Oral Health

The internet is a treasure trove of information, but when it comes to your oral health, not everything you read online is accurate or safe.

While it might be tempting to try home remedies for dental issues, visiting a qualified dentist at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado is the only way to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why DIY Dental Doesn’t Cut It

• Misinformation: The internet is rife with misinformation, and what might seem like a harmless home remedy could cause more harm than good.
• Incorrect Diagnosis: Without a professional examination, it’s easy to misdiagnose dental problems. This can lead to ineffective or even dangerous treatments.
• Delayed Treatment: Attempting home remedies can delay seeking professional care, allowing dental issues to worsen.
• Damage to Teeth and Gums: Some DIY methods can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.
• Overlooking Underlying Issues: Home remedies often address symptoms, not the root cause of the problem. A dentist can identify and treat underlying conditions.

Your Trusted Dental Experts at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

• Accurate Diagnosis: Our experienced dentists have the training and expertise to accurately diagnose dental problems.
• Comprehensive Treatment: We offer a wide range of treatments tailored to your specific needs.
• Preventive Care: Regular checkups help prevent dental issues before they become serious.
• Personalized Advice: Our dentists provide personalized oral hygiene recommendations.
• Safe and Effective Treatments: Our dental treatments are safe and backed by scientific research.

Remember, your oral health is too important to gamble with.

While the internet can be a valuable resource for general information, always consult a dentist at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry for professional advice and 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

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

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

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

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

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