Blog – Dentist Parker CO | Green Dental Care

Sep 23 0

Ways Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Smile

Ways Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Smile Today

Are you unhappy with the way that your smile looks? As your go-to dentist in Parker, CO, we offer our patients several solutions to transform and improve their smile. Whether you’re looking for professional cleaning or solutions from a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, you’ll find that we can offer a treatment to meet your needs.

There are many ways that our cosmetic dentistry solutions, to improve your smile and keep you smiling.

Whitening Your Teeth

The color of our teeth can change with time. Whether as a result of the foods and drinks you enjoy or perhaps due to medication or smoking, once pearly white teeth can become yellow and otherwise discolored.

Discoloration can take a toll on your levels of confidence, and keep you from smiling widely. We offer tooth whitening solutions to help turn back time. Teeth can be whitened in the office, or there are take-home kits that can help you achieve results in the comfort of your home.

Straighten Teeth with Invisalign

Misaligned teeth can take just as much of a toll on your confidence levels as other concerns can. The Invisalign aligner tray system can help you to achieve straighter teeth without the very visible solution that is traditional braces. Invisalign is made up of clear aligner trays that are almost invisible when in place. They can help to straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful smile that you are proud of.

Restoring Smiles with Dental Implants

Are you missing one or more teeth? A dental implant can be used to replace the missing tooth. The implant is a titanium post that is surgically implanted into the gum. Once the bone in the jaw has fused with the titanium post, a crown will be placed upon the implant. Dr. Ben Kacos, a cosmetic dentist offering dental implants in Shreveport, LA, says that dental implants are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments around. The result will be a perfectly restored smile that you are proud of.

Dental Crowns, to Restore and Perfect Your Smile

Dental crowns can offer the protection and strength that potentially weak teeth need. They can also enhance the way that a tooth looks. Once the crown is placed over the tooth, there is much less opportunity for the natural tooth to be damaged further.

Also, covering up the damaged tooth can restore your smile to the brilliant one that you may have otherwise been hiding.

Dental Veneers, an Instant Transformation

Dental veneers are very thin shells that are placed over the teeth to alter the look of the teeth. They can disguise chips, cracks, and discoloration on teeth, in an instant. The process of getting veneers is not overly complex, nor is it an invasive procedure.

Patients that come to our dental office are often quite surprised at how easy it is to prepare their teeth for veneers. In just two visits to the office, you can completely transform and improve upon your smile.

Veneers can be used on just one or two teeth that may be discolored or chipped. Or they can be used to complete a whole smile transformation. Dr. Beth Herko, a cosmetic dentist in New Providence, NJ, adds that dental veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry solutions because the transformations are astonishing.

Cosmetic dentistry won’t just improve the way that your smile looks, it will help to boost your confidence. So, let’s get you smiling again, contact Green Dental Care to schedule your cosmetic consultation.

Sep 16 0

Benefits of Invisalign

Posted by edvalsonmktg

Benefits of Invisalign Aligners

Are you unhappy with the alignment of your teeth? Not only can misaligned teeth impact your smile and the pride you take in your smile, but it can prove challenging to effectively clean between crooked teeth. This can, in time, lead to decay and even periodontal disease.

You may ultimately find yourself facing bone regression and the potential for tooth loss.

As your dentist in Parker CO, you can rely on us to find the right solution to protect your smile. Braces can correct misaligned teeth. Traditional braces are not always the right solution for every patient. They can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and lead to some discomfort.

Invisalign aligners are a great alternative to traditional braces. Do you know the benefits of Invisalign?

Aesthetics Benefits

When it comes to getting Invisalign in Parker, CO patients may be concerned about the way that they will look during treatment. The best benefit of Invisalign is that the aligner trays are practically invisible when they are in place.

Invisalign is ideal for adult patients who do not want to bring any additional attention to their smiles. Invisible aligner trays can allow you to get the benefits of traditional braces, with the added benefits of discretion.

Comfort Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign aligner trays can be removed when you need to remove them. You must keep your aligner trays in place for as many hours as possible. However, they can be removed when it’s time to eat or drink, or perhaps to brush your teeth.

Traditional braces cannot be removed until your dentist removes them. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist who provides Invisalign in Georgetown, KY, says that traditional braces can be harder to clean your teeth when you’re wearing traditional braces.

Being able to enjoy your favorite meals in comfort is a huge benefit to Invisalign. Keeping your teeth brushed and flossed can also help to stave off decay.

The Safety Benefits of Invisalign

Traditional metal braces have been used for countless years, and they are very effective at correcting misalignments. When visiting our dental office, Parker, CO patients do often complain that they feel discomfort from their braces. The wire and other protruding pieces of metal can irritate and even puncture the insides of the mouth. The clear Invisalign aligner trays are soft, smooth, and comfortable when worn.

Another safety benefit is that Invisalign braces will reduce the damage that traditional braces can bring with them as they apply force to the teeth while straightening them. The ability to continue to brush and floss can also reduce the potential for cavities and gum disease.

Treatment Duration for Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment can take some time in order to achieve the results that patients are looking for. When it comes to Invisalign in Parker, CO patients are happy to learn that this clear aligner solution can get results in much less time.

For example, traditional metal braces could take up to 5 years of wear to achieve the results. The Invisalign system can take as little as a year and achieve results in less than two years.

No Unexpected Surprises

The Invisalign system allows patients to preview their final results, so there are no unexpected or unpleasant surprises with this orthodontic solution. Patients will know what to expect during treatment and will know just how long they will need to wear their braces. Metal braces, while effective in their own right, can be a bit of trial and error to get to the final results.

Whether you’re looking for a checkup or a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, you can turn to Green Dental Care. Our experienced staff is happy to help you and your family.

Sep 09 0

Wisdom Teeth Recovery

Posted by edvalsonmktg

Wisdom Teeth Recovery Tips

We get two sets of teeth; the one we have as children and a more mature set that replaces our childhood set. The wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 to 21, and they grow at the very back of your jaw. However, you can live comfortably without your last molars, and wisdom tooth removal is one of the more common dental procedures dentists in Parker, CO carries out.

Most people have their wisdom teeth removed because:

They have been impacted – Plenty of people do not have enough room in their jaws for wisdom teeth, so they don’t come out normally. They may end up stuck in your jawbone or gums, and sometimes this can result in an infection or can cause a cyst that can damage other teeth roots.
Wisdom teeth may come out at the wrong angle. The wisdom teeth may press against your other teeth, resulting in discomfort and gradually causing your teeth to shift.
They have only partially erupted through the gums, making them harder to clean. This can lead to a build-up of bacteria and plaque that can cause oral infections and gum disease.

The decision to remove wisdom teeth isn’t always clear, and you will have to talk to the best dentist in Parker, CO, to find out what’s best for your situation. Generally, our dentists at Green Dental Care will prescribe a wisdom tooth extraction in Parker, CO if the area around that tooth experiences:

Pain
Gum disease
Repeated infection of the soft tissue behind the lower last tooth
Cysts (fluid-filled sacks)
Tumors
Extensive tooth decay
Damage to nearby teeth

The Wisdom Tooth Procedure

Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively quick and easy outpatient procedure that takes around 45 minutes. However, it does require some sort of anesthesia to minimize pain, so it would be better if you had someone to drive you home afterward. The following are the types of anesthesia which may be administered before your procedure:

Local anesthesia. Your Parker, CO dentist, will apply a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and gums. You may also breathe in nitrous oxide or laughing gas.
IV sedation. The dentist will deliver sedation drugs into your vein to make you drowsy as well as numb your mouth. You won’t feel any pain and may sleep throughout the entire procedure. Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist Colorado Springs, CO, says that IV sedation is one of the more popular sedation choices.
General sedation. You may either breathe in gas through a mask or have drugs delivered through your vein. You will be asleep throughout the procedure and might not wake up until an hour or two after the surgery.

Once you’re under anesthetic, the dentist will commence the procedure. If your wisdom tooth was impacted, your dentist might have to cut into your gums or bones to get to it. He will make an incision in the gum tissue and remove any bone blocking access to the tooth root. After removing the tooth, he will clean the site, remove any debris, and stitch the wound closed to promote healing. Finally, he will place gauze over the extraction site to control the bleeding and help a blood clot form.

After the Wisdom Tooth Procedure

Recovery from an extracted wisdom tooth usually takes around three days, but it may last up to a week if your tooth was impacted. If you were under local anesthesia or sedation, you’d likely wake up in the dentist’s chair. As you wake up, the feeling will slowly return to your mouth, and there may be some pain and swelling.

On the first day after surgery, there will be some blood in your mouth, though that will reduce and eventually stop as time passes. You can use an ice pack on the side of your face to reduce swelling as soon as you’d like but only apply it ten minutes at a time. Dr. David Moghadam, an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, says swelling takes two to three days to improve, but bruising can take several days to resolve. To manage the pain, you can use an over the counter pain reliever like Tylenol. You may also use prescription pain medication, especially if the bone was removed during the procedure.

Tips for After Wisdom Tooth Recovery

You can resume normal activities on the day after the surgery but avoid strenuous physical activity for at least a week as it could dislodge the blood clot from the socket. Drink lots of water but don’t drink with a straw for at least a week as the suction could dislodge the blood clot, resulting in a painful condition called dry socket. Avoid any alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot drinks in the first 24 hours.

When it comes to food, make sure you only eat soft foods in the first 24 hours. Avoid hard, chewy, or hot foods that might get stuck in the socket and irritate the wound. This will probably be the only time your dentist in Parker, CO, tells you not to brush or floss for an entire day. Don’t brush your teeth, spit, rinse your mouth, or use mouthwash during the first 24 hours. After that, be very gentle with your brushing, especially around the extraction wound. Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, an endodontist n Shreveport, LA, says not to forget to rinse your mouth with salt water every two hours gently and after meals for a week. For the first 72 hours and even longer, if possible, avoid smoking. This delays healing and increases the risk of complications.

Wisdom tooth extraction in Parker, CO, is a quick and easy procedure with equally quick recovery time. With proper care, your wound will be healed within a week, and you can get back to your normal day to day routine. However, if the bleeding doesn’t stop or you experience too much tooth pain, contact Green Dental Care immediately for further treatment.

Sep 02 0

What is a Dead Tooth?

Posted by edvalsonmktg

Parker Dentists Answer: What is a Dead Tooth?

A dead tooth, as the name implies, is no longer living or functioning. Although bone technically isn’t alive, a healthy tooth receives a supply of blood from blood vessels within its innermost layer. Teeth are made of three layers. The first layer is the enamel, the hard outer layer. The second layer is called dentin, and finally, the pulp. The pulp is comprised of nerves and blood vessels that supply the tooth with blood and nutrients, and once this blood supply is cut off and the nerve dies, the tooth is considered dead.

Dentists in Parker, CO, also call this necrotic pulp, a non-vital tooth, or a pulpless tooth. A dead tooth, like most dental issues, can lead to more severe complications if it isn’t addressed in time. That’s why it is important to contact the best dentists in Parker, CO at Green Dental Care if you suspect you have a dead tooth. But first, how would you know you have a dead tooth among your set of pearly whites?

Symptoms of a Dead Tooth

You would think that a dead tooth would be immediately noticeable to you, but according to the cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, that’s not always the case. Dead teeth don’t always darken in color, and you may be unable to identify one just by looking at it. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have a dead tooth:

Pain – Usually on a spectrum, the pain can vary from almost non-existent to extremely painful, and it is usually caused by sensitive nerve endings around the outside of the tooth, called the periodontal membrane. When bacteria and pus build up in the pulp cavity inside the tooth, they put pressure on the periodontal membrane, resulting in a lot of pain.
Change in color – Dead teeth often get darker in color, and this may appear as a yellow, gray, or black discoloration. The effect is similar to bruising, and the death of red blood cells causes it. The discoloration usually appears if a dead tooth goes untreated for a while and increases over time as the tooth continues to decay, and the nerve dies.
Infection – If the dead tooth leads to an infection, it may result in an abscess and produce other symptoms such as a constant bad taste in your mouth, bad breath, and smell.

Note that dead teeth don’t always darken in color, and pain in the jaw or teeth can also be a symptom of plenty of other oral health complications. Ultimately, the best way to catch and treat a dead tooth and other oral health complications in time is to keep up with your dentist appointments. However, if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact an emergency dentist in Parker, CO, right away for a consultation.

Causes of a Dead Tooth

Decay is the tooth’s ultimate enemy. Many tooth pain is a direct result of a dead tooth or teeth, Parker, CO dentists explain. Tooth decay or cavities are essentially permanently damaged areas on the surface of a tooth. The decay begins at the outermost layer of a tooth, the enamel, and left untreated. It causes cavities which eat into the deeper layers of the tooth. The cavities will eventually reach the pulp, thus creating a pathway for bacteria to enter the tooth and begin the chain of reaction that leads to nerve death.

At first, the pulp will have an inflammatory response to the bacteria, the immune system’s attempt at destroying the pathogens. However, the bacteria eventually wins, and as the pressure within the pulp builds, it cuts off the blood vessels supplying blood to the pulp, starving the nerve and ultimately leading to nerve death.

Dr. Kristina Neda, a cosmetic dentist in Georgetown, KY, agrees that physical trauma can also lead to tooth death. If enough force is applied, either from a sports fall or an injury, the blood vessels within the pulp can burst, cutting off the blood supply to the nerve. A tooth can die in a matter of days or over a couple of months or years. This is how it usually plays out:

A cavity eats its way into the pulp, leaving it unprotected.
Bacteria enter the pulp.
The pulp tries to fight off the bacteria.
The resulting inflammatory response causes pain, pressure, and swelling.
The blood vessel is cut off, starving the tooth nerve of oxygen and nutrients.
The nerve becomes necrotic and dies, leading to tooth death.

Treatment for a Dead Tooth

Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping up with your dentist appointments will go a long way in preventing tooth decay and cavities, a precursor to tooth death. However, if you are experiencing some of the symptoms described above, try the following tips before you see a dentist:

Take over the counter pain medication to relieve any pain.
Avoid extremely cold or hot beverages and hard foods.

Regardless of the measures above, you will have to see a dentist in Parker, CO, to have the issue addressed. Many dentists will recommend root canal therapy to save the tooth. As long as your tooth is intact, it will function normally. Alternatively, the dentist may choose to extract it. It all depends on your individual situation. Do you have a dead tooth that needs to be treated? Green Dental Care is happy to handle any dental emergency in Parker CO. Contact us today for a consultation.

Aug 19 0

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Posted by Alex

Tooth-Colored Fillings

At some point, most of us are going to require tooth repair or a filling. White fillings, or composite fillings, are made with a resin that can be adjusted so that you get the perfect shade made to the color of your natural tooth. This allows patients to get a restored natural appearance and a restored smile. Composite fillings can be used anywhere in the mouth, but are most often used on front teeth. This is due to their ability to offer you that natural restoration looks, and because of their ability to stand up to the forces of chewing.

Composite fillings are made using plastic resin and powdered glass. These materials can be used to repair teeth, but they can also be used for dental crowns and inlays. They are also used in cosmetic dentistry, with veneers.

Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Right for Me?

If you are in need of a small to medium-sized tooth filling, and you’re interested in maintaining the natural appearance of your teeth, composite fillings may be the right choice for you. Those who have allergies to metals may also consider the composite filling, as they do not contain metal.

During your appointment with the best dentist in Parker CO, you’ll be offered the solutions that will best meet your needs, and that will best restore your beautiful smile.

Are There Differences Between Amalgam Fillings and Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Amalgam fillings have, for many years, been the go-to solution for filling teeth. They are made using various metal types. They are durable, long-lasting, and can be the more affordable choice. However, they are not ideal for those who are allergy-prone, and those who are not interested in the metal appearance that they bring with them.

Composite or tooth-colored fillings are made using plastic resin and powdered glass. They offer the ability to blend in with the existing structure of the tooth. They can be used freely on those who are prone to allergies. They can be a costlier option over amalgam fillings, and they do take a bit more time to place. However, they are considered to be the better option for several patients, particularly if tooth infection has meant removing a significant portion of the natural tooth.

What Should Be Expected When Getting Tooth-Colored Fillings?

During the procedure, you will be numbed to ensure your comfort at all times. The next step, once you are numb, is to remove the signs of decay from the tooth. The cavity will need to be rid of all signs of bacteria. The composite resin will then be placed onto the tooth, in layers, to build up and restore the natural appearance of the tooth. Each layer will be hardened before the next layer.

Once each of the layers is in place, and hardened, the white filling can be shaped and buffed so that it blends in perfectly with the natural tooth.

How Long Will Tooth-Colored Fillings Last?

The average lifespan for tooth-colored fillings is considered to be five years, says Dr. Ben Kacos, a cosmetic dentist in Shreveport LA. They may last longer, however. Be sure to maintain great oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and keep up with your regular checkups and professional teeth cleanings.

Many insurance policies will cover tooth-colored fillings, particularly if the filling is going to be on the front teeth. Those that don’t may recommend amalgam fillings, which will mean paying out of pocket if you prefer composite fillings.

If you have tooth pain, reach out to us at Green Dental Care. We are an emergency dentist in Parker CO who can get you out of pain and get you smiling again.

Aug 12 0

Preventative Dentistry FAQ’s

Posted by Alex

Preventative Dentistry FAQ’s

Many dental patients don’t reach out to their dentist until they are experiencing tooth pain, and they are in need of an emergency dentist in Parker, CO. The truth is that many of these painful emergency situations can be addressed in the very early stages with the benefits of preventative dental care.

Dr. Green, the best dentist in Parker, CO, answers some of the most common questions surrounding preventative dentistry so that you can understand its benefits.

What is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry is the services and treatments that ensure good oral and overall health. The goal is to keep your teeth and gums healthy while promoting an understanding of good dental care.

Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease can have a significant, negative effect on your whole body health if it is left unchecked. Some serious health concerns have been linked to gum disease, including heart attack, complications from diabetes, stroke, and even respiratory concerns. In addition, periodontal disease is the number one reason that teeth are lost. The good news is that gum disease is entirely treatable and even preventable.

Sticking with your dental checkups and routine cleanings are an important part of preventing periodontal disease.

Can I Avoid Wearing Down My Teeth?

It is completely normal for teeth to wear down as we age, says Dr. David Moghadam, Easton PA dentist. The wear and tear on your teeth can be accelerated by concerns that include teeth grinding or an uneven bite. The concern goes beyond the issues that tooth repair and cosmetic dentistry can address. Patients may develop accelerated decay concerns, experience neck pain, and even migraines. There are treatments that can help with bruxism and an uneven bite both. Mouthguards, braces, and other solutions may be the right choice to protect your teeth.

Can I Get Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer can go unrecognized for entirely too long, without early detection. It is important that we detect oral cancer early on. Early detection means early treatment and a better chance for a full recovery. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says that most people don’t realize they have any underlying issue, so that’s why it’s important to stay on top of your routine oral cancer screenings.

Is It Too Late to Get My Teeth Straightened?

The reality is that it’s never too late to seek out orthodontic options. Teeth can shift as we age, for any number of reasons. Getting your teeth straightened can restore your beautiful smile and protect against damage that can come from shifting teeth. Invisible aligners are often a great choice for patients of all ages.

What Kind of Fillings Can I Get?

For too many years, fillings were made using noticeable materials. Advancements in dental technology have led to the development of white fillings that can be adjusted perfectly so that they match the color of your natural teeth. Cosmetic dentistry solutions also mean that options like veneers are a possibility to ensure your smile is beautifully restored.

What Do I Do If I Have Tooth Pain?

Tooth pain is often the result of a tooth infection. Being seen by the best dentist in Parker CO will allow the dentist to treat the infection and get you out of pain. Ignoring pain is not advised, as the pain will not resolve on its own. Call to make an appointment.

Do you have more questions? Are you wondering, “who is the best dentist near me?” At Green Dental Care, we offer a focus on good oral health and on the education of our patients. Call to make an appointment.

Aug 26 0

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Posted by Alex

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Has your significant other accused you of grinding your teeth in your sleep? Bruxism, the name for teeth grinding, is a behavior that takes place when we’re sleeping. This means that many of us could be grinding our teeth in our sleep and not have any idea that we do.

Bruxism may sound harmless, but outside it irritating the person sleeping next to you. The truth is that bruxism can lead to significant damage to your teeth and result in a number of painful conditions beyond tooth pain. It may even lead to a tooth infection that requires being seen by an emergency dentist in Parker CO.

What Causes Teeth Grinding?

There are a number of factors that may be contributing to your bruxism. These could include anxiety, stress, sleep apnea, and even dehydration says Georgetown, KY dentist, Dr. Jordan Smith.

Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping disorder that can place patients at an increased risk for a number of serious and life-threatening conditions.

We all struggle with anxiety and stress at some point in our life. It is often recommended that you take steps to reduce your stress, or to engage in some activities that can promote stress reduction. Some types of medications may be suggested by your primary care physician, including those to help you get better rest or to address the anxiety that you are feeling.

If you tend to skip the water more often than not, this is a simple fix. Drinking more water could be one of the easiest solutions to making bruxism a thing of your past.

What Are Some Signs of Bruxism?

Grinding your teeth will result in wear to the enamel of your teeth. When this enamel has worn off, it will expose the softer dentin inside of the tooth. This can lead to the introduction of bacteria, tooth decay, and the need for tooth repair.

Some of the symptoms of bruxism could include the following:

Tenderness in the muscles of your face
Headaches and earaches, ranging in severity.
Temporomandibular joint damage (TMJ)
Cracks and fractures in back teeth teeth
Sensitivity in teeth

Treating Bruxism

When you visit Green Dental Care, to meet with the best dentist in Parker CO, you’ll be able to get the right types of treatment to meet your needs. You may need to have some white fillings done, to repair tooth damage. Some cosmetic dentistry solutions may also be recommended.

There are a number of options for treating bruxism. The treatment that is best for you will depend on just how severe your case is. In addition to sleeping aids and other medications to help ease your anxiety and stress, it might be suggested that you skip caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Additionally, a custom mouthguard can also be a good solution, as it will protect your teeth from the damage of grinding and the pressure of grinding.

So, the sooner that you reach out for help with your teeth grinding concerns, the sooner you will be able to get a solution to protect your teeth. Teeth grinding can lead to a number of concerns that are entirely preventable, including migraines and the potential loss of teeth as a result of decay.

Aug 05 0

What is Dental Deep Cleaning?

Posted by Alex

What is Dental Deep Cleaning?

The cleaning that you receive in our office, with the dental hygienist and best dentist in Parker CO, may not be sufficient if you have concerns with the early stages of gum disease. Deep cleaning in Parker, CO can address gum disease in its early stages, and restore your gums to good health. Just what can you expect during your deep cleaning? Will you experience any tooth pain during the treatment?

Understanding the Deep Cleaning

Also referred to as periodontal scaling and root planing, the deep dental cleaning is quite similar to the procedure that your hygienist will use to clean your teeth. The key difference here is that the deep cleaning will focus more on the area beneath your gum line, and on the outer surface of your roots.

This cleaning is typically necessary when the teeth and gums have a severe tartar buildup that has resulted in infection around the gums.

The infection results in the gum line widening, forming pockets that can quickly abscess. The gum will continue to pull away from the tooth. This connective tissue loss can result in a loss of bone, and can also lead to a tooth infection and the complete loss of the tooth.

The deep cleaning will help to eliminate much of the infection, to promote healing. It’s important to address inflammation and infection, no matter where it might be in your body, as these two concerns can impact the health of your heart if neglected.

What to Expect During Your Deep Cleaning

During the scaling part of the procedure, your dental professional will use a hand-held device known as a dental scaler. It will be used to scrape the accumulated plaque on the surface of your teeth and beneath the gum line. An ultrasonic tool, that has a vibrating metal tip, may also be used to remove and rinse tartar away.

Root planing smooths out any rough areas on the roots of your teeth. These areas may be much more likely to trap bacteria. Planning can also help your now clean and healthy gums to reattach to each of your teeth.

You may need to be numbed prior to your procedure, as you may have quite a bit of sensitivity in those areas where there is a lot of inflammation. Your Parker, CO dentist may also take the time to perform any needed minor tooth repair procedures.

Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?

How do you know whether you should get a deep cleaning done? If you have signs of infection in your gums, including redness and swelling, you may have the start of gum disease says Dr. O’Grady, a Denver Highlands Dentist. You may experience tenderness and bleeding when you brush and floss your teeth. Your dentist will also be able to diagnose any issues during your checkup. X-rays may also be taken, to see if there is any bone loss.

It’s important to address any concerns with gum disease prior to getting white fillings, or any type of restorative work. The same holds true for any cosmetic dentistry solutions that you may have an interest in. Healthy gums and healthy teeth make you a much more likely candidate for successful restorative and cosmetic treatments.

The better you are at working with your dentist to resolve concerns in their early stages, the less likely you will need to seek out an emergency dentist in Parker CO. Call Green Dental Care, your answer to “who is the best dentist near me?” We will schedule your checkup and determine whether you can benefit from a deep dental cleaning.

Jul 22 0

Routine Tooth Extraction

Posted by Lauren Edvalson

Routine Tooth Extractions

The specific steps of a tooth extraction procedure will depend on whether the type of procedure. A simple tooth extraction is done when the entire tooth is visible and can be removed in one piece. A surgical extraction is performed when part or all of the tooth is beneath the gum line and has to be extracted as several pieces. To ease your anxiety about routine tooth extractions, here is a brief overview of the main stages/steps that you should expect before, during, and after the appointment.

Preparation

The first step of the tooth extraction process starts with a consultation with Dr. Chris Green. During that consultation, the best dentist in Parker, CO will take your full dental and medical history.

Your dentist will also ask you about any medications that you are currently taking. You may be asked to stop taking some of those medications, or you may be advised to start taking additional medications in preparation for the upcoming tooth extraction procedure.

Stopping Blood Thinners

If you are currently taking blood thinners, those medications could make you bleed excessively at the tooth extraction site since they prevent a blood clot from forming. However, it isn’t a given that your Parker, CO dentist will advise you to stop taking this medication since Dr. Chris Green has several options to promote the formation of a clot. They include topical blood clotting medications, stitching the tooth extraction site, and packing dissolvable gauze into the empty socket after the tooth has been removed. Nevertheless, you need to let the team at Green Dental Care know if you take blood thinners so that appropriate planning can be undertaken for the tooth extraction.

Taking Antibiotics

In some cases, your dentist will recommend that patients take antibiotics prior to a tooth extraction procedure. For instance, some dentists recommend that you take antibiotics if you have a dental infection that had triggered generalized symptoms (fever and malaise, for example). Patients with pre-existing heart conditions, such as those with a prosthetic heart valve, may also take antibiotics before undergoing any dental surgery. This is why your medical history is so important during your consultation at Green Dental Care before your tooth is extracted.

Administering An Anesthetic

Usually, a local anesthetic is sufficient for patients who are scheduled for tooth extractions. However, you may request additional anesthetics, such as nitrous oxide or even general anesthesia if you suffer from dental anxiety or have another condition that makes you prefer sedation dentistry. At Green Dental Care, we offer sedation dentistry and can accommodate the needs of patients who need this service.

The Extraction Procedure

If you need surgical tooth extraction, Dr. Chris Green will take a dental X-ray to see the angle and curvature of the root of that tooth. Once the anesthetic kicks in, the extraction will begin. He may cut through gum or bone tissue in order to remove the tooth. You shouldn’t feel any pain, and it is vital that you inform your dentist or oral surgeon if you do.

Stitches or other methods may be used to stop bleeding once the tooth is out. When a gauze pad is placed at the extraction site, the aftercare phase begins.

The Tooth Extraction Aftercare Phase

You can do several things to promote healing and reduce your discomfort after having a tooth extracted. Here are some tips our friend, and the best dentist in Georgetown, KY, Dr. Kristina Neda recommends:

1. Controlling Pain

The anesthetic should wear off a few hours after the extraction. Inform Dr. Chris Green if it persists long after you have reached home. You may also feel some discomfort and soreness in the days after the procedure. However, over-the-counter pain medication can address that, or talk to your dentist for a pain medication prescription if Ibuprofen and other OTC medications are unable to relieve your discomfort.

2. Controlling Swelling

It is normal to have some swelling on the side of your face after a tooth extraction, and an ice pack is helpful in relieving that swelling.

3. Protecting The Extraction Site

It is important that you protect the tooth extraction site from disturbance in the first 24 hours after the extraction. Any disturbance could jeopardize the clot-formation process or dislodge the clot formed. The protective measures include refraining from smoking or using a straw. Don’t suck on the extraction site, and don’t move your tongue over the site. Dr. Chris Green will give you a comprehensive list of do’s and don’ts to protect the extraction site once your tooth is removed.

It is also important for you to discuss any possible complications with your dentist. Complications can include dry socket, which may arise, and what you can do to prevent or address them when they arise.

Green Dental Care & Tooth Extractions

At Green Dental Care, we give our patients detailed information about any dental procedure that we recommend so that the patients can make informed decisions and do their part to improve the outcomes of the procedure. If you have a nagging tooth, contact Dr. Chris Green and he will assess its condition before discussing the options available to you. Tooth extraction is a measure of last resort. Let us do what we can to save your tooth before we recommend extraction.

Jul 15 0

TMJ/TMD Treatment Options

Posted by Lauren Edvalson

TMJ/TMD Treatment Options

If you experience tightness, pain, or clicking in your jaw, you aren’t alone. Those symptoms are characteristic of a condition known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and this affects lots of Americans.

However, the fact that you aren’t alone doesn’t mean you should live the rest of your life with this condition that can make it hard for you to go about your life as you would wish. At Green Dental Care in Parker CO, we have a number of treatment options that we can recommend so that you can improve the quality of your life. The following are some of those options.

Custom Night Guards

Temporomandibular joint disorder can result when you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep at night. It is virtually impossible for you to stop bruxism on your own. That is where Dr. Chris Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, comes in.

New providence, NJ dentist, Dr. Beth Herko will make a custom night guard that will protect your teeth at night while you sleep. Consequently, you will suffer limited or no TMJ pain since your teeth will grind against the customized nightguard rather than with each other. Generic night guards don’t offer the same degree of protection since they are unlikely to fit you properly.

Botox Injections

We also offer Botox as a treatment for TMD at Green Dental Care. Most people only know Botox as a treatment for tightening and smoothening skin, yet it is also great for conditions affecting muscles and joints.

When Dr. Andrei Ionescu injects this substance into your jaw muscles, they will be temporarily paralyzed and this will have the desired effect of partially or completely stopping teeth grinding and clenching.

A lot of the patients who visit our dental office for Botox as a remedy for TMJ disorders report that they begin to notice the positive effects just days after receiving the treatment.

If yours is a severe form of TMJ disorder, Dr. Chris Green may refer you to a specialist for more advanced care.

Corrective Dental Procedures

Sometimes, temporomandibular disorders are linked to existing dental defects in the patient. For example, your Parker CO dentist may discover that the TMJ pain you are suffering from can be traced to your improperly positioned teeth.

In such a case, Dr. Andrei Ionescu may recommend that you undergo orthodontic treatment using braces, for example, so that your teeth can be moved to better positions in order to allow the even distribution of bite forces.

Similarly, the uneven wear of your teeth caused by having crooked teeth can result in TMD, and getting a dental crown can restore balance to the bite surfaces of the affected teeth. Dental bridges and other replacements for missing teeth may also address TMD, so don’t hesitate to talk to Dr. Chris Green at Green Dental Care in Parker CO for an appropriate solution to your challenge.

Medications For TMJ/TMD Treatment

For some patients, medications may suffice to treat their TMJ disorders. For example, a family dentist Parker CO may prescribe stronger doses of anti-inflammatory medication to manage the swelling and pain you experience as a result of TMD. Alternatively, the dentists at Green Dental Care may recommend muscle relaxers so that your jaw muscles can relax and limit how much you clench or grind your teeth.

In some other cases, it may be necessary to prescribe anti-anxiety medication, especially when your medical and dental history reveals that your temporomandibular disorder is triggered by anxiety.

Other At-Home Recommendations to Manage TMD

It is important for you to avoid doing anything that could aggravate your TMJ disorder. At Green Dental Care, we strongly advise patients with TMD to take note of the following measures that are geared at minimizing extreme jaw movements;

Be conscious when chewing or yawning so that you don’t strain your jaw muscles
Avoid yelling or singing with your mouth wide open
Talk to your Parker CO dentist about massage or physical therapy to relieve muscle tension
Always maintain a good posture (for example, don’t hold the phone on your shoulder and keep it there using your ear as this can result in neck pain and TMD)
Keep teeth slightly apart as often as you can. This reduces the pressure exerted upon your jaw.

When all the conservative treatments and suggestions above don’t bring any relief, your dentist in Parker CO may recommend surgery. However, we at Green Dental Care don’t recommend surgery unless all other options have failed. We therefore think carefully about your condition and do everything that we can to resolve it without resorting to surgery. If your dentist has recommended surgery before trying anything else or exploring all available options, schedule an appointment at Green Dental Care. We will give you a second opinion and suggest how best to address the issue. Don’t let a member of your family suffer with TMD. Dr. Chris Green and Dr. Andrei Ionescu are here to lead a team of committed professionals who have the singular aim of finding a lasting remedy for you. Get in touch today!

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