What To Do In A Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can be a big, big problem if left untreated! Unfortunately I see a lot of patients that crack or chip a tooth, or lose a filling or crown who don't do anything about it until they come in for their six month checkup. Delaying treatment for a dental emergency is the worst thing you can do. If you experience a dental emergency, it is essential you give me a call at Tower Dental, or if you're not in the immediate area, you must find a dentist that specializes in dental emergencies.

Why is it so important to see the dentist after a dental emergency? For one, the pain can be excruciating and will not likely abate for a great amount of time. That is the firs thing we can do to help you out. Depending on the type of injury, the pain can be so severe that you could be unable to function in your regular day-to-day life. During that appointment we can assess what type of restorative procedure will be needed to repair the damage. Often a simple crown or filling is all that's needed and can be performed on the spot.

If the crack or chip is too severe a root canal may be required. You might be wondering why a Root Canal would be needed if you've cracked a tooth. The simple reason is bacteria loves to embed itself into the smallest crevices of the enamel and a chip or a crack in the tooth provides the bacteria the perfect perch to dig in and get to work at attacking the tooth. The same for when a tooth is knocked out. When a tooth is knocked out of the mouth or dislodged, it gives bacteria the perfect opportunity to latch onto the tooth. If we simply reinserted the tooth without cleaning out the root, the chances for a serious infection that attacks the adjacent teeth increases dramatically.

So, I hope at this point, I've made the case for why you need to call us at Tower Dental or get in touch with a dentist as soon as possible if you've chipped, cracked, or lost a tooth. If you have lost a tooth, I also want to tell you that you should try to put the tooth back in place, or if you can't do that, put it in some milk. These steps will help keep the tooth alive until we can put it back in place. To make your appointment, give us a call at 303-368-0555 or visit our website http://www.towerdentalcolorado.com.

Don't Be Afraid Of A Root Canal!

Hello everyone! I've been hearing a question or concern from my patients at Tower Dental wondering why an endodontic treatment or a root canal needs to be performed with all of the latest advancements in restorative procedures. It's a very good question, but before I get to answering that, I feel it's necessary to break down why an endodontic procedure needs to be performed and lastly why most dentists including myself, prefer this procedure over a complex and expensive replacement implant.

Firs thing you should know, endodontics has a broad spectrum of functions. One of the most common reasons for a root canal is when the tooth has a severe bacteria infection that is spreading. Some recognizable symptoms of this include tender gum tissues, sensitivity to hot and cold food or drink, unexplained pain in the nearby lymph nodes, as well as tooth discoloration. The purpose of the root canal is to get into the infected part of the tooth and ultimately clean out all of the infected material while maintaining as much of the natural tooth as possible.

The same is true for when someone gets hit in the mouth and a tooth becomes dislodged or is knocked out completely. Most of the time the tooth can be reinserted and saved, but because of the tooth's exposure to outside air and materials, it can pick up a lot of bacteria in the process. Once the tooth is firmly back in place, a root canal is performed to ensure that an infection doesn't begin and cause greater problems down the road. This is also true if the you severely crack or chip a tooth. When a tooth is damaged, it can create a new surface that bacteria loves to attach itself to and start working its way into the root of the tooth and the adjacent tissues. A root canal cleans out any risk of bacterial infection and preserves the natural tooth.

I know I've said that a lot: “preserves the natural tooth.” What does that mean exactly? Well quite simply it means that most dentists and myself included, want to maintain as much of the natural tooth structure as we possibly can. This isn't just for aesthetics. When an implant or bridge replacement is performed, it can be quite expensive, time consuming, and painful for the patient. Implants require surgery, and bridges actually require the dentist to damage adjacent teeth in order to create the new tooth. The damage to the adjacent teeth actually runs the risk of creating more cavities as well as an increased risk for root canals!


No one likes getting a root canal. It's not fun, and it requires multiple visits to the dentist's office to complete. However, it's better than letting the infection progress and create more problems. It is also far easier and simpler to perform a root canal than getting an implant or other restorative procedure. So if you're ever experiencing overly sensitive teeth, or if you have a lot of pain in and around your mouth, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment! Our number at TowerDental is 303-368-0555 or you can schedule an appointment on line through our website http://www.towerdentalcolorado.com

Cosmetic Dental Treatments

Welcome back everyone! Since we are coming up on the holiday season, all of us are expected to do a lot of socializing whether at work, with friends, or with family. If you are worried about how your smile looks to the people you meet, you're not alone! It's perfectly natural to be concerned about your smile. The Good news is you don't have to worry any longer. At Tower dental we offer a full range of cosmetic treatments to improve the look and appearance of your smile!

In a few words, cosmetic dentistry is any type of dental procedure that alters, in a good way, the appearance of the front teeth. One of the common cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening. It's the easiest and the cheapest one and give a good result in a short time. There are some other ones that include dental bonding, composite bonding, porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. Sometimes cosmetic dentistry involves gum surgeries, orthodontic procedures, and in extreme cases even involves oral surgical procedures. Right now, at Tower Dental, we are running a free cosmetic consultation! That includes photos, professional photography, it includes model work - we make casts and molds of the teeth and we do a before and after evaluation, and also includes radiographs if needed so you'll have an idea of what your teeth will look like after the procedure. As you're now aware, there are many different cosmetic dental treatments that are designed to enhance and improve the appearance of your smile. To schedule your free consultation, call 303-368-0555 or visit our website, http://www.towerdentalcolorado.com today!

Tooth Colored Composite Fillings

Repair Teeth With Composite Fillings

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.  The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.  Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today.  Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth. 

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.  They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for composite fillings:

• Chipped teeth
• Closing space between two teeth
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Decayed teeth
• Worn teeth

How are composite fillings placed?

 

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary.  The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed.  If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

 

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Therapy Can Save Teeth

Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection.  In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that otherwise would die and have to be removed.  Many patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that extracting (pulling) a tooth will ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.

Root canal treatment is highly successful and usually lasts a lifetime, although on occasion, a tooth will have to be retreated due to new infections.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Severe toothache pain.
• Sometimes no symptoms are present.
• Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for root canal therapy:

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
• Injury or trauma to the tooth.

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva.  An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria.  If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials.  A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth.  In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed.  This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

You will be given care instructions after each appointment.  Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.

Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist - a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore a patient’s confident smile.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing, the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.

Wisdom Teeth Extractions

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Third molars, commonly referred to as wisdom teeth, are usually the last four of 32 teeth to erupt (surface) in the mouth, generally making their appearance between the ages of 17 to 25. They are located at the back of the mouth (top and bottom), near the entrance to the throat. The term “wisdom” stems from the idea that the molars surface at a time typically associated with increased maturity or “wisdom”.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?

 

In most cases, inadequate space in the mouth does not allow the wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional. When this happens, the tooth can become impacted (stuck) in an undesirable or potentially harmful position. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can contribute to infection, damage to other teeth, and possibly cysts or tumors.

Wisdom Teeth Impaction

There are several types, or degrees, of impaction based on the actual depth of the teeth within the jaw:

Soft Tissue Impaction

The upper portion of the tooth (the crown) has penetrated through the bone, but the gingiva (gum) is covering part or all of the tooth’s crown and has not positioned properly around the tooth. Because it is difficult to keep the area clean, food can become trapped below the gum and cause an infection and/or tooth decay, resulting in pain and swelling.

Partial Bony Impaction

The tooth has partially erupted, but a portion of the crown remains submerged below the gum and surrounding jawbone. Again, because it is difficult to keep the area clean, infection will commonly occur.

Complete Bony Impaction

The tooth is completely encased by jawbone. This will require more complex removal techniques.

Reasons To Remove Wisdom Teeth

While not all wisdom teeth require removal, wisdom teeth extractions are most often performed because of an active problem such as pain, swelling, decay or infection, or as a preventative measure to avoid serious problems in the future. If impaction of one or more wisdom teeth is present, and left untreated, a number of potentially harmful outcomes can occur, including:

• Damage to nearby teeth: Second molars (the teeth directly in front of the wisdom teeth) can be adversely affected by impacted wisdom teeth, resulting in tooth decay (cavities), periodontal disease (gum disease) and possible bone loss.
• Disease: Although uncommon, cysts and tumors can occur in the areas surrounding impacted wisdom teeth.
• Infection: Bacteria and food can become trapped under the gum tissue, resulting in an infection. The infection can cause considerable pain and danger.
• Tooth Crowding: It has been theorized that impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on other teeth and cause them to become misaligned (crowded or twisted). This theory isn’t universally accepted by all dental professionals, and it has never been validated by any scientific studies.

Wisdom teeth examination

As with any dental procedure, your dentist will want to initially conduct a thorough examination of the wisdom and surrounding teeth. Panoramic or digital x-rays will be taken in order for your dentist to evaluate the position of the wisdom teeth and determine if a current problem exists, or the likelihood of any potential future problems. The x-rays can also expose additional risk factors, such as deterioration or decay of nearby teeth. Early evaluation and treatment (typically in the mid-teen years) is recommended in order to identify potential problems and to improve the results for patients requiring wisdom teeth extractions. Only after a thorough examination can your dentist provide you with the best options for your particular case.

What does the removal of wisdom teeth involve?

Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, generally performed under local anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or general anesthesia by a specially trained dentist in an office surgery suite. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be released with post-operative instructions and medication (if necessary), to help manage any swelling or discomfort. 

Contact us for more information about wisdom teeth extractions today.