendly, competent, easy to talk to, and he has a supportive staff.
-Al C.

Dr. Patel is a cool fellow. He is easy to talk to and he answers all my questions in a way that I understand.
-Patrick F.

His office has a great atmosphere and Dr. Patel, along with his staff, is very friendly and takes the time to answer all of your questions.
-Frances L.

Dr. Patel and his staff are very thorough and friendly. The office is hi-tech, and very warm and inviting.
-Mona A.

The office is clean, the staff is friendly, and they use the latest most up-to-date technology!
-Louan A.

Brushing your teeth is a simple step toward better oral hygiene; but, there are many questions that surround this one little task. To better help decipher the tricky waters of mouth washing, here are some easy to remember quick facts about brushing your teeth!

How much time should it take me to brush my teeth?

You should be brushing for at least 2 minutes. Don’t forget that flossing should also be a part of your brushing regimen; and, it should take at least a minute.

How long should I keep my tooth brush before buying a new one?

Most tooth brush companies use aids (the bristles on the brush change color) to tell you when you need a new toothbrush; however, I generally recommend changing your tooth brush at least once every 3 months. It’s a small investment to maintain a healthy mouth

Do electric toothbrushes work better than regular toothbrushes?

Power toothbrushes are excellent if used correctly. Each brush has a specific way to be used and reading the manufacturer’s directions carefully will enhance your brushing experience. Another benefit is that some brushes have timers, which will help make sure that you brush your teeth for the recommended time.

When I can’t brush, will chewing sugar free gum after a meal really help to prevent cavities?

Sugar-free gum has many benefits, and can help decrease the chance of getting cavities; however, it is not a substitute for a toothbrush and floss. Sugar-free gum increases saliva production and the enzymes in the saliva help to digest the food particles and neutralize plaque acid in your mouth.

Does mouthwash really help to prevent cavities?

Some mouth washes assist in cavity prevention – most notably those that contain Fluoride, however most mouth washes are used to assist in maintaining and improving gum health, and do not count as a substitute for brushing and flossing.

How often should I use mouthwash?

Twice a day, or as directed by your dentist.

Will eating mints hurt my teeth, and cause cavities?

Potentially yes. Chewing hard mints places a tremendous amount of pressure on your teeth and they can cause teeth to fracture and break. Sucking on mints, although tasty, allows for increased sugar in your mouth which is a food source for the bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria, over time will contribute to tooth decay.

Will brushing my teeth after meals help prevent cavities?

Absolutely! Brushing after meals is the best way to maintain good oral hygiene. You will decrease the amount of food remaining in your mouth, and leave little for bacteria to feed on.

What is the best way to keep my gums healthy?

Regular flossing, ideally after every meal, is the best way to maintain healthy gums in between teeth, as well as using a soft toothbrush to massage the gums around your teeth. Mouthwash is a great aid to finalize your home care to leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

If you have any other brushing questions please feel free to contact our practice, or visit our web site!

One question we hear all the time is “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact Dr. Patel.

Lots of you have asked us about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs. Is this anything to worry about?

In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call and we will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

During the months of October and November we held two separate drawings for our patients. Each month we drew a first, second, and third place winner; and now, the names have been drawn, and our winners have received some great prizes!!

October Winners
Winners were selected by Tiffany Dowdell of Q100

1st place – Rossanna C. won a $100 Gas Gift Card
2nd place – Carl R. won a $50 American Express Gift Card
3rd place – Deandrea J. won a $20 Strip Restaurant Gift Card

November Winners
Winners were selected by 19th Street Dental patient Gary R.

1st place – Jonathan T. won a $100 Gas Gift Card
2nd place – Damon L. won a $50 American Express Gift Card
3rd place – Ramiro C. won a $20 Strip Restaurant Gift Card

Congratulations to all of our winners; and thank you to everybody who entered their names into our monthly drawings!

Be sure to visit our MySpace page to see more photos of the winners!

November gave us a month full of birthdays here at 19th Street Dental!

First, we would like to say “congratulations” to our front desk coordinator, Stephanie! On November 11th, 2008 she gave birth to a bouncing baby girl!

I must say that November 11th couldn’t have been a better day to be born, as it is also my very own birthday too! Then, this got me thinking, I wonder who else celebrates a special birthday in November?

Happy “November” Birthday to you:

• Dr. Patel – November 11th

• Barbi – November 16th

• Stephanie – November 27th

If you have an upcoming birthday please let us know so that we can help you celebrate your special day!

Everybody loves a little positive feedback! Thank you to all of our great patients - seeing all of your great smiles makes everyday rewarding for all of us at 19th Street Dental!

Here’s what some of our patients had to say about their dental experience with Dr. Trushar Patel and our wonderful team:

“Great and comfortable experience! I had an amazing experience as a first time patient at 19th Street Dental. Dr. Patel is a very experienced physician with a talent to not only create a great confident smile but to also ensure a comfortable and fun experience overall. His staff is also superb at making the visit as smooth and convenient as possible. I honestly cannot wait until my next visit!”

“Great dentist! 19th St Dental has great customer service and an extremely relaxing environment. They have flat panel TV's in each room. Dr. Patel does an incredible job of communicating with you about what's going on with your teeth.”

“Fabulous! ‎ This dental office is beautiful, the staffs are so courteous and Dr. Patel is so easy to talk to. He listened to my concerns and we are working together to fix my smile! I am excited to finally find a dentist who I can trust! I thought being in Atlantic Station, it would be expensive, but it is reasonable and so worth the extra because it is a great experience!”

“Dr. Patel's office in Atlantic Station is awesome! Beyond being super convenient (free 2 hour parking and plenty of it) the office is completely digital--no endless forms to fill out. Instead there's an efficient little computer station for your info that takes maybe 3 minutes to complete. The office is decorated in a hip, youthful way with great abstract paintings everywhere...and guess what? Dr. Patel did them himself!”

If you have had an experience at 19th Street Dental that you would like to share with others, please leave us a comment! We would love to know how you feel about your time spent with us and the treatments you’ve received.

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially when you are out on a date with that girl or boy you’ve had a crush on all semester! However, bad breath can be prevented!

Bad breath, or as your doctor may call 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. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils the food the food releases, and smoking is also a major cause of bad breath.

There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:

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.

#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh!

Not letting your nerves get the best of you on your date? That’s up to you!!!