Why Get a Smile Makeover

why get a smile makeover

Why Get a Smile Makeover

why get a smile makeover

Treatments for smile makeovers can enhance your life in a variety of ways. These treatments provide benefits that go beyond a brighter smile. You will not only like the way you appear after your smile makeover, but you will also feel more confident.

The Benefits of a Smile Makeover

With a fresh, confident smile, you can truly do anything. Today on the blog, our cosmetic dentist in Parker CO shares the benefits of a smile makeover. A smile makeover is any combination of cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and crowns.

An Excellent First Impression

The foundation for effective relationships is laid by first impressions. Consider the last time you met a new person. From the minute he or she shook your hand, you were probably noticed their smile. A gorgeous grin will help your cause whether you’re seeking a new career, hunting for a love companion, or hoping for promotion following a management shakeup.

Our dentist in Parker CO puts it this way: consider the amount of money you spend on a smile makeover as a significant investment in yourself, your work, and your social life.

The Confidence Boost

Confidence is frequently stated to be everything in life. Even if you aren’t the most bright or funny person in the world, a smile makeover will boost your self-esteem to the point where you feel comfortable enough to connect with people. When you’re frightened, afraid, or seeking a solution to de-stress in social situations, you can always rely on your wonderful grin.

Below are some smile makeover treatment options:

You’ll Benefit from Frequent Smiling’s Health Benefits

To start, smiling is beneficial to both your physical and emotional wellbeing. In fact, it is also a calorie-burning activity. Our friends over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs dentist, share that smiling even encourages the release of neuropeptides. As follows, these little chemicals allow neurons to communicate with one another and send information throughout your body. Importantly, consider this phenomenon to be the spread of good vibrations throughout your body.

Serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine, among other “happy” chemicals, are released by neuropeptides, which reduce stress. The release of these molecules relieves pain, reduces tension, relaxes the body, and improves blood pressure.

You Want Perfectly White Teeth

Of course, your favorite Hollywood star’s grin is almost certainly the ideal shade of white. If you believe that having such beautiful white teeth is out of reach for someone like you, think again. Our dentist’s teeth whitening procedure will brighten your smile, making you appear more appealing, youthful, and lively.

Light Up The Room

Do you recall the last time someone entered a room and lit it up with a beautiful smile? In the minutes and hours after that individual lit up the room, you were most likely overjoyed. You may boost others in the same way you can yourself by giving your teeth and gums a makeover. A smile makeover is as much a public service as it is a way of improving your confidence and assisting you in living a more fulfilling life.

Contact Green Dental Care Today For Cosmetic Dentistry

If you’re ready to take the leap in enhancing your smile, we are here for you! Contact our Parker Co dentists today to schedule your no-obligation smile makeover consultation.

 

Treatments for Gum Disease

Periodontics-Gum-Disease-colorado

Treatments for Gum Disease

Periodontics-Gum-Disease-colorado

Gum disease refers to gum inflammation that gradually progresses to a level where the bone and other support tissues around your teeth become affected. Gum disease is identified by three clearly distinct stages (gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis). Research done by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) found that nearly half of all Americans aged 30 and above suffer from periodontitis. While the disease may be common, the doctors at Green Dental Care assert that the progression of this disease can be arrested at any stage. The following are some of the available treatments for gum disease.

Nonsurgical Treatment for Gum Disease

The first way to treat periodontitis involves a nonsurgical approach called scaling and root planing (SRP). This conservative treatment can be done by a hygienist at Green Dental Care or by either Dr. Christopher Green or Dr. Andrei Ionescu. 

The process entails scraping the surface of the teeth and the roots in order to remove any calculus (tartar) and plaque that has accumulated there. After scaling, the treated surfaces are smoothened so that there are no rough spots where bacteria can thrive.

Dr. Christopher Green, an experienced dentist in Parker CO, explains that more than one visit is normally needed to complete the SRP treatment. Have no worries about pain; a local anesthetic will ensure that you will hardly feel any discomfort while you are being treated.

After a few weeks, the Parker CO dentist will examine you to see how well you are healing. If everything is okay, no further treatment will be recommended. If you aren’t healing as expected, then additional SRP may be done or another treatment option may be tried.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

After scaling and root planing, if deep gingival pockets (the gaps between the gums and the teeth) remain, another step that may be taken is to schedule pocket reduction surgery. Dr. Andrei Ionescu, a dentist in Parker CO, explains this process. The gum tissue is folded back so that the bacteria hidden behind the flap is removed. The sections of the bone damaged by bacteria are also smoothed so that your gums can reattach to your teeth again.

Gum Graft Surgery

When periodontal disease advances, it can cause gum recession that makes the roots of your teeth to be exposed. Sensitivity and other problems result from this exposure.  To fix this situation, the team at Green Dental Care may perform gum graft surgery.

Dr. Kacos a dentist in Shreveport LA, explains that the gum tissue will be taken from elsewhere, such as from your palate, and placed on the most affected roots of your teeth. Your teeth will no longer be sensitive and root decay will be arrested by this surgical intervention.

Oral Care for Dentures

oral care for dentures

Oral Care for Dentures

oral care for dentures

The importance of keeping your mouth healthy doesn’t reduce once you lose some or all of your natural teeth and replace them with dentures (partial or full dentures). This article discusses some of the care suggestions made by the dental health professionals at Green Dental Care in Parker CO if you wear dentures.

Give the Dentures a Break

It is advisable for you to remove your dentures before you go to bed. This step is important because it allows your gums to recover and breathe while you sleep. Dr. Christopher Green, a dentist in Parker CO, cautions that people who don’t take out their dentures periodically experience a number of problems, like sore and irritated gums.

If you are unable to remove the dentures at night, for example, if you work at night, find an uninterrupted stretch of at least six hours to take a break from your dentures. Dr. Andrei Ionescu, a Parker CO dentist, explains that this time allows your gums to get a break and recover from any stress they may have suffered while the dentures were in place.

Soak Your Dentures

This may be surprising to someone inexperienced, but germs and plaque accumulate on dentures. The hours that you spend when you have taken out your dentures provide an excellent opportunity for you to soak those dentures in a cleaning solution. This will help kill any bacteria present. The doctors at Green Dental Care in Parker CO normally recommend that you use lukewarm (not hot) water and an effervescent tablet to clean your dentures. The effervescent tablet will get rid of any stains or food particles on the dentures and the water will keep the dentures pliable and ready to use when you need them.

As you clean your dentures, refrain from using toothpaste and your regular brush. Instead, use the cleaning products recommended by your Parker CO dentist since regular toothpaste and a normal toothbrush may be too abrasive for the material from which your dentures are made. If in doubt about the right products to use, contact Green Dental Care and you will be guided on what to use to keep the dentures clean. 

Clean Your Gums and Mouth

Once you have removed the dentures, Dr. Andrei Ionescu recommends that you clean any remaining teeth with the gums and mouth. If you wear partial dentures, brush your natural teeth as usual. Thereafter, take some gauze or a wet washcloth and use it to wipe your gums clean. You may also use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth to keep it smelling fresh.

Handle Your Dentures With Care

Dentures don’t come cheap, so you should do everything possible to protect them from damage. Parker CO dentists recommend that you fill your sink with water before you start cleaning the dentures. This is so if they drop, the impact is reduced since they will fall into the water in the sink.

Another option is to fold a towel and place it in the sink to cushion any fall. A bowl of water can also suffice if you aren’t using the sink while cleaning the dentures.

It is not advisable to use toothpicks and other such devices to clean your dentures because they may be damaged. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown KY, also recommends that you never let your dentures dry out. Keep them in cool water each time you take them out.

See Your Dentist

Whether you have complete or partial dentures, you need to visit Green Dental Care once every six months or as frequently as Dr. Christopher Green recommends. During those visits, the Parker CO dentist will check the dentures to confirm that they are free from damage and are fitting properly. He will also examine your gums and overall oral health in order to catch any problems early. With the Green Dental Care team on your side, you will always step out with a confident smile each day!

5 Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

5 cosmetic dentistry procedures

5 Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

5 cosmetic dentistry procedures

You know that your dentist and good oral healthcare can help you to keep your teeth healthy and functional. But just how much do you know about what cosmetic dentistry can offer you? Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that offers a focus on the aesthetic improvement of your smile. While most cosmetic procedures are elective, there are some situations where the treatments can be considered to have restorative benefits.

Dr. Christopher Green and Dr. Ionescu, each considered to be the best dentist in Parker CO, can offer a range of cosmetic dentistry solutions to help you to achieve your aesthetic goals.

There are several cosmetic solutions you may benefit from. We’ve assembled a list of the top five popular cosmetic solutions to help you to get that white and bright smile that you deserve.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures. Also known as teeth bleaching, this treatment can be done by using our take-home teeth whitening trays. While there are many over the counter teeth bleaching products, they are not always the safest and most effective way of getting the results that you’re hoping to achieve.

Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says whitening your teeth should be done only after your teeth have been cleaned professionally and thoroughly. Teeth can become stained from the foods and drinks we enjoy, and also sometimes from the medications that we take. In-office treatments can help you to see the results that you’re looking for.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers use a form of dental bonding to adhere thin ceramic shells to the natural teeth. Each of the veneers is custom-made to fit your teeth so that you are assured of the best fit. Veneers can resolve several cosmetic concerns, including cracked and damaged enamel, gaps between teeth, and crooked teeth.

Patients can use veneers to take their smile several shades whiter, which is often the reason patients opt for this cosmetic solution.

Replacing Older Fillings

Today’s dental solutions for cavities typically use tooth-colored fillings that are blended to match the shade of the natural tooth. Older style fillings were often made from metal and can prove to be very visible in your mouth when you smile. Replacing old metal fillings with white fillings is one of the quickest ways for you to transform your smile.

Implants, Permanent Solutions

Dental implants are a permanent replacement for the root of a tooth that has been extracted or lost. A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jaw, replacing the missing tooth. The post will serve as the anchor for a prosthetic tooth or a crown. Once the healthy bone in the jaw has fused to the implant, the implant is secured permanently. Implants should be cleaned just as you would clean your natural teeth, to keep your surrounding natural teeth healthy and to promote positive gum health.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Braces can help to resolve several concerns with bite and jaw alignment, but they can also offer cosmetic solutions for those who may have slightly misaligned teeth. Many adults opt to consider their orthodontic options once they have resolved other concerns with their teeth. There are several options, including discreet braces that are almost invisible once in place.

When visiting with a cosmetic dentist, Parker CO patients should take the time to ask the questions that will help them to make the right decisions to meet their cosmetic goals. Remember that cosmetic treatments cannot typically be considered until any functional concerns with the teeth have been addressed.

Preventing Dental Problems

preventing dental problems - Green Dental Care

Preventing Dental Problems

preventing dental problems - Green Dental Care

Clichés may be tired and overused, but there is often an element of truth to them. This is particularly true when considering “prevention is better than a cure.” When it comes to dental problems, there are certain treatment solutions for each issue. However, preventing dental problems from becoming an issue in the first place could save you a significant amount of time, money, and discomfort.

At Green Dental Care, we are always happy to offer you the best treatment solutions for any number of dental concerns. Dr. Christopher Green and Dr. Ionescu offer a compassionate touch that will help to put you at ease while restoring your beautiful smile. They also offer some great handy tips on preventing dental problems.

Don’t Forget to Brush Your Teeth

It should go without saying that brushing your teeth is one of the most effective tools you have to combat tooth decay and gum disease. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, to help get rid of the food debris and bacteria that are responsible for decay and disease.

Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, suggests using a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as it can offer added protection for fighting bacteria. She says that people who use fluoride toothpaste see an improvement in their overall oral health. 

Wait To Brush After Drinking Coffee

We need that cup of java to get our day started off right. However, it’s suggested that you wait at least 30 minutes after drinking your coffee before you brush your teeth. This is because coffee is very acidic and could result in damage to the teeth if you brush too soon after drinking that cup of joe. Of course, you should also avoid brushing after drinking orange juice too, but that’s only because of the shudder-inducing taste combinations.

Don’t Forget to Floss

Everyone knows that they should be brushing and flossing daily. But many simply skip the flossing part for one reason or another. Flossing is so important, however. It can help to remove food that gets stuck between your teeth, while also helping to remove buildups of plaque between the teeth and along the gum line. Brushing will get most of this, certainly. It won’t be able to get it all, however. 

Flossing, combined with a good brushing routine and the use of a good mouth wash will go a long way towards ensuring good oral health.

Considering the Foods You Eat

No matter how good your daily oral hygiene routine is, there are some foods and drinks that can contribute towards the breaking down of the enamel on your teeth. This can result in tooth decay, and may even result in the loss of teeth. Some of the things that you should skip or at least enjoy only in moderation include the following.

  • Sugar-filled sodas, as they can lead to excess acid that can impact the enamel. Even diet sodas are a concern.
  • Candy and other sugary treats aren’t the best in choice if your ultimate goal is to ensure a healthy mouth. There’s no need to avoid them completely if you want to indulge, but try to avoid candies that are sticky and chewy, as they can stick to your teeth much longer than other sweet treats. This can give the acid and bacteria more time to wear down your enamel.
  • Wines, both red and white, can have an impact on your teeth. Red wine, along with coffee and tea, can stain your teeth. White wine is much more acidic and can contribute towards the breakdown of the enamel. 
  • White bread, pasta, and other starch-filled foods can prove to be damaging due to your saliva breaking them down into sugars that can stick to your teeth. Whole wheat products are often the better option if you’re needing your carbs.

Keep your teeth healthy scheduling your dental appointments with the best dentist Parker CO. At Green Dental Care, we offer restorative solutions, cosmetic dentistry options to include veneers and teeth whitening. To learn more about our dental services, contact our dental office in Parker, CO.

 

Porcelain Veneers Procedure

porcelain veneers procedure - Green Dental Care

Porcelain Veneers Procedure

porcelain veneers procedure - Green Dental Care

Are you considering getting porcelain veneers? With advancements in cosmetic dentistry, today’s patients can expect an easy procedure that brings no discomfort. In just two visits to your Parker dentist office, you’ll be able to make your veneer dreams a reality with the best cosmetic dentist Parker, CO has to offer. The more you know about the process of getting veneers and the dental bonding process that is involved, the more confident that you will feel about your porcelain veneers procedure.

Veneer Basics

Dental veneers are very thin porcelain shells that are made to fit your teeth specifically. They can resolve several cosmetic concerns, including covering up gaps between teeth and disguising crooked teeth.

Veneers typically take two appointments at the office, with between one and two weeks apart. Patients can get veneers on just one tooth or on several teeth all at once.

The First Step: Preparing the Tooth

To ensure the right fit for your new veneers, your Parker CO dentist will have to examine your current smile. This will help to ensure that your overall bite is not altered.

As a part of preparing the tooth, your Parker, CO dentist, will examine any decay that needs to be addressed. Veneers cannot be bonded to teeth that require repair. Any cracks, cavities, or other damage to the tooth that could compromise it and allow decay in will need to be resolved. Some patients prefer to address any older fillings that are from metal and are very visible in the mouth. Replacing old metal fillings with white fillings not only helps with the aesthetics but can provide an opportunity to ensure the tooth is healthy. Veneers also tend to bond better to new composite fillings.

Getting the Right Shade of Veneers

If you are getting veneers on just a few of your teeth, you’ll find that the best cosmetic dentist Parker CO offers will use a shade guide to match your surrounding teeth. If you are getting an entire set of veneers, you’ll be able to select the white and bright shade that you best prefer.

According to cosmetic dentists in Parker, CO, Dr. Christopher Green, and Dr. Ionescu, the shade of the veneer can be adjusted when it is time to bond it to the teeth.

Taking Impressions

Once the tooth or teeth have been prepared, it’s now time to take an impression of the teeth and surrounding teeth and gums. This will help to ensure that you get the best fit once the veneers are in place. It’ll also help to ensure that your bite is maintained.

The impression will be taken typically using a tray with dental putty in it. It’ll sit in place for just a few minutes until it has set. Then it’ll be carefully removed. It’s this impression that will be sent to the lab, where they will make your new porcelain veneers.

Deciding Whether to Place Temporary Veneers

The turnaround for veneers is typically two weeks. Depending on how much of the tooth structure has been removed, you may not need temporary veneers. Prepared teeth will look and feel a little different, but some patients find that it doesn’t bother them enough to want temporary veneers.

You may feel a little bit of an increase in sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks at first.

Bonding Your Veneers

When your new porcelain veneers have been completed, they’ll be ready to be bonded onto the tooth or teeth. This will, of course, require a repeated visit to Green Dental Care. Your Parker dentist would remove temporary veneers if you opted for them.

The veneers will be placed onto the teeth, to evaluate the fit and the shade. If some trimming is needed, your Parker dentist will be able to do that so that you get the perfect fit. If some adjustment to the shade of the veneers is needed, your Parker dentist will take care of it so that your result will be a perfectly uniform smile.

Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the veneers, they will be bonded in place. Excess dental cement will be trimmed, and the cement will be cured, so it sets rapidly.

As the last step, your bite will be evaluated to confirm that the placement of your veneers hasn’t altered it. You are sure to love the immediate smile transformation offered by veneers.

As you can see, the porcelain veneers procedure is harmless! There’s nothing to worry about. So, are you ready to see how veneers can transform your smile? Contact Green Dental Care to schedule your consultation.

 

New Year Resolutions for Oral Hygiene

New Year resolutions for oral hygiene - Dental One Care

New Year Resolutions for Oral Hygiene

New Year resolutions for oral hygiene - Dental One Care

The New Year is the perfect time to start fresh. Whether you’re starting fresh with a healthy lifestyle or with well-deserved self-care, you should make improving your oral hygiene a priority. A dentist in Parker CO, Dr. Christopher Green, can offer dental appointments that’ll address any and all of the dental concerns that you are facing. Perhaps you’ve neglected your oral health over the past year? Perhaps you’re finally ready to take steps to undergo a number of cosmetic dentistry procedures like getting veneers? Dr. Christopher Green and Dr. Ionescu have some New Year resolutions for oral hygiene that you can use.

Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way

Even those who brush after every meal may not be brushing their teeth in the right way. Try to learn the correct ways of brushing your teeth so that you can brush them as effectively as possible. When brushing your teeth, make sure that you brush for at least two minutes. It’s important to brush each tooth thoroughly. The goal is to get rid of any plaque build-up and bacteria that’s accumulated since your last brush. If you’re not sure if you’re brushing your teeth right, ask your dental hygienist. They can help you to learn the best ways to brush your teeth.

Get to Flossing Between Your Teeth

At each visit and cleaning, your Parker dentist and dental hygienist will remind you to floss daily. However, the reality is that many patients simply don’t floss consistently or in the right way. If you are inconsistent with your flossing habits, make it your goal to floss more often. Flossing can help to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth, which can, in turn, help you to prevent cavities.

If you’re struggling with flossing, be sure to mention it at your next appointment with Dr. Green so that he can help you to figure out a way to make flossing easier for you.

Stay Hydrated, Drinking More Water

Our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, suggested drinking water as New Year resolution for oral health! He says drinking more water in order to keep your body hydrated and healthy is important, but there are other benefits too. This includes helping to keep your teeth strong. Water often contains fluoride, which can protect your teeth, clean your teeth, and help to ensure stronger, healthier teeth.

Water is also a much better option to drink versus soft drinks, sports drinks, and your favorite tea and coffee. Try to drink more water, and to cut down on those other beverages that are simply not as healthy of a choice for your oral health.

Keeping Your Semi-Annual Dental Checkups

Do you put off seeing your dentist in Parker, CO? Your six-month routine cleanings can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy by removing the plaque and tartar that you cannot remove with brushing and flossing alone. Your six-month dental examination is also a great opportunity for your Parker dentist to spot any concerns in their early stages.

Cosmetic Treatment Options

Green Dental Care has the best cosmetic dentist Parker CO has to offer. Whether you’re looking for dental bonding and veneers, crowns on your teeth, or you’re interested in replacing old metal fillings with white fillings, and you’ll find that we can offer you a solution that’ll work for you.

Now that you have a general idea of New Year resolutions for oral hygiene, you can decide which ones are best for you! Let us know what we can do to help. Don’t forget to call to book your appointment with Dr. Christopher Green or Dr. Andrei Ionescu. We can’t wait to see your smile!

Helping Your Child Overcome Their Fear of Dentists

Helping Your Child Overcome Their Fear of Dentists

Helping Your Child Overcome Fear of Dentists - Green Dental Care

For a child, going to the dentist can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. The experience of sitting in the dental chair while a strange new person uses hard metal instruments to poke around their mouth can be too much for a child. While the fear is understandable, it’s important to help your children keep their teeth and gums healthy from a very young age. At Green Dental Care, we pride ourselves on creating the best experience for all of our patients. We want to ensure that future visits to your Parker CO dentist are enjoyable and stress-free. Dr. Ionescu has put together the following steps that you can take to helping your child overcome their fear of dentists. 

Early Introductions to Your Dentist in Parker

The sooner a child pays a visit to the dentist, the better comfortable they will ultimately be. Our friends Dr. Kristina Neda at ThoroughDent Smiles, a pediatric dental office in Georgetown, KY,  recommends that the first visit to the dentist be at the age of 1, or soon after the first teeth start to erupt. Keep it upbeat and fun, and encourage your child with plenty of positive reinforcement.

Keep it Age Appropriate and Easy to Understand

When you’re preparing your child for a visit to the dentist, try not to go into too much detail. This can lead to creating plenty of unnecessary anxiety as your child tried to understand what is going to happen. Keep up with a positive attitude and tone of voice when discussing any upcoming visits or procedures.

If your child needs treatment, keep the explanation simple and age-appropriate, reassuring your child that the doctor and staff are there to help.

Be Mindful of the Words that You Use

There are some words that should be avoided when discussing dental or doctor visits with children. Just the words alone can often lead to anxiety.

  • Shot
  • Injection
  • Hurt
  • Pain
  • Drill

Instead, allow your child’s pediatric dentist and hygienists to use their own language when describing what they will be doing. A common description of treatment is to use the words “sugar bugs.” Simply tell your little one that the dentist is going to check their smile and look for any invisible sugar bugs so that he can clean them off.

  • Focus on positive words.
  • Clean teeth
  • Strong teeth
  • Healthy teeth
  • Happy smiles
  • Healthy smiles

This can help to make the visits to your Parker dentist feel fun and interesting, rather than alarming and frightening.

Playing Pretend

Children learn through playing, and playing pretend with your child can help to reassure them about what to expect from an upcoming visit to the dentist. Pretend to be the dentist and take turns with your child playing the dentist. All you will need is a toothbrush and your imagination. Count your child’s teeth and have them count and examine yours. The type of play you engage in doesn’t need to be specific or anything other than keeping it fun. The goal is to get your little one familiar with the routine of a dental office visit.

Pick up a few picture books that have lots of illustrations and an easy-to-understand dialogue to help children get an idea about what can be expected.

Prepare for a Bit of Fussing

It is very normal and very age-appropriate for young children to be fussy, cry, whine, and argue about being seen by their Parker CO dentist. Try to remain calm and collected, remembering that your children can often pick up your own anxiety. Remember, also, that your dentist in Parker CO has worked with many children. Each member of the team will know how to handle the fussing best that your children may demonstrate.

It’s your job to be the cool-headed and calm parent, while the dental professionals handle the business of keeping their teeth healthy.

Focus on the Importance of a Healthy Mouth

Teaching your children that dental visits are necessary and not optional will help them to understand that the dentist will help them to take care of their teeth. You may want to explain that the dentist can help to keep teeth free from cavities and help to ensure a beautiful smile for many great years to come.

Start your children with the best oral health care and make an appointment for an examination with the best dentist in Parker. You’ll find our entire team kind, compassionate, and really understanding when it comes to working with our littlest patients. We offer a wide range of dental services that will meet each of your oral healthcare goals.

Recovery Tips for a Tooth Extraction

recovery tips for a tooth extraction - green dental care

Recovery Tips for a Tooth Extraction

recovery tips for a tooth extraction - green dental care

There are a number of reasons that you may find yourself facing a tooth extraction. Perhaps you’re having your wisdom teeth extracted by your Parker CO dentist? Maybe you need a tooth extraction for orthodontic treatment? Is your tooth damaged beyond repair? No matter what the reasons may be the recovery time is typically the same. Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO put together 8 of his favorite recovery tips for a tooth extraction.

1. Plan Well in Advance

During your consultation with the best dentist in Parker, you’ll learn what to expect during the procedure and after the procedure. This can help you to plan for what you’ll need to have on hand at home. It is likely that you will need someone to drive you home after your procedure. So, ask a family member or friend.

It would be a good idea to schedule a day or two off from work after surgery, so that you have ample time to rest and recover.

2. Be Mindful of Your Diet

You may not feel hungry at all after your procedure. But if you do, try to stick to soups and broths for at least a full day after surgery. Definitely avoid spicy foods, crunchy or hard foods. Stay hydrated with plenty of water, but do be sure to avoid using straws.

3. Listen to Your Body and Rest

It’s tempting to return to your normal routine immediately, but it can prove to be better overall for your health to take it slowly. Keep your head elevated by several pillows and relax. Keep out of the gym for at least a full day. Just simply listen to your body and get plenty of good rest.

4. Try Salt Water Rinses

It may not sound appetizing at all, but it’s important to rinse your mouth out with a lukewarm rinse of salt and water. Use it several times a day, particularly after you eat. It will help to reduce a significant amount of the swelling and discomfort you are feeling.

5. Control the Bleeding

Some minor bleeding is expected after a tooth extraction. However, any excessive bleeding should be reported to your dentist right away, particularly if it is accompanied by severe pain. Your dentist will have you bite down on sterile gauze in order to stem the bleeding after the extraction. You can, however, switch to using soaked tea bags once you get home. Tea leaves are well known for helping to reduce discomfort and also encourage clotting.

6. Control the Swelling

Our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that swelling is a normal and expected side-effect of having a tooth extracted. Dr. Kacos recommends lots of ice packs, applied to your cheek, for 20-minute intervals, which can help to reduce the swelling and bruising. It can also help with the discomfort that you’re feeling. If your tooth was badly infected, you may find more comfort from warm compresses.

7. Pay Attention to Instructions You Are Given

You will be given detailed instructions before you leave your Parker Co’s dental office. Be sure that you pay attention to each of the instructions so that you can be assured of the best in results while you are healing. Be sure to always reach out to Dr. Chris Green if you have additional questions or concerns.

8. Think Ahead

If you find yourself feeling discouraged about the extractions, consider the way your smile will be transformed once your dental work has been completed. Those who are looking forward to Parker CO dental implants will soon have a brand new winning smile they can be proud of. The minor discomfort and frustration that you feel now will soon be a blip in the rearview mirror.

Are you ready to schedule that extraction with the dental professionals at Green Dental Care? Contact us to make your appointment, and let us restore your smile.

Oral Sedation for Kids: Questions to Ask About

oral sedation for kids - green dental care

Oral Sedation for Kids: Questions to Ask About

oral sedation for kids - green dental care

Going to the dentist can be an overwhelming prospect for children. Being told that they need to work on their teeth can be enough to cause a significant amount of anxiety. Kids are sure to have plenty of questions to ask you about the treatment that they are facing. At Green Dental Care, we are always happy to help our patients in any way we can. 

Oral Sedation for Kids: Questions to Ask Prior

These questions will help you to best know what to expect during your consultation with your child’s dentist in Parker, CO. These questions are similar to the questions that you should ask about your own treatment, including the dental implants Parker dentists can offer.

  • What information about my child’s medical history do you need to know? If your child has a history of complications, it’s important for your dentist to have this information at hand.
  • Will the prescriptions and over-the-counter medications they are taking impact them during the procedure? Some medications can thin the blood and cause complications during procedures. Your child’s dentist will need to be aware of what your child might be taking, even prescribed antibiotics.
  • Does my child need to abstain from food and drink before the procedure? Some procedures will require your child to avoid eating or drinking anything for several hours prior to undergoing a procedure that uses oral sedation or anesthesia.

Oral Sedation for Kids: What Should I Expect?

Asking these questions will help you and your child to know what should be expected during the procedure itself. Your Parker CO dentist and team members will provide you with all of the information that you need to know.

  • How long will my child be under oral sedation or anesthesia? Your Parker CO dentist will take a conservative approach, ensuring that your child receives only the amount of medication needed to complete the procedure pain-free.
  • What are the risks to this procedure and the sedation method being used? You’ll find that even the best dentist in Parker cannot guarantee that there’ll be zero potential for risks during the procedure. Your dentist will place the health and safety of your child above all else.
  • What are the steps you’ll take in the event of an emergency? Your dentist and assisting staff will know the right steps to take in the event of an emergency situation.
  • What type of sedation will be used on my child? Oral conscious sedation is commonly requested at Green Dental Care.  

Oral Sedation for Kids: Post-Care Questions

Knowing what to expect when your child is home and resting can help you to best understand the type of care your child needs during the recovery phase. We asked our friend, Dr. Jordan Smith, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, about which post-care questions parents should ask. Dr. Smith recommends the following:

  • What are some potential sedation dentistry complications to be aware of? Knowing what to look for can help you to ensure your child is safe at all times.
  • What should I do if my child has a fever? Fever could be an indication of infection. Calling your dentist should be your first step so that infection can be ruled out.
  • When should I reach out for urgent treatment? Fever or other signs of infection, bleeding or pain that cannot be readily managed are all signs that you need to call the office for further guidance.
  • Should I call the dental office or go to the emergency room? If the concern is dental related, you should call an emergency dentist in Parker, CO to get further guidance from your dentist. If it is after hours or the fever is very high, you should seek out emergency treatment in the emergency room.

You and your child no longer have to be scared of going to the dentist thanks to oral-conscious sedation. Being reassuring and honest will help heir comfort levels. This can also help make every dental procedure less of an overwhelming process.

To learn more about the types of oral sedation and anesthesia that works well for children, call Green Dental Care and schedule an appointment. Keep in mind that we offer solutions that work for adults, too.