FAQ

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining oral health. Dentists can detect and treat problems early, preventing them from becoming more severe. These visits also include professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar, which are impossible to remove with regular brushing and flossing alone. Regular cleanings and exams help ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy.

Brushing and flossing are crucial for removing food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums. Brushing twice a day helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, while flossing daily removes plaque and debris between teeth and under the gumline that a toothbrush can’t reach. Together, they help maintain oral hygiene and overall health.

Dental X-rays are very safe. The amount of radiation exposure from dental X-rays is minimal, and modern techniques and equipment ensure even lower exposure levels. Our dentists and team use X-rays to diagnose issues that are not visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss and infections. Protective measures, such as lead aprons, further enhance safety.

We are proud to provide comprehensive dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado, and the surrounding areas, including Greeley, Loveland, Wellington and Windsor, Colorado. Our goal is to provide convenient, high-quality and individualized dental care to all residents in these and other neighboring regions. Please contact our office for more information.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums and smile. It includes procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, bonding and tooth contouring. These treatments can address issues like discoloration, gaps, misalignment and chipped teeth, helping you achieve a beautiful, confident smile.

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, misaligned or have gaps. Veneers provide a natural-looking, durable solution for a variety of cosmetic dental issues.

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that lightens the color of your teeth, removing stains and discoloration. Teeth whitening is an effective way to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Our dentists offer take-home teeth whitening kits so you can brighten your smile in the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule.

For medically compromised patients, maintaining oral health is vital because dental problems can exacerbate their medical conditions. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections and complications, impacting overall health. Regular dental care helps prevent issues that could complicate their medical treatment and improve their quality of life.

Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health to prevent dental issues before they start. This includes regular cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments and sealants, as well as maintaining a good oral hygiene routine at home. Preventive care helps avoid cavities, gum disease and other dental problems, saving your time, money and discomfort in the long run.

Children’s dentistry, or pediatric dentistry, focuses on the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are trained to handle the unique dental needs of children, including preventive care, early detection of dental issues, and education on proper oral hygiene practices.

Children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. Early visits help ensure that their teeth and gums develop properly and allow our dentists to identify and address any potential issues early on.

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars). They help prevent cavities by sealing out food and plaque. Sealants are especially beneficial for children, as their molars are more susceptible to decay, though patients of all ages can benefit from receiving this preventive treatment.

A dental emergency is a situation that requires prompt attention from our dentists to resolve. Dental emergencies include severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, a broken or cracked tooth, and abscesses or infections. Seeking immediate treatment is crucial to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and improve the chances of saving a tooth. Prompt care can also prevent more serious complications from developing.

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is caused by plaque buildup and can range from gingivitis (mild inflammation) to periodontitis (serious gum infection that damages soft tissue and bone). Symptoms include swollen or red gums, tender gums, bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth.

Treatments for gum disease vary depending on the severity. They include professional cleanings, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, and, in advanced cases, surgical procedures such as flap surgery, gum grafting, or bone grafts. Early detection and treatment are essential for managing gum disease and preventing tooth loss.

An intraoral scanner is a device used by our dentists to create digital impressions of your teeth and gums. It captures detailed, 3D images, which are used for designing dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and aligners. Intraoral scanners offer a more comfortable, precise, and efficient alternative to traditional impression methods.

Senior dentistry addresses the unique dental needs of older adults. As we age, dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss become more common. Senior dentistry focuses on preventive care, treatment of existing conditions, and the use of dentures or implants to maintain oral health and quality of life.

A tooth extraction is recommended when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal. It may also be necessary for impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding, or to prepare for orthodontic treatment. Removing a problematic tooth can prevent infection and maintain overall oral health.

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring damaged or missing teeth. It includes treatments such as fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures. The goal is to restore the function, appearance, and health of your teeth and gums, ensuring a strong and healthy smile.

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth or implants. Bridges help restore your smile, improve chewing and speaking, and maintain the shape of your face.

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, and ceramic. They are used to protect weakened teeth, cover dental implants, or improve the appearance of a tooth.

Dental fillings are used to repair cavities and restore the function and appearance of a tooth. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is filled with materials such as composite resin, amalgam, or gold. Fillings help prevent further decay and maintain the tooth’s integrity.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, offering a long-term solution for missing teeth.

Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They come in two types: complete dentures for replacing all teeth and partial dentures for replacing some teeth. Dentures help restore the appearance and function of your smile, making it easier to eat and speak.

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged tooth pulp. The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This treatment saves the natural tooth, alleviates pain, and prevents further infection.

If you are afraid to visit the dentist, please communicate your concerns with our dental team. We offer solutions and strategies to help you relax and feel more at ease during your time with us. Our dentists and team also use modern dental techniques and technologies, which make your treatments more comfortable and less invasive. We are committed to providing you with the most positive experience possible.