Miss being outside? Atlanta allergies persist and fall brings Ragweed
Brought to you by – Comprehensive Internal Medicine
What are allergies?
Allergies are your body’s reaction to a foreign particle, usually a protein. These proteins can come from pet dander, molds, pollens, or from trees and grasses. If you develop an allergy to a particular protein, your body’s defense system (immune system) reacts to it and the allergic reaction creates allergy symptoms.
What is an allergic reaction?
An allergic reaction is the way your body responds to an allergen, usually a protein.
You may feel itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose, sinus or ear fullness, a hoarse voice, a scratchy throat, or trouble breathing. You may even develop a skin rash.
These symptoms can be treated with over the counter or prescription allergy medication or immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be tailored specifically for you.
What is allergy testing?
To perform allergy testing, small pinpricks or scratches are made in
the skin and a very small amount of allergen is placed to test your body’s response. If you react to the allergen, we have identified a trigger that is causing your allergy symptoms.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a treatment used to desensitize your body to the allergy trigger.
In this treatment, the results of your allergy testing are used to create a very personalized formula of medicine that is used to slowly treat your immune system in a way that stops reacting to your allergy trigger. Immunotherapy medicine is given by injection (allergy shots) and is administered twice weekly. The first injection is given in the doctor’s office.
Comprehensive Internal Medicine uses an advanced formulation and instruction that allows you to then give the injections at home. This saves the twice-weekly visits to the doctor’s office. You return to Comprehensive Internal Medicine every 6 weeks to progress the therapy and at the end of one year, allergy testing is repeated. Often, a second year of treatment is advised, following which, most allergies are cured.
Alpharetta: (678) 205-9004 3180 North Point Pkwy | Suite 303 | Alpharetta, GA - 30005
Providing Medical Care Including the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases
Comprehensive Internal Medicine has been serving the Alpharetta community for 20 years, celebrating this milestone anniversary in 2023.
The medical practice offers a very comfortable environment and serves a medical home where patients are seen for their wellness examinations (checkups) and for the management of multiple medical problems. Same-day appointments are always available. We welcome new patients, take most insurance plans and discounts for self-pay patients.
Dr. Obiora has a special interest in managing medical issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. He also specializes in diabetes prevention and weight loss.
In addition, he brings expertise in allergy treatment and managing allergic rhinitis, sinusitis and asthma, and can schedule allergy testing to determine the best way to treat allergy symptoms.
High Blood Pressure
Diabetes
Women’s Health
Thyroid Disease
Obesity/Weight Loss
Arthritis
High Cholesterol
Seasonal Allergies
Asthma
Heart Disease • Acute Illnesses such as: sore throat, flu, cough, common cold, etc.
Alexis obtained her nursing degree from Georgia College & State University and worked as a registered nurse at Emory University Hospital for over 4 years, where she specialized in Internal Medicine. She then earned her Master of Science from Kennesaw State University in their Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program. Alexis is a board certified FNP through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). She prides herself in forming lasting relationships with her patients, while also providing compassionate and individualized care. She has a special interest in the treatment of allergies, sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, and asthma.
Jeffrey Obiora, M.D.
Alexis Buelow, MSN, APRN, FNP-C.
Arezou Fatemi, M.D.
Sumera Pervaiz, M.D.
Sudeshna Nandi M.D.
Anju Bhushan, M.D.
Laurae Carpenetti, M.D.
Ryan Bozof, M.D.
Petula Gunn, APRN
Carol Hector, M.D.
Raphael Lopez, M.D.
Shima Mansouri, P.A.-C
Jacqueline T. Pearson, M.D., M.S.
Knotted DNA
DNA is more knotted than you’d think. DNA can literally develop knots like a rope develops knots. DNA can also form knots like a string forms knots when you over-twist it. But those are not the type of knot we are focusing on in this article. Instead, a newly mapped type of “knot” called an i-motif turns out to be extremely common in the human genome. And i-motifs might prove to be the key to the development of new anti-cancer drugs.
When most of us picture DNA, we envision a beautiful spiraling structure consisting of two endlessly twisting strands. This structure is called a “double helix” and was first famously described as the structure of DNA by Watson and Crick in 1953. However, ten years later, Dr. Karst Hoogsteen described a DNA structure that did not exhibit the classic DNA shape.
Dr. Hoogsteen observed that DNA base pairs could bind together in a manner that would not cause DNA to assume its more linear, double helical shape. Instead, Hoogsteen base pairing causes DNA strands to assume strange shapes including three and four stranded structures called triplexes and quadruplexes that can fold back upon themselves. These structures were predicted in the 1960s but their biological relevance is only now being identified and explored.
One of the structures that exhibits Hoogsteen base pairing is called an “i-motif. I-motifs look like knots, and they can behave like knots too. Like a knot in a shoelace, i-motifs can trip up our cell’s machinery and keep genes from being turned “on.” I-motifs are concentrated in parts of our genes that control growth. As you might predict, genes that control growth are also extremely important in the development of cancer.
I-Motifs’ importance in cancer may be tremendous. They turn out to be concentrated in certain cancercausing genes that have so far been very difficult to treat. One example is the cancer gene c-myc . Melanomas that metastasize are more likely to have extra copies of the c-myc gene. Approximately 70% of uveal melanomas (melanoma of the pigmented inner layer of the eyeball) have extra copies of this gene.
To target a bad gene, we usually target the protein that the gene makes because the protein is like the physical object one makes from an instruction manual whereas the DNA is the manual itself. It’s easier to spot an apple pie than it is a page of text containing the recipe for an apple pie.
Unfortunately, the c-myc protein is so hard to target with drugs that an article in The Lancet Discovery Science even called the gene “undruggable.” In contrast, an “easy” drug target is a cancercausing protein that is relatively ordered, stable and has a predictably consistent shape such that a medication or antibody can be relied upon to nearly always bind to the cancer-causing protein and inactivate it.
An example of an “easy” target is the kinase class of proteins which often have a predictable pocket called the “active site” responsible for the protein’s activity. Medicines that fit this pocket like a key to a lock have helped us treat many cancers in which kinases are culprits. In contrast, c-myc is believed to be “disordered” or “transiently ordered” with regions that only briefly take on the shape needed for the protein to perform its activity. C-myc’s unstable shape and disorder make it difficult to design a drug that can always recognize and bind it.
The c-myc protein may be hard to target, but the i-motifs at the beginning of c-myc’s DNA sequence could be a sitting duck. Small molecules that target i-motifs have already been developed. If these molecules are found to be specific enough to target cancer cells, then i-motifs may be a way of zeroing in on c-myc DNA at a time when we cannot target the c-myc protein itself. In essence, discovering knots in DNA is like discovering that cookbooks have thick stickers before critical passages of text. We can quicky spot a sticker. We can also easily eliminate books that are so thick with stickers that they can’t even be closed. It might be a way to close the book on cancer.
I still like to imagine DNA as a beautiful spiral staircase of two endlessly winding coils of DNA, but biology is always messier than we imagine. And so often, it’s in the mess that we find new opportunities. DNA is knotty, and from those knots we may unravel a cure.
Insist
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.
Kathryn Filipek, PA-C
Brought to you by – Dr. Brent Taylor, Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta
A second opinion can change everything
opinion is the same as the first, it can help you feel more confident about your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Learning that you have a heart or vascular condition can create more questions than answers. What treatment is available? Is there more than one option? What will happen if I forgo treatment?
Deciding how to proceed can be stressful, and many patients feel tempted to go with whatever their doctor recommends. But at times like this, it’s essential to step back, take a deep breath and get a second opinion.
Receiving a second opinion as part of your heart care is critical because the medical world is becoming increasingly complex. A heart second opinion can help you understand your options before you make a momentous decision about your health and future. It can reveal new treatment possibilities. Or, if the second
Deciding whether to seek a second opinion can be emotional for some people. They worry they will hurt their doctor’s feelings or experience information overload. The fact is that second opinions are common in heart and vascular care. Doctors themselves seek a second opinion when they face a complex diagnosis. They know a second opinion can make the difference between life and death –especially when your heart is involved.
A second opinion can provide new hope
Your current doctor has your best interests at heart but may not know about the latest surgical and non-surgical therapies for your condition. They may mistakenly tell you that you don’t have any treatment options or guide you to
therapies that are unlikely to help. Heart and vascular specialists at Emory Healthcare have a national reputation for treating both common and complicated heart conditions. Our highly specialized teams have advanced training and expertise in medical, surgical and interventional cardiology. They can enroll patients in clinical trials that provide access to novel technologies and treatments that are not widely available. As a result, Emory Heart & Vascular offers more treatment options for the full range of heart and vascular conditions than many other institutions worldwide.
The second opinion process at Emory Healthcare
Obtaining a second opinion at Emory Heart & Vascular is straightforward. Before your appointment, our team will review your previous medical records.
Multiple physicians will discuss possible treatment options. They will reach a consensus about what options offer the most promise. During your office visit, they will share their recommendations with you. You can ask questions and decide with your care team how to proceed.
Ready to transform your Heart Treatment?
If you or someone you care about needs a second opinion for a heart condition, turn to doctors at the top of their field. Emory Heart & Vascular brings together more than 150 physicians and 18 specialized programs in cardiology, cardiac surgery and vascular surgery. Next-day new patient cardiology appointments are available at one of our 23 locations.
Visit emoryhealthcare.org/transform to learn more.
Brought to you by- Emory Heart & Vascular
Family history of heart disease? Emory Heart & Vascular can help rewrite it.
MORE TREATMENT OPTIONS
Our expert heart & vascular team pioneers the most innovative techniques and treatments. Giving you more options and better outcomes than anywhere else. To make more “tickle monster!” moments like this possible.
The difference? Emory Women’s Center at Johns Creek uses research and innovation in health to provide exceptional care, close to home. From routine gynecology and menopause management, to high-risk pregnancies and specialty care, our team is here for your journey no matter where it takes you.
Visit emoryhealthcare.org/history to schedule an appointment.
Visit emoryhealthcare.org/women to schedule an appointment.
The Power of Peptides: Your ultimate guide to weight loss and wellness
Brought to you by – OlympusMD
Are you tired of battling the scale and feeling like your weight loss goals are always just out of reach? It’s time to discover the hidden potential of peptides - the tiny but mighty molecules that could be the key to transforming your health journey. From supporting weight loss to enhancing overall wellness, peptides are revolutionizing the way we approach our health and well-being.
Peptides are like the unsung heroes of our bodies, working behind the scenes to regulate vital functions and keep us in balance. One group of peptides, GLP-1 receptor agonists, has made waves in the weight loss world by offering a unique solution for individuals looking to shed extra pounds. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these peptides have a surprising side effect: they can help you lose weight. How? By mimicking the actions of natural hormones in the body, they can boost insulin release, reduce liver glucose production, and even curb your cravings and appetite.
When it comes to weight loss, three FDA-approved peptide medications
stand, out all of which are powered by the active ingredient Semaglutide. Compounded Semaglutide has captured attention for its effectiveness in promoting weight loss and improving cardiovascular health. This once-weekly injection has transformed the weight loss journey for many, showing impressive results in reducing body weight and managing heart disease risk factors.
But the real game-changer?
OlympusMD Wellness is bringing the power of Semaglutide directly to you, offering a comprehensive weight management program.
Say goodbye to endless dieting struggles and hello to a new chapter of empowered wellness. Our highly skilled staff of healthcare professionals is here to guide you throughout your weight loss journey. We understand that every individual is unique, which is why we provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals.
To learn more about Semaglutide or schedule a consultation with one of our experts, please contact OlympusMD Wellness at (470) 3594815 We’re here to support you every
Amazing tooth replacements
Dr. Bradley Hepler, Atlanta Center for Dental Health
Dental Implants are popular and effective for individuals who have lost one or more teeth. They offer several advantages and can significantly improve a person’s oral health, appearance, and quality of life. Here are the reasons that so many people are choosing to have dental implants:
1. Replacement of missing teeth: Dental Implants are used to replace missing teeth, whether it’s a single tooth or multiple teeth. This is important for restoring proper chewing function and maintaining the alignment of surrounding teeth.
2. Improved aesthetics: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They can enhance your smile, boost your self-confidence, and provide a more natural appearance compared to other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges.
3. Enhanced eating ability: Dental implants provide strong biting and chewing capabilities, allowing you to enjoy a full range of foods, including hard and crunchy items without restrictions.
4. Comfort: Dental implants are comfortable and stable. Unlike removable dentures, they do not slip or move when eating or speaking, providing a natural and comfortable experience.
5. Convenience: Dental implants eliminate the need for messy adhesives or removal at night, as required with dentures. They function just like natural teeth, making daily oral hygiene routines simple and hassle-free. Dental implants are brushed and flossed like all your other teeth.
6. Durability: Implants are a longlasting solution. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime, whereas other options like dentures will require periodic adjustments or replacement.
7. Preservation of jawbone: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can start to deteriorate over time. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots and stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the integrity of the jawbone.
8. Improved speech: Missing teeth, especially front teeth can affect speech clarity. Dental implants can restore normal speech patterns by replacing missing teeth.
9. No impact on adjacent teeth: Unlike dental bridges, which require the reduction of adjacent healthy teeth, dental implants do not affect nearby teeth. This helps preserve the long-term health of your
natural teeth.
10. Whole body health: Dental implants can contribute to better oral and overall health by filling the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the shifting of neighboring teeth, and reducing the risk of gum disease and further tooth loss.
It is essential to consult with a dental professional to determine if dental implants are the right solution for your specific oral health needs. Factors like bone density, overall health, and personal preferences will influence the suitability of dental implants as a treatment option.
“Preventive Dentistry can add 10 years to human life.” -Dr. Charles Mayo of the Mayo Clinic
Dr. Bradley Hepler and the experienced team at the Atlanta Center for Dental Health are dedicated to your health and longevity. We provide all the modern advances that contemporary aesthetic dentistry offers. If you would like a complementary consultation to discover your smile restoring options, please call the Atlanta Center for Dental Health at 770-992-2236. It is our pleasure to serve this community and help as many people as possible live their best life.
Experience the future of spine surgery at Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center
Brought to you by - Dr. Basheer Shakir and Dr. Benjamin Zussman, neurosurgeons at Wellstar
At Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center, we’re redefining spine surgery with cuttingedge technology and unparalleled expertise. Our neurosurgeons, Dr. Basheer Shakir, Dr. Benjamin Zussman and Dr. Arthur Grigorian, are leading the charge in providing minimally invasive procedures that prioritize patient comfort, reduce recovery times and deliver exceptional outcomes.
Advanced minimally invasive techniques
One of the groundbreaking procedures offered at Wellstar North Fulton is the minimally invasive lateral
lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). Unlike traditional spinal fusion surgeries, LLIF allows access to the spine from the side of the body, bypassing major muscles and tissues. This approach minimizes postoperative pain and significantly shortens recovery times. LLIF is particularly effective for conditions like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis and scoliosis.
Another innovative technique available at our medical center is the minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF). This advanced version of the traditional TLIF procedure involves smaller incisions and less muscle disruption, leading to reduced pain and a quicker return to normal activities. MIS-TLIF is an ideal solution for patients suffering from spinal instability and degenerative disc disease.
Revolutionary artificial disc replacement
For younger, more active patients seeking relief from spinal pain without sacrificing mobility, our artificial disc replacement offers a promising alternative to traditional fusion surgery.
This procedure preserves spinal flexibility and reduces the need for future operations, allowing patients to maintain their active lifestyles with minimal disruption.
Minimally invasive decompression surgery
Not every spinal condition requires implants. For patients with stenosis or a pinched nerve, our minimally invasive decompression surgery offers a highly effective solution. Through a tiny incision, our surgeons can remove bone or tissue compressing spinal nerves, resulting in minimal scarring, reduced pain and a swift recovery. This procedure is particularly beneficial for those looking to preserve flexibility and range of motion.
Cutting-edge
technology:
image-guided navigation systems
Our commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through our use of image-guided navigation systems. These advanced systems provide real-time, 3D visualization of a patient’s anatomy during surgery, enhancing surgical
precision and significantly improving patient outcomes.
Spinal cord stimulation
For patients who continue to have pain after conventional spinal surgery procedures or without a surgical solution, spinal cord stimulation can provide life-changing control and improvement of pain. We offer spinal cord stimulator trials, as well as spinal cord stimulator implantation, to relieve chronic pain.
Take the next step toward relief
At Wellstar North Fulton, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care to our community. If you’re struggling with chronic back pain or a complex spinal condition, our expert neurosurgeons are here to help. With a patient-centered approach and personalized care plans, we ensure that each patient receives the treatment best suited to their individual needs.
Don’t let spinal issues hold you back. Schedule an appointment today by calling (770) 664-9600 or visit wellstar.org/ neurocare to learn more about our state-ofthe-art spine surgery services.
PEXELS
SHAKIR
Moving forward with healthy aging
We all know the future holds changes in our lives as we age. This September is Healthy Aging month, a time to take stock of where we are and make lifestyle improvements to follow our passions in life and maintain as much independence as possible.
The key to healthy aging is healthy living. By 2030, 1 in every 6 Americans will be over 65. This is leading to a new ways to think about the aging process. Assessing changes and taking steps now to improve your physical and mental fitness lets you take charge of your well-being. Here are some actions to consider.
ties and learning can all contribute to a better sleep cycle and help you get a good night’s sleep. It may get harder to fall and stay asleep as you get older but we all still need seven to nine hours each night.
Healthy aging means it’s also important to understand the signals that some assistance is necessary. ADLs, or activities of daily living, are those activities that you don't think much about until you or your older loved one has trouble with them. These are activities like walking safely around the house, eating nutritious meals, being able to perform basic grooming, bathing, dressing, toileting and move safely from one space to another.
Be proactive about regular checkups and tests. Preventive tests can catch changes early and help keep issues in check. This includes your vision and dental appointments. Research shows the increasing impact vision deterioration and dental problems can have on your entire body. Whether it’s a vision issue that increases your fall risk or periodontal disease that can have dietary and systemic impacts, consistent care leads to a better long term result.
Keep moving! Exercise is great as we age, while inactivity accelerates the aging process. Make sure your doctor is on board with any new exercise or dietary program. It’s so important to understand the role exercise and nutrition plays in staying strong.
Boost your mental health and learn something new. New skills can improve cognitive abilities, expand your social connections and open avenues for social activities and interactions. Exercise, diet, proactive health care, social activi-
Other signals are more subtle and may not occur daily. Can your older loved one do the laundry, handle basic house cleaning, meal preparation and grocery shopping, pay their bills, drive or take public transportation? Do they know when to take their pills or what to do in an emergency?
A Home Helpers caregiver can assist with all personal care, help around the house, accompany you on doctor’s visits and provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. With a heart centered approach and positive spirit, they can also help pursue a hobby, enjoy outings and community activities, and build relationships that make for a longer and better life in the comfort of home.
We have a team with depth and skill that can provide the care you need from six hours a day, several days a week to 24/7 care. For a free consultation, please call Home Helpers of Alpharetta and North Atlanta Suburbs at (770) 681-0323.
Alone vs. lonely
Brought
to you by
– Nehemiah McClendon, M.Ed, at Summit Counseling Center
Nothing is better than those moments you have by yourself cuddled up in your favorite blanket watching Love Island or legs stretched out having a drink watching your favorite team go for glory. This alone time is craved, desired, and sometimes needed, but what happens when the clock on alone time strikes lonely? Loneliness is often followed up with the thought starting with everyone: EVERYONE is getting married, EVERYONE is having a baby, EVERYONE has a bunch of friends and most often EVERYONE is doing better than me. As a therapist, I often witness the profound impact loneliness has on individuals’ lives. It’s not merely the absence of company but a deep-seated emotional experience that can permeate every aspect of one’s existence.
The nature of loneliness
Loneliness isn’t just restricted to physical isolation; it can be an emotional state where we feel disconnected and unfulfilled in our relationships, even when surrounded by others. It looks different in different forms:
• Social isolation: When one lacks meaningful connections or spends excessive time alone.
• Emotional loneliness: Feeling misunderstood or unsupported, even when people are around.
• Existential loneliness: A deeper sense of being disconnected from life’s purpose or meaning.
Lonely-19
Oddly enough in a world where everyone is hyper-connected, it might seem paradoxical that loneliness is on the rise. The digital age has redefined how we interact, often replacing genuine connections with superficial online exchanges. This shift can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, as individuals compare their real lives to curated online personas. Instead of investing in authentic experiences and connections, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of seeking
temporary relief from loneliness through superficial online interactions, which only perpetuates our sense of isolation and disconnection from real-life fulfillment.
Lonely on the body and brain
Loneliness isn’t just a passing emotion; it can have serious implications for mental health:
• Depression and anxiety: Prolonged loneliness can contribute to depressive symptoms and exacerbate anxiety disorders.
• Physical health: Research shows loneliness is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, weakened immune response, and other physical ailments.
• Self-esteem: Feeling disconnected can erode self-worth, leading to a cycle of negative thoughts and behaviors. Steps to connection
Self-reflection: Asking yourself questions like: What situations or environments trigger feelings of loneliness for me?
How do my thoughts and beliefs about myself contribute to my sense of loneliness?
Self-awareness: Understanding personal triggers and patterns that contribute to feelings of loneliness.
• Building connections: Foster genuine relationships through shared interests, volunteering, or joining communities.
• Seeking support: Therapy offers a safe space to explore feelings of loneliness and develop strategies for coping.
The path forward
Overcoming loneliness is a journey that requires patience and self-compassion. It’s about nurturing meaningful connections, both with others and ourselves. If you’re experiencing loneliness, remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Reach out, seek support, and take small steps toward reconnecting with yourself and others. Together, we can navigate the complexities of loneliness, cultivating a life filled with genuine connection and fulfillment.
Minimally invasive dentistry is our goal for your health and vitality
Brought to you by – North Fulton Smiles
Conservative dentistry, also known as minimally invasive dentistry, is an approach to dental treatment that focuses on preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. The goal is to prevent or minimize the need for extensive dental treatment in the future by treating appropriately and emphasizing prevention.
Conservative dentistry emphasizes early detection and early intervention of dental problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, fractures, trauma, or even tooth loss. It involves conservative techniques that aim to remove the diseased or damaged portion of the tooth while preserving the healthy tooth structure. It also emphasizes preventative measures, such as regular dental checkups, professional cleanings, supplemental products, and patient education on proper oral hygiene and dietary practices.
At North Fulton Smiles, our mission is to help patients maintain stable dental health and preserve their dentition for life. Recognizing that dentistry, like
any other procedures, will need to be revisited in a lifetime, we aim to maintain conservative options that preserve dental structures and set up one’s teeth for the future.
We believe that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and our team emphasizes proper preventative care. In doing so, we elevate our patients overall health and vitality. We use up to date, advanced technologies like Cerec CAD/CAM, digital radiographs and intraoral scanners making it more accurate, safe, and patient friendly to help maintain good oral health for our patients. Our thorough and careful examinations, involving necessary x-rays, photographs and scans help us design a customized treatment plan that addresses dental issues in an appropriate and timely manner, offers solutions for long term stability and esthetic or cosmetic desires.
A smile is a significant part of our faces and confidence. Valuing its beauty and health can be achieved with intention and attention to conservative techniques that ensure ones smile can remain attractive and stable for life.
Atlanta
Every doctor you will meet is focused on your needs as a patient and works with every manufacturer to provide a personalized fitting.
Each location utilizes state of the art technology and family-oriented care to help guide our patients to the best hearing devices and information on hearing healthcare.
We also partner with different agencies to provide audiological care to veterans, ATF officers, reservists, police departments, Cochlear implants recipients, and community wellness groups.
We accept all major insurances for patients who have a hearing healthcare benefit that they are eligible to use.
Our offices are located in Atlanta, Decatur, Dunwoody, Lake Oconee, and Milledgeville.
Roswell Dental now offers genetic testing
Brought
to you by
- Roswell Dental Care, Dr. Destinee Hood
So, you may be asking why having genetic information is so important for your dentist. With this information, the clinician will be able to create a more personalized risk assessment for cavities and periodontal disease. For example, how is the patient’s genetics contributing to the severity of disease? How will the patient respond to treatment? And how susceptible is the patient to relapse? As healthcare is going towards “precision medicine,” which looks at the genetics, environment, and lifestyle of a person to select treatment that could work best for them, we can now provide even further personalized dental health care.
Understanding saliva testing
Saliva is a vital fluid produced by the salivary glands, playing a key role in digestion, oral hygiene, and overall health. It contains a complex mixture of proteins, enzymes, electrolytes, and microorganisms. This composition makes saliva a valuable diagnostic tool. Saliva testing involves analyzing these components to gain insights into a patient’s health status. In our office, we utilize OralDNA® Labs. These saliva tests can identify the specific type and concentration of 11 disease-causing bacteria as well as identify your interleukin-6 (IL6) genotype, which is a crucial factor in promoting the inflammation pathway in the body. Information from these tests detect risk for disease, guide strategies for maintaining health, offer more accurate diagnosis, and guide treatment choices for a wide variety of conditions.”
Systemic effects of oral bacteria
These bacteria, especially at high levels, and in combination with an individual’s genetic inflammatory response, result in bad breath, painful bleeding gums, loss of bone, and eventually tooth loss. The consequences of these same bacteria, present for years and decades, add significantly to the risk of a wide range of life-threatening diseases beyond the mouth. Below are some
of those diseases and the measurable risk of those diseases becoming serious if these oral pathogens are not treated.
Cardiovascular disease
Periodontal bacteria contribute to the initiation, progression, and prognosis of cardiovascular disease. There is also over a 2-fold increase in the risk of stroke and peripheral vascular disease. The plaque in your mouth is the same as plaque in your heart!
Metabolic
health and diabetes
Elevated levels of periodontal bacteria can directly cause hyperglycemia. Early detection of periodontal infection and proactive management to reduce bacterial loads can improve blood sugar control and lessen complications of diabetes and the consequence of periodontitis.
Health during pregnancy
The oral microbiota changes when women become pregnant, and levels of periodontal pathogens increase. During pregnancy, there is a marked risk of infection of the maternal blood and the placenta, which leads to an increase in preterm labor, lower birth weight and even the chance of fetal loss due specifically to the bacteria
Development of cancer & risk of progression
Advanced periodontal disease is associated with a 2.5-fold increase in smoking-related cancers. People with elevated levels of certain periodontal pathogens have a greater chance of breast cancer recurrence or failed response to treatment. Several recent studies show that these pathogens can be identified within the primary cancer cells from colonic tumors and are carried to metastatic sites involving regional lymph nodes. This is a newly observed phenomenon that will affect how cancer treatment protocols will be developed in the future.
Other health risks may be involved as well. Please contact Roswell Dental Care for more information on genetic testing.
Dr. Destinee Hood is excited to provide this service to her patients. Our entire team at Roswell Dental Care creates a caring, judgementfree environment to help educate and empower you to become your best self! We take the time to listen to you, hear you, and guide you! Knowledge is power! Call and make your appointment today at 770-998-6736 or visit www.Roswelldentalcare.com.
• Crowns and Bridges in a few days
• Porcelain Veneers
• Tooth Colored Composite Fillings
• Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity
• 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
Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation)
• Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments
• 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 •
•
• Facial Aesthetic
Dr. David Remaley
Dr. Destinee Hood
Importance of skin checks for mature skin
Brought to you by - Dr. Kehinde Olumesi of Epiphany DermatologyBrookhaven
As skin matures, it undergoes various changes that necessitate regular skin checks to ensure overall skin health. Differentiating between age spots, healthy moles and potential skin cancers is crucial. Age spots, often appearing as flat, brown, or black spots on sun-exposed areas, are generally harmless but can be mistaken for more serious conditions. Early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, routine skin examinations are essential for mature skin to maintain health and catch any issues early.
Addressing skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures
Dermatologists can assist with a variety of skin conditions and rejuvenation procedures for mature skin. Common issues such as dryness, age-related pigmentation and conditions like rosacea, psoriasis and eczema, which can persist or develop with age, are also addressed with specialized care plans.
In addition to treating conditions, dermatologists offer rejuvenating procedures to enhance the appearance and health of mature skin. Treatments such as chemical peels, laser rejuvenation and injectable treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and promote collagen production. These procedures not only rejuvenate the skin but also boost confidence and overall well-being. Establishing a relationship with a dermatologist ensures that your skin receives comprehensive care tailored to its evolving needs, promoting longterm skin health and vitality.
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Exercise fights cancer
Brought to you by - Jonathan Stegall, MD
Did you know that exercise is a powerful anticancer tool? Research has found that exercise reduces the growth and division of cancer cells and stimulates cancer cell death. Exercise has even been shown to improve immune system function as well.
Whether you have cancer or are trying to prevent it, the best time to start exercising is now. People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing cancer and tend to have better treatment outcomes if they do get cancer.
Even if you have cancer and have not been participating in an exercise regimen, research tells us that you will benefit from starting an exercise program now. In addition to improving treatment outcomes, exercise also helps with fatigue, depression, anxiety, and even sleep.
The good news is that you only need to exercise 30 minutes a day, three times a week, to derive these benefits. An activity such as a brisk walk is perfect, at a pace which allows you to talk but not sing. Resistance training also has many benefits.
As always, please get approval from your doctor before embarking on a new exercise regimen. Choose an activity you enjoy, and make it a regular part of your life. You’ll be glad you did!
Staying strong for the years ahead
Imagine a situation where you are as strong and robust as you were when you were thirty, but at seventy-five. Starting Strength can help!
Brought to you by - Coach Adam Martin, Starting Strength Atlanta
So, you want to get in better shape; what does this mean exactly? It is quite likely you want to get stronger than you are today. You have no desire to become the World's Strongest Human, nor do you want to oil up and show your muscles under bright lights in a scantily clad undergarment. But you would like to stay strong and well as the years continue to pass. You
would like to pick up your grandchildren, carry a case of water, or retrieve something heavy from your garage.
As of late, there are many experts talking about longevity and the importance of retaining muscle mass as the decades pass. Dr. Peter Attia presents this in a beautiful graph of two paralleling lines: healthspan and lifespan. Allow me to pose a question, what does lifespan look like once healthspan runs out? It is quite likely you see an image that represents a poor
quality of life. In an ideal situation, when we run out of "healthspan," we also run out of lifespan.
Recent studies suggest average life expectancies reach the mid-seventies for men and late seventies for women. Imagine a situation where you are as strong and robust as you were when you were thirty, but at seventy-five. Now, imagine retaining this level of physical strength right up until the end of your lifespan. I hope you are envisioning a high quality of life!
Now, let's discuss how a barbell and a coach can help you with muscular strength and bone density. Your Starting Strength Gym understands the importance of stress, recovery, and adaptation as it relates to making you stronger than you are today.
We do this by having you complete normal human movement patterns with a bit more stress (weight) than you did last time. As we repeat this process over and over, you become far stronger in just a few months!
Often, we describe exercise as medicine. Like medicine, exercise should be given in the least effective dose, not the greatest tolerated. Remember, physical strength is the most important thing in life; this is true whether you want it to be or not.
Starting Strength Atlanta Contact Info: 9775 Medlock Bridge Rd Suite K Johns Creek, GA 30097 (470) 944-7715
Website: atlanta.startingstrengthgyms.com
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
While covering Milton election operations, Appen Media analyzed historical voter data and identified possible disenfranchisement.
This reporting caused a statewide watchdog to get involved and, eventually, the city moved to add a polling place to the area. Later in the year, Appen discovered that the feasibility report the City Council used when voting to run their own elections was not the original document. Two residents on a working committee had altered it after city staff had completed it and before its presentation to council. Appen Media reporters identified all of the differences between the two documents and then created an interactive digital document. Readers and officials were able to scroll through the materials and read notes from the newsroom explaining the differences. You can find this document at appenmedia.com/electionsreport.
