What a Beautiful Smile Can Do for You

beautiful smile

Most people want a beautiful smile, but many patients have oral health issues that are preventing them from having that smile. The American Dental Association recommends following the basics every day such as brushing the teeth at least twice a day. Are you doing all you can to keep a healthy and beautiful smile? Healthy teeth are an investment not only now, but also for your future. Those with straighter, more beautiful smiles have a greater chance at excelling at life and are perceived as more confident and successful by others. Let us help you know how to achieve a better smile today and what we can do to fix oral health issues that may be preventing you from achieving that goal!

 

Are You Doing Enough for Your Oral Health?

When it comes to taking care of your teeth, are you doing enough? The American Dental Association is a great resource for knowing how to properly care for your teeth and how often you need to brush and floss them. We stand by their recommendation to brush the teeth at least twice a day and to floss the teeth daily. Many patients can also benefit from using fluoride treatments for their teeth. Many water sources in the United States already contain fluoride, so drink plenty of water to get this mineral. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and protects against decay-causing plaque.

 

Plaque sticks to your teeth after you eat. It is a mixture of mouth bacteria and sugars from the foods you eat. It also is the substance that causes the teeth to decay and the gums to be irritated, leading to gum disease. Both diseases cause tooth loss. Tooth decay is also known as dental caries or cavities. It is the most prevalent chronic disease in children and adults according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Gum disease as well affects more than 64.7 million Americans. Severe cases lead to tooth loss or extreme tooth loss. You can avoid both cavities and gum disease in their entirety if you brush and floss your teeth enough and visit your dentist often!

 

Brushing Properly

The ADA recommends brushing the teeth with a soft-bristled brush. Some patients like harder bristles, but soft-bristle brushes are more gentle on your tooth enamel, especially if you have soft enamel. They also recommend replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months or even sooner if the bristles become frayed and are no longer straight. If your toothbrush bristles start turning a dull brown or gray, you should also get a new brush. The size, shape, and design of your toothbrush is up to you. When brushing, the ADA recommends placing your brush at a 45 degree angle to your gums. Move the brush back and forth on top of each tooth throughout your entire mouth, making sure to get the very back parts of your molars as well. Clean the tongue-side parts of your teeth as well as the cheek-side parts. Repeat this process daily, especially after consuming sugar.

 

Flossing Your Teeth

Floss is also an important part of your oral hygiene routine, as food can just as easily stick to parts between the teeth as it can the front of your teeth. When flossing, it’s important to also floss food out of the gumline, not just between the teeth. Make sure to take floss down between each tooth until it stops comfortably between the gums and the teeth. Also make sure to gently scrape the teeth with your floss to remove excess plaque that can still be on the teeth after you’ve brushed. This will help decrease your risk for tooth decay and gum disease even more.

 

Beautiful Smiles Benefit Each Patient

Not only does a better smile look appealing, but it can boost your confidence tremendously. Studies show that even school-aged children and teenagers benefit from added confidence when they improve their smiles. Invisalign conducted a study about straight teeth, how they were perceived, and how patients felt after giving themselves a more beautiful smile. 29% of people notice a person’s smile first and 24% remember a person’s smile the most. A straighter, more beautiful smile makes others see you as 58% more likely to be successful and wealthy. 47% viewed people as healthier and 73% more trustworthy when their smile was healthy and straight. The study also found that a more beautiful smile made people more attractive.

 

Overall, a better smile made patients more confident themselves and led to greater success in life. A straighter, more beautiful smile is also one that has a lower risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Patients who want a beautiful smile will practice proper oral hygiene more often because they will want to show off their smile. A straighter smile also helps you to avoid problems with the teeth, as straighter teeth are easier to clean and take care of.

 

Have a Smile Worth Showing Off

Your mouth is the window to the rest of your body, and an indication of how well you take care of your health. A healthier mouth is a better mouth and contributes to a more beautiful smile. Follow proper oral hygiene practices and you will be amazed at how long your teeth will last you and how strong they can be. If you would like our help to achieve a more beautiful smile today, we have many services such as dental cleanings, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and more to help get you to the smile you want. Simply call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-443-0998 to schedule your consultation! A healthier and more beautiful smile can be yours today!

 

Posted: October 5, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

dental implants

Do you have missing teeth? If so, you’re not alone! It’s estimated that about 178 million Americans have or have had a missing tooth. Millions of people are missing all of their teeth. However, you don’t have to live life without a full set of pearly whites! Dental implants are a restorative-dentistry option that allow patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel and perform like natural teeth. If you are missing a tooth, restore your smile today with a long-lasting dental implant!

 

Missing Teeth Is Quite Common

If you’ve lost a tooth, you might think you are the only one. However, studies show that millions have lost teeth. Studies estimate that about 178 million Americans have or have had a missing tooth. There are also over 36 million people that are missing all of their teeth in the United States. The American Dental Association reports that the average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has at least 3 or more decayed or missing teeth. Some people do not even realize that the decay is happening.

 

Most tooth decay happens because of poor dental hygiene habits. The ADA recommends brushing the teeth at least twice a day, if not more. Patients should floss the teeth every single day as well to keep the teeth free of decay-causing plaque. Plaque is a mixture of bacteria in the mouth and the sugars you eat. This substance sits on the teeth after every meal and works to erode the tooth enamel. When that plaque is not brushed away often, it decays the tooth. The best way to avoid tooth decay that can lead to tooth loss is to keep up on oral habits every single day. There are other ways that a patient can lose a tooth.

 

How Does a Missing Tooth Happen?

There are many unique cases for many patients. Sports accidents or injuries can cause a patient to lose a tooth. If this happens, always seek medical treatment as well as our office so that both your smile and your health is intact. For many patients, their tooth loss is often a consequence of tooth decay (as we mentioned) or periodontal disease. You may know periodontal disease as gum disease. You may also know tooth decay as cavities. Millions of patients have cavities and gum disease. In fact, tooth decay is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in both children and adults.

 

Tooth decay can severely damage a tooth if left unchecked. If there is too much damage, a root canal treatment to clean the decay will not be effective enough to save the tooth. Your dentist can help monitor the presence of cavities and help prevent them from becoming serious.

 

What About Gum Disease?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that around 64.7 million American adults have gum disease in either mild, moderate or severe forms. That figure only includes American adults and does not take into account children, who can also get the disease. 8.7% of patients with gum disease have mild periodontitis. 30% have moderate gum disease, and 8.5% have severe gum disease.

 

Gum disease is also a consequence of not practicing oral hygiene habits enough. Plaque erodes tooth enamel, but it also attacks and irritates the gums. When the gums are irritated, they become more red, swollen and start to recede. In severe stages of gum recession, the gums recede enough that the teeth begin to fall out due to weakened bone and gum support. Gum disease is one of the main reasons a patient will lose a tooth.

 

Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants

If you’re missing a tooth, your situation doesn’t have to stay that way. Modern technology allows us to restore your smile with dental implants. Dental implants are a restorative dentistry option that allows patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform like natural teeth. If you’ve been faced with periodontal disease, dental implants are still an option to rehabilitate your smile when other options are not available. A dental implant is the closest option for a tooth that looks and feels like your natural teeth.

 

At your appointment, we prepare your mouth with a metal post. We install this metal post in your jaw and allow it proper time to heal. At your second appointment, we attach a custom-made tooth that we secure into place. Dental implants can last between 10-20 years depending on how well they are cared for. They are the perfect choice to replace a missing tooth and keep your smile for years.

 

A Better Smile

An implant is meant to restore one tooth that is missing. If there are more than one teeth missing, we would direct you towards a dental bridge, which is similar to dental implants, but restore several teeth in a row connected to one another. Whether you are missing one tooth or more, we recommend that you consider a dental implant for your smile. You don’t have to live with missing teeth. If you have one, call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-443-0998 to restore your smile today!

 

Posted: September 30, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Quick Same-Day Crowns for You

dental crowns

In the past, same-day crowns were not available to patients. However, today they are a reality. The integration of two major advances in technology makes same-day crowns possible: digital scanners and in-office milling machines. If you’ve got a tooth that has been seriously weakened or damaged, a strong dental crown can save your tooth and help retain your smile for years to come. Now you can receive that strong crown, customized in-office, during your visit. See what a dental crown can do to restore your smile and how you can receive one quicker than ever before!

 

Keeping Your Teeth Healthy

We recommend brushing and flossing the teeth every single day. You should follow the American Dental Association’s recommendation of brushing the teeth at least twice a day. Why? The more you brush your teeth, the lower the amount of plaque you will have in your mouth. Plaque is the sticky, acidic substance made from sugars in the foods you eat mixed with bacteria in the mouth. It loves to eat away at your hard tooth enamel, weakening it over time. If you allow this to happen (by not brushing and flossing the teeth enough), then that weakening will occur. Not only will your enamel become weak, but it will also form small openings that will allow the inside of your tooth to decay.

 

Nobody wants to have teeth that have tooth decay, or cavities. Cavities slowly decay all that they can and a lot of that decay happens under the surface of your tooth. With enough tooth decay, you could lose a tooth or need such extensive work that you need a new tooth. However, there are other times where we can remove the tooth decay and save your natural tooth. That natural tooth will need to somehow be strong, and we provide that strength through a dental crown.

 

Dental Crowns

You may have heard of a dental crown before, but might not be familiar with what it is. Just as a crown sits on top of your head, a dental crown sits on top of a tooth. A dental crown is used in several different ways: to cover a damaged tooth that has been weakened, or to cover a dental implant post. If you’ve got a tooth that has been seriously weakened or damaged, a strong dental crown is a highly effective and attractive cosmetic dentistry solution. A crown is also referred to as a “cap,” and serves as protective armor for a tooth. After a dental procedure to remove decay, we can’t leave you missing part of your tooth or with a tooth in a weakened state. So, we create a dental crown that can cover all the work we do.

 

You may need a ceramic crown if you have a tooth that has been affected by breakage or fractures, cracks, large cavities, or outdated fillings that require replacement. Whether a crown is needed on a front tooth or a molar, we can handcraft a crown to fit over the tooth that needs it. Plus, ceramic crowns won’t show that unappealing dark band at the gumline that happens with tooth recession and decay. Our dental crowns are handcrafted in our lab and we make sure to use metal-free ceramic materials. Ceramic is very strong and will allow you to use full biting force as if it was your natural tooth.

 

Same-Day Dental Crown

Receiving a dental crown requires that we reduce part of your tooth enamel in some cases. This is to ensure that the crown fits over your natural tooth and blends in with the rest of your teeth. If we don’t reduce the enamel, then the tooth will stick out, which is something no patient wants. That’s why we take such care to carefully mold and craft a custom-made crown for you. In the past, there were several steps to receiving a crown. Usually, decay was removed from the tooth and a temporary crown provided until the following appointment. Then, our labs created a crown that you would receive during a second appointment.

 

Technology has allowed us the option to provide same-day crowns to our patients. How? Digital scanners and in-office milling machines that work together to create a crown during your time in-office. First, we scan the patient’s teeth to create an exact impression of the existing bite. (This digital scanner replaces the old impression molds that we used to create in a first appointment.) Then, the digital images sends information to the milling machine that makes a crown. This crown then goes into an oven to crystallize and set as the patient waits. Instead of taking days or weeks, the entire process from seeing your tooth to receiving your crown takes about 2 hours only.

 

Save Time at Your Dental Appointment

Sometimes, patients may wait to have work done on their teeth because they don’t have time for several appointments. You can skip coming into the office multiple times for one procedure by receiving a same-day crown. We can correct your tooth decay and give you a dental crown to protect your tooth for years to come. If you want to know more about our same-day crown option available to our patients, call Dr. Ania’s office today at 303-443-0998!

 

Posted: September 20, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Periodontal Therapy to Treat Gum Disease

Periodontal Treatment

One of the most common oral health problems is gum disease. This disease affects over 64 million Americans even though it is 100% avoidable with proper oral hygiene habits. Those who have gum disease are at higher risk for many conditions and ailments such as stroke or heart attack. Although gum disease cannot be reversed in severe cases, there are many methods we can employ to reduce your oral health problems. We have effective periodontal therapy treatments to help combat your gum disease. We also have tips and information for avoiding problems with the gums and keeping them healthy. Maintain a healthier mouth today with our help!

 

Gum Disease: What Is It?

Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums. It is an inflammation of the gum line that can eventually affect the bones that surround the teeth and gums. Gum disease also goes by the names of periodontitis and periodontal disease. Periodontitis can contribute to or worsen conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease. The first stage of the disease is gingivitis. This is when the gums become swollen, red or tender. They may also bleed easily when brushing or flossing the teeth. You may begin to notice a change in your gums because the color becomes darker. You might also notice that you have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.

 

Gingivitis is a stage where periodontal disease is easily correctable. If you exercise proper oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing the teeth each day, your gums can become healthy once more. However, if you continue to not take care of your teeth, your gums will also take a hit. When periodontitis progresses, the gums will begin to recede from the teeth. You may start to see the underlayer of the tooth when this begins to happen. Eventually, the recession of your gums will cause your teeth to loosen and fall out. That is the severe stage of the disease where the jawbone has been weakened and correction of the disease is very difficult.

 

The Prevalence of Gum Disease

Many patients don’t realize that the gums are just as important as the teeth when it comes to taking care of your oral health. If you don’t take care of your gums, your teeth can fall out, your jawbone can weaken and your overall health can be affected. Gum disease is a serious gum infection that, if left untreated, can get to the point where it’s not reversible.

About 64.7 million American adults under 65 suffer from periodontitis. That figure only includes Americans and only includes adults. That’s a lot of gum disease! 64.7 million American adults equates to about 47.2% of adults in the U.S. with some stage of periodontitis. After age 65, the percentage increases to around 70.1% of people. Around 8.7% have mild periodontitis, and 8.5% have severe cases of periodontitis. Most Americans lie in the moderate range (30%) of the disease. At this stage, problems can be reversed with proper treatment. However, with severe cases, the damage may be too severe to correct and extensive periodontal procedures must be done. Because gum disease is so prevalent in the United States, the American Academy of Periodontology encourages each patient to receive a yearly comprehensive periodontal evaluation.

 

Keeping Your Mouth Healthy

To be fairly honest, it’s not hard to keep your mouth healthy. There are a few very simple and very basic guidelines to achieving a healthy mouth. One is to brush the teeth AT LEAST twice a day. When we say “at least”, we mean that that is the minimum. Brushing after every meal will help remove plaque that sits on your teeth. Also brushing after eating sugary sweets or drinking sugary beverages will help keep your teeth free of plaque. Floss your teeth every single day as well. This will remove food that has become trapped in between the teeth. The correct way to floss is to go up far enough that you are getting under the start of your gums in between each tooth. Scrape your teeth as you floss them to get off as much residue as possible.

 

If you already have problems with periodontal disease, we can prescribe you a special mouthwash to help keep your gums healthier and to do a more thorough, but gentle, cleaning of the gums. To keep yourself free of gum disease (especially the later stages), come to our office biannually to receive your comprehensive examinations and cleanings. Patients who do this have a lower risk for developing gum disease than those who don’t. Periodontitis is 100% preventable with these few simple guidelines.

 

Periodontal Therapy for You

If you see signs of gum disease forming or want to know if you’re at risk, it’s always a smart choice to come see Dr. Ania. At our office, we can provide you the services needed to assess your oral health and treat the problems that are present. With conditions such as periodontitis, you always want to be vigilant with treatment. Every step you take with improving your oral health can help save the natural teeth you have and keep your smile brighter for longer. To schedule your exam, call Dr. Ania’s office today at 303-443-0998!

 

Posted: September 9, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Teeth Whitening Do’s and Don’ts

teeth whitening

Teeth whitening remains one of the most economical ways to enhance your smile. There are various ways to whiten your teeth, but the two most common are in-office treatments and the do-it-yourself approach, with over-the-counter products. It’s important to talk to your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth, as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration and involve bleaching agents that, if not used correctly, can damage the enamel of your teeth. Learn the do’s and don’ts of teeth whitening to ensure you have success with whitening your smile.

 

All About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure meant to enhance the look of your teeth. Over time, the teeth can become discolored, especially if you drink liquids such as coffee and tea. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also lead to discolored teeth. Whitening the teeth is one of the easiest and most economical ways to enhance your smile and bring your teeth back to that white shade you want. The outer layer of the teeth is called the enamel. This is the part of the tooth that whitening products enhance.

 

Some teeth whitening treatments use bleaching chemicals to get the teeth white. Other treatments use light therapy with whitening gel. Combining the two triggers a chemical reaction that whitens the teeth. There are also many over-the-counter treatments that can make your teeth whiter. Many toothpastes have whitening agents in them, but don’t necessarily whiten the teeth so much as they remove stains, which makes the teeth appear whiter.

 

Toothpastes

There are many ways to get your teeth whiter, and not all the ways work the same. Over-the-counter treatments are not always guaranteed to work, especially if you are using a whitening toothpaste. Many studies show that whitening toothpastes have a minimal amount of whitening agents in them. All teeth-whitening agents contain hydrogen peroxide to whiten. Toothpastes only have 1-1.5% of this agent, which isn’t enough to whiten the teeth. They can remove surface stains, but so can regular brushing. Your best option for whitening is to look for a product that works stronger than a toothpaste.

 

At-Home Treatments

Many people use over-the-counter gels or strips to get their smile brighter. These contain about 6-10% of hydrogen peroxide to whiten. They can be effective at removing surface stains and can make the teeth white for a time. They don’t work as well as an in-office treatment, but can be effective at creating a whiter smile for you. You will have to do the treatments yourself, so always make sure to read directions and follow them exactly.

 

In-Office Treatments

This is the best option when it comes to teeth whitening. It’s also the fastest. When you receive a professional whitening, you can be sure that you have an experienced dentist working on your teeth. The dentist has performed the whitening countless times for many patients and knows what they’re doing. Many in-office treatments take an hour or less from start to finish and can be done in just one appointment.

 

Your teeth are more likely to come out evenly white with in-office treatments than with other methods or at-home treatments from the store. The dentist also can use much more powerful whitening gels than can be purchased over-the-counter. They also have equipment such as special lighting tools that can speed up the process immensely. When it comes to whitening the teeth, this is your best option for a even, white smile that is sure to dazzle.

 

After Your Whitening

There are some tips you should consider after you’ve had your teeth whitened. The point of whitening your teeth is to keep them bright. However, foods, drinks and substances can stain teeth once more. Consider avoiding foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, berries, tomato sauce and even some sports drinks and hard candies. Not all of these will stain every person’s teeth, but they are all known to cause stains. If you do drink some of these, make sure to use a straw to limit contact with the teeth.

 

Tobacco is also a major culprit when it comes to teeth discoloration. Smoking is one of the quickest ways to diminish teeth whiteness, so eliminate it from your lifestyle if you truly wish to have a better smile. Eliminating tobacco will also significantly diminish your risk for oral cancer.

 

Other Factors

You may have discolored teeth that have nothing to do with food. Not taking care of your teeth can lead to tooth discoloration as well as unhealthy teeth. The tooth enamel naturally becomes thinner as you age. The dentin (part of what makes up your teeth) becomes thinner with age as well. This can make your teeth appear more yellow.

 

One of the best ways to keep your teeth brighter and healthier is to brush and floss them often. This can help you avoid problems such as gum disease and tooth decay that cause discolored teeth. Brushing and flossing everyday can also remove surface stains on a daily basis, which instantly leads to a better smile. Some tips you should consider:

  • Avoid acidic and sugary foods that can erode tooth enamel.
  • Don’t consume foods and drinks that stain the teeth.
  • Practice good oral hygiene before and after teeth whitening to keep your smile white.
  • Don’t buy generic products and always check labels to know what’s in a whitening product.
  • The more professional your teeth whitening treatment is, the longer it will last.

 

Your Consultation

In-office whitening only takes one appointment! Many people wish their smiles were brighter and whiter and they can be. For a teeth whitening treatment that’s quicker and lasts longer than all the other methods out there, all you have to do is contact our office. For your free consultation, call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-443-0998. A brighter, whiter smile can be yours today!

Posted: August 25, 2017 By: Comment: 0

What Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Can You Benefit From?

cosmetic dentistry

Are you aware of what medical science and technology are able to offer you today to improve your smile and oral health? Is there something about your smile that you have always wanted to correct, but didn’t feel you could? Today, like never before, you have many options to help you achieve your dream smile. Our dental team is equipped to get you there with several cosmetic dentistry treatments our patients love. Come see how our cosmetic dentistry treatments can benefit you today!

 

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

There are several forms of dentistry. Preventative care involves treatments such as comprehensive exams, professional dental cleanings and diagnostic x-rays. Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and healing your oral health. Some of these include services such as orthodontic care, root canal therapy, teeth whitening, tooth-colored fillings and crowns. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, we seek to improve the appearance of your teeth so that you look better and feel better.

 

Some of our cosmetic dentistry services include porcelain veneers and crowns, dental implants, dental bridges and cosmetic bonding. Our most popular treatments patients love are the porcelain veneers and dental implants.

 

Porcelain Veneers

When you see celebrity smiles, do you ever wonder how they got such beautiful, straight and white teeth? It may come as no shock to you, but many celebrities have received professional cosmetic services such as porcelain veneers. Veneers are one of the best ways to achieve a more beautiful smile in just 2 office visits! Porcelain veneers are sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics”. Why? Because they can remove and cover up certain dental problems such as:

  • Cracked or chipped teeth
  • Stains and discoloration
  • Crooked teeth
  • Undesirable blemishes

 

How Veneers Work

Porcelain veneers are an amazing technological advance for thousands of people seeking a better smile. At your first appointment, we will discuss your goals and how you want your smile to look, including the whiteness. We want the veneers to fit in with the rest of your natural teeth so they too look natural. A veneer is basically a thin porcelain shell that goes over the front of each tooth. In your first consultation, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth so we get an accurate model of each individual tooth. These impressions will then be sent to a lab, where each veneer will be custom-made to fit your smile.

 

At your second appointment, your teeth are prepared for the veneers. The dentist will remove a tiny sliver from the front part of each tooth. This is to ensure the veneer sits flush with your tooth and does not stick out unnaturally This sounds painful, but it’s really not. You can opt for a local anesthetic during your treatment if you so desire. Once that sliver is removed, each porcelain veneer is attached to each individual tooth with a special bonding cement. We will use a curing laser to speed up the bonding process and ensure the veneer stays put. Excess cement is removed and your teeth are cleaned and polished. You’ll leave our office with a beautiful new smile that you can use right away!

 

Missing Teeth Have Damaging Effects

Implants are another wonderful invention in dentistry, especially for patients who are missing one or more teeth. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. More than 120 million are missing one or more teeth. That’s a lot of missing teeth! No patient needs to live without even a single tooth. Missing just one tooth can have damaging effects on the health of your smile and your oral health overall.

 

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth and jawbone become weaker. This is due to the missing structural support the teeth had, as all the teeth help sustain and strengthen one another. A missing tooth can damage your self-esteem and self-confidence, which can start to affect your social and emotional life. The best way to avoid problems such as these is to repair and heal your smile through a dental implant.

 

Dental Implants Can Save Your Smile

A dental implant is another form of restorative dentistry that can improve your smile immensely. An implant allows you to replace your missing teeth with ones that look, feel and perform just like your natural tooth. The best part is that we can provide you an implant for any tooth that is lost, whether it be a front tooth or a molar. A dental implant is one of the most effective, predictable and longest-lasting options for replacing missing teeth. It can also stand alone and needs no other supporting teeth to function properly. In many cases, a dental implant might also be stronger than your natural tooth.

 

We make a dental implant with a titanium post. In one appointment, you will receive this post where you are missing your tooth. After a sufficient amount of time has past and the post has healed in your jawbone, we will then install a crown on top of the titanium post. This will be screwed into place to ensure it can never simply come out. This prosthetic tooth looks natural and blends right in with your teeth. It will allow you to eat and chew (even hard foods) like you used to. With proper care, a dental implant can last anywhere from 10-20 years. Pretty great, right?

 

A Better Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry

So what are you waiting for? Cosmetic dentistry treatments can do wonders for your smile. Come learn more about our other cosmetic treatments (bonding, teeth-whitening, crowns, etc.) and see how you can benefit today! For your free consultation, simply call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-443-0998.

Posted: August 15, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Is Invisalign for You?

invisalign

When choosing an orthodontic treatment option, it’s important to have all the facts. One popular alternative to traditional braces is Invisalign, a tooth-straightening system that doesn’t rely on brackets or wires. Invisalign uses a series of removable custom-made, form-fitted trays made of clear plastic. These devices, known as aligners, exude a constant pressure to the teeth and are switched out regularly to gradually move your teeth to the desired position. This innovative system isn’t for everyone, though. A member of our dental team can help educate you on your options.

 

Orthodontic Care

Although Dr. Ania specializes in dentistry, she also knows the importance of orthodontic care for a healthier mouth. Studies show that those who receive orthodontic care and teeth straightening through braces have a reduced risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Why? Straighter teeth are much easier to clean than teeth that are crooked. They are easier to brush and floss and the teeth also have a lower risk for breaking.

When the teeth are crooked, it may be hard to get floss in between the teeth. When brushing, there could be areas where the brush can’t reach well, which could cause plaque to sit on the teeth and erode them over time. The uneven pressure placed on crooked teeth when chewing and biting can also lead to a tooth fracture or break. When it comes to the health of your teeth, straightening them is one of the ways to keep them healthy.

 

Benefits

When you invest your time in orthodontic care, you’ll not only come out of it with straighter teeth, but you’ll gain the benefits of:

  • Heathier teeth and gums
  • Easier cleaning (as mentioned)
  • Overall health

Believe it or not, but your oral health can affect your whole-body wellness. If you take care of your oral health, odds are that you’re taking care of other parts of your health as well. Oral infections play a big role in your risk for serious conditions or ailments such as stroke, heart disease, pneumonia and diabetes. This is due to bacteria buildup in the mouth that leads to tooth decay and gum disease. Decay and disease can also lead to infections that can get into your bloodstream and cause problems in other parts of the body. When it comes to your oral health, don’t take a chance on it! Keep it as healthy as possible.

 

Boost Your Confidence

Many studies have been done when it comes to straight teeth and if they help boost confidence. The answer is yes! We offer Invisalign transparent aligners at our office and coincidentally enough, Invisalign conducted a study comparing straight teeth to crooked teeth. In one study, over 1,000 people on the street were asked to comment on two photos placed side-by-side. One photo featured a person with crooked teeth and the other featured a person with straight teeth. Those surveyed were not aware that the study was about the teeth at all. However, the results of the study were quite amazing.

 

When the two photos were compared, they found that the person with straight teeth was perceived as more successful and more confident almost every time. They were also perceived as more attractive and up to 73% more trustworthy. Those with straighter teeth were also seen as:

  • 21% more likely to be happy
  • 47% more likely to be healthy
  • 38% more likely to be smart

All of these social benefits come from simply having straight teeth!

 

Traditional Braces

When most think of braces, they think of the traditional metal braces that are so popular with children and teens. We actually use traditional metal braces in our office for child orthodontics. We use a two-step treatment process where children receive orthodontic care to correct bite and alignment problems. The goal is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Children often show early signs of jaw problems as they grow. Early treatment with braces can correct those problems so that they can then receive another phase of orthodontic treatment as adolescents to straighten the teeth.

 

Invisalign Braces

When it comes to orthodontic care, traditional metal braces are not your only option. They are popular with all ages, but adults often go the route of braces that can be hidden easier. One of our amazing orthodontic options is Invisalign transparent aligners. Invisalign is a tooth-straightening system that doesn’t rely on brackets or wires. Invisalign uses a series of removable custom-made, form-fitted trays made of clear plastic. These devices, known as aligners, exude a constant pressure to the teeth and are switched out every 1-2 weeks to gradually move your teeth to the desired position. Using the Invisalign alignment system, Dr. Ania can straighten your smile in the same amount of time (or less) than those who wear metal braces.

 

We simply take digital impressions of your teeth using a special digital scanning system to create precise 3D images of your teeth. We will map out a treatment plan and what you can expect at the end of your treatment with your new smile. Your custom-made aligners will be made from Invisalign’s SmartTrack material that will stay strong while moving your teeth. Wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day and in no time your smile will be straighter!

 

Your Consultation

Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care and now you can too. Let us design a smile for you that is natural and beautiful and one that will bring you confidence. If you are interested in exploring your options for orthodontic treatment as an adult, please contact Dr. Ania’s office to schedule an appointment at 303-443-0998!

 

Posted: August 7, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Your New Smile with Porcelain Veneers

porcelain veneers

If you could receive a new, more perfect smile today would you do it? You can with porcelain veneers! Porcelain veneers are an amazing dental service sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics”. Why? The change in your smile from average to dazzling is almost instantaneous! With porcelain veneers, you can fix your crooked, chipped, stained, cracked or misshapen teeth quickly. We simply take molds of your teeth, make customized white veneers for you and adhere them right in our office. That means, a more beautiful, whiter smile can be yours before you leave our office. Skip the months of time orthodontic treatments take! Learn more about our porcelain veneers today and how they can transform your smile for a lifetime!

 

Benefits of a Straighter Smile

Did you know that people with straighter, more beautiful smiles tend to exude more confidence than those who don’t? In studies done by companies such as Invisalign, they found that those with straighter teeth were perceived as more confident, attractive, and even more trustworthy than those who had crooked teeth. Applicants that have straight teeth have a better chance at landing the jobs they apply for than those with crooked teeth. Plus, a more beautiful smile boosts confidence almost instantaneously.

 

Many choose the route of braces to achieve a better smile. However, there are many people that didn’t receive orthodontic care with braces as a child or teenager. Many adults find braces to be childish or unattractive. They also don’t have the time to take 1-2 years to straighten their teeth. Braces could even take longer if the teeth are severely crooked. If braces aren’t an option, what can you do to beautify your smile? Invest in porcelain veneers!

 

Porcelain Veneers: What Are They?

Sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics”, porcelain veneers can quickly change or enhance your smile. They can also be applied in just 2 office visits instead of waiting years for results. Dental veneers fall into our category of “cosmetic dentistry”. Cosmetic dentistry procedures are those that improve the appearance of the teeth, gums and/or your bite. In this case, porcelain veneers make your smile dazzling!

 

Dental veneers work to change the appearance of the outside of the teeth, or the part that others see. Have crooked teeth? Are your teeth stained? Veneers can fix that! Veneers consist of thin porcelain shells that cover the outside of the teeth. They are custom-made to fit your smile and give you pearly whites that are straight, just the right size and of course, white.

 

How Are They Applied?

You will meet with Dr. Ania for your consultation. He will discuss your goals and what you would like your smile to look like. We also have digital imaging available so you can see how your new smile will look. Dr. Ania will take impressions of your teeth so that we have an accurate measurement for each tooth. Each porcelain veneer must be special-made to fit your mouth perfectly, so this impression is essential to the procedure. That impression will then be sent to a lab where tooth shells of porcelain will be made. Those porcelain shells will be sent back to us, where they will be placed on your teeth during your second visit.

 

With the actual procedure, Dr. Ania will take off a very thin part of the front of your teeth. We have to take off a sliver of the natural tooth so that there is room for the porcelain shell to rest in a way that makes it look like a part of your natural tooth. Using a special bonding agent, Dr. Ania will apply each individual veneer so that it is flesh with your natural tooth. This cement bonding will ensure that your shells stay in place for many years to come. We have a special light to quickly harden and seal the bonding agent so that you can return back to your normal routine as soon as you leave our office. Once your appointment is over, you will have a beautiful new smile. You will also be able to eat and drink like you normally do.

 

Candidates

How do you know if porcelain veneers are right for you? Who can receive porcelain veneers?

You are a great candidate for porcelain veneers if you have the following:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Chipped or broken teeth
  • Tetracycline-stained teeth (or stained teeth in general)
  • Misshapen teeth
  • You dislike the shape and/or color of your teeth

 

A Better Smile

Not everyone is a good candidate for porcelain veneers. The teeth and gums have to be strong enough for cosmetic dentistry. Those with severe gum disease may not be able to receive porcelain veneers because the teeth and gums are in poor condition. Stronger teeth lead to better cosmetic dentistry treatment and will ensure that your veneers actually last. If you would love a better smile in as little as 2 office visits, call Dr. Ania’s office today at 303-443-0998!

Schedule a Consultation

 

Posted: August 3, 2017 By: Comment: 0

Restore Your Smile with a Dental Implant

dental implant
Tooth human implant (done in 3d graphics)

Have missing teeth? If so, you’re not alone. Studies have found that more than 178 million Americans are missing one or more tooth. Up to 35 million Americans don’t have any teeth at all. If you are missing one or more tooth, what can you do? Invest in dental implants! Dental implants are a restorative dentistry option that allows you to replace your missing teeth with customized teeth that look and feel real. In many cases, these implants are actually stronger than your natural teeth. The benefits of dental implants are far-reaching as well. You will be able to add functionality back to your smile with a tooth that’s present and works. You will also help strengthen the area of the gums where your tooth was lost and prevent other teeth from becoming weak (as can happen when a tooth is missing). Learn more about what Dr. Ania can do to restore your smile today!

 

The Effects of Missing Teeth

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that more than 35 million Americans are missing all their teeth in one or both of their jaws. That’s 35 million Americans with extreme cases of tooth loss. An estimated 178 million Americans are missing one or more teeth in the mouth. Missing one or more tooth is fairly common, but it is not something that you have to live with. A missing tooth can make quite the impact on your smile and on your oral health. It can affect the way you speak and could cause you to have a lisp or other speech impediment. A missing tooth can also weaken the strength of your jaw in the area where the tooth was lost. This can cause other teeth to weaken and loosen up.

 

Gum Disease

Teeth fall out due to sports injuries, accidents, and problems such as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is also known as gum disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 64.7 million American adults have gum disease. That’s roughly 47% of all American adults, or almost 1 in 2 adults. 8.7% of those adults have mild periodontitis in the form of gingivitis. This is a treatable and reversible form of gum disease where the gums begin to become red, inflamed, and bleed easily when flossing. With proper oral health habits and dental care, gingivitis can be corrected.

 

30% of American adults have moderate periodontitis, which is the stage between gingivitis and severe gum disease. This group is at great risk for losing their teeth if proper oral health habits aren’t established and followed. The final group that falls under severe periodontitis consists of 8.5% of American adults. With severe periodontitis, the gums recede from the teeth and those teeth begin to fall out. Once one tooth falls out, it becomes easier for the surrounding teeth to fall out, as the jawbone starts to weaken. One of the best ways to avoid tooth loss is to keep up on proper oral health practices. These include brushing and flossing your teeth several times a day and seeing your dentist often.

 

Dental Implants: What Are They?

If you lose a tooth due to periodontal disease, it is possible to receive a dental implant. However, your gums and jawbone have to be strong enough to receive this treatment. What is a dental implant though? Dental implants are a form of restorative dentistry that allow our patients to replace their missing teeth. A dental implant will take the place of a tooth that is missing. During this procedure, we install a metal post into the jawbone and allow the post to heal. We will custom-make a tooth for you that blends with the rest of your smile. Once the metal post has securely healed in your jaw, we will install your new tooth into the post. Once installed, your dental implant will look, feel and perform like a natural tooth. In some cases, your dental implant may even be much stronger than your natural teeth. With proper care, your implant can last 10-20 years.

 

A Great Option

A dental implant is one of the most effective and long-lasting solutions to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike a bridge, a dental implant can stand strong on its own. It needs no other tooth to keep it strong and in place. When it comes to gum disease, a dental implant is a great option to rehabilitate your mouth. You can even add an implant or two to a set of dentures if you want to improve the comfort of your dentures.

 

Restore Your Smile with a Dental Implant

Having a full set of teeth with help make your smile strong and sturdy. Keeping that smile healthy through proper oral hygiene practices will ensure that you keep the teeth you have and the implants you receive. You don’t have to live without teeth or the damaging effects a missing tooth can do to your smile. If you are missing one or more teeth, call Dr. Ania’s office at 303-443-0998 today!

 

Posted: July 19, 2017 By: Comment: 0
Laser Dentistry

Better Oral Health with Laser Dentistry

 

Did you know that laser dentistry can help you enhance your gum strength and improve your oral health? Laser dentistry is making quite the mark when it comes to deep cleaning the mouth. We utilize soft-tissue lasers to remove gum tissue that has been diseased by bacteria. How? Through pulsed beams of concentrated energy that work right on your gums to combat periodontal disease. Gum disease can lead to red and bleeding gums, receding gums and eventually tooth loss.  Avoid unnecessary tooth loss and gum disease with laser dentistry treatment. Healthy patients benefit from laser dentistry’s ability to reduce oral bacteria. Patients with gum disease benefit from targeted treatment that improves gum health.  Come discover what Dr. Ania’s laser dentistry can do to clean and heal your mouth today!

 

Keep Your Oral Health in Check

Brushing and flossing the teeth every single day is vital to keeping your oral health in check. We recommend brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Brushing after every meal is optimal for preventing the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Keeping on top of your oral health also involves seeing the dentist often. Schedule your biannual checkups to receive your deep cleanings and comprehensive exams. These exams can help detect the presence of tooth decay (cavities) that can harm your teeth.  According to the American Dental Association, cavities continue to be the most prevalent chronic disease in childhood. They also report that an estimated 100 million Americans fail to visit the dentist each year.  Preventing gum disease goes hand-in-hand with preventing cavities. Your proactive role in your oral health is key for success.

 

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing the teeth often is the best way to fight the effects of plaque on your oral health. When plaque sits on the teeth for long periods of time, it can erode the tooth enamel. From there, it will seep into the fleshy pulp inside of the tooth and begin to cause decay. This is how a cavity forms. When left untreated, tooth decay becomes severe and you can start to lose teeth. Plaque also affects the gums of the teeth.

If plaque is not removed by proper brushing and flossing, it will begin to irritate the gums. Gum disease begins with gingivitis. This is when the gums become red and inflamed and begin to bleed more when you floss. Gingivitis can turn into more severe gum disease if proper oral health habits aren’t followed. Over 64.7 million Americans suffer from the effects of gum disease. Another name for gum disease is periodontal disease.

The initial stage of gum disease is gingivitis. This is the stage that can be treated and corrected. The severe stage of gum disease is periodontitis. 8.7% of Americans have mild periodontitis. 30% have moderate periodontitis and 8.5% have severe cases of periodontitis. Severe periodontitis is not easily treated. During this stage, the gums recede from the teeth and the teeth begin to fall out. This is the stage you want to avoid. The good news? Gum disease is completely and 100% avoidable with proper oral hygiene. When gum disease still plagues you, we can help your oral health with laser dentistry.

 

Better Oral Health with Laser Dentistry

We specialize in many dental services for our patients. One of these is laser dentistry. How is this different than regular dentistry? Handheld instruments are less effective for providing your mouth the power of a deep-clean. Deep cleaning dramatically reduces bacteria in your mouth. Our soft tissue lasers treat your teeth with the power of laser technology. Laser stands for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.” We use diode laser energy to deep clean and remove gum tissue that has been diseased by bacteria. Our soft tissue lasers use pulsed beams of concentrated energy to clean up your gums. These high-tech lasers allow Dr. Ania to decontaminate your gums by reducing the bacteria that leads to plaque and inflammation. We also use laser therapy to vaporize diseased tissue safely and gently without effecting the surrounding delicate tissues of the mouth.

Our lasers have the ability to detect cavities in your mouth so they can be treated. In some cases, our lasers detect cavities much better than handheld tools. This means a small cavity can be found before it is able to grow larger.  Catching cavities while they are small equates to quick, painless treatment for our patients.  Laser dentistry offers you preventive care that will save you both time and money while also providing you a more comfortable in-office experience. 

 

Laser Dentistry Does Even More

Laser dentistry is extremely beneficial to all of our patients because of how many services it allows us to offer our them. Our soft tissue lasers can do all of the following:

  • Reshape a patient’s gum to enhance a smile
  • Detect and treat cavities
  • Treat cold sores quicker with low intensity dental lasers to reduce irritation and healing time
  • Sterilize root canals
  • Deep clean gingival pockets through laser decontamination
  • Brighten teeth with Laser tooth whitening
  • Provide crown lengthening
  • Minimize bacterial infections
  • Speed wound healing
  • Help with dental implant exposure
  • Eliminate benign tumors
  • Reduce gum irritation
  • Recontour gums for cosmetic purposes

 

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you seek precision with your dental work, you don’t want to miss out on the benefits of laser dentistry. Laser technology allows Dr. Ania to work quickly yet efficiently to remove diseased tissue and reshape the gums to provide you with healthier gums and teeth. We know you can achieve better oral health through laser dentistry. To make your appointment, call the office of Dr. Ania today at 303-443-0998!

Posted: July 12, 2017 By: Comment: 0

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