What to Do If I Break My Tooth

What to Do If I Break a Tooth - Colorado Springs dentists

What to Do If I Break My Tooth

A broken tooth can be a scary situation. If you’re dealing with this, contact our emergency dental office in Colorado Springs, CO. Otherwise, read the article What to Do If I Break a Tooth to prepare yourself better if the time ever comes. 

What You Can Do For a Broken or Cracked Tooth

A tooth with a small crack or chip might be a disaster waiting to happen. For a small crack or chip in your tooth, you’ll want to be extremely careful when eating or chewing. Anything can completely break your tooth if you’re not careful. Our Colorado Springs dentists suggest watching out for foods or drinks with hot or cold temperatures.

Broken Tooth

A cavity or an accident are the most common causes of broken teeth. If this is true, we suggest taking the following steps: 

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water or saltwater.
  • Apply a cold compress to the face over the broken tooth.
  • Apply gauze to the broken tooth to stop the bleeding. The bleeding should stop after about 10 minutes. 
  • If you have had a severe break, you will need to see an emergency dentist within 24 hours.
  • Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to assist with the discomfort. Avoid taking Asprin.
  • Contact your dentist to inform them.

Tooth Completely Fell Out

This is considered a dental emergency, and it is likely you’ll need immediate treatment. If the tooth has been fully extracted, make sure that the crown handles the removed tooth. Don’t grab the root of the tooth. A tooth that was totally knocked out could cause serious nerve damage. Don’t worry, it’s possible to replace the tooth in the socket. Our friend Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence, NJ, says that treatment for a tooth avulsion is most effective if it’s done right away.

How a Dentist Will Repair a Broken or Cracked Tooth

Chipped Tooth

Most chips don’t require immediate treatment, but it is recommended that you contact your dentist to make an appointment as soon as possible. If it’s small, it can be smoothed and polished by Dr. Boals or Dr. J. Your dentist may recommend bonding or white fillings to hide the chipped tooth.

Cracked Tooth

When your tooth cracks, it’ll typically happen to the entire tooth. Therefore, seeing an emergency dentist is recommended. Once you come in, we will patch the crack with a filling. If it’s more serious, you may need a dental crown or root canal. Our team will work with you to come up with the best solution.

Broken Tooth

A broken tooth is going to be highly sensitive, and you’re going to want to see the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. The idea would most likely result in a dentist having to cover his tooth with a crown. Nowadays, porcelain or resin crowns may look as natural as a real tooth. If your tooth is totally broken, but your root is still ticked, you will need root canal surgery. The dentist can set up enough of a foundation to insert a pin or a post so that the crown can be positioned later.

Emergency Dental Care

When you’ve broken, chipped, or cracked your teeth, you can always count on Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to help. Our team will get your smile looking as good as new in no time! Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our dental services in Colorado Springs. 

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign Colorado Springs - How Invisalign Works

How Invisalign Works

Most people would love to have a straighter smile, but they don’t want the hassle of traditional metal braces. Luckily, Invisalign clear aligners have changed the game for patients everywhere. Achieve the smile you want with this convenient orthodontic treatment. So, how does it work? In the article below, Colorado Springs dentists exactly how Invisalign works.

What Is Invisalign?

Many patients love Invisalign aligners because they are practically invisible. Yes, you won’t have to deal with metal brackets or wires. Invisalign is completed with a series of trays that gradually shift your teeth in desired spots. As you work through the series of trays, your teeth move further along. Patients who use Invisalign can expect to get a new set of trays every two weeks or so. Once your treatment is complete, your teeth will be in their perfect position. The best part of Invisalign is that you can just pop your trays in and be on your way! No need for awkward brackets or rubber bands. Go through a smile transformation without anyone knowing.

Invisalign Can Treat Most Dental Problems

So, how do you know if Invisalign is for you? Fortunately, Invisalign can treat many dental problems such as: 

  • Tooth gaps
  • Overbites
  • Underbites
  • Crowded Teeth
  • Misaligned Teeth

You’ll be able to determine if Invisalign is the right solution for you at your initial appointment with Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. 

What to Expect During Invisalign Treatment

First, you’ll need to visit our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, for an Invisalign consultation. Dr. Boals or Dr. J will assess your smile and decide if Invisalign is the best treatment option for your smile. During this initial appointment, our doctors will answer any and all questions you have. Additionally, we will take impressions of your smile and show you a 3D model of what your smile will look like after Invisalign treatment. Once you’ve decided whether or not Invisalign is for you, we will schedule you for another appointment. If we’ve come to the conclusion that Invisalign is not going to work for your unique smile, we will recommend other cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry solutions.  

When you’ve decided you’d like to start Invisalign, we will have custom BPA-free plastic trays made for you. We will use the impressions we originally took to make these trays. For your second appointment, we will have you try on your Invisalign aligners and determine whether or not they’re a good fit. Our friend, Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, says that you may experience some discomfort when you first start Invisalign. This is completely normal and will eventually go away. As mentioned before, you will come back to pick up your new aligners every 2-3 weeks, depending on your treatment plan.

Timeline for Invisalign Treatment

The timeline for Invisalign depends on the smile. For adults, the average treatment will take about 12 months. Treatment can go up to 1.5 years, but Invisalign is more efficient than traditional braces. However, patients must wear their aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day. You may remove your aligners when you eat or drink, but you must be diligent about wearing them. Otherwise, your treatment may take longer. 

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

If you’re curious if Invisalign clear aligners are right for you, contact our dental office! Our team is happy to help you find a solution for your smile. We’re currently accepting new patients, so give us a call! 

Meet Your Colorado Springs Dentists

Nextdoor neighborhood favorite

Meet Your Colorado Springs Dentists

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, our team strives to be kind and caring. Anyone who walks through the door is considered part of the family. Our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, has an environment unlike any other. If you want to feel welcomed and relaxed, visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry! Below, introduce you to your Colorado Springs dentists. 

Meet Dr. Cody Boals

Dr. Boals has a true passion for dentistry. He loves that every smile is unique, which brings a new challenge each day. Outside of the dental practice, Dr. Boals enjoys hiking, fly fishing, and spending time with his family and four rescue animals. 

Meet Dr. Alexa Johnson

Dr. Johnson, also known as “Dr. J,” comes from central Illinois, but she’s happy to call Colorado her home. She’s been helping Kissing Camels Family Dentistry since day one, and now we’re excited to have her full-time. Dr. J is happy to help with both your dental and esthetic needs. Not only does Dr. J excel in dentistry, but also in dermal fillers and botox. 

Dental Services

No matter what your dental needs are, you can always count on Dr. Boals or Dr. J to help you reach your smile goals. Our team offers a wide variety of dental services. Some of our services include: 

If you’re looking for a new dentist in Colorado Springs, give us a call! We are currently accepting new patients. To stay up to date on the latest office news, follow us on Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube channel! 

Benefits of Veneers

Benefits of Veneers - Dr. Boals Colorado Springs

Benefits of Dental Veneers 2021

Do you feel self-conscious about your teeth and smile? Dental veneers can enhance your appearance giving you the confidence to show off your smile. When it comes to veneers in Colorado Springs, patients realize that they can rely on Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to lead them in the right way. How much do you know about the benefits of veneers? As your dentist at Colorado Springs, we appreciate how important it is to understand the dental procedures you’re involved in. The following advantages of veneers will help you better understand how veneers can change your smile.

Veneers Treat Cracks, Chips, Gaps, and More

Dental veneers can be used to effectively conceal minor cosmetic concerns that are visible when you speak, smile, or laugh. During the consultation with your cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, the health of your teeth will be evaluated. Your teeth will need to be free from decay prior to the application of veneers. The consultation will be your opportunity to learn more about what restorative work you may need and to determine whether you’re a strong candidate for dental veneers.

It is important to note that your teeth will need to be free from signs of decay, but they should have the strength required to host the veneers. A dental crown may better serve somewhat fragile teeth.

Veneers can be shaped to give you the look that you want. Whether you’re addressing cracks, chips on one or more teeth, or perhaps gaps, you’ll love the instant smile transformation that veneers can provide.

Minimal Removal of Enamel

Once the enamel on a tooth has been worn away, it won’t grow back. The good news is that the application of veneers requires just a thin layer of enamel to be removed from each tooth. This removal of the enamel is essential, as it allows for a seamless fit of the veneers.

In years past, it may have required more enamel to be removed from each tooth. Today, technology has advanced to the point where only the smallest layer will need to be removed to get the seamless fit when the veneers are set in place. Veneers are considered a better option for cosmetic smile restoration compared to dental crowns and bridges. This is because much more of the tooth will need to be removed before fitting the crown or bridge.

Veneers Are a Noninvasive Cosmetic Treatment 

Our friend Dr. Hoang, a cosmetic dentist in Bethlehem, GA, agrees that patients love that veneers are a non-invasive treatment. Many patients may not even need to be numbed up for each step of the procedure. Crowns are not quite as simple to place on teeth, and they are considered to be slightly more invasive as patients will need to potentially have a fair amount of natural teeth removed to get the seamless fit from the crown. Anesthesia will need to be used during the tooth prep stage.

Disguising Tooth Discoloration With Dental Veneers

Discoloration on your teeth may be the result of years of smoking or exposure to food and drinks that can alter the color of your teeth. Tooth whitening procedures offered by your preferred dentist in Colorado Springs can help to alter the color of your teeth. Dr. Chris Green, a dentist who offers patients teeth whitening in Parker, CO, says that this is only to a degree. Dental veneers can be in any shade that you’d like. If you’re getting one or two veneers, you can get them matched to the color of your natural teeth. If you’re getting a complete smile makeover, you can get an instant pearly white smile with your veneers.

Dental Veneers Can Boost Your Overall Confidence

Dental veneers can give you that instant smile refresh, which can give you an immediate boost to your confidence. This is particularly important if you’ve spent a fair amount of time being ashamed of your smile.

A boost in your confidence levels can help you in all areas of your life, including personal and professional.

Veneers Are Low-Maintenance Cosmetic Treatment

With good oral hygiene and awareness of the foods that you eat, your veneers will last for many good years to come—avoiding biting down on foods that are too hard to protect the structure of your veneers. With good care, you can expect your veneers to last for up to a decade.

Veneers are considered to be stain resistant. However, you will still need to maintain good oral health. Brushing and flossing at least after every meal will help keep your natural teeth in good health. 

Be sure to keep up with regular dental checkups in the office. Avoiding the dentist until you need emergency dental care in Colorado Springs appointment is not the best way to ensure good oral health. Whether in need of a checkup, a cosmetic procedure, or a tooth removal in Colorado Springs, dental patients know they can rely on Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to provide them with the best dental services. 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in September 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

Signs and Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

signs and symptoms of a tooth infection - dr. boals

Signs and Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Do you have an awful toothache? Maybe you’ve noticed a little swelling of the gum or jaw. Does your tooth seem to be a different color? You might be experiencing a severe tooth infection. Each tooth has a nerve, which is also known as the pulp. When your tooth becomes infected, the pulp is affected. If left untreated, a tooth abscess will eventually form, and your tooth will begin to deteriorate even more. There are several signs and symptoms of a tooth infection. Below, our dentists in Colorado Springs, CO, explain what you can expect when experiencing a tooth infection. It might be a severe tooth infection.

How a Tooth Gets Infected

Tooth infections occur when bacteria reach your tooth’s root or pulp. This is usually due to unfilled cavities and lack of good oral hygiene. Tooth infections can be prevented. Unfortunately, infected teeth can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. If your tooth does become infected, your emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, may recommend a root canal to save your tooth. 

Recognizing the signs of an infection is essential, so you can seek immediate treatment from your Colorado Springs endodontist.

Signs Your Tooth is Infected 

A typical sign of a tooth infection is a pain when eating and drinking. The infection or abscess spreads from the tip of the root, causing it to affect the gum and bone. Dr. Green, an emergency dentist in Parker, CO, says the throbbing pain may be so severe that your aches are not relieved by pain medication. This may be because the infection has spread even further. If you’re experiencing a tooth abscess, the pain will be more prominent. ‍

Dr. Boals shares a few signs of tooth infection:

  • The tooth is darker than the rest of the teeth.
  • You experience swelling of the lymph nodes in your jaw, face, and surrounding area. 
  • Your gum is swollen, and an abscess has formed. The raised swelling around your infected tooth may look similar to a pimple—an open pimple, which is a sure-fire sign of an infection. Dr. Moghadam, an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, recommends calling your dentist immediately if an abscess has formed. This means the infection has gotten much worse.
  • A bad taste in your mouth
  • Pain when opening or closing your mouth.
  • Fever 

How to Treat a Tooth Infection

Many say that a tooth infection is one of the worst feelings ever. Luckily, there are several ways to treat a tooth infection. Your Colorado Springs dentist may suggest root canal therapy if the tooth has not completely deteriorated. A root canal is completely pain-free and is designed to eliminate the infection by removing the root and nerve endings’ infection. Alternatively, to remove the infection and prevent a recurrence, Dr. Boals may need to perform a surgical tooth extraction. If your tooth is healthy except for the infection, prescription antibiotics may help eliminate the infection. Your tooth infection treatment all depends on the severity of your infection. 

If Your Tooth is Infected, What Should You Do?

If you’re experiencing a toothache, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry immediately. Your tooth infection or the abscessed tooth will not go away on its own. The infection can spread throughout the body.

The best way to remove the tooth infection  and avoid any further dental risks, Dr. Boals will give you a full mouth evaluation. From there, we will decide the best treatment plan. Contact our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, today. 

How Can I Keep My Smile Healthy?

how can i keep my smile healthy - Dr. Boals

How Can I Keep My Smile Healthy?

The COVID-19 coronavirus crisis has led to many dentists closing their doors for regular appointments, and only accepting patients with dental emergencies. While this will help slow the spread of the virus, it has a lot of people wondering “How can I keep my smile healthy when I can’t see the dentist?“. 

In this blog from Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we’ll discuss a few things you should do to keep your mouth healthy, even if you can’t see your dentist for a six-month visit and oral exam. Let’s get started.

1. Ensure Your Dental Hygiene Routine Is In Tip-Top Shape

First and foremost, make sure that you’re maintaining a great oral hygiene routine. You should be brushing at least twice per day for at least two minutes. In fact, you may want to consider brushing three times per day says our friend and dentist in Bethlehem GA, Dr. Hoang. 

If you brush three times per day, once after breakfast, once after lunch, and once before you go to bed, you’ll remove the most bacteria and food debris that you can, and you’ll boost your defense against gum disease and cavities.

Don’t forget about flossing, either. Brushing alone is not enough to clean every surface of your teeth. Flossing once per day will remove food, bacteria, and plaque that may be left behind with brushing alone. 

2. Watch Your Diet And What You Eat 

As a rule, you’ll want to avoid starchy and sugary foods, as well as beverages that are high in sugar like juice, sweetened tea, cocktails, and soda. The bacteria in our mouths thrive on starch and sugar. Eating a diet that consists mostly of lean meat, fresh vegetables, and fruits that are high in fiber, and whole grains can help keep your teeth healthy. 

In fact, some foods can damage your teeth directly. Chewing almonds, ice, and other hard foods with your front teeth could cause them to crack or chip, so you should make sure you chew these kinds of foods with your molars.

You should also avoid gummy and sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gummy candy, etc.) if you have multiple crowns or fillings. Sticky, sugary foods promote tooth decay, and can even pull out your dental work if it’s loose.

3. Avoid Doing Things That Could Damage Your Teeth  

Doing things like chewing pens or pencils or even your fingernails can wear down your teeth prematurely, or even cause them to crack or break. Make sure you only use your teeth to chew food, and not anything else.

That also means you shouldn’t use your teeth as tools to do things like tear open packages or rip tape. They’re not meant to do these things, and could be damaged if you’re not careful. 

Know How To Keep Your Smile Healthy, Even When You Can’t See The Dentist

We hope this guide from Kissing Camels Family Dentistry has helped you learn more about how you can keep your smile healthy, even if you’re not able to see your dentist. Thanks for reading, and stay safe. And when the lockdown is lifted, make sure that you contact us at (719) 301-6604 to schedule your next preventive dentistry appointment in Garden of the Gods, West Colorado Springs, and Manitou Springs. “

Children’s Dental Health Month 2021

Children’s Dental Health Month - Colorado Springs Dentist

Children’s Dental Health Month 2021

February is Children’s Dental Health Month, and at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry we’ll be celebrating all month long! Whether you’re in Garden of the Gods, West Colorado Springs, Centennial, or Fillmore, we invite you to celebrate with our children’s dentist Colorado Springs and schedule an appointment for your little one today.

Between pediatric appointments, it’s important to keep up with your child’s oral hygiene to ensure that their mouth stays healthy and strong.  Here are a few of our best oral hygiene tips for kids to help your family avoid cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions:

1. Make Sure They’re Brushing Properly

Proper brushing is critical for your child’s oral health. Children typically have enough dexterity to brush their own teeth around age six. However, you should still supervise to make sure they’re brushing properly. Keep an eye out to make sure they are:

  • Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth
  • Brushing in short, tooth-wide strokes
  • Starting with the outside of the teeth, then the inside of the teeth, and finish with the chewing surfaces
  • Brushing for at least two minutes, twice per day. The morning and evening are best.
  • Flossing once per day. You’ll have to floss for your child until they’re about 10, or are coordinated enough to do it yourself.

2. Lead By Example

The best way to get your kids to follow your oral hygiene tips is to lead by example! Make sure that you brush properly and floss once per day. When your kids see you taking care of your teeth, they’ll be more likely to do the same. And, as a bonus, if you make brushing a family activity, it will be easier to keep an eye on your kids to make sure they’re brushing the way they’re supposed to.

3. Drink More Water (And Avoid Soda And Juice)

Drinking more water will help your kids maintain a healthy mouth, particularly if it’s tap water or bottled water that includes fluoride. Water helps rinse away food debris and bacteria, and it also helps maintain a proper pH balance in the mouth says Georgetown KY dentist, Dr. Kristina Neda. Steer clear of excessive soda and juice consumption. Too much sugar and acid are one of the main reasons that children are more prone to cavities.

4. Consider Dental Sealants Or Fluoride Treatments

If your child is cavity-prone, fluoride treatments or dental sealants can help protect their smile. Fluoride treatments use a high concentration of fluoride, which Dr. Boals “paints” onto your child’s teeth. The fluoride helps remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel that has been softened due to decay.

Dental sealants can also help prevent cavities. Dr. Boals will coat your child’s rear molars with a special resin that will harden into a barrier and prevent bacteria from forming on your child’s teeth.

5. Don’t Forget About Six-Month Oral Exams And Teeth Cleanings

Come into Kissing Camels Family Dentistry every six months for an oral exam and teeth cleaning. This advice applies to parents, too! A regular oral exam and teeth cleaning is the best way to prevent cavities, periodontal disease, and other complications for patients of all ages.

Schedule Your Appointment Today – Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month!

There’s no better time to schedule a preventive dentistry appointment at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Whether you need a pediatric appointment for your child or you’re overdue for an exam, get in touch right away! You can reach us at (719) 301-6604 for an appointment, or come by our office near Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City, and Mountain Shadows at 3470 Centennial Blvd, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, Co 80907.

How to Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist

how to overcome your fear of the dentist - Dr. Boals

How to Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist

If you ask people how they feel about going to the dentist, they’d most likely answer by saying they don’t like it. If there is a certain degree of fear that could be considered natural, elevated levels of anxiety can prevent people from making appointments and affect their oral health in the future. Below, Dr. Boals, a sedation dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, shares how to overcome the fear of the dentist.

Odontophobia, or fear of seeing a dentist, is a serious issue. Research has shown that 5-8% of Americans fully avoid the dentist out of fear, and another 20% have enough anxiety to seek care only when absolutely necessary. There are a variety of reasons why fear can occur, but some of the most common are the loss of control, discomfort, humiliation, or past experience.

Although the level of fear varies from person to person, there are a few common things you can do to help ease your mind.

Find the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO

One of the easiest ways to conquer the fear of seeing a dentist is to find a dentist you can trust. It might take some time, but it’s worth it. While you can look to family and friends for advice or read feedback online, it’s important to note that everyone’s experiences (and expectations) are different. Try to give the dentist a call – if you’re comfortable talking to them on the phone, you may want to make an appointment to see them and get a feel for the office.

Communicate Your Fears

If you don’t let the dentist know of your worries, they’re not going to be able to work through them and help you feel more relaxed. Communication is everything! By being transparent and frank with your concerns in the process, it will help ensure that the right steps will be taken to resolve them.

Bring a Family Member of Friend

If you’re a family member friend, having someone to accompany you to your appointment will make you feel more comfortable. It serves as an additional layer of assurance. You’re best to bring someone who has no fear of their own. Dr. Leeson, a restorative dentist in St. Pete, FL, recommends planning your appointment early in the morning so that you don’t waste time living stuff in advance during the day.

Don’t Worry

From stress balls to music to breathing exercises, there are a variety of “distractions” that you can use to keep your mind focused on something other than your fears. Even something as easy as watching a good movie or a video will help! At our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, we make our patients’ comfort and safety our top priority. Our staff is warm and welcoming, and our dental office is filled with facilities that make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. 

You can unwind in the lobby with refreshments from our beverage station while your kids play and explore the children’s playground. TVs, headphones, and Hulu streaming via our operators can make you feel at home, even during your treatment. Hot scented towels and pillows will help you relax, and we also give nitrous oxide to patients suffering from dental anxiety or phobias. If you’re out of dental care because you’re scared of the dentist, we promise to change your mind about going to the dentist. 

Reward Yourself

Overcoming dental anxiety is a huge deal. If you do, treat yourself! Buy something good for yourself or go on a weekend getaway. Not only is it a fantastic reward, but it’s also going to help you relate your trips to something enjoyable and exciting.

Dr. Boals and our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry are genuinely concerned for our patients and want your experience to be enjoyable and optimistic. You’re going to forget that you were anxious to step through the gates! You can also interrupt the treatment any time you feel uncomfortable or need a break. Don’t ignore your oral health – make the appointment at our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO!

Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth - Colorado Springs

Signs of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth can be quite uncomfortable. Unfortunately, there isn’t a way to prevent wisdom teeth. Most of us will need to see their dentist for wisdom teeth removal at some point in their lives. Why? The impacted wisdom teeth are the third molars on the back of the mouth that do not have enough space for emerging or developing normally. It’s important to get your wisdom teeth removed before dental problems develop. Below, Dr. Boals, your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, shares signs of impacted wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth are the last adult teeth to emerge, usually from 17-25 years old.  Most people have four wisdom teeth at the back of their mouth—two at the top, two at the bottom. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, damage to other teeth, and other dental problems. In certain cases, the damaged teeth of wisdom do not cause any obvious or immediate problems. But since they are hard to clean, they may be more vulnerable to dental decay and gum disease than other teeth.

Wealth-impacted teeth that cause discomfort or other dental problems are usually removed. Some dentists and oral surgeons also prescribe the removal of damaged wisdom teeth that do not cause symptoms to prevent potential complications.

Symptoms of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth do not always trigger symptoms. However, if the impacted wisdom tooth is infected, it can cause significant damages to other teeth or causes other dental problems. Watch out for these signs or symptoms: 

  • Red or swollen chewing gum
  • Blood or soft gums
  • Jaw’s Suffering
  • Swelling around the jaw
  • Poor breathing
  • An unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Difficulty to open your mouth

See your emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, if you are experiencing signs in the area behind your last molar that could be associated with an affected wisdom tooth.

Cause of Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are a problem because there’s usually not enough space in the mouth. Some people have wisdom teeth that turn up without any complications and line up with the other teeth behind the second molar. In certain cases, though, the mouth is too crowded to have third molars. When there’s not enough room, they become stuck.

An impacted wisdom tooth may emerge partly so that some of the crowns are visible (partially impacted) or may never break through the gums (fully impacted). Whether partially or completely affected, the tooth may:

  • Grow at the angle to the next tooth (second molar)
  • Develop at the angle of the back of the mouth.
  • Develop at the right angle to the other teeth, as if the wisdom tooth were “lying down” inside the jawbone.
  • Grow up or down like most teeth, but remain stuck within the jawbone.

What Happens If I Don’t Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed? 

The impacted teeth of wisdom can cause many problems in the mouth:

  • Harm to the other teeth. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, an oral surgeon in Easton, PA, agrees that if the wisdom tooth pushes against the second molar, it can damage the second molar or increase the risk of infection in the area. This pressure can also cause issues with crowding the other teeth or may require orthodontic treatment to straighten the other teeth.
  • Tooth Abscess. The wisdom tooth grows inside the jawbone in a jar. The bag will be filled with fluid, creating a cyst that can damage the jawbone, the teeth, and the nerves. A tumor—usually non-cancer (benign)—rarely grows. This complication can involve tissue and bone removal.
  • Tooth Decay. Partially damaged wisdom teeth tend to be at greater risk of tooth decay (caries) than other teeth. This is possibly due to the fact that wisdom teeth are harder to clean and that food and bacteria are easily stuck between the gum and a partially erupted tooth.
  • Gum Disease. The difficulty of cleaning impacted, partially erupted wisdom teeth increases the risk of developing a painful inflammatory gum condition called periodontitis or gum disease.

Visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

You can’t prevent wisdom teeth from emerging, but you can get them removed before dental problems develop. If you haven’t had your wisdom teeth removed yet, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO. We will take dental x-rays and put together a custom treatment plan for you. Don’t worry. We offer sedation dentistry for patients who are feeling uneasy about wisdom teeth removal. 

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Ever wonder why your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO insists on frequent checkups? It’s not just a matter of brushing your teeth and giving you tips on how to keep your pearly whites. Oral hygiene affects the health of the body. Your dentist will not only treat your toothaches and cavities but also identifies any risk factors that could contribute to more severe conditions. That’s why the American Dental Association suggests that your dentist change the duration of your appointments. Brushing and flossing alone will not help you achieve good oral health. It’s crucial to have an expert look at your mouth. Here are some of the advantages of visiting your Colorado Springs, CO dentist.

What to Expect During Your Visit with Dr. Boals

Your Colorado Springs dentist may examine your face, neck, lymph nodes, and jaw before examining your teeth. This protocol is to scan for any odd lumps and bumps and to check your thyroid. What the dentist really is looking for are symptoms of head, neck, and oral cancer, diabetes, and vitamin deficiency. If your Colorado Springs dentist notices something troubling, you can guarantee that your dentist will recommend the next steps. 

A full-mouth examination of the condition of your teeth and gums lets your dentist decide the best way to improve your oral health long-term.

When your dentist looks into your mouth, they do a variety of different things:

  • Analysis of the gums for any signs of disease
  • Checks for missing or broken teeth and signs of tooth decay
  • Inspects the tissue inside your mouth
  • Takes a look at your tongue
  • Checks your bite
  • Reviews fillings or potential dental problems‍

‍Dentists in Colorado Springs, CO, have the equipment and experience to thoroughly examine and treat any dental problem that arises. If you don’t see your dentist when an issue arrises, you won’t know how to fix it. 

Did You Miss a Spot?

No matter how good you brush and floss, you will not be able to remove tartar on your own. Don’t worry, it’s normal. During your visit to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, one of our hygienists will clear up anything you’ve missed. Making your teeth look as good as new. Professional dental cleanings are necessary to decrease the risk of cavities, bacteria, and gum disease.

These professional cleanings include a visual inspection of your teeth and the removal of any tartar build-up. It is accompanied by polishing and probably flossing. After that, Dr. Boals will speak with you about the health of your teeth and gums. They will also make suggestions for improving your oral health or address any concerns that he has. Following this advice, you’ll set up your next dental cleaning t the front desk. 

Dental Problems That Go Unnoticed

Waiting until you have a toothache to see your emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, can be troublesome and expensive. Cavities can begin to develop without causing discomfort, and dentists can diagnose them until they become a major problem. The sooner a cavity is detected, the less likely a major surgery, such as a root canal, is to be performed.

Gum disease is another painless disorder. It’s a big cause of loss of teeth. A lot of people don’t even know they have it. If the gum disease is detected soon enough, it is reversible. Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be avoided by skilled cleaning followed by good oral hygiene at home. Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can lead to tissue and bone loss that support the teeth. Periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 years of age in the United States.

Dental problems may arise without warning signs, which is why it’s crucial to follow a good oral health regimen and see your dentist regularly. This will save you both money and time in the long run.

Why You Need Good Oral Health

We put a lot of stuff into our mouths in our bodies. It makes sense that our teeth should be in good order, doesn’t it? Healthy teeth allow us to eat the food we want while reducing the number of harmful bacteria we swallow. Don’t forget to give us a whiter smile. Polishing during washing removes all stains and improves the enamel teeth. Enamel is a thin layer of coating that coats every tooth. It helps protect against chewing, biting, and grinding damage. Enamel can be eroded by contact with acids, such as those present in soft drinks and fruit drinks. This can lead to sensitive teeth, discoloration, and indentations. It can also make teeth easier to break and chip. Dr. Kim, an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY, agrees that erosion of the enamel makes the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and decay. Going to regular dental cleanings can help make sure your enamel remains intact, and you can enjoy the use of your teeth.

Visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

It’s not just a matter of keeping your teeth clean or a whiter smile. A regular checkup at our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, will help you live a healthier life and worry less about dental, neck, and head ailments.

Regular visits to the dentist are to help avoid major medical complications and save you money in the future. If you missed your last appointment or need to find a new dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, don’t hesitate to contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.