General dentistry

Why a Root Canal Is Not Something To Fear

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Categories: Dental Implants, General dentistry, Root Canals

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

Dental Veneers: 7 Fast Fixes

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental veneers, General dentistry

Fort Collins Affordable Dentistry

Hi! Welcome to the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry dental blog where we take the time to answer dental questions. Today we are focusing on fabulous veneers, which are used extensively in cosmetic dentistry.

Dental veneers (also called laminates) are custom-made to permanently cover the front part of one or more teeth. Wafer-thin, super-strong veneers can correct a variety of problems including:

1. Chips
2. Cracks
3. Stains
4. Teeth that are misshapen
5. Teeth that are too short
6. Teeth that are misaligned
7. Gaps between teeth

To begin the veneer procedure, your dentist will make a model of your teeth. The next step is for an expert dental lab tech to fabricate your custom veneers. In some veneer procedures, a small amount of the enamel from the face of the tooth has to be removed. Today’s veneer process leaves most of your healthy tooth structure.

Please call 970-221-5115 and a member of our compassionate staff can answer any questions you have about veneers. We can also tell you about other cosmetic dental procedures that have a dramatic impact.

 

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 4635

Why Do My Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Help Ease the Pain

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

The Fort Collins Dentist can help relieve Tooth PainHave you ever experienced tooth pain or sensitivity? If the answer is yes, then you know how unbearable it can be. There are several reasons why your teeth may be hurting, and it’s essential to understand the cause to alleviate the pain effectively. Fortunately, the Fort Collins Dentist is here to help. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the various reasons why your teeth hurt and how our dentists can help ease the pain.

1. Tooth Decay:

One of the most common reasons why your teeth may be hurting is due to tooth decay. When bacteria feed on food particles left behind in the mouth, they produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, eventually leading to decay. If left untreated, this can cause pain and sensitivity, especially while eating hot or cold foods. Our dentists can help by performing a dental exam and filling cavities, or in severe cases, performing a root canal.

2. Gum Disease:

Gum disease is another cause of tooth pain. This condition occurs when plaque accumulates along the gum line and causes inflammation. The early stages of gum disease are relatively mild and can be treated through proper oral hygiene practices such as daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments. However, as gum disease progresses, it can cause tooth pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. At Fort Collins Dentist, we can treat gum disease using deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing to remove tartar buildup.

3. Teeth Grinding:

Teeth grinding or Bruxism is a habit some people have that causes them to grind or clench their teeth subconsciously. This habit can cause tooth pain, sensitivity, and headaches. In some cases, teeth grinding can lead to TMJ or jaw joint disorders. Our dentists can help by fitting patients with a custom mouthguard to wear at night to protect their teeth and jaw joints from the effects of teeth grinding.

4. Tooth Fractures:

A tooth fracture is a crack or break in the tooth structure usually due to injury or trauma. Fractured teeth can cause varying degrees of pain, depending on the severity of the fracture. In severe cases, a broken tooth may need to be extracted. In other cases, our dentists can use dental crowns or fillings to repair the tooth and alleviate pain.

5. Teeth Sensitivity:

Tooth sensitivity is another common cause of dental pain. This sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, teeth grinding, and receding gums. The dentine layer beneath the enamel can become exposed to hot and cold food temperatures, causing severe pain. Our dentists can manage tooth sensitivity by applying desensitizer agents like fluoride or by applying dental sealants to protect the exposed dentine.

Tooth pain can be unbearable, but the good news is that it’s treatable. At Fort Collins Dentist, we can help alleviate your pain by identifying the underlying cause and providing suitable treatment options. We can also offer preventive dental care to keep your teeth healthy and pain-free. If you experience dental pain, don’t suffer in silence. Book an appointment with us 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

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Near Loveland Can Help You Avoid Pain

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Categories: Extraction, General dentistry, Gum disease

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Near Loveland Can Help You Avoid Pain

Tooth pain, often described as one of the most agonizing experiences, can stem from various causes, from the mundane to the serious.

Understanding the root of tooth pain and seeking professional care is paramount to maintaining a pain-free smile. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland, we’re committed to helping you prevent and alleviate tooth pain, ensuring that your smile shines as brilliantly as a radiant orange sunrise.

The Culprits Behind Tooth Pain

  • Tooth Decay: Cavities, the most common cause of tooth pain, occur when acids from bacteria in your mouth eat away at the enamel, creating tiny holes that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Gum Disease: As the gums become inflamed and recede due to infection or poor oral hygiene, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause excruciating pain, especially when chewing or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can result from exposed dentin, a layer beneath the enamel, due to gum recession or enamel erosion. It can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, leading to severe pain and potential infection.

Preventing Tooth Pain through Dental Visits

Regular dental visits at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland are a crucial step in avoiding tooth pain. Here’s how professional care can help:

  • Early Detection: Routine check-ups can identify dental issues in their early stages, preventing them from becoming painful problems.
  • Professional Cleanings: Our dental team can remove plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Education: We provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer tips to protect your teeth from sensitivity and pain.
  • Treatment Options: If tooth pain is already an issue, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry offers a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.

How The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Can Help You

Our team at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate and expert dental care. We understand that tooth pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. By choosing us, you’re making the proactive choice to maintain a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be disruptive, but it’s not something you have to endure alone. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Loveland, we are your partners in preventing and alleviating tooth pain.

Don’t let your smile be overshadowed by discomfort. Schedule a visit with us today, and together, we can ensure that your teeth remain pain-free and brilliantly beautiful.

 

 

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 8713

Do You Have Something Stuck Between Your Teeth? Here’s What You Should Do

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Gum disease

Do you have something stuck between your teeth?We’ve all experienced it before – something gets stuck between our teeth, and we can’t seem to get it out no matter how hard we try. It could be a small piece of food or even a stubborn popcorn kernel. Regardless of what it is, having something stuck between your teeth can be incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable. So, what should you do if you find yourself in this situation? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best ways to remove something stuck between your teeth and prevent it from happening again.

1. Try flossing

The easiest and most common way to remove something stuck between your teeth is by flossing. Use a thin string of dental floss to gently work the object out. Start at the top of your teeth and slide the floss between each tooth, moving up and down until you find the spot where something is stuck. Once you’ve located the spot, gently push the floss against your tooth and work it back and forth. Be careful not to push the object further into your gums or between your teeth.

2. Use a toothpick

If you can’t find dental floss, use a toothpick instead. But be very careful not to push the object deeper into your gums or chip your tooth. Use the toothpick to gently work the object out from between your teeth. To avoid injuring your gums, use a soft pick or toothpick instead of a wooden one. If you have braces, avoid using toothpicks as they can damage your brackets and wires.

3. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater

If the object is still stuck, try rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. This will help to dislodge the object and reduce the swelling in your gums. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for a few minutes. Spit out the water and repeat as many times as necessary.

4. Visit your dentist

If none of the above methods work, it is best to see your dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes, the object can be lodged so far back you can’t remove it yourself. Your dentist has specialized tools to help remove the object and get your teeth back to normal. Keep in mind that leaving something stuck between your teeth for too long can cause gum irritation or even an infection, so it’s always best to see your dentist if you’re unable to remove it.

5. Preventative measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips on how to prevent things from getting stuck in your teeth:

– Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
– Floss regularly, especially after meals
– Chew slowly and carefully
– Cut food into small pieces before eating
– Avoid biting hard objects like pencils or ice cubes
– Visit your dentist every six months for regular cleaning and checkups

Having something stuck between your teeth is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to further dental issues if left untreated. The best solution is to practice good dental hygiene habits and take preventative measures. However, if something is still stuck between your teeth, try flossing, using a toothpick, or rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater. And if all else fails, visit The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko. By taking a few simple precautions, you can prevent things from getting lodged in your teeth and maintain optimal dental health.

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

 

What Do You Do If You Get Something Stuck Between Your Teeth?

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

what to do if something is stuck between your teeth Fort Collins

People get food stuck in and between their teeth all the time. Most of the time it is not a malfunction to get the food unstuck with floss or a toothbrush and move on with your day. However, once in a while there is a pesky piece of food that seems practically impossible to get out of your teeth. So, what do you do if this is the case?

Sometimes, depending on the food that is stuck between your teeth and where the food is stuck, it can be dangerous and possibly damaging to your teeth to remove it on your own. Remember that you do not need to do everything yourself, and it is okay and oftentimes safer to seek professional help.

In fact, Dr. Lesko at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry is available to help you when something is stuck between your teeth and is too problematic or dangerous to get out on your own. A dentist can carefully and safely remove the piece of food that is stuck and causing irritation or discomfort.

When to seek professional dental care to get food unstuck from between your teeth: 

It is vital to seek care from a dentist if the food stuck between your teeth causes you pain. Also, if you get food stuck deep between your teeth, in your gums, or in a hard-to-reach location like the back teeth it is smart to see a dentist for help.

Trying to take action and fix the issue on your own in any of these settings can lead to consequences. For example, if a piece of food gets stuck in the gums and you accidentally push it farther in, making it harder to get out, you may cause your gums to get infected.

This happened to 41-year-old firefighter Adam Martin in January of 2020. Martin got a popcorn kernel stuck between his teeth that he continuously poked at and tried to get unstuck for months. The constant prodding with random sharp objects led to a potentially fatal blood infection that required open heart surgery to treat. After the surgery, Martin said, “If I had gone to the dentist in the first place, then none of this would have happened.”

The possible effects of trying to remove food from between your teeth on your own:

  1. Puncturing and/or infecting the gums
  2. Breaking or cracking the teeth
  3. Creating pain
  4. Causing existing pain to worsen

In conclusion, if you get food stuck between your teeth that does not easily come out by using floss or brushing your teeth you should take caution and seek professional dental help. It is much better to have a dentist safely remove the food than to try to do it yourself and end up in more pain or with an infection.

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 8435

Learn More About Toothache Relief in Fort Collins, CO

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

Toothaches can be incredibly painful and disruptive to daily life. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to seek relief promptly. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO, we offer toothache relief services to help ease your pain and restore your oral health. In this blog post, we will discuss toothaches and the different toothache relief options available at our dental practice.

What is a Toothache?

A toothache is a pain that is felt in or around a tooth. It can be caused by a variety of issues, including dental cavities, gum disease, infection, trauma, or even a sinus infection. Symptoms of a toothache may vary but typically include pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and a headache or fever. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to seek dental care right away.

Toothache Relief Options at The Fort Collins Dentist

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we offer a variety of toothache relief options to help alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. For mild to moderate toothaches, we may recommend over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your toothache is caused by a dental cavity, we may need to fill the cavity or perform a root canal to remove the infected tissue and relieve your pain. For severe toothaches, we may need to extract the tooth.

Preventing Toothaches

The best way to prevent toothaches is to practice good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting our dental practice regularly for checkups and cleanings. We may also recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments to help protect your teeth from decay and infection. If you play sports, wearing a mouthguard can also help prevent tooth injuries.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry?

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to providing the highest level of dental care to our patients. Our team of dental professionals is experienced in treating a variety of dental issues, including toothaches. We use the latest dental technologies and techniques to ensure your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. With our convenient location and flexible scheduling options, we make it easy for you to get the dental care you need when you need it.

If you are experiencing a toothache, don’t wait to seek dental care. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO, we offer toothache relief services to help alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free 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

Make Sure Your Child Visits Your Dentist

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry

As a parent, you are always concerned about the health and well-being of your child. Dental health is a critical aspect of overall health and must not be neglected. Among the many things you do for your child’s health, a visit to the dentist should be at the top of the list. Many parents often overlook the importance of regular dental check-ups, leading to severe dental issues at a later stage. Hence, it is essential to ensure that your child visits a dentist regularly.

1. Importance of Early Dental Care:

According to the American Dental Association, children should go to the dentist as early as six months after the first tooth appears, or at least by the age of one. Early dental visits help detect any potential dental issues and prevent them from getting worse. In addition, regular visits help your child get accustomed to the dentist, making future visits less scary. It also instills good dental habits that can last a lifetime.

2. Prevention of Dental Problems:

Regular dental check-ups help identify and treat dental problems early, preventing them from turning into more significant issues. For instance, your dentist can detect cavities and gum problems during routine check-ups. Early detection and timely treatment can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can later lead to more severe problems.

3. Development of Oral Health Habits:

Children learn through imitation, and, as a parent, you need to set a good example to encourage good oral habits. Regular dental check-ups can reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, and taking care of one’s teeth. Your dentist can offer advice on proper dental care techniques and methods and suggest age-specific dental products like toothpaste and brush suited for your child.

4. Monitoring the Development of Teeth and Jaw:

Regular dental visits help monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaw. A dentist checks for any developmental issues, including bite problems and teeth misalignment, which may require treatment at an early stage. Early intervention and orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth, correct the jaw’s alignment, and avoid more complicated problems later on.

5. Building a Positive Relationship with Your Dentist:

Children often associate dental visits with fear and anxiety, leading to an unpleasant experience for both child and parent. Regular visits to the dentist can help children familiarize themselves with the dental setting and develop a positive relationship with their dentist. This way, they are more likely to feel comfortable about going for check-ups as they grow older and continue to prioritize their dental health throughout their lives.

Good oral health habits formed in childhood can last a lifetime. As parents, it is crucial to ensure that your child visits a dentist regularly to maintain excellent oral health. By doing so, you are not only preventing potential dental problems but also instilling the importance of good dental habits that will benefit their health in the long term. As dental professionals, we encourage you to bring your child for regular dental check-ups and treatment. Let’s work together to give your child the brightest, healthiest smile possible.

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

Think You Know How To Brush? Think Again.

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health

Fort Collins tooth brushing tips

You’ve been doing it since you were five. You switch to auto pilot morning and night and get it over with. But are you doing it correct?

Actually, many people are making tooth brushing mistakes. You may need to tweak your routine to better support your oral health and shield your smile from cavities and gum disease.

Here are vital tooth brushing tips:

1. Take your time.
It’s understandable. You want to get it over with and go to bed. Proper teeth cleaning takes time and careful attention. Time yourself the next time you brush—you might be surprised at how quickly you finish. The process should take at least two to three minutes. It can also be beneficial to take a different route around your mouth every few days. By adjusting your pattern, you approach areas from a different, and possibly, better angle.

2. Don’t forget to floss.
No matter how agile you can be with your brush, it’s problematic to clear away the plaque from all those narrow gaps between your teeth. That is where bacteria can easily propagate and start the decay process.

3. Use the right toothbrush.
It is ironic that some people hurt their enamel or gums because they brush too forcefully with a rigid brush. doctor Lesko counsels patients to only use a soft brush. If you’ve had gum grafts, you may want to use an extra soft brush.

4. Don’t keep your tooth brush near the toilet.
This is terrible to think about, but each time the toilet is flushed, bacteria is sent far into the air—even if you close the lid. Keep your toothbrush in a clean place and allow it to air dry.

5. Use fluoride toothpaste.
This may seem like a no-brainer but you may be surprised that some oral care products don’t contain fluoride. And you may think it’s only for kids. Not true. Your enamel is continuously under assault from acidic foods and drinks and fluoride helps it remineralize.

 

 

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 7193

Why Look For The American Dental Association Seal?

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, General dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Look For The Seal In Loveland

When you go to a drugstore or supermarket looking for toothpaste, mouthwash, teeth whitener, or other oral care products, make sure that it carries the seal of the American Dental Association. This is a simple way to make wise choices for the products you need to keep your mouth clean, healthy, and free of decay.

You can rely on the American Dental Association (ADA), which only places its seal on a product after it has been evaluated to be safe as well as effective. This frequently means that companies have to meet standards even higher than those required by law.

Making sure to purchase products with the seal is practically like shopping with your Fort Collins dentist or dental hygienist right by your side!

Hi, I’m Doctor Allison Lesko of The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins. We also serve the Timnath, Wellington, and Windsor areas. We take pride in caring for our patients and, like the ADA, want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile.

Many of our patients want details about cosmetic dental smile makeovers. If you’d like to know what advanced cosmetic dentistry can do for your smile, schedule an appointment and we’ll guide you on possible courses of 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 4432