Integrity Family Dentist Blog

Finding the Right General Dentist

February 13, 2022

Finding the Right General Dentist from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Making a strong connection with a general dentist as part of an overall team of health care providers can lead to better patient compliance and satisfaction. Patients looking for a new dentist should consider several factors before committing to one. Although shopping around for a general dentist may seem initially burdensome, in the long run it is more convenient and the patient should receive more consistent care.

The search for a general dentist

Most patients visit the dentist at least twice a year for dental exams and cleanings. Establishing...

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Risks Associated With In-Office Teeth Whitening

February 10, 2022

Teeth Whitening Denver, CO

In-office teeth whitening is a procedure that is safe for most patients with healthy teeth enamel. However, there are some risks that are involved for some patients. Understanding how safe in-office teeth whitening is and what the potential risks are help with deciding about treatment. 

The risks of in-office teeth whitening

Anyone who is looking for a way to brighten their smile and remove mild to moderate stains or discoloration should consider in-office teeth whitening. The following is a complete review of what in-office teeth whitening is, what the risks are and what to expect throughout the treatment process. 

In-office teeth whitening defined

In-office teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a bleaching agent to teeth to remove discoloration and teeth stains. In-office teeth whitening is available to most patients who have a healthy smile and want to improve the appearance of their smile, although patients with cavities or weakened enamel may need oral health treatment before the in-office procedure. It is a safe procedure that is typically performed by either the dentist or dental hygienist and only requires one dental visit in most instances. 

Potential discomfort with in-office teeth whitening

Most general dentists ensure the patient is in good enough oral health before teeth whitening. If the patient has cavities on visible teeth or is at greater risk of cavities, the dentist may recommend treating them before starting teeth whitening. Therefore, in most instances, there is little to no discomfort during in-office teeth whitening. However, some patients do experience minor teeth sensitivity following treatment. Gum discomfort may also occur if the gums are exposed to the bleaching agent during the in-office procedure. 

What to expect after in-office teeth whitening

As mentioned, there may be some minor teeth sensitivity and gum irritation after treatment, although this should be tolerable and go away within 48 hours. To decrease the risk of teeth sensitivity, eat foods that help teeth enamel such as dairy products and other foods that are high in calcium, avoid hard or chewy foods that get stuck on and in between teeth and drink water throughout the day. The results of in-office teeth whitening should last for more than six months with proper care, and many patients are happy with the brightness of their smile for over a year after the procedure. 

How often is in-office teeth whitening recommended?

Anyone who is insecure with their smile or feels they would be more confident if they had a brighter and whiter smile should consider in-office teeth whitening. Dentists typically recommend in-office teeth whitening once every year (or less often in some instances). 

Talk to an experienced dentist about treatment

Our experienced dental team is glad to help you with all of your cosmetic dental needs. If you are interested in in-office teeth whitening, then call us today to start the treatment process. We take pride in helping our patients achieve a smile they love and are proud to show off when they are around others.

Are you considering teeth whitening in the Denver area? Get more information at https://www.integrityfamilydentist.com/blog/.

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

What to Expect When Getting X-rays From a General Dentist

February 4, 2022

What to Expect When Getting X-rays From a General Dentist from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Many patients visiting a general dentist do not fully understand the use of dental X-rays. Patients may wonder if this type of imaging is completely necessary, and it is important to understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. Dental X-ray exposure is safer than ever before, and when patients are knowledgeable about the procedure, they can make informed decisions. For those curious about this tool used in dentistry, research and learning is essential to feel at ease at the next dental appointment.

All about...

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A General Dentist Discusses the Benefits of Tooth Straightening

January 28, 2022

A General Dentist Discusses the Benefits of Tooth Straightening from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

In recent years, more patients have been asking general dentist professionals about straighter teeth. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the last decades. Patients may think that traditional braces are the only option, but clear aligners and appliance therapy are also available now. When having this conversation, it is important that patients discuss treatment goals and expected outcomes with the doctor. It can be helpful for people to view other patients’ results so that they can be informed of all treatment options.

3 benefits...

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When You Need a Mouthguard From a General Dentist

January 19, 2022

When You Need a Mouthguard From a General Dentist from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

A general dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect the teeth from damage that can occur from teeth grinding, sports injuries, or physically strenuous jobs. Grinding can be difficult to treat, but a patient can be helped by a thin mouthguard on the upper or lower teeth to prevent friction from occurring. Other types of mouthguards, such as those made for contact sports, keep the teeth and surrounding soft tissues safe during tackles and falls.

Over-the-counter mouthguards versus custom mouthguards

Mouthguards are available without a...

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The Benefits of Regular General Dentist Visits

January 12, 2022

The Benefits of Regular General Dentist Visits from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Visiting a general dentist regularly can have a tremendous impact on the health and appearance of teeth. While carving out time in a schedule every six months for a dentist appointment can seem inconvenient, there are several reasons to set aside an hour or two twice a year for these visits.

Prevent tooth decay

Dental professionals use specialized tools to clean the teeth. These tools can accomplish things daily brushing and flossing are unable to do as thoroughly.

Remove plaque

Throughout the day, the food and...

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Can a General Dentist Perform a Tooth Extraction?

January 12, 2022

Tooth Extraction Denver, CO

If you need a tooth extraction, you probably wonder if your regular dentist can perform the extraction or if the procedure will need to be done by an oral surgeon. The answer to this question depends on several factors and should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Read on to understand the different factors that go into you and your dentist or oral surgeon deciding who will perform your tooth extraction.

Simple extraction vs. surgical extraction 

The first factor in play is whether the extraction will be a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is removing a tooth that is fully erupted, meaning that it is fully above the gum line and is visible in your mouth. A surgical extraction is necessary when a tooth has not erupted and is hidden below the gum line in the jawbone or has only partially erupted. This situation is common with wisdom teeth, which are the last set of molars that come in. A general dentist can perform a simple tooth extraction using forceps. For a surgical extraction, however, only an oral surgeon is qualified to perform the extraction procedure.

General dentist vs. an oral surgeon 

It should be noted that a general dentist can perform simple tooth extractions. Many people rely on their general dentist to perform this routine procedure, and it is easily accomplished in-office. However, your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon in some instances. If you have limited jaw mobility, large sinuses, or your teeth are positioned in a way that prevents a general dentist from being able to perform the tooth extraction; then an oral surgeon will need to do the procedure. 

Another reason you would need an oral surgeon for your tooth extraction is if the tooth or teeth you are having removed are cracked or broken. Removal of cracked or broken teeth is more complicated than extracting an intact tooth and requires oral anesthesia. Oral surgeons are can also help patients with dental anxiety because oral surgeons are qualified to administer a variety of different types of anesthesia. 

When simple tooth extractions aren’t simple 

Simple tooth extractions are not always so simple. If, for some reason, you are at risk for complications from simple tooth extraction, your general dentist will guide what you should do next. Some of the complications patients may experience during a simple tooth extraction include cracks or complex tooth root systems. 

It’s important to note that every patient is different. The requirements for your procedure will depend on many factors, such as your current tooth health, location of the extraction, and your risk of developing complications. Your dentist can provide more information about whether he or she can perform the extraction in their office. 

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: Tooth Extraction in Denver, CO.

The Benefits of Having a General Dentist

January 6, 2022

The Benefits of Having a General Dentist from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

A general dentist is the dental equivalent of a primary care physician. A general dental professional is the person dental patients can go to for routine preventative care and diagnosis of any oral health problems. There are multiple benefits to establishing a relationship with a general dentist.

How visiting a general dentist can benefit the patient

Maintaining oral health is important for both the health and appearance of the teeth and for overall health. General dentists offer many services that can improve the health of the...

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How a General Dentist Treats Cavities

December 30, 2021

How a General Dentist Treats Cavities from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Among the most common dental problems that a general dentist treats are cavities. Most people will experience this form of tooth decay at some point due to:

  • Dry mouth
  • Sugary foods and drinks
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Genetics

There are several types of cavities, and each can lead to complications without prompt treatment.

How do dentists treat cavities?

A general dentist first considers a cavity’s location when determining how to proceed. Beyond that, size and depth dictate which procedure is a suitable treatment.

Smooth surface cavities

...

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Ask a General Dentist: What Happens to Your Tooth After Extraction

December 22, 2021

Ask a General Dentist: What Happens to Your Tooth After Extraction from Integrity Family Dental in Denver, CO

Tooth extraction frequently occurs in the office of a general dentist for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Bacterial decay
  • Accidental breakage
  • Overcrowding
  • Impaction

Most patients are more concerned about the gap the tooth leaves behind than its fate outside their mouths. An extracted tooth usually takes one of the following paths, depending on whether the dentist or the patient claims it.

Reasons a dentist keeps the tooth

Incineration

A dentist usually places an extracted tooth into a sealed bio-medical bag because it...

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