Health & Wellness - February 2024 by Appen Media Group

February Special Section

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2 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

Thank You for Voting for Us 9 Years in a Row! WINNER

WINNER

2015

2016

2017

Presented By

Best Of Best Of Best Of North North North Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Dr. David Remaley

Dr. Destinee Hood

WINNER

2018

2019

Presented By

Best Of Best Of North North Atlanta Atlanta

2020

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

WINNER 2021

WINNER

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

2022

2023

Presented By

Best Of Best Of North North Atlanta Atlanta

Dedicated to providing exceptional dentistry and creating beautiful, healthy smiles for over 31 years. Our services include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Crowns and Bridges in a few days • Custom Baked Cookies Daily Porcelain Veneers • FREE Nitrous Oxide and Oral Conscious Sedation Tooth Colored Composite Fillings • Facial Aesthetic Enhancements Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity including BOTOX and Dermal Fillers Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Digital X-Rays Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation) $100 Value Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments New patients only. Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos Digitally Scanned Dental ImpressionsNo more gooey impressions! Electronic Records Accept and File all Major Insurances Implants Root Canals Extractions Same day appointments available! Spa-like Relaxing Atmosphere

FREE

Excellence in Dentistry

470.288.1152 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076

Get a GLO-ing Smile Brought to you by - ROSWELL DENTAL CARE Have you always dreamed of a kilowatt smile? Or just want to lighten up your darkened or yellowed teeth? Tooth whitening, or tooth bleaching, is a fast and easy procedure that can whiten and brighten your natural tooth color, for an average of 8 shades lighter. What causes yellow, stained teeth? Some of the toughest stains come from various foods and beverages, such as coffee, soda, wine, and smoking. Over time, these stains can infiltrate the enamel and get packed into the inner layer, called dentin, causing yellowing. Other stains can be genetic and still others can be from a chemical interruption during tooth development, such as too much consumption of fluoride or from the medication Tetracycline. How does whitening work? Whitening agents approved by the FDA contain hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide has a whitening effect because it can pass easily into the tooth and break down complex molecules. At Roswell Dental Care, we utilize the GLO whitening system, which has a mouthpiece to apply gentle heat and a blue LED light to the teeth. When heat is applied to a peroxide gel on the teeth, it increases the speed with which that gel does its work, creating brighter, whiter teeth in less time. Is tooth whitening safe? Yes. The American Dental Association and the FDA have extensive clinical studies proving its safety, under the supervision of a dentist. Whitening is considered the safest cosmetic dental procedure by most dental professionals. However, whitening is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women or children under 13 years old. What are the side effects? The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity. This is due to the stains being broken down and bubbled out (imagine the classic science fair volcano experiment). This goes away within a few days after treatment and there is no longterm harm to the nerve of the tooth. What is the difference between at-home and in-office tooth whiteners? The main difference is the time it takes to whiten your teeth, which

PROVIDED

is based on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. At-home or over -the-counter whiteners can be anywhere from 7 percent to 10 percent. We use a 30% formula during an in-office treatment, so there's a much better chance that your teeth will whiten even the toughest stains. The GLO whitening system has a patented dual-whitening experience, providing an in-office teeth whitening procedure, plus an easy-to-use takehome device for maintenance. How long does tooth whitening last? After your whitening appointment, avoid dark foods and drinks like marinara sauce, red wine, or blueberries. Whitening your teeth and keeping your smile bright is a little like coloring your hair: maintaining your results requires maintenance. You will be given instructions for care before and after your treatment. For touch up care, you will be provided with take-home vials, so you can recharge your pearly whites before a dinner party or event. Roswell Dental Care is nominated to win “BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta by Appen Newspaper for the 8th year. We’ve been serving patients in the area over 40 years. As your cosmetic dentists, Drs. Hood and Remaley give your comfort and trust top priority. We assure you feel confident in any dental solution before beginning treatment. For enhanced comfort, we offer FREE conscious sedation, including nitrous oxide. Rest assured that your experience will be positive, relaxing, and rewarding. Take the first step in feeling great about your smile. Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY smile makeover consultation by calling (470) 288-1152.

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Personalized Home Care – Going Above & Beyond WINNER

WINNER

2023

2022

2021

2020

Presented By

Best Of Best Of Best Of Best Of North North North North Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta

WINNER

Home care Veterans deserve through the Community Care network Brought to You by - Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs There are many benefits to in-home care and the personalized support that allows a loved one to age in place in the comfort of home. Many Veterans are not aware of an option that can let them receive inhome care to help maintain their physical, emotional and financial quality of life. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has had a Community Care program since the 1920’s, but over the last four years considerable changes have been made to this health program that can benefit many veterans in new ways. The Community Care Network (CCN) of health care providers now works nationwide with the VA to provide healthcare to eligible veterans outside of the VA network. The goal is to provide eligible Veterans with timely, easily accessible, high quality medical services. So, if a Veteran can’t easily travel to a VA facility, the wait time for services is longer than VA standards or if they need special services the VA doesn’t offer, like in-home care, the VA can authorize services by a provider in the community. You must be enrolled in the VA health care system to begin the road to receiving services through the CCN program. It starts with a discussion with your care team or primary physician at the VA, who will determine your individual health care needs and authorize what’s in your best medical interest. The need for home

care services can be determined by a VA caseworker, social worker, nurse or care coordinator. Unlike other VA programs like Aid and Attendance, there are no requirements for war time service, age or financial limitations – just medical needs. Once eligible, a number of hours will be awarded for care each week, usually for a duration of twelve months. Often this can range from eight to sixteen hours a week, but there is no maximum. Should care needs change and need to be increased you can also request additional hours from your case manager. It’s based on the need to make sure that a Veteran is cared for properly. This can provide help with activities of daily living like dressing, personal grooming, bathing, food preparation and light housekeeping or specialized care needed for Alzheimer’s, Dementia or Parkinsons support. At Home Helpers we’re honored to be able to work with Veterans. A well matched, heart centered and skilled Home Helpers Caregiver has the professionalism and commitment to deliver the care our Veterans and their families so richly deserve. We also handle all your required reporting and billing directly through the CCN program. We’re here to help. For a free consultation and exceptional care management by a team with depth and skill, please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.

WINNER

2019

2018

2017

Presented By

Best Of Best Of Best Of North North North Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. We guarantee a good match. Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills. It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

Serving Communities North of Atlanta www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta

For a free consultation, please call 770-681-0323

Greg and Hilary Eldridge,

Owners – Home Helpers of Alpharetta Certified Senior Advisors(CSA)® Each office is independently owned and operated.

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

4 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

On Occam’s Razor, Hickam’s Dictum and Crabtree’s Bludgeon Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta

Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

Honored to be Voted: Best Dermatologist and Best Vein Specialist

Insist on the BEST Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care. He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables. Kathryn is a certified physician assistant with over 18 years experience as a Dermatology PA. We are excited to welcome her, as she brings with her experience in general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. Her specialties include general dermatology such as acne, eczema, rashes, hair loss, full body skin exams, abnormal growths etc. Kathryn also specializes in cosmetic dermatology including lasers, injectables, micro-needling, PRP, facial peels, sclerotherapy for spider veins and at home skin care. WINNER

WINNER

Dr. Brent Taylor

Kathryn Filipek, PA-C

WINNER

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Presented By

Best Of Best Of Best Of Best Of Best Of Best Of Best Of North North North North North North North Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta Atlanta

Accepting new patients. We accept Medicare. Schedule your appointment with Premier Dermatology today. 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 • Alpharetta, GA 30005 PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

fit our previous beliefs and account for the new evidence. Never underestimate the ability of people who are wrong to invent reasons not to admit it and to figure out how Arriving at a correct diagnosis is not a the new evidence actually further proves simple matter. With the exception of the oc- that they are right. (Think Flat Earthers) casional conspiracy theorist (Is Elvis alive?), Sometimes, a doctor can cling to an most people gravitate to the least elaborate erroneous diagnosis far too long when what explanation to a question – the explanation the patient needs is a complete reassessthat makes the fewest assumptions to fit ment. This is one of the most compelling available data. arguments for patients receiving second Indeed, this approach is known as “Ocopinions. cam’s razor” and is the most famous rule of One of the most interesting cases diagnosis taught in medical school. Within that I have encountered in my medical medicine, this rule is sometimes abbrevicareer occurred when I spent a month ated to mean that a doctor should seek one studying at Stanford University. A patient single unifying diagnosis that explains all presented to Stanford’s dermatology clinic of a patient’s complaints instead of trying with a tumor near her optic nerve and with to explain five complaints with five discertain birthmarks of her skin. She was eases. For example, if a patient has a tick sent by the ophthalmology department to bite, rash, fever, headache and confusion, the dermatology department for an opinion perhaps a single tick-borne illness explains on whether the eye tumor was related to the all the symptoms and the patient can be birthmarks. treated accordingly rather than delaying The stakes were high. If the eye tumor treatment and introducing risk to perform was deemed connected to the skin findspinal taps, MRIs or other investigations to ings, then the ophthalmologists planned search for second, third or fourth diseases. on watchful waiting and observation of the Occam’s razor might sound like obvitumor. If not, then they planned surgery ous and sage advice. Unfortunately, it which could result in blindness in that eye. proves wrong often enough that a Dr. John I spent hours researching the embryology of Hickam, former departmental head of her findings and discovered reasons to bemedicine at Indiana University, felt the need lieve that the patient’s tumor was very likely to remind students that Occam’s Razor an atypical presentation of a disease called is sometimes wrong. He coined Hickam’s segmental neurofibromatosis. I concluded Dictum, which states “patients can have as that the tumor and the birthmarks were many diseases as they [darn] well please.” very likely part of a single syndrome. (Dr. Hickam used the other D word, but we When I presented the case at Stanmay have children in the audience.) ford’s dermatology grand rounds, Occam, How often is Occam’s razor wrong? Hickam, and Crabtree all showed up. Great In my physical diagnosis class in medical debate ensued. The first professor to speak school, a professor taught us that there was argued for the optic nerve tumor being una study of inpatients admitted at a universi- related to the birthmarks. Other professors ty hospital in which the researchers looked found my evidence for a syndrome convincat how often at least two diagnoses were ing. When the first professor found herself necessary to account for the patient’s chief outnumbered, she doubled down and complaint. The result? One third of the bludgeoned her way into arguing that the time at least two diseases were to blame. data was not only weak but actually backed Hickam’s dictum counterbalances Occam’s her argument. razor and reminds us of not becoming How did things turn out? The patient nearsighted or prematurely triumphant chose observation instead of surgery. My upon reaching a plausible single diagnosis. visit to Stanford ended, but I corresponded Sometimes two or more diseases are to with a professor there, and the last update blame. Sometimes, the patient in respirathat I received was that the patient was dotory distress has the flu and covid. ing well with no further growth of the tumor A third rule, Crabtree’s Bludgeon on subsequent MRIs. might be my favorite. Who doesn’t love a I hope that you enjoyed this peek into good bludgeon? (You can tell I am a father diagnosis within medicine. For readers with of boys). Crabtree’s bludgeon says that children or grandchildren, I suggest that the a motivated individual will figure out an lessons to be learned from Occam, Hickam intelligible method of explaining away a set and Crabtree are worth sharing and have of contradictions, no matter how contradic- relevance far beyond the field of medicine. tory they are and how wrong they might be. If you or a loved one has a possible skin This rule hints at the extent to which we cancer or any medical or cosmetic skincare humans often doggedly stick to a certain need, please consider Premier Dermatolconviction or belief despite all the evidence ogy and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent to the contrary. New evidence says we might Taylor, Kathryn Filipek, PA-C and our wonbe wrong? No problem. We simply reason derful staff are honored to take care of you out elaborate new rules and exceptions that and your family.

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Oral Systemic Health - what does that mean? Brought to you by – Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health

Oral Systemic Health means that Dental Health is a part of Whole Body Health. It means that your mouth is connected to the rest of your body. Any problem in your mouth is going to affect the rest of your body. The rest of your body is going to affect your teeth and your mouth. You may have experienced your dentist recommending that you see your medical doctor for blood work or to have something checked. It’s the connection between your mouth and the rest of your body that makes your mouth a window into the health of your whole body. In dental school, I noticed that the people that had no teeth and needed full mouth dentures also had Diabetes and Heart Disease. It was a pattern that was consistently true. Diabetes and Heart Disease are systemic conditions that affect your whole body through your bloodstream. Diabetes and Heart Disease throw your whole body off balance, stress your body’s ability to respond, and weaken your immune system. Because they are connected, managing your diabetes and heart disease makes your mouth healthier, and a healthy mouth makes managing your diabe-

tes and heart disease easier with fewer medications. A weakened immune system and the chronic inflammation that results from a dental infection that goes untreated (even a low-grade infection in your gums that doesn’t hurt) stresses your body and leads to other chronic illnesses. Inflammation is one of the body’s frontline defense mechanisms. It is a lifesaving biochemical process that en¬ables the body to defend itself against bacteria,

viruses, para¬sites, and injury. Researchers keep reporting more and more studies that show the harmful effects inflammation has on the body. In fact, chronic inflammation may be the driver of many of today’s most common and most feared diseases. Inflammation increases your risk of Heart Attack, Stroke, Diabetes, Cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Pregnancy complications, like preterm and low birth weight babies.

One of the major sources of inflammation in the human body is the chronic inflammation that results from undiagnosed and untreated gum disease and periodontal disease. In the United States, eighty percent of adults have some form of gum disease. Treating and preventing gum disease can reduce your chances of ever having Heart Disease, Diabetes, Cancer, or Alzheimer’s Disease. Preventing the inflammatory processes associated with Gum Disease makes these diseases easier to manage, meaning less medicine, fewer doctor’s appointments, and a more comfortable, enjoyable life. A healthy mouth is part of a healthy body. Our wish for you is that you look and feel your best in 2024! Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health provide whole body health preventive dentistry and the most modern advances in cosmetic dentistry. Experience a better you with procedures to greatly enhance your smile and your health. If you would like a complimentary consultation to discover your options, please call us at 770-992-2236. Dr. Hepler is highly trained and certified to provide you with the latest and best techniques to allow you to achieve your dental aesthetic and restorative goals.

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST OF NORTH ATLANTA 2023

2023 2022

2022

Best Dentist Dr. Bradley Hepler

Best Dentistry

TRUSTED, COMFORTABLE DENTAL CARE • General and Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns and Implants • Root Canals and Tooth-Colored Fillings • Invisalign

• Whitening • Sedation Dentistry • Smile Enhancements with Botox and Dermal Fillers

Most Insurance Plans Accepted Financing Options Available

11190 Haynes Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (770) 992-2236 • atlantacenterfordentalhealth.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

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Wellstar treats AFib with comprehensive, tailored care Brought to you by – Dr. Mohammad Kooshkabadi, Wellstar Atrial fibrillation, also called AFib, occurs when the upper chambers of the heart—known as atria—beat irregularly and fail to pump blood efficiently to the rest of the body. It’s the most common heart arrythmia, and at Wellstar, you’ll find comprehensive care and multiple treatment options for this condition.

KOOSHKABADI

What is AFib? A normal heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute, but a heart in AFib beats 100 to 175 times per minute. Though the heart is working hard, it is inefficiently pumping blood through the body and may restrict oxygen delivery. The poor pumping function may also leave blood to collect in the atria, where clots can form. If a clot is pumped through the heart and into the body, it could reach the brain and cause a stroke. Symptoms of AFib include skipped

heartbeats, chest palpitations, lightheadedness, fainting, confusion, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat or pulse. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical care right away.

include three-dimensional mapping systems. This helps our specialists decide what medicines might work best for you and if we should do a catheter ablation. During a catheter ablation, a small tube is inserted into a blood vessel, then guided to the heart to scar areas of tissue that are causing the abnormal heart rhythm. The scars block the electrical impulses that cause the abnormal rhythm.

How is AFib treated? “If you are diagnosed with AFib, your Wellstar cardiologist will tailor your treatment plan, considering the condition of your heart and any other medical conditions you may have,” said Wellstar Cardiac Electrophysiologist Dr. Mohammad Kooshkabadi. Wellstar electrophysiologists specialize in treating heart arrythmias. To accurately find the origin of the arrhythmia, our electrophysiology labs have advanced capabilities that

Other surgical treatments for AFib include: • Maze procedure. This is performed during open heart surgery by making lines using either incision, heat or cold therapy to form scar tissue. This maze of scar tissue blocks the abnormal electrical impulses that cause AFib. • Convergent procedure. This is a minimally invasive hybrid procedure performed by a cardiac surgeon and electrophysiologist. The cardiac sur-

geon will make a small incision in the abdomen and deliver extreme heat radiofrequency currents through a scope to destroy abnormal tissue on the outside of the heart. The electrophysiologist will insert a catheter through your groin and use radiofrequency ablation of extreme heat or cold to target the heart tissue and eliminate abnormal electrical impulses. • AtriClip. This is a permanent clip-like implant used to close off the left atrial appendage, where blood tends to collect in people with AFib. Closing this off can decrease the risk of blood clot formation and lower your risk of stroke. Some AFib patients also benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy using a defibrillator. Our cardiac electrophysiologists place the pacemaker under the skin in a minor surgical procedure. To partner with a Wellstar cardiologist in North Fulton to treat AFib or another heart condition, schedule an appointment by calling (770) 410-4520.

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A team of advanced heart care specialists means more expertise At Wellstar, you’ll find more than 90 cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons across for you. our cardiovascular services team who are ready to care for you. Whether you need preventive screenings or treatment for complex heart conditions, your heart is in good hands with our skilled team— highly rated by patients like you.

We are leading the way in Georgia and beyond with innovative technology and experienced providers to ensure you have the expertise you need close by. Learn how Wellstar can help keep your heart going strong at wellstar.org/heartcare. Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care 2450 Old Milton Parkway | ALPHARETTA

(470) 267-0430

4500 Hospital Boulevard | ROSWELL

(770) 410-4520

WELLSTAR PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY 2450 Old Milton Parkway | ALPHARETTA

(470) 956-9171

GENERAL CARDIOLOGY | ARRHYTHMIAS | INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY | CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY | ADVANCED HEART FAILURE

8 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

Specialist in Integrative Oncology Cancer Treatments Including: Chemotherapy Immunotherapy Nutrition Supplementation

Jonathan Stegall, MD WINNER 2016

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

WINNER

2016 Of Best Of Best North North Atlanta Atlanta Presented By

Presented By

Holistic/ Alternative Medicine

Nutritionist

Oncology

3333 Old Milton Pkwy. Suite 560 • Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 551-2730 tcfam.com

How to prevent cancer Brought to you by - Jonathan Stegall, MD, The Center for Advanced Medicine

Rather, cancer is mostly due to poor lifestyle choices. If you want to significantly reduce your odds of developFebruary is National Cancer ing cancer, be sure to eat Prevention Month, so now is a a plant-focused diet full of great time to talk about how to fruits, vegetables, beans, and prevent cancer. To be honest, grains. Organic is best. Avoid we aren’t doing a very good job processed, sugary food. Drink of this in our society. The lifeplenty of clean, filtered water. time risk of developing cancer Exercise regularly. Don’t smoke. STEGALL has been steadily rising, to the Enjoy alcohol in moderation. point that roughly 40% of the Get plenty of sleep. Seek to minpopulation will be diagnosed with canimize stress. Embrace a strong support cer at some point in their lives. Why are system of family and friends. we seeing so much cancer today? Oh, and be sure to see your doctor You might wonder if cancer is simply for regular check-ups, including the due to genetic causes, but that is acturecommended cancer screening tests. ally a very small cause of cancer today Hopefully you won’t get cancer, but if (about 5-10% based on most estimates). you do, early detection is key.

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

Your youthful smile

Brought to you by - North Fulton Smiles

ing and enamel eroding acidic foods and drinks. In order to understand a youthful smile, 2. Whitening: professional dental one needs to know the look of aging teeth. whitening can remove most stains and bring An aging smile can occur as a person gets back the luster and brightness to one’s older, however, they can be influenced by teeth. various factors such as oral habits, lifestyle 3. Resin bonding: Tooth colored fillings choices, and dental hygiene care…at any do a beautiful job of masking exposed root age! surfaces and restoring the beautiful shape Some of the most common features of the teeth, and thus enhance one’s smile. of an aging smile are: 4. Tooth replacement: In today’s world, 1. Teeth yellowing: Over time, and replacing a tooth with implant therapy is many coffee/tea, chocolate, wine and tothe gold standard of dentistry and has long bacco indulgences later, teeth can lose their lasting benefits in maintaining the longevity natural brightness and present more yellow. of one’s dentition. 2. Tooth wear and tear: Years of grind5. Orthodontics: Crooked and mising, taking out one’s stress on one’s teeth, aligned teeth can be corrected using braces and misaligned teeth can contribute to or aligners and immediately restore the excessive and uneven tooth wear and flatter “wellness” of the smile. It is amazing what a and shorter surfaces. straight smile does to restore youthfulness 3. Gum recession: gum recession and confidence! exposes the darker root surfaces and makes 6. Occlusal guard: A bite guard can teeth look longer and less esthetic. shield the teeth from the harmful effects of 4. Tooth loss: missing teeth can impact clenching and grinding. the appearance of one’s smile and contribMaintaining a youthful smile is a lifelong ute to decreased lip and cheek support and commitment to YOURSELF! Regularly confullness causing facial changes. sulting with a good dentist who is commit5. Teeth crowding: As we age our teeth ted to your optimal dental health and smile have a tendency to shift in a forward direc- will help ensure personalized advice and tion, causing the front teeth to become more appropriate care and methods keep your crowded. smile healthy and youthful. To maintain a youthful smile here are a Call us for a free consultation (upon few tips: mention of this article) on how we can help 1. Avoid tobacco and limit stain caus- you rejuvenate your smile! 

Feel good about your teeth. 2018

2020

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2018

2023

Best Of North Atlanta

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2020

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentist 2021

Honored as 1st Runner Up Best Dentistry 2023

Presented By

Honored as Winner Best Dentist 2019

2021

Best Of North Atlanta

Presented By

We provide full-service general and cosmetic dentistry for our valued patients and measure our success in our ability to always exceed your expectations.

Presented By

• One-Day Crowns • • Implant Therapy • General and Cosmetic Dentistry

770 569-0613

northfultonsmiles@gmail.com | www.northfultonsmiles.com 12315 Crabapple Road, Suite 121, Alpharetta, Georgia 30004

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The fewest words

Brought to you by - Ashley Nash, LAPC, Summit Counseling Center As a therapist, but also a human being who was not blessed with the most loving of families growing up, I find myself often giving to others more than I give back to myself. Like so many others, I feel the inevitable guilt that comes with allowing indulgence in anything when you know, deep down, that other priorities require your focus. After all, who else is going to do it? Recently, however, I have found a way to indulge myself in a small task that, on the surface, seems like I am giving to others, but in reality – I am being selfish and relishing their reactions. I make it a point if not each day, then every other day, to compliment a stranger on something small, perhaps their nail color, clothing, or even the way they phrased a sentence. Personally, I know that I adore receiving small, innocent praises in passing because it feels so much more genuine than someone who is making it clear that they are aiming for flattery. I had no idea that my doing this would cause such a ripple effect on those around me. When it first began, I would be chatting while out walking with my husband and stop him randomly to reach out to a passerby about a small item I adored, offering a tiny nod to their style wrapped with a pleasant smile. My husband, a crane operator who is very much immersed in the stereotypical construction environment of macho, boot-strapped, no-nonsense communication, took notice of the reaction that I would elicit from others and how that small task would immediately brighten my affect. It feels good to make other people smile! Flash forward just six months, and my husband quietly implemented a policy to send minimal, random texts to his employees and friends just to check

in on their wellbeing. Since then, the response he has received has been overwhelmingly positive, because men rarely ever reach out to other men in a genuine, caring manner to just “check-in,” let alone complement one another. Most notably, he invited an older fellow, known for his guarded exterior and who doesn’t normally interact much in group settings, to a golf tournament, not expecting him to accept. My husband knew that just the invitation alone could create a connection. The gentleman not only accepted but pulled my husband aside after the tournament and said quietly, “Today was the 1st anniversary of my wife’s passing, and I don’t know what today would have been like if you hadn’t invited me here.” That story will always stick with me because it truly only takes a few words, a simple connection, or a passing acknowledgment to bring joy to people when they are struggling to find slivers of light in dark days. The fewest words can convey the most epic stories. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier community. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us at summitcounseling.org or 678-8935300.

Live Your Best Life Healthy Relationships Positive Coping Skills Balanced Emotions We can help!

www.SummitCounseling.org (678) 893-5300

10 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

Redefine your workout Brought to you by – The Exercise Coach Alpharetta Embark on a transformative fitness journey with The Exercise Coach, where innovation meets personalization to redefine your workout experience. At The Exercise Coach, we understand that time is precious, and efficiency is key to fitting exercise into a busy lifestyle. Here’s how our unique approach empowers you to achieve more in less time: State-of-the-Art Equipment: Our facility has proprietary equipment, ensuring you get a full-body workout in just 20 minutes. Our AI powered equipment is designed to adapt to your individual strength and fitness levels, providing the perfect challenge for efficient and effective workouts. This means you spend less time in the gym while still achieving maximum results. Personalized Coaching: Central to our philosophy is the importance of personalized guidance. Our highly trained coaches are committed to understanding your unique fitness goals, creating a bespoke workout plan that fits into just two sessions per week. This focused approach not only optimizes your time but also ensures that every minute you spend

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Say goodbye to fad diets for good Brought to you by – Hydralive Therapy Milton Special Notice: Hydralive Therapy Milton will rebrand to OlympusMD Wellness in the new year, while still offering the same exceptional services. February is the month of love, and what better way to show yourself some love than by prioritizing your health. Embarking on a weight loss journey can be a daunting task, but with the right support and tools, you can achieve your goals. Gone are the days of restrictive diets and grueling workouts as the only means to shed unwanted pounds. Hydralive Milton, known for its holistic approach to wellness, offers a range of effective treatments that optimize health and well-being. When coupled with semaglutide, an effective weight loss solution, the results are remarkable. Semaglutide works by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and helping the body burn stubborn fat. Combining the medication with nutrient-rich IV therapy treatments or B12 injections can provide you with a comprehensive solution to achieve your goals. Semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication that works by mimicking the

effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which is produced by the gut in response to food intake. GLP-1 helps to regulate appetite and satiety, and Semaglutide works by activating the GLP-1 receptor to reduce hunger and promote feelings of fullness. Our weight loss program is personalized for each client based on their individual needs and goals. Clients receive an initial consultation with a licensed medical provider to assess their medical history, current weight, and overall health. From there, we work together to develop a personalized plan that includes a combination of Semaglutide, dietary modifications, and exercise. In addition to the Semaglutide weight loss program, we offer a range of other services to help clients achieve their best selves, including IV therapy, hormone replacement therapy, vitamin injections and cryotherapy. This February, make a commitment to yourself - to prioritize your health and achieve your wellness goals. Let us provide you with the tools needed to turn your resolutions into reality. Ready to take the next step? Contact Hydralive Milton at (470) 359-4815 to schedule a consultation and begin your wellness transformation today!

12 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section

Common questions for the dermatologist Q&A with Dr. Kehinde Raji Olumesi of Epiphany Dermatology Does my teenager need a skin screening? Yes, your teenager should have a skin check. Adolescents can develop various skin conditions, and early detection is crucial. Skin checks help identify issues like acne, eczema, or unusual moles that might indicate skin cancer. Regular examinations by a dermatologist can provide insights into proper skincare routines and address concerns early on. Sunscreen habits, lifestyle choices, and genetic factors can all contribute to skin health, making routine skin checks beneficial for preventive care. What else can a dermatologist help my teen with? Dermatologists can assist your teenager with a range of skin-related issues. Beyond skin checks, they address common conditions like acne, providing tailored treatment plans and advice on proper skincare. Dermatologists also help with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions that might affect teenagers. Additionally, they can offer guidance on establishing healthy skincare habits like sun protection, preventing long-term skin damage, and promoting overall skin health through adolescence and beyond.

S KI N C O N C ER N S ?

KEHINDE RAJI OLUMESI, MD | RADHIKA TRIVEDI, MD | LOLA SODE, MD | BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGISTS

NEW! BROOKHAVEN, GA

4360 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd Ste 280 Atlanta, GA 30341

S C H E D U L E T O D AY:

(470) 903-8886 WWW.EPIPHANYDERMATOLOGY.COM

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14 | February 2024 | AppenMedia.com

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