Why you should take gum disease seriously
Gum disease (also known as gingivitis, periodontal disease, or periodontitis) can start as a minor problem but will continue to get more severe. Although common, most people do not realize that gum disease can lead to serious health problems in other parts of the body if left untreated. Brushing your teeth, and caring for your gums daily, is the biggest defence to gum disease. Although it may start with mild inflammation in the gums, it can lead to major bone and soft tissue damage as well as other systemic problems. Bleeding when brushing your teeth is the first sign of gum disease and should not be ignored. By seeking professional support from your dentist, you can receive treatment to help stop gum disease turning into a serious problem. What causes gum disease? Unavoidably, our mouths contain bacteria that can form plaque on our teeth. If plaque is not removed through brushing, it hardens to form tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing at home – it can only be removed by a professional dentist/dental hygienist. If plaque and tartar are left to build up on your teeth, they begin to cause problems. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can infect the gums causing gingivitis. If left untreated, this then leads to periodontitis and more serious gum disease. Signs and symptoms of gum disease. Smoking, diabetes, hormonal imbalance, certain medications, genetics, and other illnesses can make you more susceptible to gum disease. Signs and symptoms to look out for include: Relentless bad breath Swollen or red gums Bleeding or painful gums Loose teeth Gums that are receding/look smaller Pain on chewing Sensitive teeth Gum disease does not just affect your teeth but can cause complications in other parts of your body too. It can put you at risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and problems during pregnancy. How does gum disease cause these problems? If left untreated, it affects the bloodstream, slowly damaging blood vessels in the heart and brain over time. This is why it is important not to let gum disease go unchecked. Take action There are clear steps that you can take to help avoid gum disease, and treat it if you are worried that you may have symptoms: Clean in-between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes before brushing. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Visit your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for check-ups, and thorough cleaning (take special care to have regular check-ups if you are pregnant or have a chronic condition). At the first sign of any symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist for an examination. By seeking treatment early, you can avoid the more serious consequences of gum disease. If you need a dentist then Ascent Dental is always accepting new patients. Working with the latest technology and current research we are here to help you with all your dental requirements. Give Ascent Dental a call today on (303) 975-6987 or fill out our contact form here.
Common Tooth Pain and What it Means
A toothache may be common, but that does not make it any more bearable. It can come on slowly or suddenly and have a serious impact on your everyday life, affecting your daily activities and sleep. The pain and discomfort of a toothache can be disarming, sometimes making you feel helpless. However, it is not necessary to suffer from common tooth pain. You just need to answer two simple questions: When does it hurt? – does something specific trigger the pain? Is it there all the time? Does it get worse with heat or cold? Where does it hurt? – a single tooth, right through your jaw, in your gums? Is the pain radiating elsewhere in your face? Answering these questions will help you and your dentist to identify the cause of the problem. It is vital not to ignore a toothache. If the pain is caused by a problem such as tooth decay or an abscess then it can get worse if left untreated. Although a toothache is rarely life-threatening, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem that needs immediate attention. Symptoms and causes of tooth pain. Not all toothaches present the same discomfort. It may be consistent or come and go. It may be a dull ache or sharp pain. Everyone experiences tooth pain slightly differently, and various tooth problems will cause different symptoms. However, there are a number of symptoms to look out for: Pain – this can be dull, constant, intermittent, sharp, throbbing, or only appear under certain conditions. Sensitivity – to heat or cold. Swelling – around the tooth, gums, or jaw. Blood or pus – being discharged from the tooth area (may be foul-tasting) Trauma or injury – to your tooth, gums, or jaw. There several reasons why you may have developed tooth pain and it is recommended that you see a professional to find the cause of the problem. Some common causes of tooth pain are: Tooth decay Trauma or injury An abscessed tooth or tooth infection Damage to a filling or a filling/crown has fallen out Gum infection or gum recession Worn tooth enamel Regular grinding of your teeth Something stuck in your gums To try and avoid developing problems with your teeth it is important to visit your dentist regularly. Carry out a thorough tooth hygiene regime at home including regular brushing and flossing, to ensure your teeth stay healthy. If you do develop tooth pain, do not ignore it, and make an emergency appointment with your dentist right away. If you are in need of a dentist, Ascent Dental is accepting new patients. We work with the latest technology and are here to support you with all your dental needs. Serving Cherry Creek and Denver, Colorado, you can call us on (303) 975-6987 or fill out a contact form here.
How to Get Kids to Brush
I wanted to answer a question that I get asked almost every day which is, “how do I get my kids to brush more?” Number one make it fun for them. Number two do some positive reinforcement. I often hear a lot of stories about parents threatening their kids with horror stories about the dentist such as drills and needles they’ll experience if they don’t brush their teeth. That’s not really the right way to go there and not the best approach. You want to have positive experiences at the dentist because positive experiences at the dentist can lead to a lifetime of positive dental health. So, let us talk about making brushing fun for kids. There’re all kinds of hygiene products out there at the store. One I really like is the Listerine Agent Code Blue. This will stain their teeth blue and then they can brush it off. Another product I really like is the electronic battery-operated toothbrushes. There are all kinds of fun cartoon characters for your kids. They can pick their favorite one and that will make brushing a lot more fun. Also, get them a toothpaste they like. If they don’t like mint flavor don’t start them off with mint flavor, try bubblegum or grape. There are all kinds of different fun flavors to try. Most products available in the stores are very safe and normal for everyday kit brushing. If you have any questions feel free to call us at the Ascent Dental Group in Cherry Creek, Denver, or send us an email. The main point to take away is, making brushing a fun thing for kids to do.
Top Dental Problems in Adults
Although many people focus heavily on oral hygiene in their youth, the reality is that the majority of adults will suffer from some sort of dental issues in their lifetime. As we age, there is a wide range of common teeth problems that may spring up; fortunately, many of them can be mitigated with proper hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Most Common Dental Health Problems Believe it or not, the list of common dental health problems for adults is actually rather long. Some of the more serious common issues to watch out for include: Untreated tooth decay — this affects more than a quarter of all adults in the United States. Gum disease — 46% of Americans over 30 show signs of gum disease. Tooth loss — Loose teeth in adults shouldn’t go unchecked; though tooth loss has declined over time, it can still occur as a byproduct of decay or gum disease. Oral cancer — Those who are over 55 and who smoke or drink heavily are particularly prone to oral cancer. Chronic diseases — Arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and a range of other chronic diseases can heighten a person’s risk for generally poor oral health. Some of the more innocuous (but still detrimental) dental issues which are relatively common in adults include: Bad breath — While bad breath (or halitosis) isn’t necessarily concerning on its own, about 85% of bad breath sufferers actually have a different condition to blame for their affliction, like dry mouth or cavities. Mouth sores — Canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters are common mouth sores that are generally not a concern as long as they dissipate on their own within two weeks. Tooth sensitivity — Millions of people experience sensitive teeth which make it uncomfortable to ingest very hot or cold substances, but this issue can be treated. Though there are many different common dental issues that adults should be aware of, there are also many steps you can take to prevent them. Habits to Improve Oral Health If you want to prioritize your oral health, follow these guidelines to avoid the most common dental problems. Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking Brush teeth twice a day in gentle circular motions with a fluoride toothpaste using gentle, circular motions; gently brush your tongue at the same time to avoid plaque Floss daily and use mouthwash Visit the dentist 1-2 times per year Drink water, and avoid your intake of sugary and acidic foods By taking these simple steps, you will have adopted an effective preventative care routine that will save you from having to invest in costly procedures and surgeries down the line. Small measures such as this can have a huge impact on your oral health. Be sure to visit the dentist to ensure that you don’t have any dental issues already occurring. The staff at Ascent Dental Group in Cherry Creek, Denver is here to assist you in achieving your oral health goals—contact us to set up an appointment today.
Dental Issues Among Children
Everyone knows that childhood is full of bruised knees and scraped elbows, and kids’ dental issues are all too common as well. Most parents are not shocked to learn that of all the dental problems in children, cavities are the most common; in fact, about 20% of children between the ages of 5 and 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Because of the havoc cavities can wreak on oral health, it is important to stay up to date with your child’s bi-annual checkups and cleanings. Once your child reaches adolescence, it’s vital that they maintain their dental checkup schedule—about 13% of kids aged 12 to 19 have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Preventing Cavities in Children Though cavities are undeniably a pervasive issue for children, they can be prevented with fluoride treatment and consistent brushing. Because cavities are one of the most stubborn child and toddler teeth problems, they sometimes require additional preventative measures. Pediatric dental sealants are an option for kids who are prone to cavities, who have poor brushing or flossing habits, whose diets consist of sugary snacks and drinks, or who simply need a quick and non-invasive means of preventing cavities. Parents can also take a proactive approach to cavity prevention. For babies, parents can wipe their child’s gums with a clean, soft cloth twice a day—this will eliminate the presence of sugars and bacteria. Additionally, they can begin brushing their baby’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water as soon as they appear, and start visiting the dentist on the baby’s first birthday. For children, parents can ensure that their kids are brushing their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, drinking tap water (which contains fluoride), and they can discuss sealant options with the kids’ dentist. Collectively, these measures will prove rather effective at minimizing dental problems in children. Other Common Dental Issues for Children Though cavities are at the top of children’s dental concerns, there are other dental issues that parents should also be aware of, including: Tooth decay — Decay develops slowly, but it impacts 40% of kids between the ages of two and five. Tooth sensitivity — In kids, sensitivity can be caused by a wide range of underlying factors, but many of them are treatable by a dentist. Dental emergencies — Many children are accident-prone; a broken, chipped, or cracked tooth can be painful, so tending to dental emergencies promptly is important. Early gum disease — If a child’s gums appear red and swollen, it’s a telltale sign that they are experiencing early gum disease. Tooth misalignment — Also known as malocclusion, this issue generally must be addressed with orthodontic treatment once the child is old enough. The best way to ensure a child’s oral hygiene and avoid future dental issues is to establish regular care with a dentist. Ascent Dental is always accepting new patients, and we’re well-versed in pediatric dentistry—contact us to set an appointment and keep your child’s oral health in good standing.
Understanding Dental Isolation
Hello, Dr. Jeff Johnston here coming to you from Denver, Colorado. I wanted to talk to you about the industry progresses we’ve seen when it comes to the age of bonding. Meaning, most everything we do is held by a chemical bond. And the importance of that is that now isolation is becoming very important. The gold standard of isolation is what you call, the rubber dam. It’s not very comfortable and it’s a little bit cumbersome to put on. Endodontist or root canal specialists are still using it as their standard of care. You have to keep the tooth away from any saliva or bacterial contamination while you are working on it. This allows us to keep the tooth dry and get a good bond, things of that nature. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZSw6OAcJqw For things that we do at Ascent Dental Group in Cherry Creek, CO, this new invention has come out in the last 5- 6 years and it’s called an isolite. An isolite is a little suction device made of real plastic material and has ports that can suction. It’s basically a 3 in 1 system that we’ve found to be really comfortable for patients. It has a little bite pillow that you bite on so you don’t have to worry about staying in open. It retracts your tongue and cheek so it protects that from any kind of dangers of the drill or your tongue is moving around. It also gives us a light and it provides suction so that one single dentist can complete the procedure. You’re not going to swallow water or choke or anything because all of the suction is taken care of. We’re finding patients are really finding this comfortable. We’ve done away with all of the cotton and gauze and the things we’re putting in your mouth to keep things really dry. This is allowing us to bond with real dry fields, giving us really good long-lasting results and bond strengths. The rubber dam has been around for a really long time, it is our gold standard of isolation but this new device has come along and we’re really excited. I love using this thing, it has changed how I practice dentistry and I find it really comfortable. I’ve had some work done with it and it was really nice to just there and relax and not worry about being open or having stuff shoved in my mouth.I wanted to share that with you, we’ve been using this probably 8-9 months now, and it’s just made everybody’s life a lot better.
The Importance of Saliva
Hello, Dr. Jeff Johnston here! I would like to talk to you about saliva, commonly known as spit. This is a very important part of the oral cavity. Your spit or saliva is composed of buffering systems, enzymes, and many good things to help you start digesting and to help you clean your teeth. It’s a very important fluid in our bodies. Our body is made up of incredible chemistry and the saliva in our mouth is the most important part of our mouth sometimes. The enzyme in Saliva, called cell amylase, helps us start breaking down our foods, and right as we’re eating, it helps dissolve foods by making it soft so that the digestion actually occurs in the mouth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6DbmNGyXBo Saliva also buffers our mouth. Our mouth has to stay at a constant pH and a pH is acidic and basic. A lot of times we eat sour candy, foods that are acidic such as cokes, and saliva can help us buffer our mouth back to a normal pH level. In the dental industry, it is called “critical pH” because once we drop below that pH in our mouth, teeth start to break down. Our saliva is there to help our mouth stay in a neutral pH. Other things, like sodium bicarbonate, is found in our saliva. It is a buffering that helps with pH. Also, our saliva can be more liquidy or it can be thicker. Liquidy is better. The thicker it is, the less it cleans your teeth. Back in the caveman days, saliva is all we needed. Now we’re eating carbohydrates, chips, and candy which becomes real sticky on our teeth. The saliva is having a hard time washing that sticky stuff off of our teeth so that’s why we need to incorporate toothbrushes and floss and things of that sort. As a reiteration, saliva is really important. What seems to be happening is, a lot of people are taking medications and most medications have a side effect of dry mouth. It’s turning off the saliva glands, and it’s not a good thing for our dental health. Pay close attention to the effects of medications on your teeth. A dry mouth is not a good mouth. We need nice, moist, liquid, saliva covering our teeth at all times. We produce up to a liter of saliva a day. These saliva glands in our mouth are extremely important to our oral health. There are also medications that help you with increasing saliva flow and rate and production. A lot of things are going on with these tiny glands that are just so important to the overall health of our mouths. If you feel like your mouth is too dry, drink a lot of water, choose sugar-free, citric free candies and always make sure your mouth is moist and wet so the teeth are bathing in good solutions and not staying dry. This is very common with elderly patients. Their taking meds for so long, it just wipes out their salivary glands. If you have any kind of radiation in the head and neck, it can kill the salivary gland. These glands are extremely important for the health of our teeth. Give our dental office in Cherry Creek, Denver a call or come by if you have any questions about Saliva.
Dental Metal Fillings & What You Need to Know
Metal fillings have been around for over 50 years, and many patients have fillings in their mouths that are years old. Most metal fillings can hold up over the years, but some do not. Metal fillings are made of metal shavings or sawdust particles titrated or mixed with a piece of mercury to form the filling. The metal filling is packed inside the tooth and held by retention. When the filling preparation is done we form the filling so the bottom is wide and the top is skinny. This allows the filling to form inside the tooth and be held by mechanical retention. https://vimeo.com/327976579/a8e7b07b95 As our practice is located in Denver, Colorado and most patients here are health conscious and do not want metal fillings in their mouths. Many countries have banned metal fillings, and there are controversies over health risks they may cause by having the fillings in our mouths. The American Dental Association and FDA both still support metal fillings, but they do say to handle them with caution. Due to all the controversy, Ascent Dental has stopped offering metal fillings to our patients. We had a patient ask us how we felt about poisoning our patients, and since then we have decided to stay away from using metal fillings. We want to provide the very best care to our patients, and avoiding metal fillings reassures patients that their health will not be at risk. If a patient has a cracked, or broken filling, or there are cavities around the metal filling, we may recommend filling replacement. Our practice does not remove metal fillings just to replace them. There must be an issue with the current metal filling for us to recommend replacement. Cavities can form under metal fillings over time and are not able to be detected unless the filling is removed. If your filling is over 10 years old, it may be time to evaluate the condition of your fillings and consider replacing them. As far as side effects of metal fillings, more research should be done on whether metal fillings cause issues to our health. If you have questions or concerns about metal fillings in your mouth, please contact us. We are happy to meet with you and discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have.
My Tooth Doesn’t Hurt
Do You Have to go to The Dentist if Your Tooth Doesn’t Hurt? Many patients think because they do not have pain associated with a tooth, this means the tooth does not need treatment. In most cases, if you wait it will be too late, and the infection or cavity will get worse. Teeth have nerves and blood supply, and our teeth can get attacked in various ways causing issues for patients. Teeth usually do not hurt until the cavity or infection gets too close to the nerve inside the tooth. In many cases, people wonder why you should go to the Dentist when you aren’t experiencing tooth pain and the reason is this, we like to be proactive and take care of the cavity or issue before it progressively gets worse. Treating a tooth helps prevent the patient from a terrible toothache later on. https://vimeo.com/327976608/37c71e2cda We do not want the bacteria inside a tooth to get to the nerve, so we like to catch it before the cavity becomes too large to cause issues. Cracks in teeth also do not cause any pain until the crack grows and becomes inside the nerve space. Periodontal Disease is another issue many patients face that in many cases shows no symptoms or pain. Plaque is under a patient’s gum line, and the bacteria releases acid that deteriorates the bone around the teeth. Many patients live with Periodontal Disease, and because they have no pain they do not realize there is an issue that needs attention. Our body is very resistant to certain issues that cause pain, and our goal at Ascent Dental is to take care of these issues as soon as we see them to prevent the issue from getting worse. After work is complete, many patients begin to complain of pain and this is normal. Removing bacteria structure from a tooth is a mini surgery, and patients may experience pain after a procedure while the area is healing. We want patients to trust us and know we are working in their best interest. Even though there is no pain associated with an issue, fixing the tooth is important to prevent larger problems down the road. To learn more about the services offered at Ascent Dental, contact our office to schedule your appointment.
Philosophies of Dentistry
Holistic / Biological / Biomiminic / TMJ / Cosmetic / Implant / Sleep Dentistry These are all Philosophies of Dentistry. It needs to be understood that these are not recognized Licensed Specialties of Dentistry by State Boards or Dental Schools. When you call them specialties, it’s misleading. When Dentist’s say they specialize in something, they better have a license or degree from an accredited dental school. TMJ Specialist and cosmetic dentist are another example, no formal license exist. There are hundreds of dental continuing education classes going on every weekend throughout the world teaching different techniques, philosophies and opinions. Tons of Continuing education exist online now as well, we dentist can watch hours of education videos on many different subjects. Most are driven by manufactures, trying to sell the dentist a new piece of equipment, technique, instrument, material, philosophy. Some are other dentist telling us what he did to be successful. I can tell you what worked for me, if you pay me 3k a weekend to listen to me) Most all dentist have different philosophies and look at your oral cavity, teeth, gums, etc with different approaches. We all go throughout our careers learning bits and pieces along the way. No two dentist are alike. Sometimes we change, sometimes we stay the same. We are all looking around or over our shoulder to what the other dentist is doing. We ask, how can I set myself, my practice apart, or we ask, am I in line with what everyone else is doing. It’s important for the patient to be aware of how much current training the dentist is getting or how much they are trained on a philosophy of dentistry. It’s also important to note, I could find you a research article supporting almost any claim. You want to hear Crest is better toothpaste than Colgate or Oral B electric Brush is better than Sonicare? I could more than likely find a research paper to support whatever you want to believe. It gets way worse in our dental field, as we have a vast world of materials, cause and effects of surgeries, amongst many many other things that we have to stay on top of the research. We also have to be skeptical of research from the product company and have sources to the best non biased research, which is getting harder and harder to find. After sifting through research, clinical outcomes, longevity of treatment, its ultimately up to the dentist to decide, is this best for the patient?
7 Worst Beverages for Your Teeth
The best drink for your teeth is water. Neutral pH, hydrating, and nonstaining. But we know you’re tempted to drink something else from time to time. But if you’re going to drink, do it in a way that’s safe for your teeth. Here’s a list of drinks to avoid or limit if you want to keep your teeth healthy. Soda Soda is the most dangerous drink for your teeth. It’s very acidic (colas have a pH of around three—some even in the range of 2–where pure water is 7 and battery acid is 1), and many people are tempted to sip them all day, day after day. This will eat away your tooth enamel, the white outer covering of your teeth. And if the soda contains sugar, that fuels the growth of mouth bacteria, which excrete acid and can damage your teeth further. Sports Drinks Sports drinks are also very acidic, many of them having a pH similar to or even lower than sodas. And they contain sugars. It’s hard to say whether they’re worse than sodas. Although people don’t usually drink them all afternoon, when they are being used it’s in the context of working out when people are somewhat dehydrated and the mouth environment is prime space for bacteria. Sports drinks have been blamed for workout cavities. Lemonade Lemonade is a similar story to soda and sports drinks. Depending on the source of the lemonade, the pH can be in the 2.5-3 range, and it’s also likely to be full of sugar. This is another very good reason to avoid lemonade cleanse diets, which encourage you to basically drink lemonade instead of eating full meals. These dangerous diets can destroy your teeth as well as harm your health. Mixed Drinks If you’ve been following along, you’ve probably got a clue what we’re going to say here. Most mixed drinks are made with alcohol and soda or simple syrup, which makes them acidic, sugary, or both. Mixed drinks also have the problem of dehydrating you, which means you’ll have less saliva to help keep bacteria under control. It’s okay to indulge every once in a while, but at your regular happy hours, you should get used to ordering “neat” or “on the rocks.” Better yet, order a beer, which has antibacterial properties, is only mildly acidic, and has nutrients that are good for your teeth and bones. Wine Coolers The worst thing about wine coolers is that they don’t have wine. Wine, although acidic, can be good for your teeth. But wine coolers are mostly sugar, water, and acid. With artificial colors thrown in. If you want a cooler smile, just order wine. Sweet Tea It’s likely that tea is actually good for your teeth. Sure, it can be staining (that’s what teeth whitening is for!), but it has antibacterial properties and can even slow the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars in your mouth, which makes them less damaging to your teeth. But these benefits are completely outweighed if you add a lot of sugar to your tea. And lemon. And don’t drink those bottled teas they sell at the store if they have any sweeteners or flavoring added. Starbucks Coffee is a similar story to tea. Yeah, it’s staining, but it has antibacterial properties and at least one study has linked coffee consumption with lower gum disease rates. But once you add in all the sugar that gets put in one of Starbucks’ signature drinks (or a similar drink at any other place), you’re looking at an entirely different picture. Have a cup of black in the morning, but by all means, you must resist the temptation to drink liquid candy! But if you haven’t heeded these tips and you are now in need of some general dentistry work in the Cherry Creek area of Denver, please contact Ascent Dental today for an appointment.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Yes, teeth whitening is very safe, when performed in a controlled manner. For decades, dentists have studied the effects of teeth whitening on teeth, and we have come to the conclusion that teeth whitening is safe for teeth and gums. How Teeth Whitening Affects Your Teeth Teeth whitening typically uses carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide in the mouth. This peroxide attacks the organic molecules that are staining your teeth. It can also penetrate into the pulp, the living material in the middle of your tooth, which can result in sensitivity to temperature changes. This sensitivity occurs for as much as 2/3 of people, and it can last for a few days after a whitening procedure. Some people may also experience irritation of the gums if the whitening compound touches them. Some studies have observed that whitening can potentially erode tooth enamel. The effect hasn’t been observed in all studies, so if it does exist, it is likely very minor, probably less than that seen from drinking a serving of soda. It also seems that your teeth are capable of quickly remineralizing your enamel, so if you balance your whitening with proper oral hygiene and care of your teeth, you can prevent any noticeable damage to your teeth. Safe Teeth Whitening If you want to whiten your teeth safely and effectively, the best way is to work with a dentist. Your dentist knows how to optimize the effectiveness of whiteners safely. Professional whiteners also contain compounds that can help protect your teeth from sensitivity. If you do use at-home teeth whiteners, only use them according to the directions. Never use multiple whitening systems at the same time. It’s especially important to tell your dentist if you’re also using an over-the-counter whitener. If you are looking for safe, effective teeth whitening in Denver, please contact Ascent Dental today.
Chipped Tooth or Broken Tooth
There are many potential causes for a chipped or broken tooth, such as a fall, a fight, or even something unexpected in your food. Of course, a chipped tooth is a cosmetic problem. It will make you self-conscious about your smile. But a chipped or broken tooth can also cause practical problems as well. The sharp edge on a chipped tooth can cut your tongue, which is painful and annoying. The chipped area can also be a place where food and bacterial plaque accumulate, which makes it a starting point for decay. And if the chip is also a serious crack, the result can be pain, as well as a dental infection with serious consequences, such as the loss of the tooth and worse. Fortunately, there are many potential treatments for a chipped tooth, and treatment is probably less expensive than you think. To have dentist Jeff Johnston evaluate your tooth and recommend the right treatment for you, please call (303) 975-6987 or email Ascent Dental in the Cherry Creek area of Denver for an appointment. Minor Chipped Tooth Treatment: Polishing and Bonding Sometimes a chipped tooth is so minor, you can’t even see it, but you can feel it. A sharp place on your tooth can be polished smooth for comfort. If you have suffered a chipped tooth that is primarily cosmetic, there are a couple of good treatments to restore your smile to its former appearance. Dental bonding uses the same material that we employ as white fillings to reshape your tooth. The material begins as putty, and is shaped into a natural, attractive form by Dr. Jeff. Then a curing light is used to make it hard enough to chew with. Finally, it’s polished to take on a luster like your natural tooth enamel. Dental bonding has many advantages. It’s the least expensive option, can be completed in just one visit, and when it’s polished it looks very natural and attractive. Dental bonding does have some limitations. First, the natural appearance depends on the artistry of the dentist performing your restoration. Evaluate a dentist’s before and after gallery before getting dental bonding. Dental bonding is also less durable than other treatment options. It can lose its polish, making it stand out, and it can become stained. Dental bonding also tends to have a shorter life than ceramic restorations. Minor Chipped Tooth Treatment: Porcelain Veneers A porcelain veneer is a thin façade of ceramic that is cemented to your tooth. It can reshape your tooth, not only correcting the chip but helping to fill in gaps and lengthening your tooth as well. To place a porcelain veneer, your tooth is prepared so that the veneer can fit on to create a smooth surface. In the past, all veneers had to be sent away to a lab for fabrication, but our CEREC system allows us to create a brand-new porcelain veneer in our office while you wait. Once it’s ready, the veneer is placed on your tooth to ensure proper fit. Then it is cemented in place and polished. Porcelain veneers are made of ceramic, so they have a luster very similar to your natural tooth enamel. They retain their polish well if properly cared for. And don’t let the name fool you: porcelain veneers are actually made of advanced ceramic compounds and they’re highly resilient. They can last for ten years or more. Cracked Tooth Treatment: Dental Crown If you went beyond a simple chip, but actually cracked or broke your tooth open in a way that exposes the pulp, or nerve, you need a dental restoration that will protect and reinforce that tooth. A dental crown fits completely over the tooth, giving it essentially an entirely new surface that protects and supports the damaged tooth within. Sometimes, we may determine that the pulp of your tooth has been compromised and that a cracked tooth may require an endodontic procedure (root canal) before the crown is placed. Like porcelain veneers, dental crowns can be made in our office using our CEREC machine. If you have damaged your tooth and want to learn which treatment is right for you, please contact Ascent Dental in the Cherry Creek area of Denver.
Dental Education
Around 8yrs ago, I graduated from dental school. I was on top of the world, my brain was chalked full of dentistry, and I was ready to become a dentist. Upon the first month of practicing dentisty, I saw patients and cases I have never seen before and that I didn’t know how to treat or even where to start. I also learned very fast, I was slow and in order to survive in private practice my practice speed had to increase without compromising quality. That first year after dental school, I refused to crack a book or sit in a classroom, after all I had been in school the last 20 years of my life. I just wanted to practice dentistry and earn some extra money, being a student and living very frugally for so long, I wanted nothing more than to have some extra spending money. Little did I know at the time, that my dental degree and license was just a ticket to learn, and thats about it. I have owned my own practice for about 4 years now. I have quickly learned that my dental education is a key to being a great clinican. Every case I see if completely different, and dentist who have been practicing for 30 years still seen new cases and seek new ways to treat them. I am from Texas, and in Texas, the state requires 16 hours of dental continuing education (CE) over anything you want to go learn about related to dentistry. Practicing in Colorado, the state requires 0 hours of CE. I found this to be odd for the state not to require its clinicians to not learn anything new and be able to practice! Dental education is not cheap. Some classes out there can cost as much as 5-10k a weekend plus travel! I find it baffling the cost that is associated with CE. I used to think dental school cost a lot, it is nothing compared to advanced education after school. There are dental courses going on around the world daily from various sources. Picking and choosing who you want to learn from and what you want to learn is that hard part!. I tend to go learn topics that I see frequently come in the practice. Each demographic can see more of a certain type of case than others. In summary, education is a huge part of practicing dentistry. More than ever, todays changes in technology, materials, and equipment make learning an essential part of being a dentist. Jeff Johnston DDS