Treat TMJ Before It Damages Your Smile

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Categories: Dental health, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

A pair of young women enjoying TMJ-free relaxing outside.The jaw is one of the most powerful joints in the body, but when it’s misaligned or strained, the effects can ripple through your entire mouth. At The Fort Collins Dentist, we treat TMJ disorders before they evolve into bigger—and more expensive—problems. Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your upper and lower jaws, allowing you to chew, speak, and yawn comfortably. When that hinge becomes inflamed or dysfunctional, it can trigger headaches, facial pain, and even damage to your teeth over time.

The True Cost of Ignoring TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder, or TMD, is often caused by teeth grinding, stress, arthritis, or bite misalignment. While symptoms like clicking, jaw pain, or headaches might seem manageable at first, they can slowly lead to serious complications. The constant strain placed on your teeth and joints can cause enamel wear, cracked crowns, and premature tooth loss—issues that often require costly restorative dental work such as crowns, bridges, or implants.

Beyond oral health, chronic TMJ pain can also affect your posture, sleep, and mood. Many patients experience migraines, neck and shoulder tension, or even tinnitus. Left untreated, these symptoms can impact daily life and overall wellness, making early TMJ care both a medical and financial priority.

Advanced, Noninvasive Relief

At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko provides precise TMJ diagnoses and customized treatment plans designed to restore balance and comfort. During your visit, she’ll take digital images and assess how your jaw moves to pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort. From there, treatment might involve bite adjustments through restorative work, a custom nightguard to prevent teeth grinding, or therapeutic jaw exercises to retrain your muscles.

One of the most effective and innovative treatments we offer is Botox for TMJ relief. By gently relaxing the overactive muscles responsible for clenching and tension, Botox injections can dramatically reduce pain, improve jaw movement, and prevent further wear on the teeth. This approach not only alleviates discomfort but also protects your long-term dental health.

The Benefits of Early TMJ Treatment

Addressing TMJ problems early can prevent years of pain and expense. By restoring harmony to your jaw function, you can reduce headaches, protect enamel, and avoid the need for restorative procedures like crowns or implants. Many patients also notice an improvement in sleep quality, concentration, and overall well-being once the constant tension is gone.

TMJ treatment isn’t just about comfort—it’s about preserving the integrity of your smile. When your jaw joint functions properly, your teeth and bite stay aligned, minimizing the risk of cracks, uneven wear, and costly dental repair work.

Protect Your Smile and Your Budget

If you’ve noticed persistent jaw tension, clicking, or morning headaches, now is the time to act. Early intervention is the key to preventing the expensive dental damage that can result from untreated TMJ. At The Fort Collins Dentist, we combine advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment, and compassionate care to help you find lasting relief.

Don’t wait until TMJ disorder costs you your comfort—or your smile. Visit The Fort Collins Dentist in Fort Collins today to explore effective TMJ solutions that protect your oral health and your future.

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

How Investing in Your Smile Pays Long-Term Dividends

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Dental veneers

A graphic image of porcelain dental veneers.Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it can shape the way you see yourself. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko believes cosmetic dentistry is more than just an aesthetic enhancement—it’s a life-changing investment. A radiant, confident smile can open doors in your personal, professional, and social life while improving your overall well-being.

The Confidence to Succeed

When you feel good about your smile, it shows. Whether you’re interviewing for a new job, meeting clients, or giving a presentation, your smile plays a key role in how others perceive you—and how you perceive yourself. A bright, polished appearance projects confidence, and that confidence can lead to real opportunities in your career and relationships. Cosmetic dentistry helps you put your best self forward every single day.

Transform Your Smile with Modern Cosmetic Solutions

Cosmetic dentistry is about artistry and precision. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko offers advanced, personalized treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty. For patients seeking a quick and noticeable improvement, professional teeth whitening offers brilliant, long-lasting results. Custom-made trays make it easy to whiten your teeth comfortably and effectively from home.

For those who want a more dramatic transformation, dental veneers can completely rejuvenate your smile. These thin porcelain shells mask chips, stains, and gaps, creating a seamless, picture-perfect look. Veneers not only enhance your appearance but also provide lasting confidence every time you smile.

Dental implants are another remarkable option for patients with missing teeth. They restore both function and beauty, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease. Because implants are designed to look and feel just like real teeth, they offer a lifelong solution that keeps your smile strong and natural.

Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Lesko’s skill and dedication set The Fort Collins Dentist apart. With more than 100 hours of continuing education each year, she stays at the forefront of cosmetic and restorative techniques. Her patient-first approach ensures that every smile makeover is custom-tailored to your needs, goals, and natural features. From porcelain veneers and bonding to full smile transformations, Dr. Lesko’s artistry produces results that feel authentic and inspire confidence.

A Beautiful Smile That Lasts

Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good, too. When you invest in your smile, you invest in yourself. The benefits extend beyond aesthetics, influencing your self-esteem, relationships, and even your health. A confident smile encourages better oral hygiene, improved habits, and a more positive outlook on life.

If you’re ready to discover what a new smile can do for you, schedule a consultation at The Fort Collins Dentist. Patients throughout Fort Collins trust Dr. Lesko to deliver exceptional results that look stunning and feel completely natural. With the right cosmetic care, your smile—and your confidence—can shine brighter than ever.

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

Six Months to a Healthier Smile: Why Your Cleaning Can’t Wait

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease

A young woman smiling with healthy teeth and gums from regular dental cleanings.At The Fort Collins Dentist, we know life can get busy, but skipping your six-month cleaning and exam can put your oral health at serious risk. Brushing and flossing at home are essential, yet they can’t remove all the plaque and tartar that build up on your teeth and gums. Regular cleanings ensure fresh breath, healthy gums, and teeth free of sensitivity. More importantly, good oral health supports your overall well-being and lowers your risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you come in for a six-month checkup, Dr. Lesko and her team provide a thorough dental exam and professional cleaning. This includes plaque and tartar removal, an oral cancer screening, and digital X-rays when needed. We’ll also polish and floss your teeth so you leave with a fresh, bright smile. Every visit is designed to be comfortable, welcoming, and informative—giving you the tools you need to keep your teeth healthy between appointments.

Preventing Problems Before They Start

One of the biggest benefits of your regular cleaning is early detection. Catching signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health concerns early makes treatment simpler, less invasive, and less expensive. From tooth-colored fillings to gum therapy and gentle extractions, our general dentistry services ensure you receive the care you need before issues become major problems.

Care for the Whole Family

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we’re proud to provide comprehensive care for every member of your family. From infant oral exams and preventative fluoride treatments to guidance on thumb-sucking habits and treatment for dental injuries, Dr. Lesko and her team create a safe and positive environment for children and teens. Adults benefit from the same attentive, personalized care, ensuring that your entire family enjoys long-term oral health.

Protecting Your Smile and Health

Making time for your six-month cleaning is more than just a dental routine—it’s an investment in your lifelong health. Healthy teeth and gums help you feel confident, avoid costly dental work, and support your overall wellness. If you’re overdue for a visit, don’t wait any longer. Schedule your cleaning today with The Fort Collins Dentist and keep your smile strong and healthy. We proudly serve patients throughout Fort Collins and the surrounding community.

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

Is Your Dental Injury an Emergency? Here’s How to Tell

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Categories: Dental health, Emergency Dentistry, General dentistry

A man clutching an ice pack to his face after a dental emergency in Fort Collins.Dental emergencies can happen in an instant, leaving you unsure of what to do next. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and our team are here to guide you through urgent situations with same-day care whenever possible. Knowing when a dental injury requires immediate attention can make all the difference in protecting your smile and preventing long-term damage.

Understanding Dental Emergencies

Not all dental issues are emergencies, but some situations require immediate care to prevent further damage. A tooth that has been knocked out, for example, needs urgent attention to increase the chances of saving it. Severe pain or swelling may signal an infection that could spread if untreated. Even broken restorations, such as dental crowns or braces, can create sharp edges that injure soft tissue and should be repaired quickly.

Knocked-Out and Broken Teeth

Few situations feel more alarming than a knocked-out tooth. If this happens, handle the tooth carefully by the crown and avoid touching the root. Whenever possible, gently place it back into the socket or store it in milk until you reach the dental office. Broken or cracked teeth are also emergencies, especially if the damage exposes the inner layers of the tooth. Immediate care can prevent infection and preserve your natural smile.

Severe Tooth Pain

Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. While minor sensitivity is common, intense or throbbing tooth pain is a warning sign that should not be ignored. In many cases, this type of pain comes from deep decay or infection inside the tooth, which requires urgent treatment. Root canal therapy or other procedures may be necessary to stop the infection and relieve discomfort.

Damaged Restorations

Crowns, fillings, or orthodontic appliances that become damaged can also create emergencies. A broken crown or filling leaves your tooth unprotected and vulnerable to decay or fracture. Orthodontic appliances with sharp edges can cut the inside of your mouth. While these issues may not always involve severe pain, they still require prompt repair to prevent further complications.

When to Call Right Away

If you experience a knocked-out tooth, severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or visible damage to your teeth or restorations, it’s time to call for emergency dental care. Even if you are unsure whether your situation qualifies as urgent, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Quick treatment can reduce your risk of long-term damage and restore your comfort more effectively.

Emergency Care in Fort Collins

Dental emergencies are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and our team provide same-day care whenever possible, so you can get relief when you need it most. From knocked-out teeth to severe pain or broken restorations, we are here to help. Our office proudly serves patients in Fort Collins. Call us right away if you have a dental emergency, and let us restore your smile with care and expertise.

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

Transform Your Smile and Erase Medical Stains

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, Teeth Whitening

A young man smiling proudly with stain-free porcelain veneers.At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf help patients achieve smiles that look bright, healthy, and confident. For those struggling with deep discoloration—especially medical stains caused by certain medications—porcelain dental veneers offer one of the most effective and lasting solutions.

Why Medical Stains Are Different

Not all stains are created equal. While surface stains from coffee, wine, or smoking can often be removed with whitening treatments, medical stains are typically much deeper and more resistant. These intrinsic stains can make teeth appear gray, brown, or discolored, and unfortunately, no amount of whitening will fully remove them. This is where dental veneers provide a transformative option.

How Veneers Conceal Stubborn Stains

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored material that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. By covering the natural tooth, they instantly mask discoloration while also enhancing the overall shape and appearance of your smile. Veneers not only eliminate the appearance of medical stains but also correct chips, small gaps, and uneven teeth, making them a versatile cosmetic solution.

A Natural and Lasting Transformation

One of the greatest benefits of porcelain veneers is how seamlessly they blend into your natural smile. With careful color-matching and custom shaping, Dr. Lesko and Dr. Riesgraf ensure that your veneers look realistic and complement your surrounding teeth. Once placed, veneers are strong, durable, and resistant to future staining. With proper care, they can last between five and ten years, giving you long-term confidence in your smile.

The Veneer Process at The Fort Collins Dentist

Your journey to a new smile begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf will examine your teeth and gums to ensure veneers are the right option for you. To prepare for placement, a thin layer of enamel is removed so the veneers fit comfortably and look natural. Impressions are then taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom veneers are crafted with precision.

At your follow-up appointment, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using a strong dental adhesive and cured with a special light for a secure, lasting fit. Once complete, you’ll leave our office with a radiant, flawless smile designed to stand the test of time.

Say Goodbye to Stains and Hello to Confidence

If you’ve been hiding your smile because of medical stains or other imperfections, porcelain veneers can help you regain your confidence. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf provide personalized veneer treatments that deliver stunning results tailored to your unique smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your transformation. We proudly serve patients throughout Fort Collins and the surrounding 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

Which Dentures Fit You Best? Let’s Find Out

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Categories: Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

Permanent Implant Dentures - The Fort Collins DentistMissing teeth can affect more than just your smile—they can impact your confidence, your ability to eat, and even your overall facial structure. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf provide customized denture solutions that help restore your full, healthy smile. Whether you’re considering traditional dentures or are curious about the benefits of implant-supported options, our team is here to guide you toward the best choice for your needs.

Understanding Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures are a tried-and-true method for replacing missing teeth. These removable appliances are custom-crafted to fit your mouth and restore the full appearance of your smile. In addition to improving your appearance, traditional dentures support your facial muscles, helping you maintain a more youthful and lifted look.

For patients who do not have sufficient jawbone volume for implants or who are looking for a more affordable solution, traditional dentures offer a reliable and accessible option. They are also non-invasive and can be adjusted as your mouth changes over time.

The Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

For a more permanent and natural-feeling solution, implant-supported dentures offer several advantages. These dentures are anchored to dental implants—small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone. Once healed, the implants provide a stable foundation for dentures that won’t shift or slip.

Because implant dentures replace both the tooth root and crown, they help preserve your jawbone and maintain your facial structure. This prevents the bone loss and facial collapse that can occur over time with traditional dentures. Patients with implant-supported dentures often report that they can eat, speak, and smile more confidently.

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we offer both removable implant dentures and the All-on-6® Treatment Concept, which uses six implants to support a full arch of permanent porcelain teeth. Whether you choose a removable option that snaps into place or a more fixed solution, implant dentures look and feel just like natural teeth—and they’re easy to care for, too.

Choosing the Right Fit

The best denture solution depends on your current oral health, bone structure, and lifestyle preferences. Traditional dentures may be ideal for those seeking a cost-effective, removable option, while implant-supported dentures provide long-term stability and health benefits for those who qualify.

During your consultation, Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf will examine your mouth, review your goals, and recommend the option that will help you regain function and confidence.

If you’re in the Fort Collins area and ready to reclaim your smile, contact The Fort Collins Dentist today. Whether you’re leaning toward traditional dentures or want to explore permanent implant-supported options, our team is here to help you make an informed, comfortable choice.

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

The Veneer Fix for Stubborn Tooth Discoloration

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers

A young man and woman smiling proudly with porcelain veneers.At The Fort Collins Dentist, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with deep stains caused by medications. Some discoloration just won’t respond to traditional whitening treatments, no matter how many times you try. If you’ve tried everything to brighten your smile and still see dark spots or dullness, porcelain veneers may be the permanent solution you’ve been looking for. Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf offer expertly crafted veneers that can completely transform your smile and your confidence.

Why Some Stains Won’t Budge

Certain medications, especially antibiotics like tetracycline, can cause internal tooth discoloration that develops beneath the surface. These deep stains don’t respond well to whitening gels or bleaching treatments because the discoloration is within the tooth structure itself. For patients who have tried over-the-counter or even professional whitening options without success, the results can be disappointing and discouraging. That’s where porcelain veneers come in—they don’t just lighten teeth, they cover the discoloration entirely.

How Veneers Solve the Problem

Porcelain veneers are thin, durable shells designed to cover the front of your teeth. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural smile. Once bonded in place, they create the appearance of bright, uniform, and stain-free teeth. Veneers offer a dramatic aesthetic improvement and can also strengthen and protect the underlying tooth from further damage. Best of all, veneers are highly resistant to future staining, so your beautiful results will last.

A Fast and Customized Transformation

When you choose veneers at The Fort Collins Dentist, the process is efficient and tailored just for you. Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf will start with a thorough examination to confirm that veneers are the right option for your smile goals. Then, a small amount of enamel is removed to prepare your teeth for the veneers. Impressions are taken and sent to a lab where your custom veneers are made with precision.

After a short waiting period, you’ll return to the office for placement. Your dentist will bond the veneers to your teeth using a special adhesive and light-curing process, ensuring a secure and long-lasting fit. With proper care, your veneers can last up to a decade or more. The entire process typically takes only two visits.

The Confidence of a Natural-Looking Smile

Thanks to advanced materials and color-matching technology, porcelain veneers look completely natural. At The Fort Collins Dentist, we make sure your veneers blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile and facial features. No one will be able to tell you’ve had cosmetic work—they’ll just see a healthy, attractive smile that lights up the room.

If you’re ready to stop hiding your smile because of stubborn medication stains, it’s time to explore what porcelain veneers can do. The Fort Collins Dentist proudly serves patients in Fort Collins and nearby areas with expert cosmetic care and a commitment to helping you feel confident again.

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

CEREC Crowns: Fast Fixes for Damaged Teeth

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Restorative dentistry

A young woman admiring her restored smile in the mirror.A chipped, cracked, or damaged tooth demands immediate attention. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications, including increased pain, infection, and more extensive dental work down the road. CEREC dental crowns offer a fast, reliable, and long-lasting solution that can restore your smile in just one visit. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko provides same-day CEREC crowns, delivering the ultimate convenience for patients who need quick, quality care.

What Is a Dental Crown and When Is It Needed?

A dental crown is a protective cap that covers a damaged tooth completely. This restoration restores the tooth’s strength, protects it from further damage, and enhances its appearance. Crowns become necessary when teeth suffer from chips, cracks, or significant damage that compromises their structure.

Crowns prove useful for teeth weakened by decay or trauma. They also address discolored or misshapen teeth that affect your smile’s appearance. Teeth damaged from grinding, clenching, or general wear and tear often require crown protection to prevent further deterioration. The crown acts as a shield, allowing you to bite and chew normally while maintaining your tooth’s natural function.

The CEREC Advantage: Crowns in a Single Visit

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This revolutionary technology transforms the traditional crown process from a multi-week procedure into a single-visit solution.

The same-day process begins with a digital scan of your damaged tooth. Gone are the days of uncomfortable, gooey impressions that make patients gag. The digital scanner captures precise measurements in minutes, creating a detailed 3D model of your tooth.

Next, advanced software designs your custom crown based on the digital scan. The computer creates a restoration that matches your tooth’s natural shape and size perfectly. This digital design ensures optimal fit and function.

The crown is then milled onsite using state-of-the-art equipment. High-quality ceramic material is shaped into your custom crown while you wait. This process typically takes about 15 minutes, allowing you to relax in the dental chair.

Finally, your new crown is placed and bonded immediately. No temporary crown is needed, and no second appointment is required. You leave the office with a fully restored, natural-looking tooth.

The benefits of CEREC crowns extend beyond convenience. You save valuable time by avoiding multiple appointments and the hassle of temporary crowns. The process is comfortable and efficient, with no messy impressions or waiting periods. The results are both natural-looking and durable, providing long-lasting protection for your damaged tooth.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist?

Dr. Allison Lesko brings extensive experience and a gentle approach to every CEREC crown procedure. Her commitment to patient comfort ensures you feel relaxed and confident throughout the process. The office features state-of-the-art technology, including the latest CEREC equipment, to deliver precise, high-quality restorations.

The convenience of one-visit restorations fits perfectly with busy lifestyles. Rather than scheduling multiple appointments and dealing with temporary crowns, you can have your tooth restored completely in a single visit. This efficiency makes dental care more accessible and less disruptive to your daily routine.

Protect Your Smile Today

Don’t let a chipped or cracked tooth compromise your oral health. Delaying treatment only increases the risk of complications and more extensive procedures later. Same-day CEREC crowns provide the perfect solution for anyone seeking quick, long-lasting, and beautiful results.

Patients in Fort Collins can trust Dr. Lesko and her team to restore their smiles with both speed and precision. The combination of advanced technology, skilled craftsmanship, and patient-focused care ensures your crown will look natural and last for years to come.

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

Red Flags in Your Smile: Spotting Early Gum Disease

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Categories: Gum disease, Oral Health, Overall Health

A young man flossing, trying to prevent gum disease.Nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease, yet many don’t even realize it. This is because early signs can be so subtle that they’re often ignored or mistaken for something minor. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko is passionate about helping patients identify and treat gum disease in its earliest stages, ensuring healthier smiles and better overall well-being.

Sneaky Signs You Might Have Gum Disease

Bleeding gums, even a small amount when brushing or flossing, is not normal and should not be overlooked. Many people dismiss redness, swelling, or tenderness in their gums as the result of brushing too hard, but these can be early indicators of gum disease. Chronic bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth can also point to bacteria buildup that needs attention.

Receding gums, which make teeth appear longer, are another potential red flag. This condition may hint at underlying issues like tooth instability or bone loss. Worse still are signs like loose teeth or changes in the way your bite feels, as these often signal advanced gum deterioration. The most alarming symptom is pus between your teeth and gums, which confirms that an infection is present and requires immediate care.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Ignoring gum disease doesn’t just put your oral health at risk. Numerous studies have linked untreated gum disease to serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. The inflammation caused by gum infections can affect your entire body, highlighting the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being.

Bone loss in the jaw, another consequence of untreated gum disease, can lead to tooth loss and changes in facial structure. Early intervention is key to preventing these far-reaching effects.

What We Can Do About It

At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko and her team provide personalized, compassionate care to tackle gum disease head-on. Their tailored treatment plans include three levels of periodontal therapy, ensuring that your care matches your specific needs. They’ve moved beyond the standard hygiene approach, focusing on targeted periodontal care that aims to restore gum health.

Root planing, a procedure designed to clean deeply and smooth out your tooth roots, is one of the advanced services offered to help prevent future plaque buildup and disease progression. Dr. Lesko’s approach prioritizes patient comfort and education, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout your treatment.

High-Tech Help with OralDNA®

For a more precise and effective approach, Dr. Lesko’s practice employs OralDNA® testing. This simple swish-and-spit test helps identify the exact bacteria contributing to gum disease. The MyPerioPath® test results allow for highly personalized treatment plans that target the root cause of your gum issues.

This cutting-edge technology not only boosts treatment precision but also reduces the risk of future complications, contributing to improved oral and overall health. With OralDNA®, patients experience care tailored to their unique needs and gain a clearer understanding of their gum health.

Smile with Confidence

The good news is that early gum disease is reversible with timely intervention. Subtle signs like bleeding or tenderness deserve attention, and Dr. Lesko’s expert care at The Fort Collins Dentist can help you restore and protect your smile.

Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. If you’re in Fort Collins, schedule a consultation today and take a proactive step toward healthier gums and a brighter 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

Missing Teeth? Stop Bone Loss with Implants

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Categories: Dental Implants, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry

A graphic image of a dental impant and its parts.Gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth have more than just cosmetic consequences. Untreated tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration, affecting both your oral health and facial structure. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf specialize in advanced dental implant care, a cutting-edge solution designed to protect your smile and preserve your jawbone.

Dental implants mimic the structure of natural teeth, including the root, ensuring that your jawbone remains stimulated and healthy. Here’s how this restorative option could save your smile and protect your long-term oral health.

How Missing Teeth Lead to Bone Loss

Your teeth don’t just help you chew and smile confidently; they also play a critical role in keeping your jawbone healthy and strong. Deep within your gums, your natural tooth roots provide constant stimulation to the jawbone, which is necessary to maintain its density and structure.

When a tooth is lost, that vital stimulation disappears. Over time, the jawbone begins to shrink, or resorb, due to a lack of activity. This gradual bone loss can lead to changes in your facial structure, causing a sunken appearance around the mouth and cheeks. Additionally, jawbone deterioration can affect how your other teeth function, further compromising your oral health. Without intervention, the cascading effects of missing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life.

Why Dental Implants Are the Number-One Solution

Dental implants represent the gold standard in tooth replacement, thanks to their ability to closely replicate the function and structure of natural teeth. Once placed into the jawbone, the titanium implant post integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a stable and long-lasting foundation.

Unlike other replacement options, such as traditional dentures or bridges, implants restore the vital stimulation that prevents bone loss and maintains the integrity of your jawbone. They also help preserve your facial structure, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and support overall oral health. Whether you are missing one tooth or several, implants provide a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution tailored to meet your needs.

Single vs. Multiple Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are a versatile solution that can address various levels of tooth loss. For a single missing tooth, an individual implant with a lifelike crown offers a natural and seamless replacement. If multiple teeth are missing in a row, implant-supported bridges can provide a cohesive and stable restoration. For patients experiencing significant tooth loss, full arch solutions such as implant-supported dentures offer comprehensive coverage, restoring both form and function while preventing further bone deterioration.

Each approach is specifically designed to ensure optimal performance and protect your oral health for the long term.

The Fort Collins Dental Implant Process

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we make the dental implant process seamless by providing complete care in one convenient location. Dr. Lesko and Dr. Riesgraf use advanced technology, including 3D cone beam imaging and surgical guides, to ensure precision and success during implant placement.

For patients who need additional jawbone support, our practice also offers bone grafting and sinus lifts to restore bone volume and create an ideal foundation for implants. From initial placement to final restoration, our expert team is by your side every step of the way, ensuring your smile is in the best hands.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most healthy adults qualify for dental implants. Even if you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, pre-treatment options like bone grafts can restore lost volume and stimulate new bone growth. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf at The Fort Collins Dentist is the best way to determine whether implants are the right choice for you.

During your consultation, we’ll assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs. No matter your situation, we believe everyone deserves a strong, healthy smile.

Protect Your Smile and Your Jawbone in Fort Collins

Dental implants are so much more than a cosmetic fix. They offer a long-term solution that supports your overall oral health, preserves your jawbone, and gives you back the confidence to smile again. If you’re ready to restore your smile, don’t wait. Delaying treatment could lead to further bone loss and compromise your oral health.

Residents of Fort Collins can schedule a consultation with Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf today to take the first step toward transforming their smile and protecting their jawbone. Contact us at The Fort Collins Dentist to learn more and get started. Your future smile will thank you.

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