Dental implants are true marvels of modern dentistry. An implant is a tiny cylinder made of a strong biocompatible material. In a brief surgical procedure, it is precisely placed into the jawbone to replicate the root of a missing tooth. Dental implants serve a number of roles, as stand alone restorations and to stabilize dentures. For most patients, an implant is a sensible long term solution to replace a missing tooth. It is not, however, their only option. Dr. Don Jones of Social Circle Dental explains alternatives for those who are not good candidates for implants or simply don’t choose that method.

Dental Bridges

Imagine if our country’s infrastructure did not include bridges. There’d be no easy way to cross a waterway or highway by vehicle. That would seriously impair the function of our interconnecting system of roads. Your teeth are also designed to perform together. When one is missing, chewing functionDentures, appearance, and overall oral health are negatively impacted. A dental bridge spans the gap to keep your mouth operating efficiently.

A bridge can be used to restore a single missing tooth or up to three consecutive teeth. It consists of a pontic or artificial tooth, held in place by crowns cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the space.

A bridge is not removable, so a little extra attention is needed to keep it clean. While the pontic and crowns cannot develop decay, natural dentition under the crowns and throughout the rest of the mouth can. Soft tissues around the crown can also develop gum disease without proper hygiene. Dr. Jones instructs patients on the best brushing and flossing techniques. Twice a year examinations allow his hygiene team to deep clean the mouth a deep cleaning, and give Dr. Jones a chance to inspect your bridge thoroughly.

If you have a gap from a congenitally missing tooth, or have lost one due to trauma or extraction, you may be considering a dental implant. This method of tooth replacement has been in use in this country since the early 1980s. It is gaining popularity because the implant restoration looks natural, feels normal in the mouth, and functions like a real tooth – plus, it can last a lifetime with good care. Many patients are concerned, though, about how dental insurance will respond to a tooth implant procedure. Social Circle dentist, Dr. Don D. Jones, shares these important points.

​The insurance landscape is changing
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Every insurance plan is different, and coverages and conditions can change at any time, with appropriate notice to participants. However, at this time, dental insurance plans generally apply the following logic to dental implants. First, because other options for tooth replacement are available, getting a dental implant is considered “elective.” Second, elective procedures are not covered if a less costly alternative is available. So, dental insurance typically pays a limited amount – roughly the “usual and customary fee” for a partial denture or bridge – toward the cost of a dental implant. There may also be some coverage for diagnostic tests and tooth extraction, and medical insurance could cover bone grafts if necessary. As dental implants become more common, some premium insurance plans are covering the cost of the procedure.

If you participate in an FSA (flexible spending account), where you set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, you are in luck. Because a dental implant is not considered purely cosmetic in nature, the procedure is an eligible expense (the oral surgery, placement of the post, and the crown restoration).

​Not your only option
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It is important to know that a dental implant is not your only choice to restore your smile and oral function. Dr. Jones will be happy to talk with you about the possibility of a dental bridge or a partial denture. Regardless of insurance status, these alternatives make sense for many patients.

Here to help

Dr. Jones and his team at Social Circle Dental want you to have the dental care you need and the attractive smile you deserve. They will obtain an estimate of what your insurance plan will pay for a dental implant or other procedure, and provide assistance in filing the insurance claim. In addition, Social Circle Dental accepts payment by major credit card, and financing through CareCredit and Lending Club.

If you are considering a tooth implant procedure, call Social Circle Dental at 770-464-1900. Dr. Jones is passionate about helping patients make informed decisions to get the dental healthcare they need.

American culture has been in the midst of a teeth whitening craze for quite some time. Who can forget the Friends episode where Ross takes teeth whitening a little too far? Today, it seems like you find teeth bleaching products in every drug, grocery, and discount store. Despite the popularity of this procedure, a lot of misconceptions about teeth whitening persist. Dr. Don Jones of Social Circle Dental is here to debunk the myths about having your teeth whitened.

Myth #1 – Teeth whitening is painful

The procedure is not painful – in fact, it's not even uncomfortable. Dr. Jones takes impressions of your mouth to create trays with a customized fit. The trays are flexible and smooth. They fit snugly to keep the whitening agent on teeth (not soft tissues) to minimize risk of sensitivity. You simply fill the trays with prescription strength whitening gel and wear them for an hour or so each day at your convenience, until you reach the desired shade of brilliance. 

Myth #2 – Teeth whitening harms tooth enamel

Because teeth whitening products are not considered to be drugs, they are not regulated by the FDA. However, many have received the American Dental Association's seal of acceptance, affirming safety and effectiveness. Used properly, teeth whitening has no effect on mineral content or hardness of tooth enamel. 
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Myth #3 – All teeth whitening products are the same

Over the counter products lack the strength to loosen and lift deep stains. Light activated one-hour systems temporarily dehydrate tooth enamel. Dr. Jones recommends at home whitening for the most effective yet gentle smile boost. He chooses the bleaching agent best suited to the type of stains you have to accomplish your whitening goals. 

Myth #4 – There's no need to have a dentist's oversight for teeth whitening

A dentist has a minimum of eight years of formal education, including general medical background and clinical experience. He or she is in the best position to answer your questions about teeth whitening, evaluate your oral health, recommend the correct treatment plan, and monitor your progress. 

Myth #5 – Teeth whitening results don't last

As long as you continue to eat, drink, and grow older, no tooth bleaching system is once and done. However, take home trays are a convenient way to keep your smile dazzling and youthful looking, with just an occasional touch up. 

Now that you know the truth, are you ready to brighten that smile? Call Social Circle Dental today, at 770-464-1900 to start creating your sparkling smile with professional teeth whitening.

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There are many causes of stains on teeth. Over time, foods and beverages such as berries, sauces, coffee, and tea can stain the teeth. Smoking can not only wreak havoc on the body but can also leave yellow or brown looking teeth. These are just a couple of reasons patients in Monroe, Loganville, Covington, and the surrounding areas visit Social Circle Dental to give their smiles an aesthetic boost. They can find safe and gentle teeth whitening treatment with Dr. Jones.

Dr. Jones is a general, cosmetic, preventive, and restorative dentist who is mindful of the effects dental treatments can have on the entire body. As a biological dentist, he knows the impact oral conditions and diseases can have on overall health and wellbeing. Dr. Jones believes in providing conservative, yet effective treatment. Therefore, he provides teeth whitening that is as safe, comfortable, and convenient as possible.

Dr. Jones recognizes the value of whitening the teeth in the comfort of your home. During a consultation, we will examine the health of the mouth, teeth, and gums. If you are a candidate for teeth whitening, we will devise a treatment plan. ​

During the procedure, we take impressions of the dental arches. We use these molds to create customized whitening trays. We have several types of gentle professional grade whitening gel available. We will choose the right one for you and provide the trays, as well as instructions for whitening teeth at home. After a couple of weeks, you can embrace a smile up to eight shades brighter!

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a teeth whitening treatment can provide results for a year or two. To maximize results, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing before bedtime. To maintain the longevity of your pearly whites schedule dental check-ups with Dr. Jones at least biannually. If you consume beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine, or cola, we recommend drinking through a straw to avoid tooth discoloration. Afterwards, we recommend brushing or rinsing your teeth. 

Do you want a more beautiful smile? Teeth whitening is one of the many treatments available at our Social Circle office to help you achieve that goal. Call 770-464-1900 today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones.

A veneer is simply a very thin layer of porcelain covering the visible surface of the teeth. It can replace worn-off enamel, repair small chips, and add strength to the tooth. A veneer can also completely change the appearance of a tooth, with minimal alteration to the underlying structure. During your preliminary consultation, Dr. Jones will explain what to expect, and discuss any potential alternatives.

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Veneers are a good choice for many patients, because the procedure is very conservative, yet provides dramatic cosmetic improvement. A small amount of enamel may be removed to accommodate the thickness of the restoration. However, the amount is minimal because veneers are only about as thick as a fingernail. Depending on the condition of the tooth, and the nature of the changes to be made, reduction might be unnecessary. When the procedure is complete, your tooth will be protected, because the porcelain will serve as artificial enamel.

Once the tooth or teeth have been prepared, Dr. Jones will carefully take impressions and send them to a dental lab, where your veneers are created. We only work with quality facilities, using the finest dental porcelain. Your veneers are crafted according to the doctor’s specifications, including the subtle variations of color and translucency that are necessary for a truly natural appearance. This typically takes two or three weeks; you may be provided with a temporary during that time.

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We will schedule the next appointment when your finished veneers arrive from the lab. Dr. Jones will check the fit and appearance before permanently bonding them in place. If adjustments are needed, the doctor may be able to make them here in our office, but he will return the veneers to the lab if necessary. It is important to choose a dentist who is always mindful of health issues, because any restoration (including cosmetic) has the potential to affect your bite. If the veneers are not fitted just right, they may be uncomfortable and they can fail prematurely due to excess stress. 


If you want a smile that is equally healthy and beautiful, call Social Circle Dental at (770) 464-1900 and schedule a consultation today!

A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth and acts as an anchor point for a crown. Implants are often considered the type of restoration that closely matches the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. However, with years of experience in caring for patients of all ages, Dr. Don Jones knows that no one solution is right for everyone. For the individual who does not want a dental implant, or for health reasons is not a good candidate, Dr. Jones may suggest a tooth bridge. Social Circle Dental patients achieve restored appearance and function with this option.

When a Tooth is Lost

You may believe that, with 31 other teeth in your mouth, the loss of just one isn’t important. That is not true. A single missing tooth leaves more than a flaw in the cosmetic appearance of your smile. Your teeth rely on one another for structural support. When a tooth is missing, its neighbors gradually shift out of alignment. Now, in addition to a gap, you have crooked teeth. They create food traps that can lead to decay and gum disease, and make it more difficult to brush and floss efficiently. A full set of teeth also helps to maintain the balance of the bite. Depending on its position, a missing tooth may force you to chew on one side, causing unsual wear, and possibly triggering TMJ disorders.

Bridging a Divided Smile
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A dental bridge is a non-removable restoration that anchors an artificial tooth into place at the site of one that is missing. Teeth on either side of the gap are shaped and prepared. Then, Dr. Jones takes digital impressions of your mouth. A robust software application uses this information to design the crowns and attached pontic (artificial tooth). The bridge is fabricated from strong, lustrous ceramic, and cemented into place. In many cases, Dr. Jones can complete a dental bridge in one visit, using CEREC technology. The ceramic material looks very natural, and the bridge is metal-free and biocompatible. Dr. Jones provides instructions on home hygiene to keep your bridge sparkling clean and your mouth healthy. With good care, the bridge will last many years.
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The sooner you have a missing tooth replaced, the better for your appearance, oral health, and whole-body wellness. However, please don’t hesitate to call Dr. Jones, even if it has been awhile since you lost the tooth. He will work with you to determine if a tooth bridge is your best option. Call Social Circle Dental at 770-464-1900 to schedule a consultation.

In times of increased everyday stress and anxiety due to work pressure, relationships, and fast-paced lifestyles, we push aside the personal time that is necessary for our minds and bodies to recharge. In turn, we become even more stressed, tired, and unhappy – and this cycle continues week to week. The good news is that there are two really simple ways to overcome the stressors of everyday life: smiling and laughing. Smiling and laughing are powerful yet simple ways to remain balanced day to day. These two actions can relieve stress, fear, pain, and conflict. When we smile and laugh, we support our physical, mental, and social health.

How Laughter and Smiling Affects Your Physical Health
They Release Chemicals. When we smile, the movements of our muscles send signals to our brains. These signals release serotonin and endorphins, which are known as the “feel-good” chemicals of the brain. These chemicals make us happy when they are released, and they can reduce perceptions of pain.
They Relax the Body. Laughter, particularly a good hard belly laugh, can relieve built-up body tension and stress. When we laugh, the muscles we use to do so will relax, and they can stay relaxed for 30–45 minutes after that.
They Reduce Stress. When endorphins are released in the brain, stress hormones, such as cortisol, are reduced. When we feel stressed, anxious, or fearful, our bodies release more cortisol. This cortisol release creates negative, unpleasant, stressful feelings. We can lower our cortisol levels by laughing and relaxing.
They Support Lung Health. When we laugh, our lungs expand and become replenished with oxygen. We let a lot of air out and a lot of air in. This process is similar to deep breathing techniques used to relieve stress. Deep laughter sends more oxygen-rich nutrients and blood throughout the body.
They Support Heart Health. Laughing on a regular basis lowers blood pressure, increases blood flow, and improves the function of blood vessels, which can all decrease your risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
They Promote a Healthy Immune System. Laughter is a great way to reduce stress hormones and increase “feel-good” hormones. Due to these processes and changes in chemicals, our immune systems increase the numbers of white blood cells and other infection-fighting antibodies. This improves our everyday health and protects us from viruses.
They Serve as Exercise. A good laugh is also good exercise. It burns calories, provides our body with movement, increases conditioning and toning, and keeps our cardio systems working.

How Laughter and Smiling Affect Your Mental Health
​Smiling and laughter not only support our physical health but also have similar effects on our mental health. They are powerful tools for releasing difficult emotions and making us feel good. When strong emotions such as anger, sadness, or fear are present, laughing can alleviate some of that emotional distress.
Smiling and laughter are great ways to reduce stress, and laughing during stressful times helps us stay focused on tasks, accomplish more in a day, and be proud of what we have done. When we remain attentive during our busy work or home lives, we can get more done and have the freedom to engage in fun activities.
The ability to smile and laugh during times of stress lets us shift our perspective to something more positive. This means you can see tough or challenging situations in a new light that is less restricting and threatening. By using smiling and laughter as a strategy during tough times, you can begin to feel less overwhelmed and therefore happier.

When we smile, it influences not only ourselves but also those around us. Have you ever seen someone smile and smiled too? Have you seen a child laughing and started to laugh with them? This is because laughter is mediated by social interaction and contexts. Smiles and laughter are contagious because when we see someone else happy, we become happy too. The happiness we feel when we laugh or smile extends to others and helps strengthen relationships. When we are happy and playful with others, it supports emotional connections with people who are close to us. Positive relationships involve humor, play, and happiness.
In team settings, humor and laughing can enhance how successful a group is. Laughter can promote group bonding and help navigate through disagreements, resentments, and conflict. When we can exhibit humor and laughter in a negative situation, it becomes light-hearted. In stressful group meetings or situations, humor is a powerful tool to encourage a strong, happy group.
Sometimes, busy days do not have room for much else. We tend to push aside fun or personal activities because we have deadlines to meet, children to drive to extracurricular activities, or worries about tomorrow’s work. Here are some simple, fun ways to keep smiles and laughter a part of your everyday routine:

Laughter Yoga and Exercise
​Laughter yoga, an technique to promote laughter and exercise, is becoming more popular across the globe. This technique focuses on the concept that there is a link between the body and the brain and that laughter can enhance that link. It’s main idea is that your body knows how to laugh even if your mind is not happy or in the mood to laugh. Therefore, you do not need to have a sense of humor or even be happy during these exercises.
During these exercises, the group takes a series of breaths between laughs and facial poses that promote relaxation in the body and mind. Often, when people begin to engage in different kinds of laughter, the laughter becomes real because having many people laugh together in a group setting multiplies each laugh. Each person’s laugh promotes laughter in another, and so on. Therefore, contagious laughing occurs.
The simplest way to have a happier, healthier life is to laugh and smile more. By creating more opportunities for laughter and smiling in your life, you will begin to flourish as a person, a friend, and a professional. Your day-to-day life will become more relaxed, positive, balanced, and creative. Laughter and smiling provides our bodies and minds with the necessary recharges we require in our busy lives.

In times past, if you needed a cavity filled, you went to a dentist, and he filled the cavity. Alternatively, perhaps your gums were bleeding, so you went to a dentist to have them checked out. Dentists were concerned with the health of your mouth and offered the best care to ensure you had healthy teeth, gums, and tissue inside the mouth.

In recent years, however, studies have shown that connections exist between the health of the mouth and the health of the body. Some dental problems are actually risk factors of medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and strokes. Because there appears to be such a strong connection, Dr. Don Jones believes that the philosophy of biological dentistry is important. His skills, experience, and gentle manner have provided patients with excellent results for more than 35 years.

​Biological dentistry includes several distinctions not found in general dentistry. Namely, professionals committed to biological dentistry go above and beyond current safety and health guidelines and use only the safest and most biocompatible materials and techniques to treat their patients.


For example, Social Circle Dental only uses mercury-free materials. Mercury is a metal that has been used in fillings for many years. However, using these fillings exposes the patient to increased levels of mercury. Dr. Jones will not use materials that include even the smallest amount of mercury. Additionally, he is skilled at removing mercury fillings should a patient choose to replace them. Removing mercury fillings takes special steps and precision to be sure that the patient or dental team is not exposed to the mercury vapors.

​If you're looking for a dentist who cares about the health of your entire body and who believes in finding the least invasive approach to your dental treatment, call Dr. Don Jones of Social Circle Dental to schedule a consultation. Dr. Jones provides a wide variety of dental services and has a wealth of experience in preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. He will work with you to ensure that you have the best treatment path to getting, or keeping, a happy and healthy smile.

​2. PROPER CARE AT HOME

Be sure that you're brushing and flossing using the correct technique. Brush with a soft toothbrush and a brand of toothpaste that you like. Use short, circular, and gentle motions to get rid of surface bacteria without damaging the gum line. Use floss to remove plaque that settles between the teeth. In addition, be sure to replace your toothbrush every two to three months.


3. CUT THE TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Smoking and chewing tobacco are not just harmful to your overall health; they damage your mouth as well. The nicotine and tar can not only discolor your teeth, they also eat away at your gums, creating the perfect environment for plaque and bacteria to develop and grow.
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4. USE YOUR TEETH PROPERLY

While your teeth are strong, they can break. Protect your teeth with a mouth guard when playing sports where you could be hit in the mouth. Also, don't use your teeth to open packaging or bottles and avoid chewing on hard items such as candy, pens, or ice.


5. VISIT THE DENTIST

Brushing, avoiding sugar and tobacco, and protecting your teeth at home are all essential to having a healthy mouth. Keeping up with your dental checkups is also critical. Dentists can catch potential problems before they cause bigger issues. They can also provide tips for improving your at-home care, and provide you with a professional cleaning that can't be replicated at home.


Dr. Jones believes that a healthy mouth is essential to having a healthy body and sense of wellbeing. He treats every patient with gentle care, a friendly nature, and in the least-invasive manner possible. Call 770-464-1900 today to schedule an appointment.