Integrity Family Dentist Blog

Understanding the Dental Filling Process

October 1, 2024

Dental Filling Denver, CO

Dental fillings can restore teeth with minor fractures or cavities. Your general dentist can use them to enhance jaw functions by evening out dental surfaces. These restorations can also improve the appearance of the affected teeth. Understanding how dental fillings work can help you prepare well for your next appointment.

The consultation

This meeting is an essential first step in getting dental fillings. The dentist will inspect the affected teeth and determine the type and number of fillings the patient must receive. This type of dental repair is for mild to moderate dental damage. More severe damage may require an extraction or a dental crown.

The dentist will order dental X-rays to see underneath the gumline. The images can show the severity and location of the dental damage. Many materials are available for dental fillings. The dentist will discuss each and recommend the most suitable one for the patient’s needs. Factors that will impact this decision include the location of the affected tooth. The patient’s preference and budget also count.

The procedure

Numbing the area of the affected teeth will come first. This step will make the procedure painless and comfortable for the patient. Preparing the teeth will follow. The dentist may use a laser or a hand-held tool to remove the damaged parts of the affected teeth. An acid gel will remove the remaining debris and bacteria. The dentist will then apply the filling material to the teeth.

The most common dental fillings are made of composite material. These tooth-colored restorations aim to seal the teeth and blend with the natural dental structure. The dentist will use many types of adhesives before applying the composite material. Exposing the dental fillings to a curing light will harden and fix them in place. Polishing the treated teeth will allow the restored teeth to blend well with the surrounding natural teeth.

The follow-up visits

See the dentist for regular checkups after getting the dental fillings. This visit will be a chance to explain how these restorations can block decay-causing bacteria from damaging the teeth again. Each appointment will allow the patient to have a professional dental cleaning. It can help keep the restorations in top shape.

The patient must follow proper oral care every day. Using fluoride toothpaste when brushing can strengthen and protect the treated teeth. Brushing at least two times a day for two minutes at a time and flossing once a day can prevent future dental damage. Those with a high risk of dental damage or decay can request dental sealants over the treated areas.

Aftercare

The treated teeth must first be free of decayed material. The dentist will clean the areas after doing so. Repairing the cavities with dental fillings will come next. After the treatment, the dentist will provide aftercare instructions. Some of them may be the following:

  • Set regular appointments with the dentist. These visits will help keep an eye on the filled teeth. The dentist can also treat any problems that may develop.
  • Refrain from consuming foods that may damage the dental fillings. Chewy, sticky, and hard foods can dislodge or crack them. Cold and hot drinks can cause sensitivity or pain in the treated teeth.
  • Floss and brush every day to keep the mouth healthy. Avoid putting pressure on the teeth when brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Using fluoride toothpaste protects the teeth against decay and strengthens the enamel layer. This element remineralizes the enamel and prevents enamel erosion.

Knowing if one needs dental fillings

Regular dental checks make cavity detection easier. The dentist can spot early signs of decay and treat them right away. But for people who cannot go to the dentist on time, symptoms can tell them to see the dentist about dental fillings. The following are some of them:

  • Dental pain while drinking and eating. This discomfort happens when the teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures and when biting down. Research shows that these symptoms are often indicative of cavities.
  • Sensitivity or pain when eating sweets. A cavity may be present if there is discomfort when eating candies or desserts.
  • Dull and throbbing aches. The individual may also experience persistent aches over time. This symptom could be a sign that a cavity is developing.

Getting dental fillings can enhance your oral health

Restoring teeth with mild to moderate tooth decay is possible with dental fillings. Different filling materials are available at your general dentist’s clinic. The treatment will begin once you and your dentist decide which fillings are for you. Working with your dentist can help make your restorations last for years.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Denver, CO.

Discover the Lifelong Benefits of a Dental Implant for Your Oral Health

October 1, 2024

Dental Implants Denver, CO

A dental implant is the gold standard of dental restorations. It provides stability and natural-looking results. Understanding the benefits of implants can motivate you to see your general dentist about it. Here are the different oral health advantages of a dental implant.

Prevents bone loss

The titanium rod acts as the dental root. It merges with the jawbone and gum tissue to provide the artificial tooth with a stable foundation. The rod also stimulates the jawbone. It signals the body to send nutrients to the jawbone for cell regeneration and tissue repair. The longer the dental implant stays in the jawbone, the healthier the jawbone becomes.

Studies show that a person loses about 30% of the alveolar ridge after losing a tooth. This ridge is part of the jawbone that contains the dental socket. Most bone loss happens in the first six months. Research reveals that a dental implant preserves the alveolar ridge. This restoration also reduces bone resorption rate.

Provides a natural feel and look

The titanium rod merges with the jawbone and gum tissue. It provides strong support to the natural-looking artificial tooth. Once the osseointegration is complete, the dental implant provides a natural feel and look. An individual can perform dental functions with more security. Studies show that patients are satisfied with the aesthetic effects of this dental restoration.

Gives a durable dental replacement

A dental implant lasts longer than removable restorations. Its success rate is above 97% for about a decade. The titanium rod is biocompatible. It will stay in the jawbone with proper care and maintenance. The artificial crown is often made of porcelain, which is strong and natural-looking.

Provides proper support for the facial structures

Research reveals that jawbone loss begins as soon as tooth loss occurs. The thinning of the jawbone deprives the facial structures of proper support. This event results in sagging skin, as well as bite misalignment and a sunken look. A dental implant can prevent this from happening by preventing jawbone loss. The facial structures can then receive proper support. This results in a younger-looking appearance.

Helps improve nutrition

Losing a tooth can make eating more challenging. It can cause tooth pain and bite problems. This consequence can deprive an individual of proper nutrition. A general dentist can recommend a dental implant to give the patient a stronger bite. More stable teeth will enable the patient to eat better to get more nutrients.

Prevents cavities

Losing a tooth leaves a dental space. This event triggers dental shifting. The neighboring teeth tend to loosen over time. Dental shifting increases one’s risk of tooth decay. It also leads to misalignment, which makes dental care more challenging. Plaque collects and causes cavities.

Improves speech

Research shows that even one missing tooth can make speech difficult. Lisping comes naturally when speaking with a dental gap. That is why restoring the missing tooth is important. A dental implant is a stable solution to tooth loss. It is custom-fit, which settles comfortably into the gap. It can help form clear words and build self-esteem when interacting with others.

Enhances one’s smile

Tooth loss often results in embarrassment. An individual would often avoid any social interaction or even smiling. This dental restoration provides a synthetic tooth that feels and looks natural. Clinical studies reveal that many patients enjoy a higher self-esteem after a fully integrated dental implant.

Prevents more tooth loss

Traditional dental bridges need the support of natural abutment teeth. The dentist will grind down these teeth and place a dental crown on each to support the pontics. A dental implant stands alone. It also prevents dental damage to the neighboring teeth, which could lead to cavities. Its support keeps the neighboring teeth intact and stable, preventing more tooth loss.

Enhances quality of life

Studies show that a dental implant can provide enough stability to enhance a person’s bite and chew. The stronger teeth allow a person to enjoy eating and speaking. A dental implant can prevent dental loosening and jaw pain. Without discomfort, an individual can experience happier, pain-free dental functions.

Behaves like natural teeth

Removable dentures are stable at first. But it wiggles later because of jawbone loss. That is why dentures need frequent adjustments as the gums and jawbone change. A dental implant acts like natural teeth. It stays put and does not move inside the mouth.

A dental implant can change your life in a positive way

Losing teeth can cause chaos in the mouth. Dental shifting and decay can develop over time. These events can cause even more problems, like bite issues. A dental implant can restore your missing tooth. It can enhance your appearance and dental functions. Working with your dentist can help maintain your new dental restoration.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Denver, CO.

Partial Denture Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

October 1, 2024

Dentures Denver, CO

Partial dentures are one of the most cost-friendly and effective options for replacing missing teeth. They can either be removable or fixed dentures. This is a guide on what partial dentures are, their benefits, and how to care for them.

Partial dentures

Partial dentures, commonly known as partials, are artificial replacement teeth that replace a patient's missing teeth. Partial dentures are used to replace one or more lost teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Full dentures replace the whole set of teeth. Partial dentures can be removable or fixed. Partially removable dentures are the most common type used as one of the options for replacing missing teeth. False teeth, a gum-colored foundation, and metal or plastic clasps make up removable partial dentures.  

The benefits of partial dentures

Partial dentures are comparatively less expensive than other options for replacing missing teeth. Also, they are better to replace a single tooth or a few teeth. Removable partial dentures are less intrusive and less expensive than alternative tooth replacement treatments for people with numerous missing teeth. In addition, they can carefully restore your smile and fill in any gaps in your smile. You could even be a candidate for same-day dentures, which means you won't have to wait as long for your dentures to be put.

If some natural teeth can be retained, partials are a far better alternative than a complete denture set. In addition, a removable full lower denture is difficult for most people to adjust to.

Partial dentures might also help to keep your remaining teeth healthy. For example, they can help prevent the remaining teeth from moving and weakening and overuse one side of the mouth, otherwise leading to wear and injury.

Care for partial dentures

It's a good idea to clean a partial denture while standing over a folded towel or a sink of water, for a backup, in case you drop it. Toothpaste should not be used to clean dentures since it is too abrasive. Your dentist can go over the options for how to clean your dentures and which products you should use. 

However, most home cleansers are too abrasive for cleaning dentures and should not be used. Instead, every day, brush the denture to eliminate food deposits and plaque. This keeps the denture from staining permanently.

Because it contains bristles tailored to suit the contour of the denture, it's better to use a brush made for cleaning dentures. A standard, soft-bristled toothbrush can also be used. Rinse your dentures properly to remove any food particles. Apply the denture cleanser to the wet brush. To prevent harming the plastic or bending the attachments, gently brush all denture surfaces.

If a denture is not maintained wet, it may lose its form. The denture should be soaked in a saturated solution or water at night. Rinse the denture properly before putting it in your mouth.

Restore your smile

Your smile matters. Speak with your dentist about the options available to you. It's time to get your smile looking its very best. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures and Partial Dentures in Denver, CO.

Common Questions About Dental Veneers

September 25, 2024

Common Questions About Dental Veneers from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for those who want to enhance their smile. They are thin, custom-made shells that sit on the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can correct dental imperfections, including stained or discolored teeth, chipped or misshapen teeth, and gaps between teeth.

If you are considering getting dental veneers, you may have questions about the process and what you need to know to get started. The following blog answers the most common questions about dental veneers.

Common...

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Cosmetic Dental Services Options to Cover a Misshapened Tooth

September 25, 2024

Cosmetic Dental Services Options to Cover a Misshapened Tooth from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Cosmetic dental services can help treat issues like misshapen teeth. The condition can be caused by health issues like congenital syphilis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Creveld syndrome, and cerebral palsy. Genetic factors can also cause it. Cosmetic dental services can be used to improve the shape of your tooth, regardless of the reason that it is abnormally shaped.

Fixing misshapen teeth with cosmetic dental services

Here are a few of the cosmetic treatments that our dentist might recommend to treat an abnormally shaped tooth.

1....

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Cosmetic Dental Services for Multiple Teeth at Once

September 23, 2024

Cosmetic Dental Services for Multiple Teeth at Once from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Certain cosmetic dental services like teeth whitening can be performed to address issues that affect multiple teeth at once.

Addressing multiple teeth with cosmetic dental services

Let us look at a few of the cosmetic dental services that can be used to improve the aesthetics of more than one tooth simultaneously.

1. Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening treatments are among the fastest ways to improve how a person’s teeth look. During the treatment, bleaching compounds, like hydrogen peroxide, are used to remove stains from teeth....

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How Long Will A Smile Makeover Last?

September 20, 2024

Smile Makeover Denver, CO

A smile makeover is something to show off and be proud of, as restorative procedures are designed to improve the form and function of the smile. Some people may have repairs done for purely aesthetic purposes and to create a whiter, brighter, and more uniform smile. Others may choose treatments that give them beautiful teeth while protecting the soft and hard tissues of the mouth and preventing complications down the road.

When done well, the results of a smile makeover should be confidence-building and long-lasting. The type of restorative option chosen, as well as the way the procedure is maintained, will impact the longevity of the treatment.

Longevity according to makeover

Dental work is an investment of both time and money, with the end result being a happier, healthier-looking smile. Expectations run high for the final product, and having a treatment fail prematurely can be devastating. Dental procedures have a lifespan, and the results of a makeover will vary by procedure.

Porcelain veneers

As a makeover solution, veneers can help mask imperfections, create symmetry, and redefine facial aesthetics. Porcelain has good durability, and patients can expect these treatments to last at least 15 years or longer. As advancements in porcelain composites continue, they could increase the lifespan dramatically.

Dental implants

For patients needing to replace missing or damaged teeth, an implant acts as a replacement tooth root to which a removable or permanent artificial tooth is attached. This is considered a strong smile makeover solution, as the right maintenance and care could lead to it lasting a lifetime. However, depending on the material for the crown placed on top, this portion may need to be replaced after 15 years.

Crowns

A dental crown is a restoration solution that caps a damaged tooth, though it could also encircle the tooth. Crowns are generally used in conjunction with implants, and there are several materials that could be used to fabricate the crown. Metal crowns can last for up to 50 years, though these do not usually have good aesthetic appeal. Ceramic crowns can last for nearly 15 years, while porcelain can last for up to 20 years.

Lumineers

Lumineers are a long-lasting way of providing a perfectly aligned or whiter smile. It is a versatile option that is created from porcelain and can last for up to 20 years when cared for properly.

Teeth whitening

There is a wide range of options for teeth whitening, but those performed by a dental professional have more longevity. Professional services can have results that last anywhere from one to three years, though the timeline depends mainly on how well a patient maintains good oral hygiene and follow-up care.

Longevity according to care

By taking good care of the results of a makeover, it can increase the longevity of both beauty and function. It is important to maintain routine cleanings and dental exams, as well as follow a good daily oral hygiene routine. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Be sure to follow your dentist's instructions on which products, tools, and techniques to use, as these can vary depending on the type of dental work you had done. If you use mouthwash, look for alcohol-free options to avoid damage to the materials used to repair or enhance your teeth.

Choices in foods or drinks, medical conditions, oral trauma, bad habits, and normal wear and tear can also impact longevity. Countering this potential with protective and proactive habits is crucial for makeover durability. For example, avoid or limit foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth and dental work, such as:

  • Coffee or black tea
  • Soft drinks, especially dark-colored ones
  • Dark berries
  • Beets
  • Certain sauces, such as curry, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce

You should also avoid very hard, tough, or crunchy foods, as these can damage dental work. Do not smoke or use tobacco of any kind as these can lead to stains, prevent proper healing of the tissues, and cause serious health problems. If you clench or grind your teeth, take steps to break these habits to prevent damage to your smile makeover.

Conclusion

While a smile makeover will provide a long-lasting change to a less-than-perfect smile, taking care of the results can enhance the longevity of the restorative solution. Nothing lasts forever, but there should be some confidence that the investment made into restorative services will be durable and enduring.

Request an appointment here: https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/ or call Integrity Family Dental at (303) 337-3000 for an appointment in our Denver office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Denver, CO.

The Number of Cosmetic Dental Services Visits for Teeth Whitening

September 18, 2024

The Number of Cosmetic Dental Services Visits for Teeth Whitening from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Teeth whitening treatments are among the most popular cosmetic dental services used to improve the color of teeth. In-office whitening treatments should not be confused with the over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products sold at drugstores and supermarkets.

In-office whitening involves using concentrated solutions that contain whitening compounds, like hydrogen peroxide, to remove stains from teeth. These products are not sold to the public because they must be used under the supervision of a dentist.

A single in-office whitening treatment can improve the color of your...

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The Benefits of Choosing Dental Veneers Over Other Cosmetic Procedures

September 17, 2024

The Benefits of Choosing Dental Veneers Over Other Cosmetic Procedures from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Dental veneers are often more advantageous than other cosmetic dental procedures. Some cosmetic dental procedures are quick but need retreatment. Others need preparation and months to be effective. Veneers take a short time to get but can last for at least a decade with proper care and maintenance. Knowing the benefits of these restorations over other cosmetic dental treatments can motivate you to schedule an appointment. Here are the advantages of dental veneers that you must consider.

Provide a natural appearance

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Cosmetic Dental Services to Repair Damaged Teeth

September 16, 2024

Cosmetic Dental Services to Repair Damaged Teeth from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

You might need cosmetic dental services if you have one or more damaged teeth. Your teeth are the strongest parts of your body, but they regularly have to deal with the intense forces that chewing puts upon them and constant attacks from acids made by oral bacteria. Teeth also have to deal with the forces generated whenever you take a blow to the face.

Cosmetic dental services can be used to fix damaged teeth. Many of these treatments can restore a tooth’s appearance, along with its function.

...

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