Dental Blog

Stay informed on all the latest dental health news through our blog.  If you read something that interests you, feel free to pass along to your family and friends via Twitter and Facebook.

Your Lula, GA dentist

If you head northeast of Gainesville, GA, you’ll reach Lula, Georgia, one of the many cities that the office of Patrick Toms DMD serves. By maintaining memberships in a diverse group of dental associations and organizations, the staff at Patrick Toms DMD are committed to ensuring that we deliver the best services possible to our patients. Our dedication to safety and professional expertise remains unmatched.

As a full-service dentist, we are confident in our ability to meet you and your family’s oral health care needs. If you’re looking for a Lula, Georgia, dentist, we invite you to check out our specialty areas:
·General dentistry
·Pediatric dentistry
·Implant dentistry
·Sedation dentistry
·Cosmetic dentistry

With just a short drive down the road to Gainesville, our Lula patients have access to a leading dentistry team. Please contact us to set up your individual consultation.

You might need a cosmetic dentist near Gainesville if…

You might need a cosmetic dentist near Gainesville if…

1. You’re on a business trip to Gainesville and accidentally chip your tooth. You need dental care…and fast!

2. You live in Gainesville, but commute to a suburb for work. However, you prefer to have your smile improved in the comfort of your home town.

3. Your children just started in the Gainesville school system. You need a dentist to be close for any sports’ related tooth injuries. You know they’re sure to happen!

4. You live, work and play in Gainesville. Why should your cosmetic dentist be anywhere else?

5. You just moved to Gainesville and know nothing about the dental offices in the area. The city, you feel, will offer you the most options for teeth whitening.

Whether these scenarios fit your situation, one thing’s for certain: Patrick Toms DMD is a cosmetic dentist that is ready to serve you. We maintain accreditations and certifications from groups such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Preservation of Oral Health, the Georgia Dental Association and the American Academy of Implantology to ensure that we regularly meet or exceed industry standards in cosmetic dentistry.

If you’re searching for a cosmetic dentist near Gainesville, please contact us to discuss our services and appointment availabilities in more detail. We’d be happy to set up an individual consultation with you.

Full service dentist serving Dahlonega, GA

Patrick Toms DMD is proud to be a Dahlonega, GA dentist that offers patients and their families a full-service practice that is there for them when they need them – even during emergencies.

With a convenient location in North Georgia, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve patients in Dahlonega and its surrounding communities. Just a short drive over to our Gainesville office provides patients with unbeatable dental care and service.

Our specialty areas include:
·General dentistry
·Pediatric dentistry
·Implant dentistry
·Sedation dentistry
·Cosmetic dentistry

We’re proud to help patients of all ages achieve greater oral health and self-confidence by improving the quality and appearance of their smile. If you’re searching for a Dahlonega dentist, please contact us. We’re excited to meet you and show you the Patrick Toms DMD difference.

Your Buford, GA dentist

Less than half an hour from Buford, GA, is Gainesville, GA – home to Patrick Toms DMD. Because of our close proximity to Buford, we proudly accept patients from this community and have become recognized as a leading Buford, GA, dentist who is committed to providing excellent dental expertise and service to patients of all ages.

As a family dentist, we offer a full-service dental office. While offering routine services such as general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry, we also offer specialized areas that include implant dentistry, pediatric dentistry and sedation dentistry.

However extensive your dental needs, we can accommodate you and ensure that you receive the best dental care possible. From providing regular dental checkups to providing cavity treatments, dental bonding and teeth whitening, we are proud to put our dental expertise to work for you.

In our office, patients are our number one priority. We hope you’ll contact us to set up your individual consultation and discover why so many patients trust Patrick Toms DMD with all of their dental needs.

Searching for a Braselton, GA dentist?

Spanning across four counties – Jackson, Hall Gwinnett and Barrow – Braselton, Georgia, is a unique city. As a dentist serving the Braselton area, Patrick Toms DMD believes that the services we offer should be equally as unique. When other dentists offer routine services, we should provide exemplary ones. While others maintain the status quo, we should be setting new trends.

When you come into our office, you’ll quickly realize that we are one-of-a-kind. Not only do we offer specialized services such as sedation dentistry and implant dentistry, we also treat our patients like family. We realize you have many choices when it comes to selecting a dentist for you and your family, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work with you and for you.

If you’re searching for a Braselton dentist, we hope you’ll check out our individual service areas:
·  General dentistry
·  Pediatric dentistry
·  Implant dentistry
·  Sedation dentistry
·  Cosmetic dentistry

Please contact us to set up an appointment and tour of our office!

Wanting to eliminate that gap between your teeth?

A gap between your teeth can be the result of genetics, teeth crowding or improperly aligned teeth. No matter what the cause, the dentist and staff at Patrick Toms DMD can provide you with choices that will help straighten your teeth and fill in any gaps.

At our office, we can provide patients with both dental veneers and dental crowns to help eliminate gaps been your teeth.  

Our dentists will assess your teeth to determine which option is the best fit for you. But, just to provide you with a little background information, dental veneers are placed on the front surface of teeth. Dental crowns, on the other hand, go over the entire tooth, much like a cap. Crowns might be the best option if there is minimal tooth structure to work with – possibly from the result of breaking a tooth or significant tooth decay.

Both treatments require some tooth reduction, but typically a veneer requires less than a crown. Both can also be customized to match natural tooth color.

There are clear advantages to both options, and one thing is certain: both dental veneers and crowns provide great results for people looking to fill in gaps in their teeth and improve alignment.

For more information on these procedures, please contact us.

FAQs on wisdom teeth extraction

What is wisdom teeth extraction?
Commonly performed in an oral surgeon or dentist’s office, wisdom teeth extraction is a routine procedure where a person’s wisdom teeth are removed from the gum line. It may include removing all your wisdom teeth or just a couple.

What is the purpose of wisdom teeth extraction?
Wisdom teeth are usually removed to prevent or eliminate dental complications including impacted teeth, crowding of the back teeth and gum disease or tooth decay on the wisdom teeth.

Am I allowed to eat or drink before my procedure?
If a general anesthetic is being used, it is recommended that you not eat or drink anything the night before the surgery. Always consult with your dentist or surgeon prior to the procedure to ensure proper preparation.

Will I feel any pain?
No. Anesthetics are used to prevent any pain or discomfort. Your dentist or surgeon will use either a local anesthetic or a general aesthetic, depending on the extent of the procedure. If all your wisdom teeth are being removed, it is not uncommon for the dentist or surgeon to use a general anesthetic, which will allow you to sleep through the procedure. A local anesthetic numbs a specific region of your mouth, but does not put you to sleep.

What should I expect after the procedure?
Stiches are commonly used following the wisdom teeth extraction. Some may be dissolvable while others might need to be removed a few days later. Your dental staff will educate you on taking care of the extraction spots following surgery.

Most importantly, if you think you might be in need of wisdom teeth extraction, you should contact a dentist to schedule an exam in order to prevent any dental complications.

For more information or to schedule an individual consultation with Patrick Toms DMD, please contact us.

We're proud to serve Oakwood, GA!

We realize that any dentist can claim to be a family dentist. At Patrick Toms DMD, we aim to stake this statement a step further by showing you some clear ways that we’re working to serve you – and your families – better.

When it comes to being a true family dentist, we believe that an office should be there when you need it, treat you respectfully and make the most of the time you spend in it.

Family-Oriented
A family dental practice begins with the staff. At Patrick Toms DMD, we treat each other like family. We strive to help one another and provide support when needed. That’s why it’s so natural for us to treat our patients like family: it’s the mentality that we’re well-acquainted with inside our office.

Emergency Hours
Being a family dentist means being prepared for emergencies. Some dentists choose to operate between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. At Patrick Toms, we’re committed to being there no matter the time of day or night. If you need us, we’re here.

Full-Service
Cosmetic, implant, sedation and general dentistry – we offer it all. And that’s a good thing!
Families are always on the go. From sports practice to work events and even the occasional vacation, family time is limited … and often rushed. There’s no exception when it comes time to take the children to the dentist – or to even have a visit yourself. And the last thing you want to hear is that you’ll need to make an additional appointment with another office because the one you’re at doesn’t offer a particular service.

If you’re searching for a family dentist in or around Oakwood, please contact us. We’d be glad to set up an individual consultation with you.

Hello Flowery Branch!

Located just a short drive away from Flowery Branch is the dentist office of Patrick Toms DMD.

We’re proud to be a leading dentist serving patients from our Gainesville, GA office. With our convenient location, we’re only minutes away for patients in any of the surrounding suburbs.

People come to Patrick Toms DMD to ensure that their teeth stay in great health. And, while we work hard to maintain strong oral hygiene for our patients, we believe there are multiple reasons that these same patients who come to us also stay with us.

Customer Service
We make you our number one priority. Whether that’s scheduling an appointment as soon as possible or giving you the best dental advice, you can rest-assured that Patrick Toms DMD will provide unbeatable service and attention to detail when it comes to your dental needs.

Emergency Hours
Your teeth are always on stand-by 24/7, and we believe your dentist should be too. In the event that the unexpected happens, we’re here to help you. Whether you want some advice over the phone or need to schedule an emergency appointment with us, we’re available.

Dental Services
If you’re taking time out of your busy day to come see us, we want to make it as convenient for you as possible. Not only are we a full-service office – complete with cosmetic, implant, sedation, pediatric and general dentistry services – we also offer flexible appointments to fit into your schedule.

Please contact us to learn more about our dentists and staff. We look forward to getting to know you!

Cosmetic dentistry is...

We realize that a cosmetic dentist office’s lingo isn’t the most interesting thing to hear. From technical terms to complex-sounding procedures, patients don’t always understand what we’re saying – but trust we’re doing the right things to improve the look and feel of their mouth.

Cosmetic dentistry involves exactly that – working to improve the appearance of your smile. But, instead of boring you with a list of procedures we can provide, we’ve decided to list several top examples of what cosmetic dentistry is to our patients.

Cosmetic dentistry is…

Having a brighter smile on your wedding day

No longer seeing a gap in your teeth when you take pictures.

Repairing the chip you cracked during soccer practice.

Correcting the alignment of your teeth before your 50^th birthday.

Re-shaping your teeth before you go on that big job interview.

Spending one hour in the dentist office in exchange for years of confidence.

To us, cosmetic dentistry is all about giving you the confidence you need – and deserve – to enjoy all of life’s many moments. We hope you’ll contact us when you want to improve the appearance of your smile. Trust us – you’ll never look back!

Composite fillings 101

Treating cavities with composite fillings are a common procedure in our dental office. Put simply, any decay and bacteria are removed from your tooth, and a composite filling is placed in the cleaned area to restore your tooth back to its normal functionality.

The name “composite filling” comes from the reliable plastics, called composite resins, which are frequently used as filling material. Composite fillings often match the color of teeth and can also share the same tooth texture – making them blend easily with a patient’s teeth. They are an attractive option for almost any one – no matter your age.

The composite material is applied to your tooth, and a special light is used to harden the filling and secure it in place on your tooth. These fillings are very reliable and can last for years with proper maintenance and dental checkups. Tooth sensitivity immediately following the placement of a composite filling is common and should typically go away in a few days.
If you’re interested in learning more about composite fillings including their advantages and cost, please contact us.

Considering a tooth colored filling?

Tooth-colored fillings are one of the most common fillings used in today’s dental offices. Tooth-colored fillings are also called composite fillings because a composite filling is commonly matched to a patient’s natural tooth color. Because of their smooth texture and attractive appearance, these tooth-colored fillings are an ideal solution for patients undergoing cavity treatment.

There are some clear advantages of tooth-colored fillings. These include:

Aesthetics: These fillings can be almost identically matched to the shade and color of your natural tooth, making them a great option for almost any tooth – even visible parts.

Reliability: Because they are bonded to your tooth using a special light, tooth-colored fillings provide support and durability and allow a patient to enjoy almost all foods and drinks.

Preparation: Compared to other types of fillings, tooth-colored fillings may require less tooth preparation. Typically this means that less of your tooth has to be removed prior to placing the filling where the decay and bacteria used to be.

To learn more about our tooth-colored fillings, please contact us. We’d be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you have.

Impacted teeth: signs, symptoms and treatments

Impacted tooth is the term used to reference teeth that fail to emerge fully from the gum line or bone. Some teeth never appear while others only emerge partially.

The third set of molars, called wisdom teeth, are the most common teeth to become impacted, since the rest of the a person’s teeth are typically already in place before the wisdom teeth begin to emerge, normally between ages 17 and 21.

There are two main factors that can cause a tooth to become impacted. These include:
· Spacing – Some teeth do not have room in a person’s mouth to fully emerge.
· Position – If a tooth does not come in at the right direction, the misalignment can cause an impactment. Other crooked teeth can influence the direction that consequent teeth emerge as well.

Symptoms commonly include redness/swelling around the impacted tooth, pain or tenderness in your gum line or jaw bone and prolonged headaches or jaw aches. Once an impacted tooth is identified – usually via X-ray, the recommended treatment is normally extraction. Many times, tooth extraction can be handled in our office; however, for difficult situations an oral surgeon may be required.

If you think you might be dealing with an impacted tooth, please set up an appointment with us. We’d be happy to meet with you and discuss the best form of treatment if an impacted tooth is identified.

Gingivitis: Signs and treatments

Gingivitis is a term that refers to the swelling or inflammation of the gum tissue. In its beginning stages, gingivitis is fueled by excess plaque in a person’s mouth. It builds up along the gum tissue surrounding your teeth and causes them to become irritated. Often times in its early stages, gingivitis is marked by bleeding of the gum tissue during brushing.

Untreated gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. During this more advanced stage, the gum tissue actually begins to separate from teeth and form pockets, which are especially susceptible to bacteria and debris. If not treated, periodontitis can cause bone loss and destroy gum tissue. Teeth eventually become loose, and some teeth may fall out or need to be removed.

There are many symptoms of gingivitis, including:
· Bleeding of the gum tissue during or after brushing
· Inflamed or red gum tissue around your teeth
· Bad breath even after brushing your teeth
· Receding gum tissue

A routine dental exam can identify whether you have gingivitis, and early detection is key to eliminating any of the negative consequences associated with it. If you’re experiencing gingivitis symptoms, please contact us. We’d be glad to set up an individual consultation with you.
 
 

Symptoms and treatments for gum disease

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a serious condition that results from gingivitis going untreated. People who are suffering with gum disease may experience symptoms of gingivitis, which include:
· Swollen or red gum tissue
· Persistent bad breath
· Pockets in between their gum tissue and teeth

Changes in your teeth’s bone support and structure can also accompany gum disease. Dental X-rays can accurately identify any bone loss or shifting teeth.

Because high amounts of oral bacteria are associated with gum disease, this condition is also linked with more serious health problems including stroke and heart disease. It can also aggravate other health issues including diabetes.

Treatment usually includes extensive teeth cleaning and may include non-surgical gum treatments. Diligent oral hygiene while at home is also a vital component to successfully treating gum disease and ensuring that conditions do not worsen. Overall, dental treatment for gum disease aims to eliminate pockets in the gum line, remove excess bacteria and restore bone strength and structure so that teeth are fully supported.

A dental consultation is strongly recommended for people who are experiencing symptoms of gum disease. Please contact us for more information.

Looking to improve crooked teeth?

Do you have crooked teeth that you want to straighten? Or, do you have some gaps in your teeth that you’d like to remove?

Many of our patients come to us wanting to improve the alignment of their teeth, but they don’t want to wear braces. If this sounds like you, we’ve got great news! You, too, can experience straighter teeth without having to go months or years waiting on braces to correct your teeth.

Through dental crowns and dental veneers, we can help improve the appearance of your teeth – often in just a few simple visits. Crooked teeth, irregular edges and uneven tooth spacing all can be correct with these routine cosmetic dental procedures.

Dental crowns are tooth-colored caps that we place over an entire tooth to help improve its shape, color and alignment with other teeth. The cap has a standard tooth shape, and we can make modifications to it as needed so that it has a custom fit in your mouth.

Dental veneers require bonding a tooth-colored, shell-like covering to the front surface of your tooth. The covering is formed after we take an impression of your tooth and then send it off to a laboratory. The veneer is bonded to your tooth and can radically help to fill any gaps that exist in your smile.

If you are interested in learning more about how we can improve the appearance of your smile, please contact us.

Teeth restoration in Gainesville, GA

Tooth restoration can mean different things to different people.

For some, it involves fixing an existing problem. Filling a cavity, removing wisdom teeth or replacing a missing tooth are all examples of commons problems that we see in our office.

For others, teeth restoration involves improving your teeth’s appearance. In a sense, it’s like going back in time so that your teeth appear as they did five years ago – brighter and straighter. With our teeth whitening, we can take years of stain build up and discoloration off of teeth so that your smile is several shades lighter. We can also use techniques like our dental bonding and dental veneers to improve teeth imperfections in shape and alignment.

No matter what teeth restoration means to you, one thing is certain: the best recipe for a healthy, beautiful mouth is regular dental check-ups. Routine dental assessments provide our dental staff with opportunities to supply preventive care as well as make recommendations on ways we can improve your dental health and give you a bold, confident smile.

To learn more about our services and staff, please contact us. We’d love to have you in our office and get to know you better.

Types of tooth implants

Tooth implants, also called dental implants, are ideal for people who are missing one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury or another incident that resulted in the loss of a tooth. If a person’s mouth and gum tissue are in good health, a tooth implant can be an excellent solution to completely restore their mouth and jawline – allowing them to enjoy all types of food and retain the structural support needed for a confident smile.

Types of tooth implants

There are different types of tooth implants: endosteal (placed in the bone) and subperiosteal (placed on the bone).

Endosteal implants are the most common form of dental implant. They come in various forms including screws and cylinders that can be placed into the jawline. Each implant can hold one artificial tooth, which is the only visible item. These are great alternatives for patients with bridges or removable dentures.

Subperiosteal implants are positioned on the jaw using a metal framework that is placed through the gum tissue to help secure them. Often, subperiosteal implants are used for patients who cannot wear traditional dentures or who have minimal bone height.

Our implant dentistry services include routine dental procedures and can be completed with our sedation dentistry to help minimize any anxiety or discomfort. If you’re interested in learning more about this process, please contact us.

Chipped teeth: Ways to remedy any discomfort

Chipped teeth can be the result of many things – chewing on tough food, a sport accident or another mishap that happens on the job, at home or while you’re away on vacation.

The good news is that there are things you can do to help minimize discomfort prior to seeing your dentist:

· If the chipped tooth is painful, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Rinsing your mouth with salt water also helps.

· Sometimes chipped teeth can leave sharp edges. To prevent any rough edges from cutting or bothering you, place a piece of wax, paraffin or chewing gum softly over the chipped spot.

· Avoid biting down on the broken tooth. If you need to eat food, select options that are soft.

To repair your chipped tooth, your dentist will need to assess the tooth damage. Dental bondings, dental crowns and dental veneers are common solutions that can often be performed in one office visit with minimal discomfort. They will leave your teeth looking new, and patients will be able to enjoy all foods and have a bright smile that will last for years to come.

If you are suffering from a chipped tooth, please contact us to set up an individual consultation. Our dentists will be happy to see you and make a recommendation on the best procedure that will restore your teeth!

Searching for a general dentist in Gainesville, GA?

As a general dentist in Gainesville, Georgia, Patrick Toms DMD provides a variety of dental services that not only provide preventive care, but also can restore your teeth’s health.

Preventive Care
Our preventive dental care often begins with a dental check-up, during which we clean your teeth and gums and identify any areas that need attention. We also provide an oral cancer screening. Once the check-up is complete, we can determine what, if any, additional procedures might be needed. Sometimes minor procedures such as sealants or X-rays might be recommended.

Restorative Care
We offer a full-range of general restorative dental services that can combat any problems our patients may be experiencing. These include fillings, inlays and onlays, fixed bridges, root canals, TMJ treatments, dentures and more. Because our dental staff has specialty training in sedation dentistry, we can help eliminate any discomfort or anxiety during these procedures.

If you’re searching for a general dentist, we hope you’ll contact us to learn more about our office, staff and the services we offer. Come see why we’re the Gainesville dentist so many choose.

Three things to consider when choosing the best Gainesville, GA dentist

With so many dentists in the Gainesville, GA area, how do you know which one to choose? Patrick Toms DMD believes there are three things you should look for when selecting the best dentist for you:

1. Choose a family dentist.
Family dentists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a full range of dental issues across all age groups – from pediatric to adult and geriatric dentistry. While offering a comfortable and inviting office environment, these dentists can also provide you and your growing family with trustworthy dental advice.

2. Find power in numbers.
Many dentist offices have one primary dentist on staff, while others have a multi-dentist practice. With more than one dentist on staff, dental patients benefit from double the knowledge, research and skill. A team approach within a dental office provides additional resources to all the dental staff – and those resources are passed along to the patients.

3. Make it convenient.
Let’s face it: life can get super busy. When it’s time for your six-month dental check-up, you don’t want to have to drive half way across the county. A centrally located office can help save you some serious time. Also keep in mind the convenience that can come from finding a dentist who provides a full range of specialty and routine services from the comfort of his/her office.

If you're searching for a Gainesville, Georgia dentist, then please contact us. We'd be glad to set up an individual consultation.

Geriatric dentistry at its finest.

Geriatric dentistry is sometimes referred to as gerodontics. Put simply, it is the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of dental issues in older adults that can occur during the aging process.

Older adults may be especially prone to the following dental problems:
· Xerostomia (dry mouth)
· Tooth decay
· Missing teeth
· Problematic dentures
· Oral cancers
· Worn down dental work
· Ulcers in the mouth
· Gum disease

Diet, current medications, previous or current habits such as smoking and drinking and financial matters can play a huge role in determining the quality of dental treatment that the elderly receive. At Patrick Toms DMD, we’re committed to taking an interdisciplinary team approach to tackling the dental issues that our geriatric patients face. From the comfort of our office, Drs. Toms and Ramsey can handle the majority of dental procedures.

Contact us to learn how we help improve the quality of life for senior adults.

Cavities 101

Cavities are a common problem in many dentist offices. And, while genetics certainly play a role in determining your teeth’s vulnerability to cavities, understanding how cavities form can help you to manage your oral health and better prevent them.

Cavity formation
Cavities are caused by tooth decay that occurs over time. Gradually, bacteria in your mouth can damage the enamel, or hard surface, of your teeth and begin to break it down through a series of phases:

· A sticky film, called plaque, forms on the outer layer of your teeth as a result of bacteria and acid in your mouth.

· Plaque is acidic in nature and begins to remove minerals from the enamel on your teeth. This erosion causes holes to form in the enamel, and these holes are the first stage of cavities.

· The tooth decay continues to go deeper into your tooth, eventually attacking the tooth material, called pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. Supportive bone may also become irritated.

Cavity prevention
Any groove, pit or crevice on or around your teeth is susceptible to tooth bacteria. To best prevent cavities, an individual must ensure that this bacteria is regularly removed. Back teeth, such as molars and premolars, are especially vulnerable to bacteria build up. Regular flossing and brushing are the best way to keep your teeth clean and prevent cavities.

Routine dental check ups also play a vital role in cavity prevention.  In their early stages, cavities may not cause pain. However, moderate to severe cavities may cause teeth discomfort, pain while chewing and teeth sensitivity.

 To schedule a dental exam, please contact our office.

Reasons to consider denture implants

You might be familiar with denture implants, but have you ever wondered why an implant is a better option for many patients over another replacement tooth procedure?

When we age, bone loss is common, especially when an individual loses adult teeth. When teeth are no longer intact, the jaw bone that once supported them is weakened. Stimulation from chewing that once encouraged the bone to maintain strength is no longer present; as a result, bone loss occurs.

With a denture implant, jaw bones can still enjoy this stimulation, since the implant is placed into the bone and functions like a normal tooth. For many people, denture implants are highly successful and provide secure, long-lasting teeth replacements. With denture implants, patients avoid some of the common problems that accompany fixed bridges or removable dentures such as tooth decay and extra stress on supporting teeth.

Since denture implants are fused to your natural bone, you can eat the foods you want without having to worry about your replacement teeth slipping. Plus, the bone stimulation helps to maintain your facial structure, which gives you a confident smile from the inside out. To learn more about our denture implant procedure please contact us.

Want to brighten discolored teeth?

Have you ever been with a group of friends about to take a picture and then instantly wondered if your teeth look as white as they could?

Fretting about yellow or discolored teeth is a common issue that many people have. Fortunately, there are quick and effective solutions to removing those unwanted stains and re-gaining pearly whites.

At Patrick Toms DMD, we offer an in-office teeth whitening procedure called Zoom! Whitening that dramatically whitens teeth in just over two hours by applying a whitening gel to your teeth and activating it with a specialty light.

We also have regular teeth whitening trays that you can take home and use at your convenience. These are a great option for maintaining the white teeth you gain from our Zoom! Whitening.

To learn more about how you can get rid of discolored teeth, contact us.

We're a leading dentist serving Chestnut Mountain, GA

Come see us today!
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Show off those pearly whites!

For many of us, coffee, soda and tea are some of our favorite drinks. Yet, after years of drinking these beverages, our teeth can become stained and appear discolored.

At Patrick Toms DMD, we have great news! You don’t have to give up your favorite drinks to have the much-sought-after pearly whites. With our revolutionary teeth whitening procedure, you can be well on your way to whiter, brighter teeth.

Not only is it safe, it’s equally as effective, and your teeth will become visibly whiter in two hours! Our staff use a whitening gel and a specialty light that activates the whitening material, and patients’ teeth become several shades lighter. With traditional whitening gel trays, patients can maintain their pearly whites at home.

So next time you look in the mirror and think, “I really want a whiter smile!” make sure you pick up the phone and call 770.536.4471. Or, you can set up an appointment on line.

 It’s easy. It’s simple. It’s effective.

Don't let dental emergencies frighten you.

We're only a call away!
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Ever asked yourself these questions when searching for a dentist?

When you’re trying to find a dentist in Gainesville, GA a couple of things might come to mind.

Who is conveniently located?

Who offers a full range of services for me and my family?

Who can help ease any dental anxieties?

Who’s a member of leading industries and associations?

Patrick Toms DMD is proud to be a leading Gainesville, GA dentist who serves families in North Georgia communities from the convenience of our centrally located office on South Enota Drive. Whether you need teeth whitening, a tooth implant or a routine dental exam, we have you covered!

With a full range of dental services available through our one office, we are a dental resource for all oral health needs. Our dentists have memberships with organizations including the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Northern District Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry and Hinman Dental Society. Plus, Dr. Toms is a board-certified sedation dentist, which means any dental anxieties you have can be remedied safely and effectively here in our office.

Please contact us to learn more about our practice. Or, set up your appointment online! We look forward to hearing from you.

Children's fillings in Gainesville

Children’s fillings are something we hear about pretty frequently whenever discussing the topic of a dentist’s office. But, what are some of the reasons that children need filings? What purposes do these filings serve?

Children typically need fillings for many of the same reasons that adults do including tooth decay or damaged areas of a tooth, which might be the result of a fracture. A filling’s sole purpose is to prevent tooth decay from occurring around a damaged section of a tooth.
Children’s fillings are a routine dental procedure and are fairly straightforward. The dentist first removes any tooth decay around the damaged section of the tooth and then places the filling where the decay occurred.

Typically the filling is a tooth-colored resin that is applied directly to the tooth. Many times, these fillings will be placed inside a hole where a cavity formed. These fillings seal off any vulnerable areas of a tooth and prevent additional infection from occurring. Because different types of fillings exist, it’s important to ask your dentist what type of filling material his/her office uses and become educated on the advantages and disadvantages of the material.

To learn more about children’s fillings, we hope you’ll contact us and set up an individual consultation. We’re a leading pediatric dentist in North Georgia and have a proven track record of safely and effectively restoring children’s teeth through dental fillings.
 

Don't suffer from TMJ!

Check out our treatment options - all from the convenience of our Gainesville, GA office.
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Dealing with sensitive teeth problems?

There are many factors that you should consider.
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Cracked Teeth: Causes and Symptoms

A cracked tooth can result from a number of things. Chewing ice, biting down on hard foods or candies, clenching or grinding your teeth and even large dental fillings can cause a tooth to crack. When this happens, the sensitive nerve pulp in the middle of your tooth is exposed to various stimuli inside your mouth.

Bacteria might also get in the cracked portion of your tooth, which causes the area to become inflamed and even more irritated and sensitive.

Some symptoms of cracked teeth include:
·Pain when biting down or chewing
·Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids
·Pain when chewing on one side of your mouth
·Inability to eat certain foods

No matter the cause of your cracked tooth, it’s important to see a dentist right away so that it can be sealed to prevent further complications. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us so we can set up an individual consultation.

Dental bonding: A simple procedure that has beautiful results!

Dental bonding is one of the many cosmetic dentistry services we offer at Patrick Toms DMD. There are many reasons why a patient might be a great candidate for dental bonding; and, no matter the reason, one thing is certain: the process will improve your teeth’s appearance and help you have a brighter smile.

Situations in which dental bonding may be considered include:
·Restoring a decaying tooth
·Repairing a fractured or chipped tooth
·Minimizing gaps in teeth
·Altering the shape of teeth
·Improving the appearance of yellow or discolored teeth
·Elongating teeth
·Protecting the roots of teeth that are suffering from receding gum lines

Many times anesthesia is not required during the bonding procedure, so patients can be in and out of our dental office in no time. It’s a virtually pain-free process that leaves lasting results!

If you would like to learn more about dental bonding or are interested in setting up an appointment, please contact us.

Suffering from sleep apnea?

We're a Gainesville, GA dentist who can help!
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Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Impacted wisdom teeth occur when these “third molars” do not have enough room to emerge or develop normally. As a result, these teeth may never come into the mouth and sometimes the direction of their growth changes, causing them to become trapped.

Symptoms
While some people who experience impacted wisdom teeth exhibit symptoms including pain, swollen gums, tender or bleeding gums, swelling of the jaw and headache, other people show no symptoms at all.

Diagnosis and Treatment
The best way to identify impacted wisdom teeth is through regular dental X-rays, which can highlight the presence of impacted wisdom teeth. Individuals who continually visit the dentist every six months should receive these X-rays in addition to their routine cleanings and checkups. Depending on the severity of any impacted wisdom teeth, wisdom teeth removal might be recommended.

If you think you might be experiencing symptoms related to impacted wisdom teeth, please set up an appointment with us. We’d be glad to help diagnose your situation and provide the best treatment options possible.

Same-day dental service in Gainesville, GA.

Your convenience is our priority.
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Patrick Toms DMD: Your IV Sedation Dentist in Gainesville, GA

We absolutely love what we do. We also realize that not everyone shares our same excitement about making a trip to the dentist office. To help counteract any anxiety our patients may experience, Patrick Toms DMD is proud to be the IV sedation dentist that many choose to help calm their fears while in the dentist chair.

IV sedation is the most intense form of sedation dentistry that we offer. Because it is administered through a patient’s bloodstream, one of its effects includes a rapid feeling of sedation, which results in partial to full memory loss.

Prime candidates for IV sedation include those who have strong dental phobias or who need to undergo a lengthy dental procedure.  

While under IV sedation, a patient’s heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation are closely monitored. If needed, additional drugs can be administered via the IV. And, it’s important to note that a patient still breathes on his/her own and can respond to requests while sedated.

To learn more about IV sedation, please contact our office.

We're your full-service dentist in Gainesville, GA.

Patrick Toms DMD is a leading dentist in Gainesville, GA who specializes in a full-range of dental services that can accommodate your entire family. From pediatric dentistry to cosmetic and preventative procedures, Patrick Toms DMD aims to provide the finest and most comprehensive dental care available. We believe that early detection is an integral part to oral health, so we make thorough exams a priority and offer the finest dental solutions to help make your smile even more beautiful.

Our dental services include:
·General dentistry
·Pediatric dentistry
·Implant dentistry
·Sedation dentistry
·Cosmetic dentistry

If you’re having dental problems or simply need to schedule your 6-month exam, please contact us. We are a leading North Georgia dentist, and hope you’ll make us your dentist of choice.

Looking for a pediatric dentist in Gainesville, GA?

Families across Gainesville, GA have made Patrick Toms DMD their pediatric dentist of choice.
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Top Benefits of Getting Dentures

Scenario: You live in or around the Gainesville, Georgia, area and need dentures. Chances are, you’re already researching dentists and looking for the most effective procedure out there that will get you well on your way to enjoying a fully functional, healthy smile again.

At Patrick Toms DMD, we understand that no one likes to be missing teeth. Not only does it affect your smile, but it also affects the foods you can enjoy. For these reasons, we’ve made it our mission to offer quality dentures at affordable prices. But what’s even more exciting is that our patients enjoy an array of benefits after getting their new dentures.

Because we feel like many dentists fail to highlight these exceptional advantages, we’ve decided to take a moment and discuss the great things our denture patients enjoy, which include:

1. Improved chewing ability – With new dentures in place, our patients can enjoy all their favorite foods again. From popcorn, to steak, to fresh apples, patients can eat just about any food they choose.

2. Better facial aesthetics – New dentures improve the overall appearance of our patients’ faces. When missing teeth, certain areas of the lips or cheeks lack support and can often appear collapsed. With strong, healthy dentures, the area around the mouth is fully supported.

3. Improved phonetics – If you’re missing teeth, chances are high that your ability to articulate certain words might be limited. Once our patients get new dentures, they are able to fully pronounce words without any difficulty.

4. Enhanced self-esteem – Last but certainly not least is the increase in self-esteem our patients enjoy when first seeing their brand new smile. All of the aforementioned factors combined help people to feel great about themselves – from the inside out.

At Patrick Toms DMD, we offer a variety of denture procedures including implant supported dentures. To learn more about these procedures and which one might be best for you, please contact us today.

Education and Relationships: Two Reasons You Should Make Patrick Toms DMD Your Kids Dentist in Gainesville, Georgia

Come get to know us!
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Advantages of Dental Implants

Many patients come to us in need of dental implants. The reasons for these patients deciding to get dental implants vary greatly: some have lost a tooth during a sports game while others have fractured multiple teeth during an accident or finally decided to get dentures.

There are numerous cases that create a need for dental implants, but one thing is certain: no matter the reason, there are clear benefits across the board. The advantages of dental implants include:

1. Dental implants do not stress the surrounding teeth.
Because the implants are placed in the bone, they do not attach to any of the surrounding teeth for support.
 
2. They provide consistent support.
Implants are allowed to fully integrate into your bone, so they are safely secured within your gum line.

3. The implants look and feel like a natural tooth.
Our dentists and staff match the tooth section of your implant to the natural color of your teeth, so the implant blends right in. Additionally, because the implant integrates into your bone, it has the same strength as your natural teeth.

4. Dental implants stabilize dentures
Implant supported dentures offer some of the strongest support and are intended to be long-lasting, easy to maintain and stable in your mouth.

To find out if you are a candidate for dental implants, please check out our dental implant services and set up your individual consultation today. We look forward to hearing from you!

Suffering from Broken Teeth?

We can fix that!
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Searching for a Flowery Branch, GA dentist?

Look no further than Patrick Toms DMD
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Patrick Toms DMD: Your Family Dentist in Gainesville, GA

We make your family our priority.
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Your leading children's dentist in Gainesville, GA

Searching for a children's dentist in Gainesville, GA? Look no further than Patrick Toms DMD.
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We're your one-stop resource for root canals in Gainesville, GA.

We're here to help.
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Experience safe, effective teeth whitening in Gainesville, GA

Brightening smiles is our mission!
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Reliable Dentist for Oakwood, Georgia Patients

If you're an Oakwood, Georgia, resident who's been searching for a dentist, look no more! Patrick Toms DMD is ready to serve you with a full-range of dental specialties including general, pediatric, sedation, implant and cosmetic dentistry.
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Safe Cosmetic Dentist in Hall County

Let us give you that healthy, confident smile you've always wanted.
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Your Hall County, Georgia, Dentist

Patrick Toms DMD is committed to serving patients in Hall County and its surrounding communities.
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Patrick Toms DMD: A Leading Northeast Georgia Dentist

Come see why Patrick Toms DMD is the Northeast Georgia dentist so many patients trust.
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Your Cosmetic Dentist in Gainesville, GA

If you're looking for a cosmetic dentist in Gainesville, Georgia, look no further than Patrick Toms DMD.
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5 Things You Need to Know about Cavities

Many people come into our Gainesville dentist office and ask about the symptoms of cavities and how they can prevent them from forming. So, we’ve decided to compile a list of 5 things every person should know about cavities.

1.  Acidic foods increase your chances of developing tooth decay.

Acidic foods – such as lemons, citrus juices and soft drinks – can jeopardize the health of your teeth’s enamel. Once this enamel begins to erode, the underlying portion of your tooth, called the dentin, is exposed, and your teeth become more vulnerable to decay.

2.  You won’t always know when you have a cavity.

Not all cavities produce pain. Symptoms may not be associated with mild tooth decay, so the initial stages of a cavity may go unnoticed without a dental exam. Painful cavities are the result of moderate-to-severe tooth decay that is causing damage to the tooth’s nerve. Since cavities don’t repair themselves, they will continue to grow and may lead to severe pain and tooth damage.
 
3.  Cavities are more likely to form between your teeth.

Cavities are prone to forming anywhere that bacteria can hide, so areas in between teeth are highly vulnerable to developing cavities since a toothbrush may not reach it, and many people have a difficult time flossing.

4.  Chips and cracks in your teeth may lead to tooth decay.

Cracks and chips in your teeth can create the perfect hiding place for bacteria. If you can’t clean the areas where your teeth are fractured or damaged, then it is very likely that tooth decay will occur. People experience chips and cracks in their teeth for many reasons – from sports injuries to grinding their teeth while they sleep – but one thing is the same: if you can’t clean a certain area, then it is prone to developing cavities.

5.  Brushing and flossing your teeth is the best way to prevent cavities.

The best way to keep cavities from forming is to practice regular preventative care, and brushing and flossing are the ideal way to stop tooth decay from occurring. Brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste twice a day and flossing will remove bacteria from nearly all surface areas of your teeth, and this routine practice significantly lowers one’s chances of developing cavities.

If you think you are experiencing cavity symptoms or would simply like to schedule a dental exam, please contact our Gainesville office today.

Patrick Toms DMD: Your North Georgia Dentist

Searching for a North Georgia dentist? Come let us show you why Patrick Toms DMD should be your dental service provider.
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IV Sedation Dentist in Gainesville, GA

Interested in IV sedation for your next dentist visit? Here's what you should know.
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Patrick Toms DMD: Your Gainesville, GA, Dentist

Come see why so many people choose Patrick Toms DMD for their dentistry needs.
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IV Sedation Dentistry in Gainesville, GA

It's time to debunk those myths surrounding IV sedation dentistry.
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Oral Cancer Rates in the US

This is a little "did you know" about oral cancer.
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