A Fresh Start After Losing a Tooth

A graphic image of a permanent tooth replacement. Do you have an extracted tooth?

If the tooth had been aching, it may have been a relief. Unless, of course, it was in the front of your mouth and now the gaping hole shows every time you smile. Ignoring it is extremely difficult because your tongue can’t leave the gap alone.

I’m Missing a Tooth. Now What?

Once the tooth has been taken out, you have many important decisions to make.

  • Do I want a dental bridge?
  • Is a dental bridge a permanent solution?
  • Do I want to damage two healthy teeth to anchor the bridge?
  • Should I decide on a partial denture?
  • What about bone loss?

A Better Restoration

What if you could have a fresh start? What if you could have a permanent, natural-looking tooth replacement that would restore your smile and retain the healthy bone and gum tissue around the tooth root? If you select a dental implant from the Fort Collins Dentist, you can.

A tooth implant is a permanent replacement for all parts of the tooth. It is comprised of three parts: the titanium post, the abutment, and the restoration.

Titanium Post

—inserted directly into the jaw bone
—quite strong
—titanium is unique in that it bonds with living bone tissue (also used in knee and hip replacement surgery)

Abutment

—can be fabricated of gold, porcelain, or titanium
—permanently attached to the post (it will not slip and slide like dentures)

The Restoration (Crown)

—usually made of porcelain fused to a metal alloy (PFM)
—made to match the color of surrounding teeth
—will look as good or better than the tooth it replaced

A dental implant is not an experimental treatment. The cutting-edge materials and techniques have been tested and refined for several decades.

Additionally, it has been carried out by Fort Collins dentists for over thirty years.

Do you want to take care of a gap in your smile? Let’s talk! Schedule a consultation with our team today and we’ll work together toward creating your 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

 

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Tooth Restoration: Dental Implants And Dental Bridges

Fort Collins Dental Implants and Dental Bridges.Tooth replacement has been a highly requested dental service at the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry. When my patients inquire about tooth restoration, I typically tell them about fixed (or traditional) dental bridges and tooth implants.

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that replaces a missing tooth. The false tooth—called a pontic—is fused to porcelain crowns on both sides of the missing tooth.

Tooth Implants Replace the Root and Crown

Dental implants are also popular and can often be a more effective choice. A dental implant incorporates a titanium post surgically inserted into the jaw bone to replace the root of the missing tooth. The post integrates with the bone to provide a solid foundation for the replacement tooth.

After it has bonded with the bone (it usually takes three to six months), a smaller post is attached. This post extends above the gum line. The artificial tooth (crown) is then affixed. The entire process takes several months but consistently yields extraordinary results.

Preserving Facial Contour

Both of these restoration options preserve or restore facial contour and allow you to talk and eat normally. Tooth replacements prevent adjoining teeth from gradually shifting and can help correct bite problems, as well.

Tooth implants and dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth. Many individuals have been treated successfully with these tooth restoration procedures.

Call the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to schedule a tooth restoration consultation by calling 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

 

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The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Performs Emergency Root Canals

Colorado Dentist Calms Root Canal Fears.At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we perform emergency root canals. Though this procedure strikes fear into the hearts of many individuals, they should be more afraid of not having a root canal.

What is a root canal?

When a tooth becomes badly infected or decayed, our qualified dental team can fix it.

First, we clean the inside of the tooth by removing the bacteria, soft tissue (called pulp), decayed nerve tissue, and any debris that may be causing the tooth infection from the inside of the tooth.

The dentist will then seal the tooth to prevent further cavities and finish by applying a crown or filling. This is the process and purpose of a root canal. The process can be completed, typically, in one or two visits. In many cases, a root canal procedure is a better option than removing the infected tooth since it allows the patient to keep their natural tooth.

Are all teeth at risk?

Teeth that are more prone to requiring a root canal are cracked or chipped, have received repeated dental procedures, have been damaged by trauma to the face, or are suffering from deep tooth decay. Wearing a mouth guard can help prevent damage sustained to teeth and practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as daily flossing and brushing, coupled with regular dental visits, can reduce the possibility of needing a root canal.

Though a root canal can be intimidating or scary, educating yourself and talking to your dentist can relieve much of your anxiety. Root canals are often not painful, and for many individuals, the pain of the infection experienced beforehand is worse than any pain that might be experienced during the procedure.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often do not produce symptoms, it is critical to have regular dental examinations. Your dentist can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved.

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 421

3 Smart Smile Solutions

Get a smile makeover in Fort Collins.

In today’s message from the Fort Collins Dentist, we will concentrate on three innovative procedures used in smile redesigns.

1. Tooth Implants
Tooth implants are transforming the face of dentistry. For most patients, a dental implant is the proper solution for a missing tooth. A dental implant is a metal (usually titanium) rod implanted into the bone to replace the missing root of a tooth that has been extracted. The crown and supporting structure are securely attached to the post.

When the final crown is attached, the dental implant is indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Dental implants have many vital advantages over dental bridges. If you are missing teeth, schedule a consultation with Doctor Lesko to learn more.

2. Invisible Braces
Invisible braces allow you to straighten your teeth discreetly because it is nearly impossible to see them while they are being worn. There are a couple of different types of invisible braces including Damon Braces and Invisalign clear aligners.

3. White Fillings
If you had decay in the past, you may have old amalgam fillings. White fillings match your surrounding teeth, significantly upgrading your smile without crowns.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry has been providing trusted dental care since 2016. We look forward to meeting you. 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 7297

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

Rather Have A Root Canal?

Fort Collins Endodontics and Root Canal Therapy.

Would you rather have a root canal?

Have you ever heard the phrase ‘I’d rather have a root canal’ to describe something painful or unpleasant? At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we perform root canal (endodontic) therapy routinely for our patients, and many report minimal discomfort.

Root canal procedures have advanced significantly in recent years. For many root canal patients, the procedure is no more stressful than getting a filling.

If root canal therapy is necessary to preserve a tooth, we provide the most advanced endodontic treatment in Colorado.

How do you know if you need a root canal? You should communicate with your dental professional immediately if you experience tenderness or pain, hot or cold sensitivity, tooth discoloration, tooth injury, gum swelling, gum pain, or lymph node tenderness or drainage. However, for some endodontic patients, there are no symptoms. That is why it is vital to visit your dentist regularly for a thorough dental examination and dental cleaning.

 

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 373

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

A Wise Investment That Pays Off Every Day

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

 

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Why a Root Canal Is Not Something To Fear

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