Guardian Dentist Near You Colorado Springs

Guardian Dentist Near You Colorado Springs - Dr. Boals

Guardian Dentist Near You Colorado Springs

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is your Guardian Dentist Colorado Springs. We accept many forms of payment and are happy to accept Guardian insurance as a part of your payment plan.

‍Our staff is happy to answer your questions regarding Guardian coverage for the treatment options that we offer.

‍5-STAR RATED DENTIST IN COLORADO SPRINGS

Welcome to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs! Our team feels honored to provide quality, compassionate dental care for patients in Colorado Springs. We strive to build lasting relationships with our Colorado Springs dental patients by offering honest guidance and conservative dental care. This means Dr. Boals takes the time to listen to your needs and only suggests necessary treatments for you and your family. If you’re looking for a friendly dentist in Colorado Springs, call us today to schedule an appointment!

MEET OUR DENTIST: DR. CODY BOALS

Dr. Boals knew from a young age that he wanted to work in healthcare because he understood how rewarding it would be to help patients live healthy lives. After observing his own family dentist, he realized that a career in dentistry would combine science and art, as well as give him the opportunity to grow meaningful relationships with patients.

Dr. Boals earned his Masters of Biomedical Science and his Doctor of Dental Medicine degrees at Midwestern University in Illinois. Now that he has opened his own practice, he’s proud to be able to provide compassionate care for patients in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas.

Choosing a Family Dentist

Choosing a Family Dentist - Dr. Boals

Choosing a Family Dentist

Choosing a family dentist is a lot more demanding than selecting one for your own dental care needs. You have to weigh out the pros and cons and give careful consideration of not only the skills of the dentist but the environment of the office. Dr. Boals recommends using the following tips when choosing a family dentist in Colorado Springs.

Talk to People in Your Social Circles

Research indicates that 84% of all people rely on the recommendations made by friends, family members, workmates, etc., before buying a product or service.

You, therefore, will not go wrong if you reach out to the people you know for pointers as to who is the best family dentist in Colorado Springs. As you listen to their suggestions, ask about first impressions, favorite qualities, dislikes, and concerns.

How Do They Handle Emergency Situations?

When you have your list of the best dentists in Colorado Springs, look into their dental emergency services.

As you may know, dental emergencies can occur at any time, and on any day of the week, so you want to have a family dentist who has measures in place to address these emergencies.

The best family dentist will respond and handle dental emergencies without batting an eye. Other not-so-great dentists may tell you to schedule an appointment during open hours.

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we are available to handle any emergencies that occur, whether on weekends or in the dead of night. If you have questions about our dental emergency services, give us a call!

Is the Location Convenient?

The location of the family dentist you are considering to choose is also important because you don’t want to drive all the way across town each time you have an appointment or a dental emergency occurs.

If you can, choose a dentist who has an office within your neighborhood or is close to the schools your kids attend. It’ll be much easier for you to drop by the dental office after work or when you have picked your kids from school.

How Do They Handle Kids?

Don’t overlook the importance of assessing how the different family dentists you are considering get on with kids. As you may be aware, kids often have fears about undergoing dental procedures or being around strangers, so finding a dentist in Colorado Springs who adores kids will take a big weight off your chest.

Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence, recommends that you visit each dental office to see how they are with children. Observe how the dental office is set up, carefully watch how the staff at the office interact with the kids. Note that you shouldn’t schedule any dental procedure for you or your kids during this first visit.

If you are satisfied that the Colorado Springs family dentist quickly forms a cordial bond with kids, then you can select that professional to provide family dentistry services to your household.

It may seem like a lot of work going through all the above in order to choose a family dentist, but it is worth it. Visit at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry so you can see why so many families refer to Dr. Boals as the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO.

Happy National Brush Day

national brush day - Colorado Springs Dentist

Happy National Brush Day

Oral hygiene is important to our teeth and our general health – that’s why we brush our teeth! Any plaque that is not removed on and between your teeth will eventually cause gum disease and tooth decay. If you’re anything like us, you were told countless times to brush your teeth when you were a child. So, you’d think that we all know how to brush our teeth correctly. However, the Academy of General Dentistry says that many adults do not brush their teeth properly. So, to honor National Brush Day on November 1st, we’re sharing the right way to brush your teeth.

The Basics of Brushing Your Teeth

You should brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes. That is, in the morning, when you wake up and right before you go to sleep. To make sure that you brush properly for the allotted time, Dr. Boals suggests using a stopwatch while brushing your teeth. If you want to be even more efficient, you could purchase an electric toothbrush that has an inbuilt timer. 

It does not matter what way you use to time yourself, as long as you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. 

The Tools You Need for Good Oral Hygiene

Which is better, an electric toothbrush or a traditional toothbrush? Colorado Springs dentists have no preference between the two, as long as you use a toothbrush that has soft bristles and can reach your back molars.

Your toothbrush needs to be replaced every 3-4 months or when your bristles fray. Using a toothbrush with frayed bristles will be harmful to your teeth. The toothpaste you choose depends on your preference. Use whichever toothpaste that you like. Just make sure it contains fluoride. Fluoride works by preventing tooth decay and cavity development. If you do have cavities, fluoride works well in fighting those cavities. Dr. Chris Green, a family dentist in Parker, CO, recommends choosing a toothpaste that is FDA approved. 

Another essential that you need for optimal dental health is floss. Flossing helps you get rid of at least 80% of the plaque that is on your teeth, and flossing prevents plaque buildup. Floss also prevents gum disease, and you need to take care of both your teeth and gums. There’s plenty of floss to choose from waxed, unwaxed, floss picks.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

We now know the proper tools needed to brush your teeth properly. Now, let’s go over the correct way to do it in a way that is recommended by dentists in Colorado Springs.

  1. Put a pea-size amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush
  2. You should hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
  3. Move your toothbrush gently over your teeth surfaces (the front, back, and tops of your teeth) in a circular motion.
  4. Employ a gentle back and forth motion on your teeth’s chewing surfaces when brushing
  5. Spit the toothpaste out after brushing but do not rinse your mouth. The toothpaste that is left in your mouth after you spit protects your teeth against decay
  6. Brush your tongue to rid it of any bacteria buildup since the last time you brushed
  7. Floss; it does not matter whether it’s before or after brushing but ensure you floss.

What to Avoid When Brushing Your Teeth

Now that we know the proper ways to brush our teeth, here are a few things your 80907 dentist says you should avoid when brushing your teeth:

Apart from picking the wrong brush, you may also be;

  1. Scrubbing your teeth too hard – Because plaque is loose and soft, there’s no need to scrub your teeth. Brushing too hard will ruin your enamel.
  2. You rush when brushing – Let’s say you’re late for work, so you want to rush through brushing. Don’t do it! Use the timer on your phone to ensure you spend the correct amount of time brushing. If you have to get up earlier to brush your teeth, then so be it!
  3. You hold onto your old toothbrush for a little too long – We mentioned above, when your bristles fray, get a new toothbrush. Also, do not share your toothbrush with anybody and keep your toothbrush in the open air. This will prevent bacteria or mold from growing on it when the toothbrush head is wet. This is a very common mistake, and we tell our patients at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.
  4. You miss the gum line – Most bacteria are usually found where your gums and teeth meet. This area is commonly missed. So when brushing, ensure you also brush the gum line area. To do so, use the 45º angle we talked about above. Tilt your toothbrush up and down in order to reach the inside of your front teeth. 
  5. You forget to brush your tongue – Many people fail to brush the sides of their tongue.  So, remember to brush your tongue for the best oral hygiene.
  6. You brush your teeth immediately after eating – Brushing your teeth immediately after eating may erode your tooth enamel. Colorado Springs dentists recommend waiting at least 20 minutes for the saliva in your mouth to offset the acid before you brush. Alternatively, you can also rinse your mouth out with water to get rid of some of the acids before you brush your teeth.

Visit Your Colorado Springs Dentist Annually

Now that we’ve covered everything about brushing, we can move onto visiting the dentist! Make sure you visit your dentist twice a year for a dental cleaning and checkup! This will ensure that your teeth are as healthy as can be. If you have any questions on how to take care of your teeth or would like to make an appointment, contact your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. Needless to say, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is happy to help you with your oral health. Contact us today!

How to Improve Your Smile for the Holidays

how to improve your smile Colorado Springs CO

How to Improve Your Smile for the Holidays

Improve Your Smile

The holidays are a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate. You may find yourself disguising your grin in family pictures this time of year. Your Colorado Springs Dentist wants you to know that you’re not the only one who feels this way. Many individuals are dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth, whether they are crooked, discolored, or missing. Dr. Boals, dentist in Colorado Springs, wants to fix that. Here are tips to improve your smile for the holidays.

Tips for a Healthy Holiday Smile

You shouldn’t feel compelled to conceal your grin. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, dentist 80907, fortunately, provides a comprehensive range of dental treatments. Your dentist Colorado Springs, Dr. Johnson, explains how to enhance your smile for the holidays below.

1. Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning

Every year, patients visit our office in a rush to improve their smiles for holiday festivities. You’d be surprised how effective a simple professional dental exam and dental cleaning can be. Our hygienists will remove any built-up tartar and thoroughly clean your teeth to be sparkly clean. Dr. Boals recommends getting a professional cleaning before you start cosmetic treatments such as professional teeth whitenings. This will ensure that your teeth are plaque-free. Dental cleanings are typically covered by dental insurance. So, don’t forget to use your dental benefits before they expire at the end of the year! 

2. Fill Cavities & Replace Silver Fillings

When you see your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO for dental fillings. They will likely fill the cavity with tooth-colored composite material. This type of filling will blend naturally with your teeth, so no one will know that you have fillings. If you still have silver fillings, talk to your dentist about replacing them with tooth-colored fillings. 

3. Fix Any Tooth Cracks or Chips

Tooth chips and cracks can easily be fixed with some of the following restorative dentistry solutions: porcelain veneers, dental bonding, dental crowns, and more. In order to transform your overall smile, your cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, will assess you for a smile makeover. During this evaluation, they will determine which treatment is best for you. Dr. O’Grady, a Denver Highlands Dentist, says that porcelain veneers are one of the most common ways to hide broken, discolored, misshaped teeth. This is done by placing shells over your existing teeth, almost like a shoe over your teeth. Smile makeovers with porcelain veneers often have the biggest transformations for our patients.

4. Professional Teeth Whitening

The quickest way to improve your smile is by professional teeth whitening treatment. Get rid of stubborn stains and improve the overall look of your smile with our in-office or take-home teeth whitening services. Our in-office teeth whitening provides instant results. Go up to 10 shades lighter with our professional-grade whitening gel. Treatment only takes a few hours. Our take-home teeth whitening kits are perfect for those who want to gradually whiten their smile in the comfort of their own home. The treatment takes a few days to see significant results. Professional teeth whitening is a must before big family events!

5. Replace Missing Teeth

It is essential that missing teeth are replaced as quickly as possible. Not only will missing teeth bring down your self-confidence, but it also puts yourself at risk for dental complications. Eventually, your remaining teeth will shift to fill the gap. Since there is an absence of stimulation from the area, your jaw bone will degrade over time. Inevitably, this will affect your facial shape and the way you eat and speak. The best way to replace a missing tooth is with dental implants, but we also offer dental crowns, dental bridges, and dentures. 

Now that you know how to improve your smile for the holidays, give Kissing Camels Family Dentistry a call. We are happy to schedule you for a consultation. Let’s start off the holidays right with a bright, beautiful smile!

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

Dentures FAQ

Dental FAQ - Dr. kacos

Dentures FAQ

There are many misconceptions about dentures, including that they’re only for elders. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Many don’t realize that people of all ages can benefit from dentures. Dentures act as a replacement for natural teeth. To help you decide if dentures are the right solution for your missing teeth, Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, answers the following dentures FAQ. ‍

What Are Dentures and How Are They Supposed to Work?

Dentures are a prosthesis used to substitute the missing teeth of a patient. This prosthetic consists of artificial teeth and gums that are tailored and fitted to each smile. Dentures are not placed to the jaw bone, unlike dental implants. It is essentially making it easier to clean and preserve.

If you’ve experienced tooth loss because of periodontal disease, tooth decay, injury, etc., there are several benefits to choosing dentures. One of the most common advantages of dentures is the boost in self-esteem and appearance. Other benefits directly affect the oral health as dentures support the overall mouth structure, including facial muscles, speech, and functionality, such as eating.

What Are The Different Types of Dentures?

Dentures used to consist of plastic or porcelain, but today most of them are made of a strong resin material that better looks and feels like natural teeth. A similar resin material is made up of the gum portion of dentures that is for a better fit on the gumline. Additionally, there are various types of dentures, including full and partial, and it will be possible for your dentist to determine which option is right for you.

Complete Dentures

This alternative, also known as a complete denture, is used when all or almost all of the teeth are missing. To replace all the natural teeth and fit the entire surface of the gums, a prosthetic will be made. Once this is completed, the denture will fit snugly along the gum line. However, the dentures are easily removable. Your Colorado Springs dentist may recommend getting a tooth extraction if they feel that you would benefit from complete dentures. 

There are two types of full or complete dentures, conventional and immediate. After your mouth has healed from any tooth extractions, conventional dentures are positioned. This means that the patient, during the healing period, which can vary in time, you may be without teeth. The prosthetic is able to fit perfectly by waiting until the tissue in the mouth is completely healed.

Right after the remaining teeth are removed, instant dentures are placed. The dentist will take preliminary measurements so that the patient will have her new teeth on the same day. After any extractions, this option can help support the jawbone and regulate bleeding. It can change the shape or ridge of the gum line slightly when the mouth heals after the extraction, meaning the surface of the denture may no longer fit as it is meant to. While this may seem like a small problem, it may require realignment, modifications, or even a whole new denture production. You may be without teeth for a couple of days when this occurs.

Partial Dentures

When a patient has only a few missing teeth, Dr. Boals may recommend partial dentures. The existing teeth act as support structures, similar to dental bridges. Partial dentures consist of the required replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, almost like a teeth-attached retainer. Dentures are secured in the mouth by attaching either the plastic of the denture or a metal framework to adjacent existing teeth. Partial dentures are readily removable, just like full dentures.

What Should I Expect When Getting Dentures?

Your journey to a beautiful, functioning smile will start after a denture consultation with your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. The next step is to prepare the mouth for any tooth extractions or procedures that need to be performed prior to measurements or fitting. Measurements will be taken beforehand if you get immediate dentures, so the prosthetic will be ready at your appointment for preparation.

Your dental impressions will be sent to the laboratory where the dentures will be made by your choice of size, color, and shape. Depending on factors like urgency and complexity, the laboratory can take anywhere from 1-6 weeks to generate the prosthetics. You will come in for your fitting once your dentures are ready.

Your restorative dentist will have you try the dentures on during the fitting. This allows them to make sure the dentures fit accordingly. Our Kissing Camels Family Dentistry team will also make sure to show you how to remove and clean your dentures properly. You will probably be advised to wear them until your follow-up appointment, where any additional changes will be made. As previously mentioned, this step will occur during the preparation appointment if you are receiving immediate dentures, and adjustments will be made after your mouth has healed.

How Do I Care for Dentures?

Our friend Dr. Hoang, a restorative dentist in Bethlehem, GA, agrees that any patient who is new to dentures will have an adjustment period. At first, dentures may feel very weird as there is now a foreign object in your mouth, resulting in talking and eating difficulties, besides physical adjustments, figuring out how to take care of your dentures.

A common misconception about dentures is that you don’t need to clean them with real teeth. On the contrary, it is critical to take care of your dentures because plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria can still build up on the teeth. Your dentures need to be cleaned every day, no matter what type of prosthetic you have. Even though they’re removable, the dentures should remain in your mouth for a certain amount of time. Your Colorado Springs dentist will inform you of the dos and don’ts of dentures. Here is a rough guideline for caring for your dentures.

To prevent dental problems such as tooth decay or gum disease, it is important to follow these steps:

  • Brush your dentures and gums with a very soft toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Remove any bacteria and debris while your dentures are outside your mouth.
  • Soak your dentures in denture solution or clean water anytime they are out of your mouth.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

When correctly taken care of, dentures typically last for about 5 to 7 years. Over time, they will naturally wear the base on which the artificial teeth sit and need to be revived. Your mouth will naturally change as you grow older, and your dentures may not fit properly. Fortunately, without damaging the teeth, the base is very simple to fix. 

However, there are ways of maximizing the lifespan of your denture that go beyond daily cleaning. When handling the prosthetics, it is wise to be gentle as they can break easily if dropped. You should be aware, too, of making sure they never dry out. Soaking your dentures in solution when you’re not wearing them will ensure that your dentures do not dry out. They can also be placed in warm, not hot water because the dentures’ shape can be warped or ruined by hot water. Dr. Boals says dentures are not cheap to replace, so you should take good care of your dentures if you want them to last as long as possible. 

Replacing missing teeth is crucial to good oral health, whether it’s with dentures or dental implants. If you’re interested in restorative dentistry solutions, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for a consultation. Our team is happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. 

New Year, New Smile

Do I Need My Tooth Extracted? - Dr. Boals

New Year, New Smile

If you are ashamed of your smile or embarrassed, don’t let another year go by without doing something to fix it. What better way than with a beautiful, confident, and radiant smile to start the new year?

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we are happy to help you achieve your smile goals! With the help of our cosmetic dentistry solutions, Dr. Boals and his team can make your smile dreams become a reality. Our dental solutions can fix a wide variety of cosmetic problems. Below, we explore some of the common cosmetic treatments that patients in Colorado Springs, CO, get.

Dental Veneers and Lumineers

A dental veneer is a thin shell that is bonded to the front of a tooth. It is typically made of porcelain and improves the appearance of your natural teeth. Dental veneers may be the perfect solution for teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped, broken, misaligned, or misformed. At our dental office in Colorado Springs, we use top-quality porcelain Lumineers. Since lumineers are so thin, they require less preparatory work, which means that before placing them, we won’t have to remove as much enamel from your tooth.

Lumineers are a great option because they take less time, are a long-term cosmetic solution, and do not require any anesthesia in general.

Professional Teeth Whitening 

If your teeth are not as bright as you’d like, we recommend professional teeth whitening treatment! At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we offer in-office and take-home professional whitening. Our patients love that we give them the option between the two. In-office teeth whitening services are for those who want instant results. In comparison, our take-home treatment allows patients to whiten their teeth on their own time. Achieve up to 10 shades brighter when you go to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for your teeth whitening needs. 

Invisalign 

Straight teeth are a significant component of a beautiful, confident smile. With the help of Invisalign clear aligners, you can have the smile you’ve always wanted. Invisalign allows you to straighten your teeth without the traditional metal wires. This orthodontic treatment will also help you get results faster than traditional braces. Find out if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign aligners. Contact our dental office today for an Invisalign consultation!

Botox & Fillers‍

There are several benefits to botox and filler injections. Botox is commonly used to prevent fine lines and wrinkles and can treat headaches and TMJ. In comparison, fillers are used to lift and enhance features. If you suffer from “crow’s feet” or would like to enhance the size of your lips, fillers may be for you. The injections are non-invasive and affordable! Ask your Colorado Springs dentist about botox and filler services.

Dental Bonding

Using composite resin, our team of skilled cosmetic dentists can easily fix cracks and chips in your teeth. The resin is carefully matched to the color of your natural teeth, so nobody will be able to tell. Our dental bonding treatment is fast and cost-effective. If you’re looking for an affordable cosmetic treatment that will enhance your smile, our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a cosmetic dentist in Georgetown, KY, agrees that dental bonding is for you!

Contact Your Cosmetic Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO

Your smile is our priority at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Start off the new year right with a happier and healthier smile! Contact our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, for a consultation with Dr. Cody Boals. We will help you determine the best treatment for your smile and budget. 

Use Your Dental Benefits

Use your dental benefits - Dr. Boals

Use Your Dental Benefits

Studies have shown that people who have dental benefits are 58% more likely to visit their dentists, which results in better oral health. Additionally, people who have very good oral health were found to be two times as likely to have great physical well-being. The following are ways we at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry recommend to maximize your dental benefits before the year ends.

Good Oral Health May Keep You Healthy

Did you know that your overall health is connected to your oral health? Studies have shown that gum disease is linked to various health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. As a matter of fact, there are about 120 illnesses that can be detected by your Colorado Springs dentist during a dental exam. Making sure to have at least two dental visits in a year, every six months, may help detect any serious conditions. When these conditions are caught early on, you’re able to start treatment that much faster.

It should be noted that if you do have any other oral health issues, you should visit your Colorado Springs dentist for an evaluation. 

Get Preventive Care 

If you have not visited your 80920 dentist all year but may have concerns about your health, take action by visiting the dentist. This allows your dentist to spot and treat oral health issues that might occur early. This will save you from expenses and pain down the line. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO to address any dental concerns that you may have and improve your oral health.

Visiting your dentist for any issues may make having dental insurance worth it. Most dental plans cover preventative care such X-rays and exams, as well as cleanings, at little or no cost to you. Any benefits you do not use by the end of the year expire. So, don’t waste your dental benefits!

Preventative dental care will save you a lot of money in the long run. So, if you do not have preventative care, consider purchasing a plan with a well-known insurance provider.

Visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to Save Your Money

As we all know, you should always make sure that your dentist is a licensed practitioner. Visiting our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO ensures you get quality and affordable care

Utilize Your Flexible Spending Account Dollars for all Your Dental Expenses 

Employers may provide Flexible Spending Accounts to patients to help them with medical bills. Below, our Colorado Springs CO dentist shares a few facts concerning FSAs that you should be aware of:

Your FSA balance covers most dental procedures (anything that prevents or treats a disease). This includes teeth extractions, cleanings, and fillings. Sadly, teeth whitening, which is a cosmetic procedure, might not be eligible. But if you would like to get your teeth whitened, give your cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs a call. The good news is you can cover your out-of-pocket expenses for adult or child orthodontics using your FSA account. 

Unlike HSA (Health Savings Account) balances, FSA balances do not turn over, meaning that you must make sure you have used your benefits within the contribution year. Many plans have a 2 to 3 month grace period. However, many participants usually lose their unused money in their FSAs at year’s end in December. Please ensure that you ask your policy administrator for all the details on your policy and plan all your future dental and medical appointments accordingly. 

In addition to this, an FSA decreases your taxable income, and you can use that money for other health expenses. It also increases the amount you take home, so you gain more control over your family budget and a significant tax savings amount. Thus, Dr. Boals, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, explains that this allows you more room to plan for various expenses in the future.

Your Plan Benefits Reset in January

As the year comes to an end, you should review your dental plan to find out what is covered under it, the remaining amount, and when the benefits begin anew. Generally, dental plans cap the annual coverage limit and are done either by plan year or calendar year. If your benefits are by calendar year, they will automatically renew on January 1. This means that you will have to pay your deductible again after the 1st of every year. Also, your annual maximum will also be renewed at the start of your dental plan year, depending on your plan. If you did not visit your Colorado Springs dentist in the prior year, you may end up losing part of your maximum allocation.  

Additionally, our friends at New Providence Family Dentistry, New Providence NJ dentist explain if you had not used up your plan and may need treatment, make sure to take care of the issue before your plan renews on January 1. This applies to follow-up work as well. This will ensure that when your plan resets, you won’t use up a lot of the new year’s coverage.  

We recommend that you ensure you fully utilize your dental benefits before year’s end and schedule a visit with the best dentist in Colorado Springs. Start your new year with a healthy smile, more money in your pocket, and better overall health. If you’d like to know more about how you can make the most out of your dental benefits, contact your dentist at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today.

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

Sedation Dentistry Myths

Sedation Dentistry Myths - Dr. Boals

Sedation Dentistry Myths

What do you know about sedation dentistry? We often find that our patients have been misinformed or have only knowledge of some of the sedation dentistry myths floating out there. Debunking these myths can ensure that each of our patients is better informed about the benefits of sedation dentistry.

We’ve gathered some of the most common sedation dentistry myths that we’ve heard about sedation dentistry. We’re debunking them so that our patients can have a solid and accurate understanding.

Myth One: Sedation Dentistry is Exclusively for Complicated Surgical Procedures

While it is true that sedation dentistry is quite often associated with complicated surgical procedures, it can be used for the majority of dental procedures at our Colorado Springs dentist office. Sedation dentistry can be used for routine dental procedures, including root canal therapy and the removal of wisdom teeth.

Myth Two: There is just one type of sedation

Generally speaking, there are three types of sedation dentistry.

  • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
  • Oral sedation
  • IV sedation

Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are quite often the best choices for basic, routine procedures. IV sedation can be the choice for more complex oral procedures if you visit an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs and ask about sedation dentistry. It will help get you out of pain and help control anxiety they may be feeling.

Myth Three: Sedation Dentistry Is Not Safe

One of the most important things to be aware of is that your dentist and their staff will always make safety a priority. When you visit your dentist in Colorado Springs, you can be assured that your candidacy for sedation dentistry will be carefully considered.

When it comes to sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs, patients will find out if they are suitable candidates for sedation during their dental procedure.

Dentistry and dental technology have come a long way, says Digital Doc, an industry leader for intraoral cameras. Dentists know more now than ever and with the right tools diagnosis and treatment has vastly improved. Sedation dentistry is no different. There are plenty sedation dentistry options for everyone. It’s important to let your dentist know everything you know about your medical history before you plan your dental procedure. This will allow your dentist to recommend a treatment solution that will prove safe for you.

Myth Four: Sedation Dentistry is Safe for Everyone

This may be confusing, but while your safety will always be prioritized, there are some situations where sedation dentistry may not be the right option for some patients.

You may find you’re not the right candidate for sedation dentistry if some of the following apply.

  • You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You’ve had a previous allergic reaction to one or more of the medications used for sedation dentistry
  • You have asthma or another medical condition that can intervene with the effectiveness of the medications used

Discuss your concerns with your dentist, and together you’ll come up with the right option to help you through your dentist appointment.

Myth Five: Only Patients with Anxiety Qualify for Sedation Dentistry

Some myths will indeed be wrapped in some form of truth. In this case, there’s no truth to the idea that sedation dentistry is only right for those with anxiety. Sedation dentistry can also be used for several reasons, including the following:

  • In situations where patients have an intense gag reflex
  • On patients who have severe fears of needles
  • In situations where patients are restless, and cannot sit still
  • For patients who are undergoing complex or multiple procedures at one time

Do you have anxiety and perhaps wish to be sedated during even a dental cleaning? Even the noninvasive treatments like veneers can call for sedation dentistry. Just ask your Colorado Springs dentist to learn more. 

There’s no reason for you to fear the dentist. Knowing the truth about sedation dentistry can put you at ease, no matter which procedure you have coming up. To learn more about our sedation services, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.

Types of Teeth Whitening

Types of Teeth Whitening - Dr. Boals

Types of Teeth Whitening

The color of our teeth can change drastically over the years. The natural aging process alone can see our teeth losing their previous pearly white status. Combine that with smoking, and eating and drinking foods that can stain our teeth, and there’s the potential for teeth that are simply not as brilliantly white as they once were.

There are a number of teeth whitening solutions that we, your go-to dentist in Colorado Springs, can offer. There are in-office teeth whitening solutions and also take-home teeth whitening kits that can also help to get your teeth white and your smile brighter.

But which option is the right one for you? Let’s examine in-office teeth whitening vs. take-home teeth whitening, so that you can better understand which one will work best for your teeth whitening needs.

In-Office Teeth Whitening Treatments

Visiting your Colorado Springs dentist is your first step to getting your teeth whiter. An in-office teeth whitening treatment can change the color of your teeth several shades lighter. Professional teeth whitening is often touted as being the most effective solution, and the longest-lasting solution. 

This is due in part to the fact that in-office whitening treatments use whitening solutions that contain higher levels of the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide than can be found in other treatment options. The concentration of this active ingredient could be between 25 and 40%. Compare this to at-home whitening solutions that contain around 10% of the active ingredient.

In addition, not only will you find in-office teeth whitening treatments to be more effective, but you will appreciate that it’s a quick visit to the office. In just one trip and in less than an hour, you’ll be able to see great whitening results.

Take-Home Teeth Whitening Treatments

The next best option for professional in-office treatment is the professional take-home teeth whitening kit that can be supplied by your dentist. These treatments begin with a visit to your dentist so that impressions can be taken of your teeth. These impressions are then sent to a lab so that custom-fit whitening trays can be made for you.

Once the trays have been made, you’ll be sent home with them. Combined with a whitening gel, you’ll need to wear your whitening trays for up to an hour a day, for up to two weeks. 

This is a more affordable option than the in-office treatment. However, Dr. David Moghadam, a cosmetic dentist in Easton, PA, says it does take more time than the in-office treatment takes. The results will be pretty similar to the results you’ll see from in-office treatments, but again it does take some additional work and time.

Considering Over-The-Counter Whitening Kits

There are several over-the-counter teeth whitening kits, some of which can produce moderate results. Broadly speaking, there are four types of teeth whitening options.

  • Gels
  • Toothpaste
  • Strips
  • One-size whitening trays

These whitening kits are more cost-effective options. However, the one-size whitening trays won’t fit your mouth as comfortably as you would be able to get from your dentist. Another consideration is that the bleaching agent in the over-the-counter kits won’t be as strong as those used by your dentist.

To instantly and permanently transform your smile, consider getting veneers in Colorado Springs. Patients are always blown away by the end result. As a cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs that patients rely on, we are committed to keeping you smiling brightly.

Most Common Dental Emergencies

common dental emergencies - Dr. Boals

Most Common Dental Emergencies

You brush after every meal, and you floss at least once a day. You even use a quality mouthwash to rinse debris free from your teeth. This can help to keep your teeth and your mouth healthier and save you from a number of dental concerns. However, try as you might, you simply can’t prepare for dental emergencies.

Just what qualifies as a dental emergency? We’ve gathered a list of the most common dental emergencies treated by our Colorado Springs dentist.

One or More Cracked Teeth

There are a number of ways that a tooth can become cracked. It could be that you bit down hard on something, like ice or nuts. It could also be that you suffer from bruxism, also known as teeth grinding experienced at night. 

A cracked tooth needs to be addressed by your dentist in Colorado Springs as soon as possible. Even if there is no pain, a cracked tooth is at high risk for decay sneaking in. If your tooth becomes infected, there is potential for tooth loss. 

Neglect and advanced decay will likely result in an extraction. If you are a patient who thinks you need your tooth pulled, visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for tooth removal in Colorado Springs.  

Accidents and Trauma to a Tooth

Trauma is one of the most common dental emergencies. It quite often leads to the loss of the tooth. Trauma to a tooth can result in a fracture that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It can also lead to the tooth being dislodged.

While a dislodge tooth is not a good thing, the good news is that you can potentially still save the tooth. There is a time crunch, however. Dr. Beth Herko, an emergency dentist in New Providence, NJ, recommends rinsing the tooth with milk or water. Then tuck it inside of your cheek as you make your way to the dentist.

If the tooth is still in good shape, it may be able to be reseated back into the gum. Your dentist will also be able to help treat any pain you’re experiencing.

Tooth and Gum Pain

There are a number of concerns that can result in extreme pain in a tooth or in your gums. It could be that you have an infection in a tooth or an abscess.

Tooth pain should never be ignored, as it could be a simple solution that can get you out of pain. Your Colorado Springs dentist will examine your mouth and may take a few X-rays to better understand what is going on. If necessary, during your emergency dental Colorado Springs visit, the tooth could be extracted if the damage is too severe.

Lost Crowns and Fillings

It is possible for fillings to fall out and crowns to loosen. If this does happen, it’s going to put the rest of your tooth at high risk for damage and advanced decay. If the crown, whether temporary or permanent, is dislodged, try to salvage it. You could potentially set it back over the tooth until you’re able to get to your dentist.

No matter your need, our dental patients in Colorado Springs, CO, can trust in our compassionate expertise. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment today.