Oral Health

Think It’s Just Bad Breath? It Could Be Gum Disease

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Categories: Dental health, Gum disease, Oral Health

Dr. Lesko examining a patient for gum disease with an emotional support animal.Why won’t my bad breath go away even after brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash? The answer often lies beneath your gumline.

If brushing, flossing, and rinsing aren’t fixing your bad breath, the real problem may be hiding below your gums. Persistent bad breath is more than an embarrassing nuisance—it can be one of the earliest warning signs of gum disease. The Fort Collins Dentist provides personalized periodontal care that treats gum disease at its source, helping patients throughout Fort Collins restore healthier gums and fresher smiles with the help of Dr. Allison Lesko.

Why Bad Breath Isn’t Always Caused by Food

Temporary bad breath after a garlic-heavy meal is normal. Chronic bad breath is different. When odor lingers no matter how often you brush, bacteria are usually the culprit. These bacteria release foul-smelling compounds, and they often thrive in places your toothbrush can’t reach. That’s why good oral hygiene alone sometimes fails to solve the problem. If you notice a constant bad taste, ongoing gum irritation, or odor that returns within hours, it’s time to look beyond mouthwash.

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Halitosis

Gum disease creates the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria. When plaque and tartar build up along and below the gumline, they trap microbes that produce unpleasant smells. Inflammation makes the problem worse, feeding the bacteria and deepening the pockets where they hide. Bad breath is rarely the only sign. Watch for bleeding while brushing, red or swollen gums, receding gums, loose teeth, changes in your bite, or pus around the gums.

Why Treating Gum Disease Benefits More Than Your Smile

Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body, so oral health affects overall wellness. The chronic inflammation caused by gum disease has been linked to several serious conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and osteoporosis. Untreated periodontal disease can also lead to bone loss that threatens the stability of your teeth. Treating the infection protects far more than your breath.

How Periodontal Therapy Helps Eliminate the Source

Effective treatment targets the infection instead of masking symptoms. Dr. Allison Lesko begins with a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, then builds a plan based on the severity of your condition. Professional periodontal cleanings and root planing remove bacteria below the gumline, while customized therapy helps your gums heal over time.

The Role of OralDNA® Testing in Personalized Care

Modern technology makes treatment more precise. Using a simple saliva sample, OralDNA® testing identifies the specific bacteria causing your symptoms. MyPerioPath® testing measures your bacterial risk so your care can be tailored to your unique profile. Because every patient’s bacteria are different, this targeted approach leads to better long-term disease management.

Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?

Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with prompt care. Advanced periodontitis is harder to undo, which is why early diagnosis matters so much. The sooner you act, the more you can prevent tooth loss, reduce inflammation, improve your breath naturally, and protect your long-term oral health.

Healthy Habits That Help Keep Breath Fresh

Fresh breath starts with consistency. Brush twice daily, floss every day, and clean your tongue to remove bacteria. Staying hydrated helps wash away food particles, and routine periodontal evaluations catch problems early. Most importantly, don’t ignore persistent symptoms.

Take the First Step Toward Fresher Breath

Chronic bad breath is often your body’s way of warning you about an underlying gum infection. Treating periodontal disease early improves your breath and protects your overall health. If you’ve noticed lasting bad breath or other signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Allison Lesko at The Fort Collins Dentist for personalized care and a healthier, more confident 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

Relax, Sleep, Smile: IV Sedation in Fort Collins

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Categories: General dentistry, Oral Health, Sedation Dentistry

A middle-aged man and woman enjoying a comfortable morning together, both smiling confidently after relaxing dental visits.What is IV sedation dentistry? It is a safe, effective way to sleep through your dental procedures, completely eliminating anxiety and ensuring total comfort.

Dread the dentist? Imagine sleeping through your appointment and waking up with a perfect smile. IV sedation makes it possible! At The Fort Collins Dentist, we understand that dental anxiety can keep you from getting the care you need. Avoiding the clinic can lead to severe oral health complications, causing unnecessary pain and expensive treatments down the road. That is why we offer specialized options to transform your experience. If you live in the Fort Collins area, you can finally receive essential treatments without the overwhelming fear that usually accompanies a trip to the clinic.

What Is IV Sedation Dentistry?

Intravenous sedation is a powerful method used to help patients relax completely during their dental appointments. The calming medication is administered directly into your bloodstream through a small intravenous line. This direct approach makes it significantly stronger and much faster-acting compared to other traditional options like oral sedatives or laughing gas. The medication allows patients to fall into a deep state of relaxation, often sleeping right through their treatments. You can wake up with your dental work finished and absolutely no memory of the tools, sounds, or processes.

Who Can Benefit from IV Sedation?

This advanced calming technique is highly recommended for patients dealing with severe dental anxiety or extreme clinical phobias. It is also an excellent choice for those needing to undergo lengthy or highly complex procedures, such as root canals or multiple extractions, in a single sitting. Furthermore, individuals who struggle with a particularly low pain threshold or a severe gag reflex will find this method incredibly helpful. Instead of battling physical discomfort or mental panic, you can rest peacefully in the chair while the dental team handles the hard work.

The Benefits of IV Sedation

Choosing this route practically guarantees a pain-free and profoundly stress-free dental visit. Because you remain completely still and thoroughly relaxed, the dentist can work much faster and more efficiently, reducing your total time in the chair. You also benefit from the gentle amnesic effect of the medication, leaving you with minimal to no memory of the actual procedure. This creates a much more comfortable experience overall and actively helps break the ongoing cycle of fear associated with future dental visits.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

The process begins with a simple, calm preparation phase where our clinical team carefully places the intravenous line. Once the soothing medication begins to flow, you will quickly drift into a deeply relaxed state. Throughout the entire appointment, we continuously monitor your vital signs, including your heart rate and oxygen levels, to ensure your absolute safety. After the procedure concludes, we guide you through a gentle, quiet recovery period in the office. You will need a trusted friend or family member to drive you home, as the relaxing effects take some time to fully wear off.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist?

Under the expert care of Dr. Lesko, you are in incredibly capable hands. Dr. Lesko brings extensive experience and specialized expertise to IV sedation dentistry, ensuring every patient receives the highest standard of care. Our entire clinic focuses heavily on maximizing patient comfort and delivering personalized, compassionate treatment plans. We work hard every single day to maintain a welcoming, anxiety-free environment where you can feel completely at ease from the very moment you walk through our front doors.

Your Path to a Relaxing Dental Visit

Going to the dentist does not have to be a stressful or painful ordeal anymore. Modern calming techniques give you the power to take control of your oral health without the debilitating anxiety. Ready for a stress-free dental experience? Schedule your IV sedation consultation 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

The Hidden Costs of Gum Disease You Can’t Ignore

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

A young woman consulting with her dentist on gum disease treatment in Fort Collins.Why is treating gum disease important? Untreated gum disease leads to tooth loss, expensive dental procedures, and serious systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes.

Did you know nearly half of Americans over age 30 suffer from some form of gum disease? It is a staggering statistic that highlights a silent epidemic. While many people brush off a little pink in the sink while flossing, the reality is that ignoring these symptoms can lead to significant consequences. The Fort Collins Dentist wants you to understand that the price of neglecting your gums goes far beyond a simple toothache. It impacts your wallet and your overall physical well-being.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It typically starts as gingivitis, which is a mild form characterized by gum inflammation. At this stage, the damage is often reversible with better hygiene and professional cleaning. However, if left unchecked, it progresses to periodontitis. This advanced stage involves the destruction of the bone and gums, eventually leading to tooth loss.

The Hidden Health Risks

Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, meaning oral infections rarely stay contained. Research links periodontal disease to a variety of serious systemic health issues. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to heart disease by clogging arteries. There is also a strong two-way relationship with diabetes, where gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control, and high blood sugar worsens gum infections. Studies have even found associations between chronic gum inflammation and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and osteoporosis.

Financial Costs of Neglect

Beyond the physical toll, untreated gum disease hits your bank account hard. Preventive care, such as routine cleanings and exams, is relatively inexpensive and often covered by insurance. In contrast, treating advanced gum disease requires deep-cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing. If the disease progresses to the point of tooth loss, the financial burden increases significantly. Restorative solutions like dental implants, bridges, or dentures come with a high price tag. Furthermore, managing the secondary health complications mentioned earlier adds another layer of medical expenses that could have been avoided.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

You need to recognize the symptoms early to stop the progression of infection. Common red flags include gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. You might notice persistent bad breath that mouthwash cannot fix or gums that look swollen and red. As the infection deepens, gums may begin to recede, making your teeth look longer than usual. In severe cases, permanent teeth may feel loose or shift out of position.

How The Fort Collins Dentist Can Help

Dr. Lesko and her compassionate team provide comprehensive care to halt the progression of periodontal disease. The practice offers routine cleanings for early-stage gingivitis and advanced therapies like root planing for more severe infections. They also utilize modern technology such as OralDNA® testing. This diagnostic tool identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection, allowing for highly personalized and effective treatment plans that target the root of the problem.

Take Action Today

Protecting your smile is an investment in your future health and financial security. Do not wait until your teeth are loose or your health is compromised to seek help. Schedule your gum disease treatment with The Fort Collins Dentist today and protect your health in Fort Collins!

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

Red Flags in Your Smile: Spotting Early Gum Disease

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Categories: Gum disease, Oral Health, Overall Health

A young man flossing, trying to prevent gum disease.Nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease, yet many don’t even realize it. This is because early signs can be so subtle that they’re often ignored or mistaken for something minor. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko is passionate about helping patients identify and treat gum disease in its earliest stages, ensuring healthier smiles and better overall well-being.

Sneaky Signs You Might Have Gum Disease

Bleeding gums, even a small amount when brushing or flossing, is not normal and should not be overlooked. Many people dismiss redness, swelling, or tenderness in their gums as the result of brushing too hard, but these can be early indicators of gum disease. Chronic bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth can also point to bacteria buildup that needs attention.

Receding gums, which make teeth appear longer, are another potential red flag. This condition may hint at underlying issues like tooth instability or bone loss. Worse still are signs like loose teeth or changes in the way your bite feels, as these often signal advanced gum deterioration. The most alarming symptom is pus between your teeth and gums, which confirms that an infection is present and requires immediate care.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Ignoring gum disease doesn’t just put your oral health at risk. Numerous studies have linked untreated gum disease to serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. The inflammation caused by gum infections can affect your entire body, highlighting the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being.

Bone loss in the jaw, another consequence of untreated gum disease, can lead to tooth loss and changes in facial structure. Early intervention is key to preventing these far-reaching effects.

What We Can Do About It

At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko and her team provide personalized, compassionate care to tackle gum disease head-on. Their tailored treatment plans include three levels of periodontal therapy, ensuring that your care matches your specific needs. They’ve moved beyond the standard hygiene approach, focusing on targeted periodontal care that aims to restore gum health.

Root planing, a procedure designed to clean deeply and smooth out your tooth roots, is one of the advanced services offered to help prevent future plaque buildup and disease progression. Dr. Lesko’s approach prioritizes patient comfort and education, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout your treatment.

High-Tech Help with OralDNA®

For a more precise and effective approach, Dr. Lesko’s practice employs OralDNA® testing. This simple swish-and-spit test helps identify the exact bacteria contributing to gum disease. The MyPerioPath® test results allow for highly personalized treatment plans that target the root cause of your gum issues.

This cutting-edge technology not only boosts treatment precision but also reduces the risk of future complications, contributing to improved oral and overall health. With OralDNA®, patients experience care tailored to their unique needs and gain a clearer understanding of their gum health.

Smile with Confidence

The good news is that early gum disease is reversible with timely intervention. Subtle signs like bleeding or tenderness deserve attention, and Dr. Lesko’s expert care at The Fort Collins Dentist can help you restore and protect your smile.

Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. If you’re in Fort Collins, schedule a consultation today and take a proactive step toward healthier gums and a brighter 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

Missing Teeth? Stop Bone Loss with Implants

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Categories: Dental Implants, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry

A graphic image of a dental impant and its parts.Gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth have more than just cosmetic consequences. Untreated tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration, affecting both your oral health and facial structure. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Allison Lesko and Dr. Emily Riesgraf specialize in advanced dental implant care, a cutting-edge solution designed to protect your smile and preserve your jawbone.

Dental implants mimic the structure of natural teeth, including the root, ensuring that your jawbone remains stimulated and healthy. Here’s how this restorative option could save your smile and protect your long-term oral health.

How Missing Teeth Lead to Bone Loss

Your teeth don’t just help you chew and smile confidently; they also play a critical role in keeping your jawbone healthy and strong. Deep within your gums, your natural tooth roots provide constant stimulation to the jawbone, which is necessary to maintain its density and structure.

When a tooth is lost, that vital stimulation disappears. Over time, the jawbone begins to shrink, or resorb, due to a lack of activity. This gradual bone loss can lead to changes in your facial structure, causing a sunken appearance around the mouth and cheeks. Additionally, jawbone deterioration can affect how your other teeth function, further compromising your oral health. Without intervention, the cascading effects of missing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life.

Why Dental Implants Are the Number-One Solution

Dental implants represent the gold standard in tooth replacement, thanks to their ability to closely replicate the function and structure of natural teeth. Once placed into the jawbone, the titanium implant post integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration, providing a stable and long-lasting foundation.

Unlike other replacement options, such as traditional dentures or bridges, implants restore the vital stimulation that prevents bone loss and maintains the integrity of your jawbone. They also help preserve your facial structure, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and support overall oral health. Whether you are missing one tooth or several, implants provide a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution tailored to meet your needs.

Single vs. Multiple Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are a versatile solution that can address various levels of tooth loss. For a single missing tooth, an individual implant with a lifelike crown offers a natural and seamless replacement. If multiple teeth are missing in a row, implant-supported bridges can provide a cohesive and stable restoration. For patients experiencing significant tooth loss, full arch solutions such as implant-supported dentures offer comprehensive coverage, restoring both form and function while preventing further bone deterioration.

Each approach is specifically designed to ensure optimal performance and protect your oral health for the long term.

The Fort Collins Dental Implant Process

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we make the dental implant process seamless by providing complete care in one convenient location. Dr. Lesko and Dr. Riesgraf use advanced technology, including 3D cone beam imaging and surgical guides, to ensure precision and success during implant placement.

For patients who need additional jawbone support, our practice also offers bone grafting and sinus lifts to restore bone volume and create an ideal foundation for implants. From initial placement to final restoration, our expert team is by your side every step of the way, ensuring your smile is in the best hands.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most healthy adults qualify for dental implants. Even if you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, pre-treatment options like bone grafts can restore lost volume and stimulate new bone growth. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf at The Fort Collins Dentist is the best way to determine whether implants are the right choice for you.

During your consultation, we’ll assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and tailor a treatment plan to meet your specific needs. No matter your situation, we believe everyone deserves a strong, healthy smile.

Protect Your Smile and Your Jawbone in Fort Collins

Dental implants are so much more than a cosmetic fix. They offer a long-term solution that supports your overall oral health, preserves your jawbone, and gives you back the confidence to smile again. If you’re ready to restore your smile, don’t wait. Delaying treatment could lead to further bone loss and compromise your oral health.

Residents of Fort Collins can schedule a consultation with Dr. Lesko or Dr. Riesgraf today to take the first step toward transforming their smile and protecting their jawbone. Contact us at The Fort Collins Dentist to learn more and get started. Your future smile will thank 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

Unlocking Confidence: Botox Benefits at The Fort Collins Dentist

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Oral Health, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

A middle-aged man and woman enjoying a comfortable morning together, both smiling confidently.Botox is not just for beauty clinics—at The Fort Collins Dentist in Fort Collins, CO, it’s all about enhancing your confidence and comfort. Whether you’re looking to smooth out fine lines or find relief from TMJ pain and chronic headaches, Botox can be both a cosmetic and therapeutic game-changer. By pairing dental expertise with facial esthetics, The Fort Collins Dentist provides a unique approach that leaves patients feeling and looking their best.

What is Botox and How Does It Work?

Botox is a neuromodulator that temporarily relaxes targeted muscles by blocking nerve signals. This process helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles such as forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines, leaving you with a fresher, more youthful look.

But Botox is more than an anti-aging solution. It also has powerful therapeutic applications. For those suffering from conditions like TMJ disorder, teeth grinding, and chronic tension headaches, Botox can ease muscle tension, offering long-lasting relief and improving quality of life.

Cosmetic Benefits of Botox

Botox is a go-to choice for anyone looking to boost their appearance with subtle, natural results. Here’s how it can help you achieve a refreshed look and a more confident smile:

  • Erase Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Target problem areas like forehead lines, crow’s feet, and smile lines to achieve smoother, younger-looking skin.

  • Create a Youthful Glow

Botox works wonders in refreshing your appearance, leaving you looking well-rested and rejuvenated.

  • Enhance Your Smile

Whether you want to soften lip lines or reduce a gummy smile, Botox can highlight your smile in the best possible way.

  • Complement Cosmetic Dentistry

Pair Botox with procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, or smile makeovers for a cohesive, radiant transformation.

Therapeutic Benefits of Botox

At The Fort Collins Dentist, Botox goes beyond esthetics, providing much-needed relief for patients with common muscle-related conditions.

  • TMJ Disorder Relief

For those suffering from jaw pain associated with TMJ, Botox can relax the tense muscles, reducing discomfort and limiting harmful clenching or grinding.

  • Minimize Teeth Grinding

Botox can reduce tension in the jaw muscles, protecting your teeth from damage caused by clenching or grinding.

  • Alleviate Tension Headaches

Botox is highly effective in minimizing the frequency and severity of headaches linked to facial muscle strain, helping patients feel more comfortable in their daily lives.

Why Get Botox at The Fort Collins Dentist?

What sets The Fort Collins Dentist apart is their advanced understanding of facial anatomy and esthetics. Here, Botox treatments are delivered in a professional, comfortable environment led by experts in facial health. You’ll receive personalized care, ensuring natural-looking results tailored to your unique goals.

And the best part? You can schedule your Botox treatment during your regular dental visit, saving you time and simplifying your self-care routine.

What to Expect During a Botox Treatment

Nervous about trying Botox? Don’t be! Treatments at The Fort Collins Dentist are quick, non-invasive, and virtually painless. A session typically takes just 10–15 minutes, and results begin to appear within three to five days, lasting anywhere from three to six months.

With no downtime required, Botox is a simple yet effective way to enhance your appearance and well-being without disrupting your busy schedule.

Transform Your Smile and Wellness Today

Whether you’re seeking a confidence boost or relief from chronic discomfort, Botox at The Fort Collins Dentist offers an accessible and effective solution. Combining cosmetic appeal with therapeutic benefits, these treatments are designed to enhance both your look and your quality of life.

Are you ready to unlock the benefits of Botox? Schedule a consultation at 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

Gum Health Affects Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes

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

A mature woman checking her blood sugar because of diabetes.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are concerned not only with the condition of your mouth but also with how it influences your complete physical health and general well-being.

Today’s post looks at the connection between diabetes and oral health and may be of interest to Fort Collins residents with diabetes as well as individuals who are trying to reduce their risk factors.

Scientists have known for quite some time that people with diabetes have higher rates of gum disease. Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is the key to minimizing the risk of gum disease and related problems for those affected.

Additional research is exploring the reverse relationship. In other words, whether poor oral health increases the risk of developing diabetes. Findings from a long-term study suggest that it does.

“We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease.” -Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH1

Additional trials are exploring how tooth and gum health bumps the ability of diabetics to manage the disease.

“Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood glucose control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.”2

If you have diabetes, it is important that you see a dentist regularly and are dedicated to daily oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and other important practices. In addition, your success in controlling your blood glucose levels will improve your oral health and vice-versa.

If you don’t have a dentist and live in Fort Collins or the greater Loveland area, I invite you to call me, Dr. Allison Lesko, at 970-221-5115. I will perform a thorough examination and one of my hygienists will treat your teeth and gums to a professional dental cleaning. Then we will create a helpful plan for improving and maintaining your dental health for life. I can be an important member of your healthcare team and will work with your medical doctor if needed.

 

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

 

1Angelo Milone, “Does periodontal disease cause type 2 diabetes?,” Endocrine Today, November 2008, http://www.healio.com/endocrinology/diabetes/news/print/endocrine-today/%7Bacdccbd7-a2b2-4a9e-ac08-b29b53116908%7D/does-periodontal-disease-cause-type-2-diabetes, accessed August 12, 2015
2“Diabetes and Oral Health Problems,” American Diabetes Association, September 18, 2012, http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/diabetes-and-oral-health.html#sthash.9IlHJB8l.dpuf, accessed August 12, 2015

 

ArticleID 7024

Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum Contouring

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health, Teeth Whitening

A close-up of a smiling mouth with white teeth and healthy, contoured gums.

If you are a regular visitor to our blog here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, you have probably read many articles on cosmetic dentistry procedures. Doctor Allison Lesko is a master of smile makeovers.

Dental bonding, crowns, and porcelain veneers can take care of teeth that are chipped, broken, or misshapen.

Our Wellington, Windsor, and Timnath patients with stained or dull teeth can have a sparkly white smile with teeth whitening. For ordinary cavities, there are tooth-colored fillings, inlays, and onlays.

Dental implants are gaining popularity in Loveland among dental patients who want to restore missing teeth. If your teeth are misaligned, there are a number of orthodontic options here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins.

What if your cosmetic dental problem has to do with your gums? Are you one of the many Loveland residents whose gums are too long, too short, or uneven? There is a solution for gum problems as well. The answer is gum contouring surgery.

With gum contouring, sometimes called tissue sculpting or gum reshaping, a Fort Collins dentist or periodontist can improve the shape or size of your gums.

Gum reshaping is not always a cosmetic procedure. If the gums have receded to a point where the tooth root is susceptible to decay, gum surgery can restore the natural, healthy gumline and protect tooth root and bone.

For more information about gum contouring, schedule a consultation 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 3227

Pregnancy and Oral Health

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Categories: General dentistry, Gum disease, Oral Health

Dentist examining a female patient's open mouth.

In today’s The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry blog, we will discuss how pregnancy impacts your dental health. I am Doctor Allison Lesko and I want all expectant Colorado mothers to realize the importance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy. Because of the changes going on in a pregnant woman’s body, there are potential dental health issues that may arise.

Many Fort Collins women experience morning sickness accompanied with vomiting. The gastric acid increases the acidity in the mouth which can easily lead to enamel loss and tooth decay. Heightened levels of progesterone and estrogen may relax the ligaments that support the teeth causing them to loosen.

Hormonal Changes Affect Oral Health

Most Fort Collins residents have experienced gingivitis, but during pregnancy, the hormonal changes increase your risk for gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis can lead to gum disease.

Dental Hygiene During Pregnancy

If you are a pregnant Colorado woman, my staff and I at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush for daily brushing. Floss carefully and rinse your mouth with a fluoride wash. If you experience morning sickness, clean your mouth with a baking soda and water mixture.

Planning to Become Pregnant?

If you are planning to become pregnant, we recommend that you have a cleaning and exam prior to your pregnancy. If you need any dental procedures, it is a good idea to get them done as soon as possible. If you experience any dental problems during your pregnancy, please call and schedule an appointment. Untreated dental disease can affect your overall health.

We Pamper Our Patients

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry we not only offer excellent dental care to our pregnant patients, we provide quality preventative care and dental implants for the entire family. Our Fort Collins patients can expect top-tier dental care.

 

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 4245

How to Prevent Tooth Decay In Fort Collins

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

On open mouth showing teeth with signs of advanced tooth decay.

Tooth decay, also known as “dental caries,” is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in Fort Collins. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the sugars in food and produce acid, which erodes the enamel on teeth.

Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, which can cause pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. However, tooth decay is preventable with proper dental care and hygiene.

This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. Brushing helps remove plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to decay. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Mouthwash can also be used as an additional step to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

  • In addition to brushing and flossing, it’s important to watch what you eat and drink.

Sugary and starchy foods can provide fuel for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice. Instead, choose foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, which can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acid in the mouth.

  • Another way to prevent tooth decay is to make sure you’re getting enough fluoride.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Fluoride is often found in tap water, so if your water supply is not fluoridated, talk to us at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry about fluoride supplements. Fluoride is also present in many toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental treatments.

  • Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also important for preventing tooth decay.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can examine your teeth for signs of decay and catch problems early before they become more serious. We can also clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to decay. If Doctor Allison Lesko finds any issues, such as cavities or early signs of gum disease, we can recommend treatment to prevent further damage.

In addition to these general preventive measures, there are other steps you can take to protect your teeth in Fort Collins.

  • If you grind your teeth or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from damage.
  • If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting can help reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
  • If you have a dry mouth, which can increase your risk of decay, Doctor Allison Lesko can recommend products to help keep your mouth moist.

Overall, preventing tooth decay requires a commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

By brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary and starchy foods, getting enough fluoride, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of tooth decay and maintain a healthy smile.

So if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to make an appointment. The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can help you develop a personalized plan for preventing tooth decay and maintaining good oral health for life.

Preventing tooth decay is essential for maintaining good oral health. By following a few simple steps, such as brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of decay and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

…So don’t wait – make an appointment with The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, your Fort Collins dentist today to get started on the path to a healthier 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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