Frequently Asked Questions
Preventative Care
How long is my first visit?
Plan on your initial visit lasting 1-1.5 hours. During this visit we will evaluate your entire oral health status. This entails X-rays, measuring the gums, and diagnosing any necessary treatment.
Why are my gums bleeding?
There are several causes for bleeding gums. Primarily plaque build-up along the gum line causes the gums to be inflamed causing bleeding when brushing and or flossing. Changes in your health, such as pregnancy, and oral hygiene can cause gums to bleed. Generally twice daily brushing and flossing along with regular dental visits will keep your gums healthy and stop them from bleeding. Schedule today for your exam and cleaning!
Why do I have to take X-rays? Is this safe?
X-rays are an essential step to accurately diagnosing and identifying early problems in your teeth and bone. They allow us to see in between the teeth and at the very root to identify any cavities, bone loss, and infections. Your mouth is constantly changing. Regular X-rays with your visit help us monitor and properly treat our patients. Our digital X-rays allow for only minimal exposure for our patients and are safe for adults and children.
What is plaque?
Plaque is a sticky layer that constantly forms on the teeth and contains bacteria. These bacteria feed on the carbohydrates left in the mouth after eating and drinking, producing acids. These acids weaken the outer surface of teeth which leads to cavities. Brushing and flossing twice daily will remove plaque before it can cause damage. If left behind plaque becomes tartar which is a harder substance to remove and can lead to bone loss.
General Dentistry
I was told I have a cavity but my tooth doesn't hurt, do I really need a filling?
If detected early enough cavities are not painful. Getting a filling done before pain or sensitivity prevents further dental intervention such as a crown or root canal. Waiting for dental pain often results in more expensive and invasive procedures, don’t wait!
What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy (endodontic treatment) is performed when a tooth is severely decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the decay in the tooth and cleaning out the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the nerve of the tooth with extends to the canals or the roots of the tooth. Once removed the canals and inside of the tooth is cleaned, filled, and sealed. Root canal teeth often require a crown to protect and stabilize the tooth after treatment.
Why do I need a crown?
A dental crown is a full coverage restoration that is cemented over the entire tooth. Crowns are indicated when a tooth has a large cavity that leaves little natural tooth structure, tooth is cracked or broken, or after root canal treatment. Crowns typically last 5-10 years, and on occasion longer depending on oral hygiene and regular dental care.
Why is my tooth sensitive after I had a filling or crown done?
Dental work performed on teeth is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the tooth structure and replacing it. Often the tooth needs time to adjust to the procedure. It is normal for the tooth to be sensitive to temperature after restorative work is done. This discomfort should improve over 1-2 weeks and should not get worse. If symptoms worsen or pain does not seem to be getting better, return to the office for further evaluation. Sometimes a filling needs to be polished to accommodate your bite.
I have a missing tooth; do I need to replace it?
Once a tooth is removed, changes take place with the remaining teeth. Teeth can shift or erupt into the space leaving little opportunity to maintain your smile. Replacement options include a bridge, removable partial denture, or implant. Pros and cons come with each option. Each case is as unique as the patient; please call to schedule a consultation for your case.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Can I change the shape or look of my teeth?
Yes! There are several options available to change your smile. Cosmetic options include bonding, crowns, veneers, and enamoplasty.
- Bonding is adding material to the surface of the teeth to reshape or fill them. This can be done to cosmetically enhance your smile.
- Veneers are thin shells that are made of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth. This is a more permanent means of changing tooth shape than bonding but is more conservative than crowns.
- Crowns (often referred to as “caps”) are full coverage restorations that go around the entire surface of the tooth. They are permanently cemented onto the tooth.
- Enampolasty is re-contouring or reshaping of the tooth done by removing small amounts of tooth from the surface to provide a more esthetic result.
Each procedure differs in chair time and result. Come in today to discuss which option would be best for you.
I want a straighter smile. Are braces my only option?
We offer our patients clear aligner trays for a discreet and convenient way to straighten your teeth. Trays are changed at a timed interval to allow for small movements of the teeth until your ideal smile is achieved. Each case varies with length of treatment, call for an evaluation today!
Your Smile Brightens the Day!
3701 S Clarkson St, Suite 210
Englewood, CO 80113
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fax:
720-639-5103
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Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 7–4 pm
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