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

Ditch the DIY Dental With The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins Colorado

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

Multiple hands grasping different tools, symbolizing teamwork and the shared effort in a hands-on project or workshop.

The internet is a treasure trove of information, but when it comes to your oral health, not everything you read online is accurate or safe.

While it might be tempting to try home remedies for dental issues, visiting a qualified dentist at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado is the only way to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why DIY Dental Doesn’t Cut It

  • Misinformation: The internet is rife with misinformation, and what might seem like a harmless home remedy could cause more harm than good.
  • Incorrect Diagnosis: Without a professional examination, it’s easy to misdiagnose dental problems. This can lead to ineffective or even dangerous treatments.
  • Delayed Treatment: Attempting home remedies can delay seeking professional care, allowing dental issues to worsen.
  • Damage to Teeth and Gums: Some DIY methods can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.
  • Overlooking Underlying Issues: Home remedies often address symptoms, not the root cause of the problem. A dentist can identify and treat underlying conditions.

Your Trusted Dental Experts at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Our experienced dentists have the training and expertise to accurately diagnose dental problems.
  • Comprehensive Treatment: We offer a wide range of treatments tailored to your specific needs.
  • Preventive Care: Regular checkups help prevent dental issues before they become serious.
  • Personalized Advice: Our dentists provide personalized oral hygiene recommendations.
  • Safe and Effective Treatments: Our dental treatments are safe and backed by scientific research.

Remember, your oral health is too important to gamble with.

While the internet can be a valuable resource for general information, always consult a dentist at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry for professional advice and treatment.

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 8728

Correcting Severe Dental Problems At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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

A yellow diamond shaped sign with a warning of construction ahead written in black letters.Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed at The Fort Collins Dentist in Loveland can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can correct the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some Fort Collins dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures that remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some Fort Collins smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course, it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your Fort Collins dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures. They are available right here in Fort Collins, Wellington, and Windsor. Our team has the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate 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 950

We Keep Dental Patients Comfortable

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Restorative dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

A smiling blonde woman with curly hair in a dentist's chair with dental tools on a cabinet in the background.

To state the obvious, nobody enjoys pain. doctor Lesko knows this, and that is why the dental team at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry has made patient comfort our number one goal.

In conjunction with creating a calm environment, we have various medications that can lower and even eliminate pain associated with different dental procedures to give you a more enjoyable experience.

Some of the most common pain-relieving medications used in Loveland dentist offices and around the country are topical anesthetics. These are swabbed directly onto mouth tissue and numb the surface layers. Topical anesthetics can minimize the pain of mouth sores, or they can be applied to prepare the mouth for an injection.

Local anesthetics are injected into mouth tissue (usually the gums) to block the nerve sensations in distinct areas of the mouth. Dentists usually numb the mouth in this way before filling cavities, treating gum disease, or performing cosmetic dentistry procedures.

More involved dental procedures may necessitate nitrous oxide or even general anesthesia. Ask us about sleep dentistry and oral conscious sedation.

Dentists often recommend an OTC analgesic to relieve pain after a dental visit. These medications include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.

Because your dentist will most likely administer a pain reliever during the dental visit or prescribe something for you to take after the procedure, make sure you make a complete list of medications you are taking, including herbal supplements, before each appointment.

We want patients to be informed about their dental care, especially as it pertains to pain relief during dental treatment. If you are in the Fort Collins area and looking for quality dental care, we invite you to contact our office and schedule an appointment 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 3542