Dental health

The ADA: Promoting Dental Health Since 1859

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

American Dental Association and your Fort Collins Dentist.

Hello, thank you for visiting the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry blog. I’m Doctor Allison Lesko. Along with my fantastic team, I have been providing premium dental care since 2016.

Today’s article is about the American Dental Association. You have probably seen the ADA insignia on toothpaste and floss—but what else do you know about this dental organization?

The ADA’s self-proclaimed objective is to improve the level of public oral health by supporting the dental industry through not-for-profit federal, state, and local societies. It was established in 1859 and is run by its members, which currently total over 160,000.

The ADA Seal of Acceptance is not an endorsement of a product per se but rather a confirmation of the claims made by said product. Companies who want the ADA certification for a product must submit proof of rigorous scientific testing. Once submitted, the ADA re-tests the product to further verify results. There are currently over 300 products with ADA certification.

The ADA does more than evaluate dental products. Here are some other ways the ADA works to fulfill its mission:

  • Provides resources to support dentists and their practices
  • Educates the public about oral health
  • Works to maximize access to dental care
  • Offers guidance on important issues that affect the dental industry
  • Collaborates with other organizations on scientific research projects and public health initiatives
  • Offers scholarships to dental students

For more information about the ADA, visit http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada

Source:
http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 7411

Health Habits To Keep You Smiling

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Essential habits to keep teeth healthy in Fort Collins.

In today’s post, we will focus on important behaviors that influence oral health. Of course, at the Fort Collins Dentist, we know effective brushing and flossing are two critical habits for healthy teeth, but there are many more things we can do to maintain a healthy smile.

Diet Do’s

  • Do eat a nutritious diet with a variety of foods. This is needed for overall physical health and a strong immune system.
  • Do enjoy calcium-rich dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt to neutralize acids that are detrimental to enamel.

Diet Don’ts

  • Don’t eat sugary foods. Sugar leads to the production of detrimental cavity-causing acids that weaken enamel and lead to tooth decay.
  • Don’t snack throughout the day. This accelerates plaque production and subjects the teeth to continual contact with acids.
  • Don’t chew on ice. (It really can crack teeth.)
  • Don’t drink energy drinks. They have many substances that are detrimental to teeth.

Other Important Tips

  • Don’t use your teeth as tools. It is smarter to cut that knotted shoelace than to gnaw at it to try to untangle it.
  • Don’t get piercings in or around your mouth.
  • Don’t ignore tooth pain or sensitivity.
  • If you have children, talk to doctor Lesko about water fluoridation. If your municipal water supply is not fluoridated, you may want to give your kids fluoride supplements.
  • Don’t use a medium or hard bristle toothbrush. It can damage gums.
  • If you have an eating disorder—seek professional help ASAP. Bulimia and anorexia are extremely damaging to teeth. (Not to mention the toll they take on the heart and other organs.)

We encourage all of our patients to maintain a lifestyle that maintains dental health as well as overall physical health. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we serve the Fort Collins area with exceptional dental care including general and cosmetic dentistry. Ask us about dental implants, sleep apnea, cosmetic dentistry, and sedation dentistry.

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 8164

Making The Cost Of Dental Treatment Palatable At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Dental health, Restorative dentistry

The cost of dental crowns in Loveland at the Fort Collins Dentist.A healthy smile is priceless and superior dental care is a worthwhile investment in your quality of life. However, the cost of treatment and precision restorations can sometimes be prohibitive. Knowing what to expect price-wise can make your dental visit with the Fort Collins Dentist more palatable.

Obviously, the cost of some procedures such as crowns versus fillings is dependent upon unknown factors. X-rays can show the basic problem but sometimes the extent of the damage isn’t clear until we get in there. Our caring staff works to offer estimates based on best-case and worst-case scenarios.

Nailing down the cost is much easier once the overall treatment plan is established. Doctor Allison Lesko performs an oral exam, reviews the patient’s dental history, and consults with the patient before creating an estimate. The price is influenced by the patient’s current condition, cosmetic goals, and long-term functionality.

Usually, the cost of treatments such as teeth whitening, dental implants, veneers, denture fittings, and the price of cosmetic dentistry can be explained at the initial consultation with Doctor Lesko. We encourage our patients to take some time to review the options before they choose which elective procedures to pursue. We never pressure our patients to make a quick decision about something as important as dental treatment.

Here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to customized patient-focused care. Often the treatment plan will be extended over several visits to allow healing and adjustment in the mouth before doing more work.

With restorations, the most conservative treatment is always preferred. The cost is weighed with priority for adequate eating and speaking functionality. Personal confidence in appearance is also taken into account and given priority.

Doctor Lesko has been practicing compassionate dentistry since 2016. If you are in the market for sedation dentistry or sleep apnea but are worried about how much it will set you back or whether your insurance company covers the procedure, then call 970-221-5115 today and let us look into it for you.

Feel free to shop around and compare our affordable prices to other dentists in the area – but be wary of bargain-basement dental advertisements. Many ads present a false picture of the actual cost of the treatment. And, do you really want to trust your smile to the lowest bidder?

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 6781

Rather Have A Root Canal?

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Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants, Oral Health, Root Canals

Fort Collins Endodontics and Root Canal Therapy.

Would you rather have a root canal?

Have you ever heard the phrase ‘I’d rather have a root canal’ to describe something painful or unpleasant? At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we perform root canal (endodontic) therapy routinely for our patients, and many report minimal discomfort.

Root canal procedures have advanced significantly in recent years. For many root canal patients, the procedure is no more stressful than getting a filling.

If root canal therapy is necessary to preserve a tooth, we provide the most advanced endodontic treatment in Colorado.

How do you know if you need a root canal? You should communicate with your dental professional immediately if you experience tenderness or pain, hot or cold sensitivity, tooth discoloration, tooth injury, gum swelling, gum pain, or lymph node tenderness or drainage. However, for some endodontic patients, there are no symptoms. That is why it is vital to visit your dentist regularly for a thorough dental examination and dental cleaning.

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 373

Are Dental Implants Experimental?

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Dental health, Dental Implants

Dental implants in Fort Collins, CO.

No. Tooth implants have been placed in millions of men and women. Some studies have revealed a success rate as high as 98%. Here at the Fort Collins Dentist, we believe dental implants can make a big difference for our patients.

Dental implants have been perfected and tested

If you don’t follow the dental industry, you may not be aware that tooth implants have been used since the 1960s. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 3 million Americans have received implants.

The dental implant market is estimated to reach $5 billion by 2022.

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) is the first professional organization in the world dedicated to the advancement of implant dentistry. As part of its commitment to top quality patient care, research, education and excellence, the AAID created a program to credential professionals in implant dentistry.

When do you think the American Academy of Implant Dentistry was established?

  1. 1974
  2. 1998
  3. 1951

The answer is 1951. Surprised?

Dental implants have been studied since the 1970s

On the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website, you can read an analysis of tooth implants from the 1970s. Complete with images of old-school film X-rays.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a titanium post that serves as a durable substitute for the root of a missing tooth. Modern teeth implants are very versatile in restorative dentistry. They can anchor a replacement tooth, a set of replacement teeth (dentures), or a dental bridge.

In case you are unfamiliar with dental implants, first let’s explore what they are.

A permanent dental implant is a permanent replacement tooth root. It is anchored into the jaw and eventually integrates with the jawbone. This provides a durable, sturdy base for a porcelain crown or denture.

What are the benefits of tooth implants?

Implants:

  • Are durable and unmovable
  • Blend perfectly with your natural teeth
  • Help you speak and eat normally
  • Prevent bone loss that can develop when a tooth is extracted
  • Prevent the dilemmas connected to dentures

Dental implant success rates

Now let’s address success rates.

Have you heard that dental implants have a high failure rate? This is simply not true. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, our success rate for tooth implants is nearly 100%.

If properly cared for, an implant can last the rest of your life.

 

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 8258

Is Your Mouth Sore Something Serious?

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease

Loveland Dentists And Your Mouth Sores As a dentist, one of my roles is to help you take care of your mouth. Some of my patients have issues with mouth sores, thus the topic of today’s message.

If you have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; it is vital to come in for an exam. Mouth sores can be an indicator of disease, and an early assessment helps with preventing more serious problems. If required, vital treatment and pain relief can be offered. In extreme cases, I will refer you to a medical professional who specializes in problems that can cause mouth sores.

There are two types of mouth sores; canker sores and cold sores.

Canker sores are small ulcer-like sores with a white or gray base and a red border. They are found on the inside of the mouth and while they are not contagious, they can be painful. Canker sores generally heal in a week or two. Antimicrobial mouth rinses, over-the-counter topical anesthetics, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods help with temporary relief while your sore is healing.

The cause of canker sores is not certain. Possible explanations include a cut on the inside of the mouth, a reaction to extreme temperatures, acids from food or drink, fatigue, stress, and allergies. Some studies point to bacteria or a virus, or a combination of these factors.

Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex, are groups of fluid-filled blisters that appear around the lips, sometimes appearing under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are contagious and painful, but generally heal in about a week. Some over-the-counter anesthetics furnish relief.

Hope on the Horizon

There are innovative antiviral drugs on the market that have shown promise in curtailing outbreaks, but there is currently no known cure. The initial infection, known as primary herpes, often occurs before adulthood. Once the virus infects you, it may stay in your body and remain inactive or cause recurrent cold sore outbreaks. Outbreaks may be triggered by a fever, sunburn, skin abrasions, stress, or exposure to extremes in temperature.

Talk To Your Dentist

In some cases, a change in the way you care for your mouth the frequency of mouth sores. If you are in the Fort Collins, area and would like to speak with a dental professional about mouth sores, give us a call at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to schedule an examination.

Our number is 970-221-5115.

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 341

Do You Have Something Stuck Between Your Teeth? Here’s What You Should Do

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease

Do you have something stuck between your teeth?We’ve all experienced it before – something gets stuck between our teeth, and we can’t seem to get it out no matter how hard we try. It could be a small piece of food or even a stubborn popcorn kernel. Regardless of what it is, having something stuck between your teeth can be incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable. So, what should you do if you find yourself in this situation? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best ways to remove something stuck between your teeth and prevent it from happening again.

1. Try flossing

The easiest and most common way to remove something stuck between your teeth is by flossing. Use a thin string of dental floss to gently work the object out. Start at the top of your teeth and slide the floss between each tooth, moving up and down until you find the spot where something is stuck. Once you’ve located the spot, gently push the floss against your tooth and work it back and forth. Be careful not to push the object further into your gums or between your teeth.

2. Use a toothpick

If you can’t find dental floss, use a toothpick instead. But be very careful not to push the object deeper into your gums or chip your tooth. Use the toothpick to gently work the object out from between your teeth. To avoid injuring your gums, use a soft pick or toothpick instead of a wooden one. If you have braces, avoid using toothpicks as they can damage your brackets and wires.

3. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater

If the object is still stuck, try rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. This will help to dislodge the object and reduce the swelling in your gums. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for a few minutes. Spit out the water and repeat as many times as necessary.

4. Visit your dentist

If none of the above methods work, it is best to see your dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes, the object can be lodged so far back you can’t remove it yourself. Your dentist has specialized tools to help remove the object and get your teeth back to normal. Keep in mind that leaving something stuck between your teeth for too long can cause gum irritation or even an infection, so it’s always best to see your dentist if you’re unable to remove it.

5. Preventative measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips on how to prevent things from getting stuck in your teeth:

– Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
– Floss regularly, especially after meals
– Chew slowly and carefully
– Cut food into small pieces before eating
– Avoid biting hard objects like pencils or ice cubes
– Visit your dentist every six months for regular cleaning and checkups

Having something stuck between your teeth is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to further dental issues if left untreated. The best solution is to practice good dental hygiene habits and take preventative measures. However, if something is still stuck between your teeth, try flossing, using a toothpick, or rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. And if all else fails, visit The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent things from getting lodged in your teeth and maintain optimal dental health.

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

Learn More About Toothache Relief in Fort Collins, CO

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

toothache and tooth pain relief in Fort Collins, COToothaches can be incredibly painful and disruptive to daily life. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to seek relief promptly. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO, we offer toothache relief services to help ease your pain and restore your oral health. In this blog post, we will discuss toothaches and the different toothache relief options available at our dental practice.

What is a Toothache?

A toothache is a pain that is felt in or around a tooth. It can be caused by a variety of issues, including dental cavities, gum disease, infection, trauma, or even a sinus infection. Symptoms of a toothache may vary but typically include pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and a headache or fever. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to seek dental care right away.

Toothache Relief Options at The Fort Collins Dentist

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we offer a variety of toothache relief options to help alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. For mild to moderate toothaches, we may recommend over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your toothache is caused by a dental cavity, we may need to fill the cavity or perform a root canal to remove the infected tissue and relieve your pain. For severe toothaches, we may need to extract the tooth.

Preventing Toothaches

The best way to prevent toothaches is to practice good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting our dental practice regularly for checkups and cleanings. We may also recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments to help protect your teeth from decay and infection. If you play sports, wearing a mouthguard can also help prevent tooth injuries.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry?

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to providing the highest level of dental care to our patients. Our team of dental professionals is experienced in treating a variety of dental issues, including toothaches. We use the latest dental technologies and techniques to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. With our convenient location and flexible scheduling options, we make it easy for you to get the dental care you need when you need it.

If you are experiencing a toothache, don’t wait to seek dental care. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO, we offer toothache relief services to help alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free smile.

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

Make Sure Your Child Visits Your Dentist

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry

As a parent, you are always concerned about the health and well-being of your child. Dental health is a critical aspect of overall health and must not be neglected. Among the many things you do for your child’s health, a visit to the dentist should be at the top of the list. Many parents often overlook the importance of regular dental check-ups, leading to severe dental issues at a later stage. Hence, it is essential to ensure that your child visits a dentist regularly.

1. Importance of Early Dental Care:

According to the American Dental Association, children should go to the dentist as early as six months after the first tooth appears, or at least by the age of one. Early dental visits help detect any potential dental issues and prevent them from getting worse. In addition, regular visits help your child get accustomed to the dentist, making future visits less scary. It also instills good dental habits that can last a lifetime.

2. Prevention of Dental Problems:

Regular dental check-ups help identify and treat dental problems early, preventing them from turning into more significant issues. For instance, your dentist can detect cavities and gum problems during routine check-ups. Early detection and timely treatment can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can later lead to more severe problems.

3. Development of Oral Health Habits:

Children learn through imitation, and, as a parent, you need to set a good example to encourage good oral habits. Regular dental check-ups can reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, and taking care of one’s teeth. Your dentist can offer advice on proper dental care techniques and methods and suggest age-specific dental products like toothpaste and brush suited for your child.

4. Monitoring the Development of Teeth and Jaw:

Regular dental visits help monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaw. A dentist checks for any developmental issues, including bite problems and teeth misalignment, which may require treatment at an early stage. Early intervention and orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth, correct the jaw’s alignment, and avoid more complicated problems later on.

5. Building a Positive Relationship with Your Dentist:

Children often associate dental visits with fear and anxiety, leading to an unpleasant experience for both child and parent. Regular visits to the dentist can help children familiarize themselves with the dental setting and develop a positive relationship with their dentist. This way, they are more likely to feel comfortable about going for check-ups as they grow older and continue to prioritize their dental health throughout their lives.

Good oral health habits formed in childhood can last a lifetime. As parents, it is crucial to ensure that your child visits a dentist regularly to maintain excellent oral health. By doing so, you are not only preventing potential dental problems but also instilling the importance of good dental habits that will benefit their health in the long term. As dental professionals, we encourage you to bring your child for regular dental check-ups and treatment. Let’s work together to give your child the brightest, healthiest smile possible.

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

Think You Know How To Brush? Think Again.

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

Fort Collins tooth brushing tips

You’ve been doing it since you were five. You switch to auto pilot morning and night and get it over with. But are you doing it correct?

Actually, many people are making tooth brushing mistakes. You may need to tweak your routine to better support your oral health and shield your smile from cavities and gum disease.

Here are vital tooth brushing tips:

1. Take your time.
It’s understandable. You want to get it over with and go to bed. Proper teeth cleaning takes time and careful attention. Time yourself the next time you brush—you might be surprised at how quickly you finish. The process should take at least two to three minutes. It can also be beneficial to take a different route around your mouth every few days. By adjusting your pattern, you approach areas from a different, and possibly, better angle.

2. Don’t forget to floss.
No matter how agile you can be with your brush, it’s problematic to clear away the plaque from all those narrow gaps between your teeth. That is where bacteria can easily propagate and start the decay process.

3. Use the right toothbrush.
It is ironic that some people hurt their enamel or gums because they brush too forcefully with a rigid brush. doctor Lesko counsels patients to only use a soft brush. If you’ve had gum grafts, you may want to use an extra soft brush.

4. Don’t keep your tooth brush near the toilet.
This is terrible to think about, but each time the toilet is flushed, bacteria is sent far into the air—even if you close the lid. Keep your toothbrush in a clean place and allow it to air dry.

5. Use fluoride toothpaste.
This may seem like a no-brainer but you may be surprised that some oral care products don’t contain fluoride. And you may think it’s only for kids. Not true. Your enamel is continuously under assault from acidic foods and drinks and fluoride helps it remineralize.

 

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

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