General dentistry

Why Visit The Dentist?

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

Visit the dentist in Fort Collins.

In today’s post from The Fort Collins Dentist, we share a personal story from a patient:

For many years, I didn’t have ‘go to the dentist’ at the top of my to-do list.

But all that has changed. I now consider visits a vital part of my personal health plan. 

Here’s why…

Teeth won’t stay healthy without consistent dental visits. I’ve come to realize this more definitively as I get older. From the obvious functional utility to the important cosmetic nature of teeth, we literally can’t live without them.

When it comes to functional utility, teeth are a fundamental part of our health. We use them to eat every day. The status of our teeth can impose needless restrictions on our diet. With no teeth at all, our diet might be so diminished we don’t get the necessary nutrition. 

For those who don’t have teeth, this is a sobering realization. Dentures and other prosthetic solutions can help. There are substitutes for the real thing, but having your own real teeth is preferred.

When it comes to the cosmetic side, there isn’t a substitute for a bright and toothy smile. It may be the most noticeable element of our face! Having an attractive smile is great for our self-esteem.

I’ve learned that a healthy smile is more than just a nice set of teeth. It contributes to all personal interactions.

Aging combined with poor dental hygiene is dangerous for teeth. The simple process of eating causes wear and tear. A continuous bacterial onslaught threatens the protective enamel. Cavities, gum disease, and trauma round out the list of detriments that could separate us from our teeth.

We Want To Help You Have a Healthy Smile

Healthy oral habits are, of course, the best way to keep your teeth in great shape. Making time in your busy day to brush and floss is a habit that will pay off throughout your life.

Regular dental visits are also crucial. Your dentist can help you improve the health of your teeth. The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can help you discover oral dilemmas before they become destructive.

Since your teeth are central to your overall health, it is vital to find a trusted dentist who can help.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we have extended hours. We can accommodate your schedule.

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 7774

3 Tips To Make Brushing Count

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

Affordable family dentist in Windsor.

Many of our patients walk in for dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, or dental implants. Many for routine checkups and cleanings. And most really want to know if they are brushing effectively. Having patients come for treatment and leave with questions answered—from which toothpaste to buy to proper tools and techniques—is our business. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are all about educating our patients. Sometimes life is as easy as 1-2-3.

1 Soft Bristle Toothbrush

Gentle brushing will achieve the same results as hard bristle brushing without abrasive damage to gums and gum lines. There is never a good reason to use hard or medium bristle toothbrushes. Better yet, wet the soft bristle toothbrush to be sure the bristles are flexible before brushing.

2 Minutes of Brushing and Flossing

Split the mouth into fourths and spend a good 30 seconds in each quarter. Hit the chewing surfaces, the inside surfaces, and the outside surfaces, and gently massage the gums. Be sure to pay attention to the far side of the back tooth it is never visible but can collect food and allow tooth decay to begin. Take two minutes to floss after brushing in the evening to remove any remnants the toothbrush couldn’t coax out and to clean any buildup. You have approximately 32 teeth and 32 gaps to floss clean. Two minutes should do the trick, but adding an extra minute for good measure can’t hurt.

3 Times a Day

Brushing after every meal should remain the goal. This is difficult for many who are not home for the midday meal. To achieve amazing dental hygiene, brushing is a priority. There are as many toothpaste choices out there as you have teeth; without consistent brushing and flossing, those teeth are facing sure destruction. Don’t misunderstand, toothpaste is critical. Toothpaste acts as the vehicle that collects the debris, keeps the bristles pliable, fluoridates the mouth, freshens the breath, and does a myriad of other side jobs. But after every meal, gently removing food debris prevents breakdown on precious tooth surfaces. Even if you don’t use toothpaste after lunch, a quick brush can keep your teeth free of buildup.

Here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we understand that nature has dealt with crooked teeth, sensitive teeth, and weak teeth for many patients. When you schedule an appointment to speak with our team, you will be advised on ways to repair your smile.

We provide our patients with the following services and many more: sedation dentistry, general dentistry, sleep apnea, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants.

 

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 6902

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care and Other Insights from The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in the Fort Collins, Colorado Area

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

Get Comprehensive Oral Care at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in the Fort Collins, Colorado Area.

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in the Fort Collins, Colorado area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is Your Partner in Oral Health

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in the Fort Collins, Colorado area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

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 8722

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing

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

Invest in your smile with dental crowns in Loveland.

Most men and women brush their teeth (at least we hope so). However, at The Fort Collins Dentist, we know there are many who brush inadequately but don’t realize that their dental hygiene practices may be contributing to oral problems.

They may pride themselves on their diligence, but frequency does not make up for an incorrect approach. One of the most common errors—especially for teens—is speedy, aggressive teeth cleaning with a hard bristle toothbrush.

There is a certain logic to this method; when you want to clean smooth surfaces like bathroom tiles, you scrub with a hard brush, right? The catch is that teeth and gums require a certain finesse. While enamel is secure, the soft tissues in the mouth are not designed for intense scouring.

If you use hard bristles against possible cavity makers, froth at the mouth, speed through those 30 inches of the tooth surface, and spit everything out in less than a minute, this article is for you.

Effects of Quick, Hard Brushing:

  • Tooth decay caused by bits of food left between teeth
  • Damage to teeth through abrasion
  • Weakened enamel
  • Tooth Sensitivity
  • Gums receding or pulling away from teeth
  • Damage to existing dental work
  • Tartar build-up

The friendly dental hygienists at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins teach patients the proper way to brush their teeth. With a slow, deliberate two minutes twice daily, you can take control of your dental hygiene, improve your oral health, and cut down the risk of future problems.

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing:

  • Plaque is soft enough to scratch off with a fingernail, so brush accordingly with soft bristles
  • Holding the toothbrush at the correct angle achieves a thorough cleaning
  • Proper tooth brushing can prolong that wonderful professional-cleaning feel
  • Flossing is easier without sore, bleeding gums

If you have already damaged your teeth or gums through aggressive or haphazard brushing, it’s important to fix those issues and get back on track. Call to schedule an appointment with 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 6562

Which Type of Toothbrush is Best?

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

Comprehensive family dental care in Loveland, CO.

It may surprise you to know that some men and women have very strong opinions about which type of toothbrush is the best: manual or electric. Is there really one that is clearly better?

Most dentists will tell you that all toothbrushes, when used correctly, are effective at removing plaque. Choosing which kind you prefer is really up to you.

Today, we at the Fort Collins Dentist want to give you some extra information about toothbrushes to help you select which kind is right for you or your child.

You need to consider cost and convenience. Some people argue that even though electric toothbrushes are more expensive, you’ll save on dental bills. However, there are no definitive studies to back up this claim.

Manual toothbrushes are easy to find, whereas not all drugstores carry all types of electric toothbrushes. This can be difficult when buying replacement heads. People who travel may find that a smaller, manual toothbrush is easier to pack (and batteries are not necessary).

The pressure you put on your gums with either type of toothbrush is critical. Some people say that it’s difficult to know how much pressure they use with electric toothbrushes, while others say that because of the quick electrical movements, they tend to be more gentle on their gums than when they use manual brushes. You may want to try them both to determine your brushing style. Then you can discuss it with your dentist.

Special consideration should be taken for men and women with arthritis. Most dentists advise their elderly and arthritic patients to use electric toothbrushes when their manual dexterity is diminished. As for children, once they are old enough, an electric toothbrush may be preferable, but safety should always be the first concern of parents.

Whichever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure you get soft bristles and replace them every three to four months! If you’re looking for more oral health guidance, make an appointment with the Fort Collins Dentist today.

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 3696

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Colorado

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Categories: Dental health, Extraction, General dentistry, Oral Health

Treat tooth injuries and dental emergencies in Fort Collins.

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and one area of the body that is particularly vulnerable to injury is the mouth, including the teeth.

Tooth injuries can range from minor chips and cracks to more severe cases such as fractures or avulsions (complete tooth displacement). Understanding the causes, types, and immediate actions for tooth injuries is crucial for minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving dental health.

If you experience a tooth injury, come into the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry as soon as possible and we can help you make a plan for repair, recovery, and long-term care.

In the meantime, let’s take a look at common Colorado tooth injuries, their causes, and what steps to take in case of an emergency.

Causes of Tooth Injuries

  • Tooth injuries can occur due to various factors, including:
  • Accidental Falls: Falling can result in impact to the face, causing teeth to hit hard surfaces.
  • Sports Injuries: Contact sports or recreational activities without proper mouthguards can lead to tooth injuries from collisions or falls.
  • Vehicle Accidents: High-speed collisions or sudden stops can cause severe trauma to the face and mouth.
  • Biting Hard Objects: Biting down on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can cause tooth fractures or chips.
  • Physical Altercations: Punches, kicks, or other forms of physical violence can result in tooth injuries.

Types of Tooth Injuries

Tooth injuries can vary in severity in Colorado, and they can be classified into several types:

  • Fractured or Cracked Teeth: These injuries involve partial or complete fractures of the tooth structure. They can range from minor cracks affecting only the enamel to more severe fractures extending into the dentin or pulp.
  • Chipped Teeth: This type of injury involves a small piece of the tooth enamel breaking off, usually caused by a direct impact.
  • Luxation Injuries: Luxation refers to the abnormal displacement of a tooth. It can include subluxation (tooth pushed out of alignment), extrusion (tooth partially pushed out of the socket), lateral displacement (tooth moved sideways), or intrusion (tooth pushed into the socket).
  • Avulsion: Avulsion occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out from its socket. Immediate action is crucial in attempting to save the tooth.

Immediate Actions for Tooth Injuries

In case of a tooth injury, it’s important to take immediate action at the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to minimize damage and maximize the chances of saving the tooth.

Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Stay Calm: Remaining calm helps you think clearly and act effectively.
  2. Assess the Injury: Examine the affected tooth and surrounding area to determine the severity of the injury.
  3. Control Bleeding: If there is bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply a clean piece of gauze or a tea bag to the area for about 10 minutes. If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate medical attention.
  4. Preserve the Tooth: If a tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed), try to re-implant it into the socket, if possible. Handle the tooth by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. If re-implantation is not possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or a saline solution to keep it moist.
  5. Seek Dental Care: Regardless of the severity of the injury, it is essential to visit your dentist at the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry as soon as possible. The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can assess the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance for optimal recovery.

Preventing Tooth Injuries

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are preventive measures that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth injuries:

Wear Protective Gear. When engaging in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental trauma, use a mouthguard or helmet with a face shield to protect your teeth.

Avoid Biting Hard into foods. Biting into a bone or other unexpected obstruction can result in chipped or broken teeth.

Avoid using your teeth as a tool. It’s sometimes natural to use your teeth to open packages or to hold items while you tug at them. This is a risky practice that can result in damage to your teeth.

Be safe out there, and protect your teeth from injury. If you need a recommendation for tooth protection during work or sports, come into the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, and let’s talk about it.

 

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 8703

A Ginormous Cavity?

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

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

Is It All About Flashy Smiles And Trendy Styles?

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Categories: General dentistry, Oral Health, Sedation Dentistry, Sleep Apnea

Restorative dentistry in Loveland, CO.

It’s All About Location

If you can’t be in Paris, then bring fashion home to Fort Collins. Facial fashion, that is. The pouty, the flashy, the sultry, the glamorous, the gleeful. Our professional dental team at the Fort Collins Dentist is enthusiastic about keeping you looking great and feeling confident. We offer a wide variety of dental services for our Fort Collins area locals—cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, and dental implants. You name it, we’ll explain it—sedation dentistry, sleep apnea.

It’s All About Working The Smile

For just about everyone out there, the way we look is vital to our self-concept. Our self-esteem influences our interactions and relationships, and perhaps even our success. Let us work with you to enliven that smile and bring it up to your standards. Our team can guide you through fixing any dental issue, including broken teeth, crooked teeth, and even missing teeth. Come down and see us. We will help you to work that smile on the proverbial runway of life.

It’s All About Being Uniquely You

Our single most outstanding feature is our Broad range of treatments. Right? So amazing. Be assured that your smile is in good hands. A dental restoration or smile redesign will set you apart. Be uniquely 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

 

ArticleID 5538

How To Make Brushing Your Teeth A Habit

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

Preventative dental care in Fort Collins, CO.

Brushing your teeth on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do for your smile. Healthy teeth make a beautiful smile. Brushing can also help with gum health and even keep your breath smelling sweet. The Fort Collins Dentist knows this well.

For some of us, brushing can be a loathsome chore that gets in the way of a good time. Hopefully, you don’t think of brushing in such dire terms, but we know it happens.

The best way to build brushing into your routine is to make it a habit. A habit is an automated practice that becomes hard to give up. Some habits can be bad, of course. Brushing can be a good habit.

If you can make brushing your teeth a habit, you’ll be one step closer to a life of successful checkups.

Here are some tips for creating a good habit that you can teach to your kids. These tips will also work on teens. And they work on adults, too:

Keep It Simple

One of the best ways to create a habit is to keep the requirements simple. Brushing teeth is already a simple task, but we can focus on the simplicity to help it stick as a habit.

Don’t complicate the instructions for your kids. Keep it as simple as possible at the start. A small amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush, brush for about two minutes and rinse with clear water. Simple.

Regular Timing

One of the cornerstones of a habit is routine. Routine is rooted in consistent timing. Choose at least two, or three regular times to brush your teeth. Set a timer if you have to, but it’s best to create a habit around other regular activities. “First thing in the morning” or “after breakfast” are good times. After dinner or just before getting into bed are also good times.

Regardless of when you choose, make sure it is a daily activity, and that it is tied to another routine or habit as a reminder. In this way, you are actually appending an existing habit or routine, and that makes it easier.

Stick To It

Research indicates it takes about two weeks to create a habit. You have to do a task for at least two weeks in a row before your brain will turn it over to auto-pilot and make it into a habit. Your brain tries to do this with routine things so you don’t have to keep the task in your short-term memory.

If you can stick with a task for two weeks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a good habit. If you can hold on for 30 days, you’ll imprint your new habit as a reflexive routine. You may never have to think about it again!

Improve It

Finally, any good habit needs constant improvement. You can improve your habit of brushing your teeth by working on proper form, or by adding a little bit of time. Work toward the two-minute mark; any longer and it may start to cause damage. You can also make sure you are using a soft or medium brush, and that you are using fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth healthy.

Start Today

There’s no time like right now to get started on creating healthy habits for your teeth. If you are having trouble with brushing, make a commitment to work on it starting now. If you are caring for a child, or working with a teenager, help reinforce good habits with reminders, positive support, and a leading example. The Fort Collins Dentist can attest to the importance of these practices.

Once you have created a healthy habit around brushing your teeth, you’ll have plenty of reason to smile. We look forward to seeing it!

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 7779

Gum Disease Linked To Alzheimer’s: Keep Those Gums Healthy!

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

gum disease treatment Fort Collins

At the Fort Collins Dentist, we know gum health is essential. However, studies show it may also be linked to Alzheimer’s Disease. As if you needed another reason to keep your gums as healthy as possible.

Scientists have found a connection between a bacteria that causes periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Porphyomonas gingivalis is a bacteria that can result in chronic periodontitis. The bacteria was discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The research study, “Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors,” can be found in Science Advances.

The researchers concluded:

“Chronic periodontitis and infection with Porphyomonas gingivalis have been identified as significant risk factors for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

Periodontal disease, frequently called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, dissatisfactory oral hygiene, genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

This study should dispel the misconception that oral health is somehow separate from physical health.

It is vital to see your dentist regularly to keep your gums healthy (as well as your teeth). To schedule a periodontal disease exam, call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry 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 8096