Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum Contouring

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health, Teeth Whitening

A close-up of a smiling mouth with white teeth and healthy, contoured gums.

If you are a regular visitor to our blog here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, you have probably read many articles on cosmetic dentistry procedures. Doctor Allison Lesko is a master of smile makeovers.

Dental bonding, crowns, and porcelain veneers can take care of teeth that are chipped, broken, or misshapen.

Our Wellington, Windsor, and Timnath patients with stained or dull teeth can have a sparkly white smile with teeth whitening. For ordinary cavities, there are tooth-colored fillings, inlays, and onlays.

Dental implants are gaining popularity in Loveland among dental patients who want to restore missing teeth. If your teeth are misaligned, there are a number of orthodontic options here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins.

What if your cosmetic dental problem has to do with your gums? Are you one of the many Loveland residents whose gums are too long, too short, or uneven? There is a solution for gum problems as well. The answer is gum contouring surgery.

With gum contouring, sometimes called tissue sculpting or gum reshaping, a Fort Collins dentist or periodontist can improve the shape or size of your gums.

Gum reshaping is not always a cosmetic procedure. If the gums have receded to a point where the tooth root is susceptible to decay, gum surgery can restore the natural, healthy gumline and protect tooth root and bone.

For more information about gum contouring, schedule a consultation today.

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 3227

Pregnancy and Oral Health

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

Dentist examining a female patient's open mouth.

In today’s The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry blog, we will discuss how pregnancy impacts your dental health. I am Doctor Allison Lesko and I want all expectant Colorado mothers to realize the importance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy. Because of the changes going on in a pregnant woman’s body, there are potential dental health issues that may arise.

Many Fort Collins women experience morning sickness accompanied with vomiting. The gastric acid increases the acidity in the mouth which can easily lead to enamel loss and tooth decay. Heightened levels of progesterone and estrogen may relax the ligaments that support the teeth causing them to loosen.

Hormonal Changes Affect Oral Health

Most Fort Collins residents have experienced gingivitis, but during pregnancy, the hormonal changes increase your risk for gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis can lead to gum disease.

Dental Hygiene During Pregnancy

If you are a pregnant Colorado woman, my staff and I at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush for daily brushing. Floss carefully and rinse your mouth with a fluoride wash. If you experience morning sickness, clean your mouth with a baking soda and water mixture.

Planning to Become Pregnant?

If you are planning to become pregnant, we recommend that you have a cleaning and exam prior to your pregnancy. If you need any dental procedures, it is a good idea to get them done as soon as possible. If you experience any dental problems during your pregnancy, please call and schedule an appointment. Untreated dental disease can affect your overall health.

We Pamper Our Patients

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry we not only offer excellent dental care to our pregnant patients, we provide quality preventative care and dental implants for the entire family. Our Fort Collins patients can expect top-tier dental care.

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-449-0952

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 4245

How to Prevent Tooth Decay In Fort Collins

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

On open mouth showing teeth with signs of advanced tooth decay.

Tooth decay, also known as “dental caries,” is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in Fort Collins. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the sugars in food and produce acid, which erodes the enamel on teeth.

Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, which can cause pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. However, tooth decay is preventable with proper dental care and hygiene.

This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. Brushing helps remove plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to decay. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Mouthwash can also be used as an additional step to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

  • In addition to brushing and flossing, it’s important to watch what you eat and drink.

Sugary and starchy foods can provide fuel for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice. Instead, choose foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, which can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acid in the mouth.

  • Another way to prevent tooth decay is to make sure you’re getting enough fluoride.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Fluoride is often found in tap water, so if your water supply is not fluoridated, talk to us at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry about fluoride supplements. Fluoride is also present in many toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental treatments.

  • Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also important for preventing tooth decay.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can examine your teeth for signs of decay and catch problems early before they become more serious. We can also clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to decay. If Doctor Allison Lesko finds any issues, such as cavities or early signs of gum disease, we can recommend treatment to prevent further damage.

In addition to these general preventive measures, there are other steps you can take to protect your teeth in Fort Collins.

  • If you grind your teeth or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from damage.
  • If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting can help reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
  • If you have a dry mouth, which can increase your risk of decay, Doctor Allison Lesko can recommend products to help keep your mouth moist.

Overall, preventing tooth decay requires a commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

By brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary and starchy foods, getting enough fluoride, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of tooth decay and maintain a healthy smile.

So if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to make an appointment. The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can help you develop a personalized plan for preventing tooth decay and maintaining good oral health for life.

Preventing tooth decay is essential for maintaining good oral health. By following a few simple steps, such as brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of decay and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

…So don’t wait – make an appointment with The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, your Fort Collins dentist today to get started on the path to a healthier 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

 

ArticleID 8689

Tooth Bleaching Fact and Fiction

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, Teeth Whitening

Woman smiling while talking on a phone in an office setting. You have probably seen ads for whitening products containing terms such as “white brite,” “22 carbamide peroxide” and “peroxide teeth.” How do you separate tooth-bleaching fact from fiction?

For the best results, consult a dentist

Some tooth whitening dentists will guarantee fantastic results for any patient who desires a whiter smile. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we only recommend tooth bleaching for patients who are good candidates for the process. We invite you to speak with Doctor Lesko, DDS at our Fort Collins office. Not all teeth whitening systems are appropriate for every person.

Be especially careful if you have existing restorations

Don’t be fooled by smile-whitening hype and risk poor results. If you have existing cosmetic dental work such as crowns, bonding, partial dentures, or bridgework, it is critical to talk to a legitimate professional about worry-free teeth whitening.

If you have all-natural teeth that are dull or stained, tooth whitening will probably brighten your smile. If you have several crowns in the front of your mouth, veneers, or gums that have receded, conventional tooth whitening may not be successful.

Porcelain veneers make your smile whiter

Porcelain veneers may be a better solution for you. There are several brands of veneers such as Lumineers by Cerinate, da Vinci, and Mac. The vast majority of Fort Collins veneer recipients are amazed by the results. Porcelain veneers not only brighten your smile, they can provide many other improvements.

Veneers are sometimes called “instant orthodontics” because they can repair tooth misalignment and gaps as well as provide instant teeth whitening.

Schedule a consultation by calling 970-221-5115. I look forward to meeting you and discussing your unique smile.

For more information about our services including dental implants, sleep apnea, or cosmetic dentistry, call our offices today.

 

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 7141

Creating Memorable Smiles At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, Pediatric Dentistry, Smile design, Teeth Whitening

Close up image of a woman smiling wide with perfect teeth and red lipstick. A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make your smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins.

Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term that specifies dentistry with an emphasis on aesthetics. Wellington and Windsor cosmetic dentists perform general dental procedures in addition to providing advanced cosmetic dental treatments. Fort Collins cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry cosmetic dentists in Fort Collins are knowledgeable about the processes used to fabricate crowns, dental veneers, inlays, onlays, braces, and dental implants. Advances in ceramic and composite materials have boosted the popularity of Loveland cosmetic dentistry but these miracle materials are worthless without a skilled cosmetic dentist to incorporate them into a healthy and beautiful smile.

When designing a dental treatment plan for a patient, the patient’s goals and expectations are discussed. The most skillful cosmetic dentists consider the shape, alignment, color, and condition of the teeth. The Colorado cosmetic dental patient’s age, health condition, and lifestyle also influence the plan.

If you want to learn about the possibilities for your smile, call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Loveland area.

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 850

When It’s Better Not To Brush

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

Person smiling and holding a toothbrush to display the importance of regular dental care.

Though thin and partially translucent, tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body and has the important job of shielding teeth from constant use and the continual assault of chemicals in food and drink. Enamel also safeguards tooth nerves from hot and cold food and beverages. That’s why enamel loss often causes tooth sensitivity.

Cuts heal. Bruises fade. Broken bones mend. The body’s ability to heal itself is truly incredible. But tooth enamel is different. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

The team at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry encourages our patients to safeguard their tooth enamel for a lifetime of dental health.

This may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes it is better NOT to brush immediately after eating. Specifically, after eating acidic items. The acid weakens the enamel which can be further weakened by brushing. Waiting 60 minutes will allow the acid to dilute. Rinsing immediately after eating acidic foods is beneficial, however, because it washes away some food particles and speeds up the dilution of the acid.

Some people don’t realize that dry mouth can cause or exacerbate enamel erosion. The calcium and phosphate in saliva protect your enamel. When there is little saliva, the enamel is left exposed. Chewing stimulates saliva production but constant snacking is not the answer for dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water regularly can stimulate saliva production between meals without increasing the risk of or upping your calorie intake.

Furthermore, tooth grinding wears enamel away. If you are one of the many Fort Collins residents who grind their teeth at night, it’s important to get a mouthguard promptly. People who grind their teeth are at a high risk for enamel erosion and the tooth decay that can follow. Athletes should also protect their teeth on the playing field with a mouthguard. For more details, speak with Doctor Allison Lesko at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry about custom mouthguards.

If you sip soda, tea, or coffee all day, we suggest you switch to water to halt any enamel erosion that has already transpired. It may be a hard change to make – but if you are successful – your teeth will thank you for it.

Using teeth as tools can damage enamel, as well. Take a moment to fetch scissors before tearing a package or ripping duct tape with your teeth. Do you really want to take a chance on chipping a tooth just to open a package of lunchmeat?

Chewing ice and hard candy can also damage enamel. If you simply must have sugar, soft candy is best as long as it is not left to sit on your teeth for a long period of time. If your molars are packed with gummy candy, it can bring about cavities that erode enamel just as effectively as chipping it with hard candy. Many of the old-school hard candies we enjoyed as kids now come in soft versions. Enjoy them sparingly because constant sugar is bad for teeth. Period.

If you have already experienced enamel erosion or other dental problems, Doctor Allison Lesko can help you safeguard what is left. To schedule a comprehensive examination, 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 6920

The The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Guide To Teeth Whitening

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, Teeth Whitening

Close-up of a smiling mouth showing a teeth-whitening comparison with a vertical dividing line.

So you want to whiten your teeth? It’s a reasonably priced way to enhance your smile, look younger, and feel more confident when you interact with people in business or social settings.

Here are 5 things The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry recommends when it comes to teeth whitening:

  1. Meet with your dentist for a consultation first. There are several different teeth whitening systems and a consultation will help you establish which technique is best for you.
  2. It is vital to know that whitening does not affect existing fillings, veneers, or crowns.
  3. During your consultation, decide how many shades lighter you want your teeth to be at the end of the treatment. Depending on the whitening method chosen, your teeth can be brightened three to eight shades. An in-office procedure achieves a degree of lightening that cannot be achieved with an OTC product. During your treatment, your dentist may apply a coating to protect your gums and roots while the bleaching agent is applied.
  4. An alternative technique is to have your dentist customize a take-home kit for you. Make sure you follow the instructions exactly. First, molds are made from your upper and lower arch. Then the lab creates trays to hold the bleach. While this method may take longer, it is more cost-effective and more convenient for many patients. Teeth whitening results from either method can last from six months to two years.
  5. With any of the teeth whitening systems, tooth sensitivity may occur. In most cases, it won’t last for more than a day or so. Call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry if it lasts longer.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services including dental implants, sleep apnea, cosmetic dentistry, and sedation dentistry. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, quality care, and a comfortable patient experience are our top priorities.

 

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 7314

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

A professional woman in a business suit enjoying a cup of coffee in a modern office setting. Have you ever been eating an ice cream cone when you encountered a sudden zap of pain in one of your teeth? If the enamel has eroded, or the gums have receded, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed. The substances that cause tooth pain travel to the pulp where the nerves of the tooth are located. Ouch!

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we know tooth sensitivity can be a tip-off that something is amiss. It may be caused by a cavity, periodontal disease, gum recession, or bacteria build-up in a crack in a tooth.

A number of elements can result in gum recession including consuming acidic foods and drinks, teeth grinding, or cracked teeth. Surprisingly, one cause of gum recession is brushing too hard. That’s right; it is possible to brush too forcefully!

If your teeth are sensitive following a professional tooth whitening such as the ones we do here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, the sensitivity will probably be gone in a few days.

If you experience constant or intermittent pain in your teeth or gums, call right away to make an appointment. doctor Lesko takes tooth pain seriously.

There are several treatments for tooth sensitivity including desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, and gum grafting. Of course, if you need a restoration, that is the first order of business.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, we not only treat tooth sensitivity, but we also perform entire cosmetic dental smile makeovers for our patients in the Fort Collins area.

 

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 755

Oral Health For Fort Collins Diabetics

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

A woman sits in a dental chair as a dentist examines her teeth during a routine check-up.

According to the CDC, over 34 million Americans have diabetes. Perhaps you are one of them. Let’s talk about oral health for diabetics. Many Loveland men and women with diabetes have dental issues. However, gum disease and tooth decay are not unavoidable for those affected by diabetes. The Fort Collins Dentist offers guidance and care to help manage your oral health while living with diabetes.

Blood Sugar and Oral Health

Blood sugar is a complicating factor for a healthy mouth. Loveland diabetics who control their blood sugar have lower rates of tooth and gum problems. In fact, many dentists have noticed no increased risk of dental disease among diabetics who maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar levels rise, the amount of sugars and starches increase in your mouth. These substances combine with the bacteria naturally present to create enamel-eroding plaque. Untreated plaque can lead to tooth decay.

Diabetes Affects Gum Tissue

In addition to cavities, Loveland dental patients with diabetes need to be cautious about gum health. Because diabetes can make it harder to control the growth of bacteria, the amount of plaque in your mouth can multiply quickly. Plaque not only causes cavities, but it also inflames and weakens gum tissue and eventually the bone surrounding teeth.

Don’t Let Gum Disease Progress

Untreated gum disease progresses to periodontitis, a more severe infection. Because Loveland diabetics have a lower resistance to infection, it can be difficult to reverse periodontitis in people with diabetes. To make matters even worse, the presence of infection can make it harder to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

Bottom line?

  1. Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque build-up.
  2. See your dentist for twice-yearly cleanings to remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated under the gumline.

Doctor Lesko of The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is accepting new patients in the Fort Collins, Wellington Windsor, and Timnath areas. We can help diabetic dental patients keep their smile beautiful.

Has Diabetes Already Affected Your Dental Health?

If you are in need of cosmetic dentistry because of diabetes-related decay or gum disease, we can restore your beautiful smile with the latest tooth restoration options. Ask us about crowns, dental implants, implant-anchored dentures, porcelain veneers, inlays/onlays, and same-day restorations. We provide the full spectrum of dental services.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is located at 2001 S Shields St Bldg L in Fort Collins. Call us to schedule a consultation. Thanks for visiting the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Fort Collins dentistry blog!

 

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 3444

Unveiling Your Perfect Smile and The Artistry of Cosmetic Dentistry at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins Colorado

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Oral Health, Teeth Whitening

A woman smiling with her hands clasped together, exuding joy and contentment.

In today’s world, where first impressions matter more than ever, a confident smile can open doors and create lasting connections.

Cosmetic dentistry has emerged as the ultimate blend of science and art, offering a transformative approach to enhancing smiles and boosting self-esteem. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins Colorado, we believe that every smile deserves to shine its brightest.

Let’s take a look at the world of cosmetic dentistry and how our team of experts can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

The Essence of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is more than just fixing dental flaws; it’s about crafting smiles that reflect your unique personality and style. Whether you’re looking to address chipped, stained, misaligned, or missing teeth, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is dedicated to delivering personalized recommendations that go beyond aesthetic enhancements.

Artistry in Transformation

Much like a painter’s palette, cosmetic dentistry at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry combines a range of techniques and procedures to create a masterpiece uniquely tailored to you. With precision and creativity, dental artisans work diligently to design smiles that harmonize seamlessly with your facial features and exude the confidence you deserve.

The Range of Cosmetic Services

  • Teeth Whitening: Harnessing the power of advanced teeth whitening procedures, we offer treatments that brighten your smile, leaving you with teeth that gleam brilliantly.
  • Porcelain Veneers: Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, porcelain veneers are thin shells that adhere to the front of your teeth, instantly correcting imperfections.
  • Dental Implants: Dental artisans restore missing teeth with lifelike dental implants, ensuring your smile remains intact.
  • Invisible Braces: Straighten your teeth discreetly with invisible braces, harmonizing your smile’s alignment.

Beyond Aesthetics: A Transformational Journey

Cosmetic dentistry at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry transcends superficial beauty. It’s about empowerment, rejuvenation, and transforming not only smiles but lives. Similarly, our cosmetic procedures are designed to reflect the depths of your inner beauty, unveiling a smile that resonates with your true essence.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, located in the heart of Fort Collins Colorado, we invite you to experience the artistry of cosmetic dentistry that transcends expectations. Embark on a journey with us and let the transformative power of cosmetic dentistry create a masterpiece: a smile that shines its brightest.

Book your consultation today and embrace the transformation that awaits you at 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 8709