Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing

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

Invest in your smile with dental crowns in Loveland.

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

 

ArticleID 6562

Which Type of Toothbrush is Best?

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

Comprehensive family dental care in Loveland, CO.

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

 

ArticleID 3696

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Colorado

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Categories: Dental health, Extraction, General dentistry, Oral Health

Treat tooth injuries and dental emergencies in Fort Collins.

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and one area of the body that is particularly vulnerable to injury is the mouth, including the teeth.

Tooth injuries can range from minor chips and cracks to more severe cases such as fractures or avulsions (complete tooth displacement). Understanding the causes, types, and immediate actions for tooth injuries is crucial for minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving dental health.

If you experience a tooth injury, come into the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry as soon as possible and we can help you make a plan for repair, recovery, and long-term care.

In the meantime, let’s take a look at common Colorado tooth injuries, their causes, and what steps to take in case of an emergency.

Causes of Tooth Injuries

  • Tooth injuries can occur due to various factors, including:
  • Accidental Falls: Falling can result in impact to the face, causing teeth to hit hard surfaces.
  • Sports Injuries: Contact sports or recreational activities without proper mouthguards can lead to tooth injuries from collisions or falls.
  • Vehicle Accidents: High-speed collisions or sudden stops can cause severe trauma to the face and mouth.
  • Biting Hard Objects: Biting down on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can cause tooth fractures or chips.
  • Physical Altercations: Punches, kicks, or other forms of physical violence can result in tooth injuries.

Types of Tooth Injuries

Tooth injuries can vary in severity in Colorado, and they can be classified into several types:

  • Fractured or Cracked Teeth: These injuries involve partial or complete fractures of the tooth structure. They can range from minor cracks affecting only the enamel to more severe fractures extending into the dentin or pulp.
  • Chipped Teeth: This type of injury involves a small piece of the tooth enamel breaking off, usually caused by a direct impact.
  • Luxation Injuries: Luxation refers to the abnormal displacement of a tooth. It can include subluxation (tooth pushed out of alignment), extrusion (tooth partially pushed out of the socket), lateral displacement (tooth moved sideways), or intrusion (tooth pushed into the socket).
  • Avulsion: Avulsion occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out from its socket. Immediate action is crucial in attempting to save the tooth.

Immediate Actions for Tooth Injuries

In case of a tooth injury, it’s important to take immediate action at the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry to minimize damage and maximize the chances of saving the tooth.

Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Stay Calm: Remaining calm helps you think clearly and act effectively.
  2. Assess the Injury: Examine the affected tooth and surrounding area to determine the severity of the injury.
  3. Control Bleeding: If there is bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply a clean piece of gauze or a tea bag to the area for about 10 minutes. If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate medical attention.
  4. Preserve the Tooth: If a tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed), try to re-implant it into the socket, if possible. Handle the tooth by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. If re-implantation is not possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or a saline solution to keep it moist.
  5. Seek Dental Care: Regardless of the severity of the injury, it is essential to visit your dentist at the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry as soon as possible. The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry can assess the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance for optimal recovery.

Preventing Tooth Injuries

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are preventive measures that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth injuries:

Wear Protective Gear. When engaging in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental trauma, use a mouthguard or helmet with a face shield to protect your teeth.

Avoid Biting Hard into foods. Biting into a bone or other unexpected obstruction can result in chipped or broken teeth.

Avoid using your teeth as a tool. It’s sometimes natural to use your teeth to open packages or to hold items while you tug at them. This is a risky practice that can result in damage to your teeth.

Be safe out there, and protect your teeth from injury. If you need a recommendation for tooth protection during work or sports, come into the Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, and let’s talk about it.

 

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 8703

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

Which Tooth Whitener Works Best?

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

Dazzling White Teeth in Fort Collins. What is the best professional tooth-whitening system to use in Fort Collins?

There are two types of dentist-supervised tooth whitening systems available in Loveland. In order to determine the best choice for your teeth, schedule, and budget; you need to understand the differences in the systems.

Both systems use a bleaching agent containing peroxide. The Fort Collins Dentist offers professional in-office tooth bleaching using a whitening gel with a high concentration of peroxide. Some Windsor in-office tooth whitening systems use a light that causes the tooth-bleaching agent to work faster.

There are different types of lights including halogen, plasma arc, metal halide, and laser; but they all work the same way. When the light is shined on teeth on which the whitening gel is applied, it causes the peroxide to break down into free radicals, which are active oxygen molecules. This process naturally occurs without light, but the light makes it happen faster. That is why you can get whiter teeth in just one hour.

Most Fort Collins cosmetic dentists also offer take-home tooth whitening systems. Although these procedures take a bit longer to work, they achieve the same dramatic results. For many Timnath and Wellington patients, this is the most affordable teeth whitening system.

At The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry, we offer safe and effective teeth bleaching. Our Fort Collins cosmetic dentistry patients can’t believe how great their teeth look when they remove the stains and restore the brightness. If you would like to learn why our system is superior, schedule a consultation by calling our office 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 1372

Is It All About Flashy Smiles And Trendy Styles?

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Categories: General dentistry, Oral Health, Sedation Dentistry, Sleep Apnea

Restorative dentistry in Loveland, CO.

It’s All About Location

If you can’t be in Paris, then bring fashion home to Fort Collins. Facial fashion, that is. The pouty, the flashy, the sultry, the glamorous, the gleeful. Our professional dental team at the Fort Collins Dentist is enthusiastic about keeping you looking great and feeling confident. We offer a wide variety of dental services for our Fort Collins area locals—cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, and dental implants. You name it, we’ll explain it—sedation dentistry, sleep apnea.

It’s All About Working The Smile

For just about everyone out there, the way we look is vital to our self-concept. Our self-esteem influences our interactions and relationships, and perhaps even our success. Let us work with you to enliven that smile and bring it up to your standards. Our team can guide you through fixing any dental issue, including broken teeth, crooked teeth, and even missing teeth. Come down and see us. We will help you to work that smile on the proverbial runway of life.

It’s All About Being Uniquely You

Our single most outstanding feature is our Broad range of treatments. Right? So amazing. Be assured that your smile is in good hands. A dental restoration or smile redesign will set you apart. Be uniquely 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

 

ArticleID 5538

Do Whitestrips Work?

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

Get teeth whitening treatments in Fort Collins.If you have visited the toothpaste aisle at your Fort Collins grocery store, you have probably noticed dozens of products that claim to whiten your teeth. A few years ago, the only over-the-counter tooth whitening options in Loveland were whitening toothpastes and Crest Whitestrips. Now there is a wide variety of products at every drugstore counter in the area. The Fort Collins Dentist offers professional whitening services that are more effective than over-the-counter options.

Whitening Rinses
Whitening rinses are similar to mouthwashes. They kill bacteria, freshen your breath, and may help remove plaque. Whitening rinses, however, contain tooth-whitening ingredients not found in mouthwashes. Manufacturers advise taking a mouthful of the rinse and letting it slosh around on your teeth for one minute twice a day. Though this method is easy, many users never notice a lightening of their teeth. This is probably because the rinse does not touch your teeth long enough to truly whiten them!

Whitening Strips
The whitening strips you can buy in grocery stores have a couple of drawbacks. Though they contain a bleaching agent, it is much less potent than those used in dental offices. Another problem is that they do not whiten between teeth because the strips only touch the front surface. Though it is possible to remove stains, it can take months to see any whitening. By that point, you have probably spent more money than you would have if you had chosen the professional system at your dental practice.

Teeth Whitening Gels
Whitening gels are painted onto teeth with a small brush. One problem with whitening gels is that they only stick to dry teeth. If any saliva gets on the teeth during treatment, the gel is more likely to slide off.

If you are serious about dramatically whitening your teeth, the safest, quickest, and most affordable system is at your dental office.

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 1383

How To Make Brushing Your Teeth A Habit

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

Preventative dental care in Fort Collins, CO.

Brushing your teeth on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do for your smile. Healthy teeth make a beautiful smile. Brushing can also help with gum health and even keep your breath smelling sweet. The Fort Collins Dentist knows this well.

For some of us, brushing can be a loathsome chore that gets in the way of a good time. Hopefully, you don’t think of brushing in such dire terms, but we know it happens.

The best way to build brushing into your routine is to make it a habit. A habit is an automated practice that becomes hard to give up. Some habits can be bad, of course. Brushing can be a good habit.

If you can make brushing your teeth a habit, you’ll be one step closer to a life of successful checkups.

Here are some tips for creating a good habit that you can teach to your kids. These tips will also work on teens. And they work on adults, too:

Keep It Simple

One of the best ways to create a habit is to keep the requirements simple. Brushing teeth is already a simple task, but we can focus on the simplicity to help it stick as a habit.

Don’t complicate the instructions for your kids. Keep it as simple as possible at the start. A small amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush, brush for about two minutes and rinse with clear water. Simple.

Regular Timing

One of the cornerstones of a habit is routine. Routine is rooted in consistent timing. Choose at least two, or three regular times to brush your teeth. Set a timer if you have to, but it’s best to create a habit around other regular activities. “First thing in the morning” or “after breakfast” are good times. After dinner or just before getting into bed are also good times.

Regardless of when you choose, make sure it is a daily activity, and that it is tied to another routine or habit as a reminder. In this way, you are actually appending an existing habit or routine, and that makes it easier.

Stick To It

Research indicates it takes about two weeks to create a habit. You have to do a task for at least two weeks in a row before your brain will turn it over to auto-pilot and make it into a habit. Your brain tries to do this with routine things so you don’t have to keep the task in your short-term memory.

If you can stick with a task for two weeks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a good habit. If you can hold on for 30 days, you’ll imprint your new habit as a reflexive routine. You may never have to think about it again!

Improve It

Finally, any good habit needs constant improvement. You can improve your habit of brushing your teeth by working on proper form, or by adding a little bit of time. Work toward the two-minute mark; any longer and it may start to cause damage. You can also make sure you are using a soft or medium brush, and that you are using fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth healthy.

Start Today

There’s no time like right now to get started on creating healthy habits for your teeth. If you are having trouble with brushing, make a commitment to work on it starting now. If you are caring for a child, or working with a teenager, help reinforce good habits with reminders, positive support, and a leading example. The Fort Collins Dentist can attest to the importance of these practices.

Once you have created a healthy habit around brushing your teeth, you’ll have plenty of reason to smile. We look forward to seeing it!

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 7779

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

Gum Disease Linked To Alzheimer’s: Keep Those Gums Healthy!

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

gum disease treatment Fort Collins

At the Fort Collins Dentist, we know gum health is essential. However, studies show it may also be linked to Alzheimer’s Disease. As if you needed another reason to keep your gums as healthy as possible.

Scientists have found a connection between a bacteria that causes periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Porphyomonas gingivalis is a bacteria that can result in chronic periodontitis. The bacteria was discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The research study, “Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors,” can be found in Science Advances.

The researchers concluded:

“Chronic periodontitis and infection with Porphyomonas gingivalis have been identified as significant risk factors for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

Periodontal disease, frequently called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, dissatisfactory oral hygiene, genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

This study should dispel the misconception that oral health is somehow separate from physical health.

It is vital to see your dentist regularly to keep your gums healthy (as well as your teeth). To schedule a periodontal disease exam, call The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry 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 8096