Don’t Let Fear Of The Dentist Compromise Your Oral Health

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, General dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

sleep dental Fort Collins

If you have claustrophobia, you avoid cave exploration. If you have acrophobia (fear of heights), you avoid sky diving. In either case, you can live a fulfilling life without participating in these activities.

What if you have dentophobia or a fear of the dentist? (Yes, it’s a real thing with an official name.) This is different than the phobias mentioned previously. Since dental visits are critical for dental health, it’s not a smart move to simply avoid dental treatment.

Yet many people try to do just that. That is, until they have a problem that gets so painful they are forced to white knuckle it through a dental visit. At that point, the treatment may be an extraction that could have been prevented with earlier intervention or preventative procedures.

If you are plagued with severe anxiety when undergoing dental treatment, oral sedation is for you. Whether it is called relaxation dentistry, oral conscious sedation, sleep dentistry, or anxiety-free dentistry, it has proven to be safe and effective.

Dentophobia is complex and may be accompanied by any of the following:

  • Teeth sensitivity
  • Fear of needles
  • A powerful gag reflex
  • Difficulty in controlling body movement
  • Difficulty becoming numb with standard injections

With oral conscious sedation, dentistry patients can relax or even sleep through dental treatment.

You decide on the degree of sedation needed:

  • Mild sedation: relaxes you while you remain conscious.
  • Moderate sedation: provides a deeper level of relaxation with partial consciousness.
  • Deep sedation: you are almost entirely unconscious but can be awakened.
  • General anesthesia: This sends you to dreamland from which you awake after it’s over with no memory of the service.

For more information on oral sedation dentistry, contact us at 970-221-5115.

 

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Impla nt Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 8082

A Wise Investment That Pays Off Every Day

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental Implants, General dentistry

porcelain veneers cost Loveland

You may not sport a sparkling 3-carat diamond on your finger or zip around town in a shiny Ferrari, but you can flash a celebrity-caliber smile. (And we think it is a much better investment than extravagant jewelry or a pricey car.) Cosmetic dentistry is an investment in you. And it pays off every single day.

When you ask a dentist about cosmetic dentistry, you’ll get reliable advice because your Fort Collins dentist has transformed hundreds of smiles and knows what is involved with each particular procedure. If you live in the Fort Collins area and have questions about cosmetic dentistry, please give me a call. My name is Allison Lesko. I provide premium dental services with a personal touch.

Schedule a consultation today by calling 970-221-5115. You can look at before and after pictures of some of our valued patients and hear about their smile makeover success stories. We can discuss the cost of cosmetic dentistry and create a customized treatment plan.

In addition to cosmetic dentistry, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can help you with a host of dental services including cosmetic dentistry and dental implants.

Our compassionate team is ready to serve you at our warm and inviting Fort Collins office.

 

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 21

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

There’s No Reason to Fear Your Root Canal Treatment

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Categories: General dentistry, Restorative dentistry, Root Canals

Root canal treatment at The Fort Collins Dentist, Fort Collins, COOne of the most dreaded dental procedures is a root canal. Many people avoid seeking dental care because of their fear of this treatment. However, avoiding a root canal can lead to more severe dental issues that can result in tooth loss. As a dental professional at The Fort Collins Dentist, I understand your apprehension but I want to reassure you that there is no reason to fear a root canal. In this blog, I will discuss what a root canal entails, what to expect during the procedure, and how effective and safe the treatment is.

What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal treatment is a procedure that is used to repair and save a tooth that is infected or badly decayed. The process involves the removal of the damaged pulp inside a tooth. The pulp of the tooth is a soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerves that run from the tooth’s roots to the crown. When the pulp gets infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. During the procedure, your dentist will remove the diseased pulp, clean and disinfect the canal, and fill and seal it to prevent further infection.

What to expect during the procedure:
Your dentist will start by numbing the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia. After the anesthesia has taken effect, a rubber dam will be placed over the tooth to keep it dry during the procedure. Your dentist will then drill an access hole into the tooth to remove the pulp and clean the root canal. When the canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, a filling material will be placed into the canal and sealed. In most cases, a crown will be placed over the tooth to protect and strengthen it.

Is root canal treatment safe?
Many people still believe that root canal treatment is dangerous, but the truth is that it is a safe, routine dental procedure. With advances in modern dentistry and anesthesia, the procedure is relatively painless and has a high success rate of more than 95 percent. By saving your natural tooth, you can avoid more costly and complex dental procedures in the future, such as implants or bridges.

Is root canal treatment effective?
Root canal treatment is highly effective at saving damaged teeth and preventing the need for extraction. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a treated tooth can last for a lifetime. However, in some cases, the tooth may have to be retreated if the infection returns or the initial treatment wasn’t successful. Your dentist will monitor you after the treatment to ensure that your tooth is healing correctly.

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective dental procedure that can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for more invasive treatments. If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity in your teeth, don’t ignore it. Early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and save your teeth. As a dental professional, I encourage you to seek dental care and discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist. Remember, there is no reason to fear a root canal.

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

Why a Root Canal Is Not Something To Fear

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Categories: Dental Implants, General dentistry, Root Canals

root canal sedation Fort Collins

Today’s The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry post addresses one of the most feared dental procedures: the infamous root canal.

If you are told that you need a root canal, don’t panic. Your dentist recommends this procedure when it is better for your tooth than the alternatives.

A successful root canal (or endodontic treatment in dental-speak) can save a tooth and prevent the need for an extraction followed by a dental bridge, dental implant, or gap in your smile.

If, after a thorough evaluation, we determine that a tooth needs a root canal, doctor Lesko will explain the procedure and costs that are involved.

Root canals are completed to save an infected tooth. If not treated, abscesses and complete tooth loss may occur.

During the procedure, Lesko will remove the nerve and pulp, and then clean and disinfect the interior of your tooth (the canal). The next step is filling and sealing the cleaned area with a special rubbery material, and then protecting the restored tooth with a crown or filling.

Root canals have the reputation of being painful, but this is not the case anymore. There are several effective pain management methods available today at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry. We will make sure you are comfortable during the procedure. Once the infected tissue is removed, we will focus on helping the area heal.

If you are unfamiliar with our services at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, be sure to visit our website at https://www.thefortcollins.dentist/ to get more specifics.

 

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 7119

Tooth Whitening And Your Dentist

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Smile design, Teeth Whitening

teeth whitening in Fort Collins, CO Tooth whitening has become one of the most popular dental procedures in Colorado. It seems that everyone is whitening their teeth to help their smiles look younger and brighter. Many individuals are turning to over-the-counter solutions to brighten their teeth, however, there can be drawbacks to this approach.

Here is some basic advice on tooth whitening from The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

First, we encourage you to visit our office before starting a tooth whitening system. doctor Lesko at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can help you determine whether your teeth can be whitened safely and effectively. We can also recommend tooth whitening solutions that will work best for you. There are many pitfalls to be aware of when whitening your teeth.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products will provide varying degrees of whitening. If used incorrectly, they can result in issues including tooth sensitivity, over whitening, damage to your tooth enamel, and irregular coloration. Whitening too much can even have a reverse effect, making your teeth look gray.

Avoid Problems By Seeing Your Dentist First

Most tooth whitening product manufacturers recommend that you visit your dentist if things go wrong with your whitening system. We recommend you begin with the compassionate professionals at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to prevent tooth whitening problems.

Our compassion is available to discuss tooth whitening systems and check your teeth to make sure you will get the best possible tooth whitening results.

 

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 17

Learn More About Teeth Whitening at Your Dentist

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Smile design, Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening at The Fort Collins Dentist

A bright, white smile can be a game-changer for your confidence and self-esteem. It’s no wonder that teeth whitening is one of the most popular dental treatments available. When done safely and properly, teeth whitening can quickly and effectively erase years of stains and discoloration. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best method for you. That’s where your dentist comes in. By working with your dentist, you can learn more about teeth whitening and find the solution that’s right for you.

Why Whiten Your Teeth?

Before discussing the different methods of teeth whitening, let’s talk about why it’s important to whiten your teeth. There are many reasons people choose to whiten their teeth, including:

– To remove stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and other dark-colored foods and drinks
– To reduce the appearance of yellowed or dull teeth caused by aging or genetics
– To boost confidence and improve self-esteem
– To prepare for a special event, like a wedding or job interview
– To maintain oral health by removing stains that can lead to plaque and cavities

Now that you understand the benefits of teeth whitening, let’s explore the different methods available.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is the quickest and most effective method of teeth whitening. During an in-office treatment, your dentist will apply a highly concentrated bleaching gel to your teeth and use a special light or laser to activate the gel and accelerate the whitening process.

In-office treatments typically take 60-90 minutes and can produce dramatic results in just one visit. However, they are also the most expensive option and may not be covered by insurance.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Another option for teeth whitening is take-home whitening kits prescribed by your dentist. These kits include custom-made trays and a professional-strength bleaching gel.

To use a take-home whitening kit, you’ll apply a small amount of gel to the trays and wear them for several hours a day or overnight. You’ll typically see results in 1-2 weeks, and you can continue to use the kit until you achieve your desired shade.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

There are countless over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, including whitening strips, gels, toothpaste, and mouth rinses. While these products can be affordable and convenient, they are generally less effective than professional treatments and may take longer to see results.

It’s also important to note that over-the-counter products may not be safe for everyone. If you have sensitive teeth or gum disease, it’s best to consult with your dentist before using any whitening product.

By working with your dentist, you can explore the different options for teeth whitening and find the solution that’s right for you. Whether you choose an in-office treatment, take-home kit, or over-the-counter product, it’s important to follow proper safety protocols and protect the health of your teeth and gums. Ready to learn more about teeth whitening? Schedule a consultation with your dentist 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

Dental Veneers: 7 Fast Fixes

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, General dentistry

Fort Collins Affordable Dentistry

Hi! Welcome to the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry dental blog where we take the time to answer dental questions. Today we are focusing on fabulous veneers, which are used extensively in cosmetic dentistry.

Dental veneers (also called laminates) are custom-made to permanently cover the front part of one or more teeth. Wafer-thin, super-strong veneers can correct a variety of problems including:

1. Chips
2. Cracks
3. Stains
4. Teeth that are misshapen
5. Teeth that are too short
6. Teeth that are misaligned
7. Gaps between teeth

To begin the veneer procedure, your dentist will make a model of your teeth. The next step is for an expert dental lab tech to fabricate your custom veneers. In some veneer procedures, a small amount of the enamel from the face of the tooth has to be removed. Today’s veneer process leaves most of your healthy tooth structure.

Please call 970-221-5115 and a member of our compassionate staff can answer any questions you have about veneers. We can also tell you about other cosmetic dental procedures that have a dramatic impact.

 

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 4635

Why Do My Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Help Ease the Pain

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

The Fort Collins Dentist can help relieve Tooth PainHave you ever experienced tooth pain or sensitivity? If the answer is yes, then you know how unbearable it can be. There are several reasons why your teeth may be hurting, and it’s essential to understand the cause to alleviate the pain effectively. Fortunately, the Fort Collins Dentist is here to help. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the various reasons why your teeth hurt and how our dentists can help ease the pain.

1. Tooth Decay:

One of the most common reasons why your teeth may be hurting is due to tooth decay. When bacteria feed on food particles left behind in the mouth, they produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, eventually leading to decay. If left untreated, this can cause pain and sensitivity, especially while eating hot or cold foods. Our dentists can help by performing a dental exam and filling cavities, or in severe cases, performing a root canal.

2. Gum Disease:

Gum disease is another cause of tooth pain. This condition occurs when plaque accumulates along the gum line and causes inflammation. The early stages of gum disease are relatively mild and can be treated through proper oral hygiene practices such as daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments. However, as gum disease progresses, it can cause tooth pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. At Fort Collins Dentist, we can treat gum disease using deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing to remove tartar buildup.

3. Teeth Grinding:

Teeth grinding or Bruxism is a habit some people have that causes them to grind or clench their teeth subconsciously. This habit can cause tooth pain, sensitivity, and headaches. In some cases, teeth grinding can lead to TMJ or jaw joint disorders. Our dentists can help by fitting patients with a custom mouthguard to wear at night to protect their teeth and jaw joints from the effects of teeth grinding.

4. Tooth Fractures:

A tooth fracture is a crack or break in the tooth structure usually due to injury or trauma. Fractured teeth can cause varying degrees of pain, depending on the severity of the fracture. In severe cases, a broken tooth may need to be extracted. In other cases, our dentists can use dental crowns or fillings to repair the tooth and alleviate pain.

5. Teeth Sensitivity:

Tooth sensitivity is another common cause of dental pain. This sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, teeth grinding, and receding gums. The dentine layer beneath the enamel can become exposed to hot and cold food temperatures, causing severe pain. Our dentists can manage tooth sensitivity by applying desensitizer agents like fluoride or by applying dental sealants to protect the exposed dentine.

Tooth pain can be unbearable, but the good news is that it’s treatable. At Fort Collins Dentist, we can help alleviate your pain by identifying the underlying cause and providing suitable treatment options. We can also offer preventive dental care to keep your teeth healthy and pain-free. If you experience dental pain, don’t suffer in silence. Book an appointment with us 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

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Near Loveland Can Help You Avoid Pain

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Categories: Extraction, General dentistry, Gum disease

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Near Loveland Can Help You Avoid Pain

Tooth pain, often described as one of the most agonizing experiences, can stem from various causes, from the mundane to the serious.

Understanding the root of tooth pain and seeking professional care is paramount to maintaining a pain-free smile. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland, we’re committed to helping you prevent and alleviate tooth pain, ensuring that your smile shines as brilliantly as a radiant orange sunrise.

The Culprits Behind Tooth Pain

  • Tooth Decay: Cavities, the most common cause of tooth pain, occur when acids from bacteria in your mouth eat away at the enamel, creating tiny holes that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Gum Disease: As the gums become inflamed and recede due to infection or poor oral hygiene, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause excruciating pain, especially when chewing or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can result from exposed dentin, a layer beneath the enamel, due to gum recession or enamel erosion. It can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, leading to severe pain and potential infection.

Preventing Tooth Pain through Dental Visits

Regular dental visits at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland are a crucial step in avoiding tooth pain. Here’s how professional care can help:

  • Early Detection: Routine check-ups can identify dental issues in their early stages, preventing them from becoming painful problems.
  • Professional Cleanings: Our dental team can remove plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Education: We provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer tips to protect your teeth from sensitivity and pain.
  • Treatment Options: If tooth pain is already an issue, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry offers a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.

How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Can Help You

Our team at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate and expert dental care. We understand that tooth pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. By choosing us, you’re making the proactive choice to maintain a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be disruptive, but it’s not something you have to endure alone. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland, we are your partners in preventing and alleviating tooth pain.

Don’t let your smile be overshadowed by discomfort. Schedule a visit with us today, and together, we can ensure that your teeth remain pain-free and brilliantly beautiful.

 

 

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 8713