We Keep Dental Patients Comfortable

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

A Ginormous Cavity?

Upgrade your smile with restorative dentistry in Fort Collins. When Doctor Allison Lesko of the Fort Collins Dentist repairs a tooth that has decay or damage, the procedure chosen often depends on the location of the problem. We’re talking tooth-specific locale here.

If there is a chip, crack, or decay on the biting surface of a tooth, an onlay or inlay is often created to restore the tooth.

Inlays and onlays are a type of tooth restoration used successfully at the Fort Collins Dentist. They are usually bigger than a conventional filling yet smaller than a complete crown. An inlay is used to fill an area inside the cusp tips or bumps of a tooth. An onlay covers an area that includes more than one cusp.

At the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, the inlays and onlays we place for our patients are indistinguishable from their natural teeth. Dr. Allison Lesko has a finely honed eye for detail and complete mastery of dental aesthetics to design the restoration and create an exact match.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry inlays and onlays:

  • Are stain resistant
  • Do not lead to tooth sensitivity
  • Are beautifully matched to natural teeth
  • Strengthen the tooth and protect against further decay or weakening

At the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Allison Lesko ensures your dental restorations are flawless and natural-looking. Whether you need an inlay or onlay, our expertise guarantees a perfect match that strengthens your tooth and enhances your smile. Schedule your appointment today to experience our exceptional care and craftsmanship. Visit us in Fort Collins and let us help you achieve the perfect 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 1473

Inlays/Onlays: Less Invasive Than Complete Crowns

Get affordable cosmetic dental work in Fort Collins.

Restorative dentistry has progressed considerably over the years and there are now several effective ways to repair decayed teeth. In today’s post from the Fort Collins Dentist, we are going to concentrate on two similar types of restorations: dental inlays and onlays.

Where possible, an inlay or an onlay can be a less-invasive substitute for a complete crown and either one is usually more affordable than a porcelain crown procedure.

Inlays/onlays are “indirect fillings,” meaning that they are created in a lab and placed whole on the tooth. A traditional “direct filling” is applied to the tooth while the material is malleable and then shaped by the dentist.

An inlay is used to repair the surface of a damaged tooth, usually to fill a small cavity or a natural pit that is at risk for decay.

Typically porcelain or composite resin are used for inlays; these materials are strong and look very natural because the color can be matched exactly to the surrounding teeth. An inlay is exactly fitted to your tooth and looks, feels, and functions like the initial tooth.

An onlay covers a larger part of the tooth. Because they cover such a large area of the tooth, they are often referred to as partial crowns. Onlays are commonly applied to the biting surface of the tooth. Just like inlays, they are specifically fitted to the damaged part of the tooth. Composite resin and porcelain are also the main materials used to create an onlay. As mentioned before, inlays and onlays serve a key role in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we provide trusted dental care including inlays and onlays. If you have one or more teeth that has a cavity, crack, or excessive wear, call our office to make 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 7227

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 6781

Not All Smile Makeovers Are Created Equal

Fort Collins smile makeovers with porcelain veneers and more.

Hello Fort Collins! Welcome to the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry dental blog. Let’s talk about smile transformations. Some Fort Collins patients wonder if the term is synonymous with general cosmetic dentistry.

Is the placement of four porcelain dental veneers considered a smile makeover? Well, yes and no. If your smile is attractive and healthy except for some chips in your upper front teeth, veneer placement may remedy a few cosmetic problems and result in a stunning smile.

Generally, however, a complete smile redesign combines several carefully chosen cosmetic dentistry procedures performed at the same time for a complete smile renewal. In other words, the sum is greater than the parts.

For example, one treatment plan could include crown restorations, veneers for teeth that are misshapen but otherwise healthy, tooth-colored filling replacement for old amalgam fillings, and teeth whitening for the crowning touch.

I am doctor Allison Lesko. I have been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado since 2016. Performing successful smile makeovers makes my profession extremely fulfilling. Patients who plan to receive a smile makeover should take their time choosing a dentist to perform it. I invite you to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your needs and wishes. During the consultation, I can tell you about my extensive experience and show you before and after pictures of satisfied patients.

When I design a custom smile makeover, I study several elements in addition to the teeth. After all, the teeth are just one component of the patient’s face. The gumline, lips, mouth, facial shape, facial structure, coloring, and patient’s age affect the scope of the design. This comprehensive approach to a smile makeover achieves incredible results and sets our practice apart.

If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dental smile makeovers, call us today at 970-221-5115.

 

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 6779

Are Dental Implants Experimental?

Dental implants in Fort Collins, CO.

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

Dental implants have been perfected and tested

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

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

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

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

  1. 1974
  2. 1998
  3. 1951

The answer is 1951. Surprised?

Dental implants have been studied since the 1970s

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

What are dental implants?

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

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

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

What are the benefits of tooth implants?

Implants:

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

Dental implant success rates

Now let’s address success rates.

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

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

 

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 8258

Get The Royal Treatment At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

cosmetic dentistry Fort Collins

In need of a crown? At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we can provide the exceptional experience you deserve with the dental care needed. Get discolored teeth brightened and chipped teeth fixed. Receive one important procedure or a full smile transformation. Your wish is our command.

Doctor Allison Lesko has been serving noble lords and ladies with the royal treatment since 2016. We crown patients with beautiful restorations and empower them with the confidence of a regal smile fit for a king.

Call us at: 970-221-5115. We are located in Fort Collins and also serve Timnath, Wellington, and Windsor.

Many individuals believe that cosmetic dentistry refers to care designed solely to enhance the looks of your smile as opposed to procedures such as fillings that fix a structural issue. However, there is much overlap. For example, the use of white fillings takes care of the cavities and makes your smile more beautiful. Other procedures used in cosmetic and general dentistry are veneers, inlays/onlays, braces, teeth whitening, soft-tissue grafts, crown lengthening, tooth implants, and dental bonding.

We want you to experience the transformation that comes from cosmetic dental care carried out by a true artist. Whether you need veneers, crowns, or whitening, we have an imperial seat ready for you to choose from.

Let us fulfill your every whim:

We look forward to making your acquaintance, your Highness.

none–DDS

 

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 6130

What’s New In Dentistry?

Adult man with bright white smile laughing with his eyes closed The world of dentistry continues to advance at a rapid pace. If you have visited your Fort Collins dentist lately, you have probably noticed some things that make your visit more comfortable, such as the ability to watch TV or listen to music while receiving treatment. Many Loveland dentistry patients welcome oral conscious sedation to reduce or eliminate pain.

What may not be as obvious are the advances in techniques, tools, and materials. Top Fort Collins dentists now use digital computer imaging which is safer than traditional x-rays. Dental technicians can store, retrieve, and transmit digital images much more easily than was possible with traditional x-ray film.

The use of lasers has also changed the face of dentistry. Laser surgery requires less anesthesia, minimizes swelling, and protects surrounding tissue. Loveland family dentists use lasers for detecting and treating cavities and dental technicians use them for the curing of restorative materials.

Another exciting development in cosmetic dentistry is the CAD-CAM technology that allows Windsor cosmetic dentists to perform restorations in a single visit. The types of procedures that can be completed in one visit include crowns, fillings, inlays, onlays, and veneers.

If you need a thorough exam, expert dental cleaning, or want to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry, call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry at 970-221-5115 to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, you can see before and after photos of some of our smile makeover patients. We would love to help you achieve the smile you deserve, and we have the tools, experience, and technology to make that happen- DDS

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 1270

Teeth Look Too Short? Lengthen Them!

fix gummy smile Fort Collins

Most Fort Collins people who are considering cosmetic dentistry are aware of the cosmetic dental procedures that are frequently advertised in the Loveland area.

There are porcelain veneers: a custom made wafer-thin covering permanently attached to the front of a tooth to make it stain-free and perfectly shaped. Veneers can repair small chips and crack in teeth that are free of decay. Many Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry patients get minimally invasive veneers on their top six teeth for a dramatic improvement.

Orthodontia has received a lot of attention in Colorado in the past twenty years with the introduction of invisible and short-term braces. And braces are not only for ‘tweens and teenagers. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we have seen more adults straighten their teeth to achieve dazzling smiles with discrete orthodontic treatment.

Porcelain crowns have been around for generations but continue to restore decayed or damaged teeth while providing beauty, strength, and natural function. Porcelain crowns are also used with innovative dental implants to restore missing teeth.

A cosmetic dental procedure that is lesser known in the Fort Collins area is crown lengthening. If you feel that your teeth appear too short or that your smile exposes more gum than you would like (a ‘gummy smile’), you may be interested in crown lengthening.

Crown lengthening surgery is a safe and effective procedure that exposes more of the visible part of the tooth while minimizing the vertical length of exposed gum tissue.

When a gummy smile is corrected, our Fort Collins crown-lengthening patients are often surprised at how it positively affects their whole face. They love their new smile which reveals pleasing, symmetrical portions of their upper teeth that have been hidden under gum tissue their whole life.

Sometimes, crown lengthening is used when a tooth is fractured at the gumline. The surgery makes tooth structure accessible for the necessary restoration.

Digital imaging helps Loveland dental professionals perform crown lengthening with exactness. A highly-detailed, 3-D image of tooth and bone structure allows the cosmetic dentist to contour a gumline to the patient’s exact specifications.

If you would like to find out if crown lengthening is right for you, schedule a consultation by calling The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry at 970-221-5115. We are located at 2001 S Shields St Bldg L in Fort Collins. We look forward to showing you photos of crown-lengthening patients who are enjoying their new look.

 

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 6900

Schedule Your Coronation

dentist crowns Fort Collins

We treat all of our patients royally here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, but some of them receive actual crowns. We’re not talking about crowns a king or queen wears, but crowns for your teeth! If you live near Loveland, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is the best place to get your teeth looking better than ever. And putting a crown on a tooth with problems could be just what you need to realize a dazzling smile.

Crowns are a therapy for a plethora of problems:

  • To protect a weak tooth from decay, breaking, or to hold together a cracked tooth.
  • To cover and provide durability to a tooth with a large filling and little tooth structure remaining.
  • To restore a broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down.
  • To upgrade a tooth that is too small or misshapen.
  • To cover a tooth with extreme discoloration.
  • To add strength to a tooth following a root canal procedure.

If you feel like you have a need for a crown, don’t look any further than The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry. Our dentists and lab techs have the experience, training, and ability to make sure your crowns are fabricated and placed accurately. There are many different kinds of crowns that serve different purposes. We complete a thorough examination to ensure the crown you get is perfect for you and your smile.

We then prepare your tooth so that the crown will fit the way that it should. Once the tooth is prepared and ready, we use state-of-the-art tools to fit the crown on your tooth. When done properly, crowns can last many years. Crowns are remarkable way to safeguard and upgrade your smile. Schedule a coronation 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