Restorative dentistry

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry Performs Emergency Root Canals

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Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry, Root Canals

Colorado Dentist Calms Root Canal Fears.At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we perform emergency root canals. Though this procedure strikes fear into the hearts of many individuals, they should be more afraid of not having a root canal.

What is a root canal?

When a tooth becomes badly infected or decayed, our qualified dental team can fix it.

First, we clean the inside of the tooth by removing the bacteria, soft tissue (called pulp), decayed nerve tissue, and any debris that may be causing the tooth infection from the inside of the tooth.

The dentist will then seal the tooth to prevent further cavities and finish by applying a crown or filling. This is the process and purpose of a root canal. The process can be completed, typically, in one or two visits. In many cases, a root canal procedure is a better option than removing the infected tooth since it allows the patient to keep their natural tooth.

Are all teeth at risk?

Teeth that are more prone to requiring a root canal are cracked or chipped, have received repeated dental procedures, have been damaged by trauma to the face, or are suffering from deep tooth decay. Wearing a mouth guard can help prevent damage sustained to teeth and practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as daily flossing and brushing, coupled with regular dental visits, can reduce the possibility of needing a root canal.

Though a root canal can be intimidating or scary, educating yourself and talking to your dentist can relieve much of your anxiety. Root canals are often not painful, and for many individuals, the pain of the infection experienced beforehand is worse than any pain that might be experienced during the procedure.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often do not produce symptoms, it is critical to have regular dental examinations. Your dentist can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved.

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 421

3 Smart Smile Solutions

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental Implants, Dental veneers, General dentistry, Restorative dentistry, Smile design

Get a smile makeover in Fort Collins.

In today’s message from the Fort Collins Dentist, we will concentrate on three innovative procedures used in smile redesigns.

1. Tooth Implants
Tooth implants are transforming the face of dentistry. For most patients, a dental implant is the proper solution for a missing tooth. A dental implant is a metal (usually titanium) rod implanted into the bone to replace the missing root of a tooth that has been extracted. The crown and supporting structure are securely attached to the post.

When the final crown is attached, the dental implant is indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Dental implants have many vital advantages over dental bridges. If you are missing teeth, schedule a consultation with Doctor Lesko to learn more.

2. Invisible Braces
Invisible braces allow you to straighten your teeth discreetly because it is nearly impossible to see them while they are being worn. There are a couple of different types of invisible braces including Damon Braces and Invisalign clear aligners.

3. White Fillings
If you had decay in the past, you may have old amalgam fillings. White fillings match your surrounding teeth, significantly upgrading your smile without crowns.

The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry has been providing trusted dental care since 2016. We look forward to meeting you. Call us today at 970-221-5115.

 

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 7297

Fun Floss Facts

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

Get convenient dental care in Fort Collins.

You probably believe that the most urgent aspect regarding flossing is simply to do it every day. At the Fort Collins Dentist, we agree. However, many people find that trying out a few different types of floss helps them to establish or solidify the habit and get the flossing comfort they desire.

Let’s discuss some of the most common types of dental floss.

Basic floss is either a monofilament floss, which is often made of some kind of rubber or plastic, or multifilament, which is made of nylon or silk. Nylon floss is less pricey, more common, and is sold waxed or unwaxed.

Monofilament floss will not rip or tear, and because of this, many people find that it pulls in between the teeth more easily. This type of floss is typically referred to as “glide” floss.

Both monofilament floss and multifilament floss are sold in differing thicknesses. It is beneficial to find the size that works best for you. Since you should not have to snap the floss between your teeth, find the thickness that allows you to gently floss.

Dental tape is nylon floss in the form of a wide, flat ribbon. Many patients at the Fort Collins Dentist find that dental tape is the easiest floss to get between their teeth.

For those of you with braces or appliances, there are also flosses designed to be used with these devices. Make sure to communicate with your orthodontist about flossing because you don’t want to break this vital habit just because you’re having your teeth corrected!

A good person to give you advice about flossing is your dental hygienist. Here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, our proficient hygienists are prepared to answer any questions you have about flossing, brushing habits, and even cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth bleaching and veneers.

My name is Doctor Allison Lesko. My practice, The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, has been serving the Fort Collins area since 2016. Our top services include cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and general dentistry.

Call us today at 970-221-5115 for your appointment!

Source:
“The Different Types of Dental Floss,” Huffington Post, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/dental-floss_b_1643933.html, accessed on September 17, 2013

 

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 5273

Are Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, General dentistry, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry

Learn about dental enamel erosion treatment in Fort Collins.

Most of our patients at the Fort Collins Dentist know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency of sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids, and bacteria.

Let’s consider additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially harmful because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can shield your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to limit the acidic effects. It is wise to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts, and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will promote tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more often you eat the more frequently your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be tempered by picking healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brushing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is vulnerable to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the ordinary diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are highly acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out the healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or liquids, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Doctor Lesko can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about liquids. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Fort Collins teenagers who sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their densest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the consequences of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can spark the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually useful for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that xylitol restricts the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also helps alleviate plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

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 8677

Do You Love Your Smile?

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Learn Our Loveland Cosmetic Dentistry Options. The Wellington people who are most happy with their smiles have healthy, straight teeth that sparkle when they laugh. If nature didn’t bless you with attractive teeth, you are not alone. Most perfect smiles you come across in Timnath were not always that way. They are the result of cosmetic dentistry performed by an experienced Loveland aesthetic dentist.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry in Fort Collins, Allison Lesko DDS provides state-of-the-art procedures that deliver dazzling, flawless teeth for cosmetic dentistry patients. We treat patients from 30 to 101. You are never too young or too old to improve your smile, but it will definitely make you feel younger!

Two common smile problems are yellow enamel and chipped teeth.

Discolored Teeth

Few Fort Collins people have pearly white smiles that stay that way forever. Even with consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings, our teeth darken as we age. Fortunately, the most affordable Fort Collins cosmetic dentistry procedure is tooth bleaching. Picture yourself with a celebrity-caliber smile. It is possible with safe and affordable teeth whitening at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry.

Damaged Teeth

Our teeth work hard for us day after day, year after year. Sometimes they get chipped or cracked in the process. If you would like to fix your tooth flaws, schedule a consultation by calling The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry at 970-221-5115. We use porcelain veneers every day to remedy tooth trauma. Cosmetic bonding has been used with fabulous results for many years and bonding is usually a fraction of the price of a crown.

Ask doctor Lesko which of our Loveland cosmetic dentistry procedures can be completed in one appointment. How about a same-day smile makeover?

If you have never been eager to show your teeth when you smile or laugh, now is the time to change that. Call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry today at 970-221-5115 to schedule a smile design consultation.

 

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 1335

Health Habits To Keep You Smiling

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Categories: Dental health, General dentistry, Oral Health, Restorative dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Essential habits to keep teeth healthy in Fort Collins.

In today’s post, we will focus on important behaviors that influence oral health. Of course, at the Fort Collins Dentist, we know effective brushing and flossing are two critical habits for healthy teeth, but there are many more things we can do to maintain a healthy smile.

Diet Do’s

  • Do eat a nutritious diet with a variety of foods. This is needed for overall physical health and a strong immune system.
  • Do enjoy calcium-rich dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt to neutralize acids that are detrimental to enamel.

Diet Don’ts

  • Don’t eat sugary foods. Sugar leads to the production of detrimental cavity-causing acids that weaken enamel and lead to tooth decay.
  • Don’t snack throughout the day. This accelerates plaque production and subjects the teeth to continual contact with acids.
  • Don’t chew on ice. (It really can crack teeth.)
  • Don’t drink energy drinks. They have many substances that are detrimental to teeth.

Other Important Tips

  • Don’t use your teeth as tools. It is smarter to cut that knotted shoelace than to gnaw at it to try to untangle it.
  • Don’t get piercings in or around your mouth.
  • Don’t ignore tooth pain or sensitivity.
  • If you have children, talk to doctor Lesko about water fluoridation. If your municipal water supply is not fluoridated, you may want to give your kids fluoride supplements.
  • Don’t use a medium or hard bristle toothbrush. It can damage gums.
  • If you have an eating disorder—seek professional help ASAP. Bulimia and anorexia are extremely damaging to teeth. (Not to mention the toll they take on the heart and other organs.)

We encourage all of our patients to maintain a lifestyle that maintains dental health as well as overall physical health. At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we serve the Fort Collins area with exceptional dental care including general and cosmetic dentistry. Ask us about dental implants, sleep apnea, cosmetic dentistry, and sedation 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 8164

Making The Cost Of Dental Treatment Palatable At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry

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

The cost of dental crowns in Loveland at the Fort Collins Dentist.A healthy smile is priceless and superior dental care is a worthwhile investment in your quality of life. However, the cost of treatment and precision restorations can sometimes be prohibitive. Knowing what to expect price-wise can make your dental visit with the Fort Collins Dentist more palatable.

Obviously, the cost of some procedures such as crowns versus fillings is dependent upon unknown factors. X-rays can show the basic problem but sometimes the extent of the damage isn’t clear until we get in there. Our caring staff works to offer estimates based on best-case and worst-case scenarios.

Nailing down the cost is much easier once the overall treatment plan is established. Doctor Allison Lesko performs an oral exam, reviews the patient’s dental history, and consults with the patient before creating an estimate. The price is influenced by the patient’s current condition, cosmetic goals, and long-term functionality.

Usually, the cost of treatments such as teeth whitening, dental implants, veneers, denture fittings, and the price of cosmetic dentistry can be explained at the initial consultation with Doctor Lesko. We encourage our patients to take some time to review the options before they choose which elective procedures to pursue. We never pressure our patients to make a quick decision about something as important as dental treatment.

Here at The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we are committed to customized patient-focused care. Often the treatment plan will be extended over several visits to allow healing and adjustment in the mouth before doing more work.

With restorations, the most conservative treatment is always preferred. The cost is weighed with priority for adequate eating and speaking functionality. Personal confidence in appearance is also taken into account and given priority.

Doctor Lesko has been practicing compassionate dentistry since 2016. If you are in the market for sedation dentistry or sleep apnea but are worried about how much it will set you back or whether your insurance company covers the procedure, then call 970-221-5115 today and let us look into it for you.

Feel free to shop around and compare our affordable prices to other dentists in the area – but be wary of bargain-basement dental advertisements. Many ads present a false picture of the actual cost of the treatment. And, do you really want to trust your smile to the lowest bidder?

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 6781

Not All Smile Makeovers Are Created Equal

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental crowns, Dental Implants, Dental veneers, Restorative dentistry, Smile design

Fort Collins smile makeovers with porcelain veneers and more.

Hello Fort Collins! Welcome to the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry dental blog. Let’s talk about smile transformations. Some Fort Collins patients wonder if the term is synonymous with general cosmetic dentistry.

Is the placement of four porcelain dental veneers considered a smile makeover? Well, yes and no. If your smile is attractive and healthy except for some chips in your upper front teeth, veneer placement may remedy a few cosmetic problems and result in a stunning smile.

Generally, however, a complete smile redesign combines several carefully chosen cosmetic dentistry procedures performed at the same time for a complete smile renewal. In other words, the sum is greater than the parts.

For example, one treatment plan could include crown restorations, veneers for teeth that are misshapen but otherwise healthy, tooth-colored filling replacement for old amalgam fillings, and teeth whitening for the crowning touch.

I am doctor Allison Lesko. I have been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado since 2016. Performing successful smile makeovers makes my profession extremely fulfilling. Patients who plan to receive a smile makeover should take their time choosing a dentist to perform it. I invite you to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your needs and wishes. During the consultation, I can tell you about my extensive experience and show you before and after pictures of satisfied patients.

When I design a custom smile makeover, I study several elements in addition to the teeth. After all, the teeth are just one component of the patient’s face. The gumline, lips, mouth, facial shape, facial structure, coloring, and patient’s age affect the scope of the design. This comprehensive approach to a smile makeover achieves incredible results and sets our practice apart.

If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dental smile makeovers, call us today at 970-221-5115.

 

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 6779

There’s No Reason to Fear Your Root Canal Treatment

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Categories: General dentistry, Restorative dentistry, Root Canals

Root canal treatment at The Fort Collins Dentist, Fort Collins, COOne of the most dreaded dental procedures is a root canal. Many people avoid seeking dental care because of their fear of this treatment. However, avoiding a root canal can lead to more severe dental issues that can result in tooth loss. As a dental professional at The Fort Collins Dentist, I understand your apprehension but I want to reassure you that there is no reason to fear a root canal. In this blog, I will discuss what a root canal entails, what to expect during the procedure, and how effective and safe the treatment is.

What is a root canal treatment?
A root canal treatment is a procedure that is used to repair and save a tooth that is infected or badly decayed. The process involves the removal of the damaged pulp inside a tooth. The pulp of the tooth is a soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerves that run from the tooth’s roots to the crown. When the pulp gets infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. During the procedure, your dentist will remove the diseased pulp, clean and disinfect the canal, and fill and seal it to prevent further infection.

What to expect during the procedure:
Your dentist will start by numbing the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia. After the anesthesia has taken effect, a rubber dam will be placed over the tooth to keep it dry during the procedure. Your dentist will then drill an access hole into the tooth to remove the pulp and clean the root canal. When the canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, a filling material will be placed into the canal and sealed. In most cases, a crown will be placed over the tooth to protect and strengthen it.

Is root canal treatment safe?
Many people still believe that root canal treatment is dangerous, but the truth is that it is a safe, routine dental procedure. With advances in modern dentistry and anesthesia, the procedure is relatively painless and has a high success rate of more than 95 percent. By saving your natural tooth, you can avoid more costly and complex dental procedures in the future, such as implants or bridges.

Is root canal treatment effective?
Root canal treatment is highly effective at saving damaged teeth and preventing the need for extraction. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a treated tooth can last for a lifetime. However, in some cases, the tooth may have to be retreated if the infection returns or the initial treatment wasn’t successful. Your dentist will monitor you after the treatment to ensure that your tooth is healing correctly.

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective dental procedure that can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for more invasive treatments. If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity in your teeth, don’t ignore it. Early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and save your teeth. As a dental professional, I encourage you to seek dental care and discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist. Remember, there is no reason to fear a root canal.

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

Advantages of Dental Implants: Why It’s Worth the Investment

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Categories: Cosmetic dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

Dentures - The Fort Collins DentistLosing a tooth can cause a lot of problems in your life, from the way you look to the way you eat and speak. Thankfully, dental implants have become a popular solution for those missing one or more teeth. Not only do dental implants look and function like natural teeth, but they also come with many other benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top advantages of dental implants and why they are worth the investment for dental patients.

1. They are long-lasting and durable

Unlike traditional dentures and bridges, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. Made of strong, durable materials like titanium, dental implants are built to withstand daily wear and tear and can even improve your oral health. Once implanted into the jawbone, the implant naturally fuses with the bone to create a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth.

2. They look and feel like natural teeth

One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. Because they are custom-designed and constructed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, dental implants give you a natural-looking smile that boosts your confidence and self-esteem.

3. They improve speech and eating patterns

Missing teeth can cause problems with eating and speaking. Without a full set of teeth, you may need to adjust the way you speak or modify your diet, which can be frustrating and embarrassing. Dental implants restore your smile and bite, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and speak clearly without worry.

4. They prevent bone loss and protect surrounding teeth

When you lose a tooth, the bone where the tooth once was begins to deteriorate over time. This can lead to further tooth loss and even changes to your facial structure. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that stimulates bone growth and prevents bone loss. They also do not require the grinding down of surrounding healthy teeth to support them, like bridges do.

5. They require minimal maintenance

Dental implants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. With proper brushing and flossing, regular dental cleanings, and check-ups, dental implants can last a lifetime. No need to worry about removing and cleaning dentures every night or removing bridges regularly for cleaning.

Dental implants are a worthwhile investment for those missing teeth. They come with many advantages, including durability, natural appearance, improved speech and eating function, bone loss prevention, and minimal maintenance. Talk to your dentist about dental implants to determine if they are the best option for restoring your smile and improving your overall oral health. With proper care, they can provide a confident and functional smile that lasts a lifetime.

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