Restorative dentistry

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

Restoring Your Smile in Fort Collins: Expert Tooth Repairs You Can Trust

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Restorative dentistry

A cracked tooth in need of repair.A broken or chipped tooth doesn’t just affect your appearance – it impacts your confidence and overall dental health. At The Fort Collins Dentist, we understand how important your smile is, and our experienced team is here to provide expert solutions for restoring it to its full brilliance. Whether you’re dealing with a minor chip or severe damage, our cosmetic dentistry services can help you regain a smile you’re proud to show off.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Damaged Tooth

Even the smallest tooth damage can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.

Risks of Leaving a Broken Tooth Untreated

  • Infection and Pain: Cracks and chips can expose the inner layers of your tooth, leaving it vulnerable to infection and leading to discomfort or intense pain.
  • Misalignment: Damaged teeth may shift over time, causing alignment issues that can affect your bite and jaw health.

Minor Chips Can Lead to Bigger Issues

A small chip might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can create sharp edges, wear down surrounding teeth, and develop into fractures or decay. Addressing chips early helps prevent these complications and ensures lasting dental health.

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions for Broken Teeth

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we tailor our cosmetic and restorative solutions to meet your specific needs, using advanced technology and techniques to repair damaged teeth seamlessly.

  1. Chipped Tooth Repair
  • Why Address Chips? Even minor chips jeopardize your tooth’s structure. Treating them avoids future problems.
  • Composite Bonding: A quick, effective solution for chipped teeth. This process applies a tooth-colored resin to seamlessly restore the tooth’s shape and strength.
  1. Cracked Tooth Repair

Cracks can range from surface-level fractures to deeper, more serious splits.

  • Treatment Options:
      • For minor cracks, composite bonding offers an excellent repair.
      • Severe cases may require dental crowns to protect and restore the tooth’s functionality. A crown acts like a custom-fitted cap, shielding the tooth from further damage.
  1. Broken Tooth Repair
  • When Crowns Save the Day

Significant breaks often call for crowns, which provide both protection and a natural look.

  • When Extraction Is Necessary

If the damage is too extensive to repair, extraction may be the best option. But don’t worry – we’ll guide you toward effective replacement methods to restore your smile.

Tooth Replacement Options for Severe Damage

If a tooth has to be removed or is beyond repair, there’s no need to worry – our replacement options ensure your smile remains complete.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges fill gaps caused by missing teeth, restoring both functionality and appearance. They’re a great option for blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Dental Implants

For the most durable solution, dental implants provide a permanent, natural-looking alternative. Implants fuse with your jawbone to mimic the function and feel of a real tooth, helping preserve bone density and overall oral health.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist?

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, The Fort Collins Dentist provides expertise and care that sets us apart.

  • Expertise of Dr. Lesko and Dr. Riesgraf

With years of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, our dentists are skilled at handling all types of tooth damage with precision and care.

  • Commitment to Comfort and Technology

State-of-the-art technology combined with a dedication to patient comfort ensures a stress-free experience and optimal results.

Book Your Tooth Repair Appointment Today!

Don’t wait to restore your smile. Schedule your appointment with The Fort Collins Dentist today and take the first step toward reclaiming your confidence and oral health. Bring your smile back to life with care and expertise that you can trust.

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

Life-Changing Results with Dental Crowns at The Fort Collins Dentist

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Restorative dentistry

Results of a patient recieving porcelain crowns at The Fort Collins Dentist.If you’ve been dealing with chipped, damaged, or discolored teeth, dental crowns can offer a fast and transformative solution. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko and her team use advanced technology, including CEREC same-day crowns, to restore smiles and boost confidence. Here’s everything you need to know about dental crowns, who they’re for, and how they can change your life.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a protective cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and functionality. Crowns are ideal for teeth compromised by decay, trauma, or large restorative procedures like root canals. Beyond their restorative benefits, crowns enhance the appearance of teeth, giving you a refreshed and natural-looking smile.

Crowns are made from materials like ceramic, gold, or porcelain fused to metal. Each option offers unique advantages, from the natural aesthetics of ceramic to the durability of gold, ensuring a solution tailored to your needs.

Who Can Benefit from Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns address a wide range of issues, including chipped or broken teeth, discolored or misshapen teeth, and teeth weakened by decay or trauma. For example, crowns can restore the original shape of a damaged tooth or cover discoloration that whitening treatments can’t resolve.

Patients often experience life-changing transformations. Imagine someone hesitant to smile due to chipped front teeth—after receiving custom crowns, they regain their confidence and enjoy interacting with others without hesitation. Dental crowns are an investment in both appearance and functionality.

The Life-Changing Impact of Dental Crowns

Few dental treatments offer as many benefits as crowns. Functionally, they restore the ability to chew and speak comfortably, enhancing everyday life. Patients also report a significant boost in self-esteem, feeling more confident in social and professional settings.

In addition to their immediate benefits, crowns are a long-term investment. With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or more, making them a durable and cost-effective solution for oral health.

The Convenience of CEREC Same-Day Dental Crowns

At The Fort Collins Dentist, we take dental restoration to the next level with CEREC same-day crowns. This advanced technology allows us to design, mill, and place custom crowns in a single visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns or multiple appointments.

Using digital imaging, Dr. Lesko takes a precise 3D scan of your tooth to create a custom-fit crown. The crown is then crafted from a high-quality ceramic block and bonded to your tooth—all within two hours. This streamlined process saves time and delivers exceptional results.

Why Choose The Fort Collins Dentist?

Dr. Lesko and her team are dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered care. From CEREC technology to 3D imaging, our state-of-the-art tools ensure efficient and effective treatment. We also prioritize comfort, creating a welcoming environment where you can feel at ease during your visit.

Discover the Crown Worthy of Your Smile

Dental crowns are more than a treatment—they’re an investment in your confidence, comfort, and long-term oral health. At The Fort Collins Dentist, Dr. Lesko offers fast, transformative results tailored to your unique needs.

Don’t wait to reclaim your smile. Request your appointment today and experience the life-changing benefits of dental crowns.

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

A Fresh Start After Losing a Tooth

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Categories: Dental crowns, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

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

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

I’m Missing a Tooth. Now What?

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

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

A Better Restoration

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

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

Titanium Post

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

Abutment

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

The Restoration (Crown)

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

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

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

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

 

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 3066

Correcting Severe Dental Problems At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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

A yellow diamond shaped sign with a warning of construction ahead written in black letters.Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed at The Fort Collins Dentist in Loveland can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can correct the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some Fort Collins dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures that remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some Fort Collins smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course, it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your Fort Collins dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures. They are available right here in Fort Collins, Wellington, and Windsor. Our team has the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate 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 950

We Keep Dental Patients Comfortable

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Restorative dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

A smiling blonde woman with curly hair in a dentist's chair with dental tools on a cabinet in the background.

To state the obvious, nobody enjoys pain. doctor Lesko knows this, and that is why the dental team at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry has made patient comfort our number one goal.

In conjunction with creating a calm environment, we have various medications that can lower and even eliminate pain associated with different dental procedures to give you a more enjoyable experience.

Some of the most common pain-relieving medications used in Loveland dentist offices and around the country are topical anesthetics. These are swabbed directly onto mouth tissue and numb the surface layers. Topical anesthetics can minimize the pain of mouth sores, or they can be applied to prepare the mouth for an injection.

Local anesthetics are injected into mouth tissue (usually the gums) to block the nerve sensations in distinct areas of the mouth. Dentists usually numb the mouth in this way before filling cavities, treating gum disease, or performing cosmetic dentistry procedures.

More involved dental procedures may necessitate nitrous oxide or even general anesthesia. Ask us about sleep dentistry and oral conscious sedation.

Dentists often recommend an OTC analgesic to relieve pain after a dental visit. These medications include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.

Because your dentist will most likely administer a pain reliever during the dental visit or prescribe something for you to take after the procedure, make sure you make a complete list of medications you are taking, including herbal supplements, before each appointment.

We want patients to be informed about their dental care, especially as it pertains to pain relief during dental treatment. If you are in the Fort Collins area and looking for quality dental care, we invite you to contact our office and schedule an appointment 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 3542

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

Tooth Restoration: Dental Implants And Dental Bridges

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental Implants, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry

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

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

Tooth Implants Replace the Root and Crown

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

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

Preserving Facial Contour

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

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

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

Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:

970-221-5115

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526

 

ArticleID 371

Inlays/Onlays: Less Invasive Than Complete Crowns

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry

Get affordable cosmetic dental work in Fort Collins.

Restorative dentistry has progressed considerably over the years and there are now several effective ways to repair decayed teeth. In today’s post from the Fort Collins Dentist, we are going to concentrate on two similar types of restorations: dental inlays and onlays.

Where possible, an inlay or an onlay can be a less-invasive substitute for a complete crown and either one is usually more affordable than a porcelain crown procedure.

Inlays/onlays are “indirect fillings,” meaning that they are created in a lab and placed whole on the tooth. A traditional “direct filling” is applied to the tooth while the material is malleable and then shaped by the dentist.

An inlay is used to repair the surface of a damaged tooth, usually to fill a small cavity or a natural pit that is at risk for decay.

Typically porcelain or composite resin are used for inlays; these materials are strong and look very natural because the color can be matched exactly to the surrounding teeth. An inlay is exactly fitted to your tooth and looks, feels, and functions like the initial tooth.

An onlay covers a larger part of the tooth. Because they cover such a large area of the tooth, they are often referred to as partial crowns. Onlays are commonly applied to the biting surface of the tooth. Just like inlays, they are specifically fitted to the damaged part of the tooth. Composite resin and porcelain are also the main materials used to create an onlay. As mentioned before, inlays and onlays serve a key role in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we provide trusted dental care including inlays and onlays. If you have one or more teeth that has a cavity, crack, or excessive wear, call our office to make an appointment 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 7227

5 Tools For Tooth Transformations

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental health, Dental veneers, Restorative dentistry

porcelain veneers price Loveland

Too-small teeth. Misshapen teeth. Cracked teeth. Chipped teeth. Spacing irregularities. These problems are all too common. But you don’t have to live with them! With the advances in cosmetic dentistry, the Fort Collins Dentist has fixes for these vexing tooth issues!

1. Veneers. (Also called dental laminates or porcelain veneers). These extremely thin shells are custom-made so the size, shape, and color are perfectly matched to your surrounding teeth. The veneers are securely cemented to the front of the teeth to dramatically upgrade your smile.

2. Bonding. This procedure uses a strong tooth-colored resin to close spaces, repair chips and cracks, or change the shape. The resin is molded into place and then a light is applied to harden the material for secure adherence to the tooth.

3. Recontouring. Minimally-invasive reshaping of a tooth by removing small bits of enamel to improve the shape or length. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is sometimes called odontoplasty or slenderizing.

4. Crowns. Most people are familiar with this durable multi-purpose restoration. Natural-looking dental crowns are fabricated in the shape and color of the tooth and cemented into place to fully cover the part of the tooth visible above the gumline.

5. Braces. Patients of all ages are transforming their smiles with cutting-edge orthodontia. Before you dismiss this option as too time-consuming or costly, learn about the new braces now available. Braces are more convenient and discrete than ever before.

Countless Loveland dental patients have achieved beautiful smiles with a cosmetic dental smile makeover from The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry!

My name is Doctor Allison Lesko of The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins. I am enthusiastic about to helping my patients have optimum oral health and beautiful smiles. If you have any questions about veneers, bonding, recontouring, or crowns, I invite you to make an appointment 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 6632