Root Canal vs. Extraction

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Root Canal vs. Extraction

The Difference Between a Root Canal vs. Extraction

Tooth decay is one of the biggest problems in dentistry. Lack of good oral hygiene will likely lead to cavities, tooth decay, and tooth infections. If there ever comes a time where you experience excruciating tooth pain, you will need to see an emergency dentist ASAP. The best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, will either recommend a root canal or a tooth extraction. Keep in mind that Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson will do everything in their power to save your natural teeth. If your tooth is beyond repair, your Colorado Springs dentists may recommend a tooth extraction. So, which is better? In this article, we break down the difference between a root canal vs. extraction. 

Do I Need a Tooth Extraction? 

When it comes to fixing an infected tooth, a tooth extraction may appear to be the simplest alternative. However, tooth extractions are a permanent solution. Most dentists in Colorado Springs will recommend anything else before pulling a tooth. Of course, we want the best for our patients, which is why we will weigh out the pros and cons of each treatment. If you’ve never had a tooth extraction before, here’s what to expect.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure

The Kissing Camels team will use one of our sleep dentistry options during the tooth extraction to ensure the patient is fully comfortable. Our goal is to get your tooth out pain-free. Our dentists should be able to complete your extraction in one visit (unless it’s more complicated). Keep in mind that it’s completely normal to feel some discomfort after the extraction, says Dr. Boals.

What Are the Dangers of Tooth Extraction?

There are some situations where a tooth extraction is absolutely necessary. However, in some cases, an extraction can make the problem worse. After the tooth has been pulled, you will have an empty area in your mouth. Therefore, this can be a breeding ground for bacteria/cavities and cause infections that spread swiftly to adjacent teeth, resulting in a chain of extractions.

Not to mention that a lost tooth complicates matters for the teeth around it. Other teeth will receive any muscular support and may become weak or shift in the mouth. This can lead to congestion, crowding, and misalignment of the teeth. One loose tooth can induce other teeth to follow suit, and before long, all of your teeth may be loose and begin to fall off or become infected. Talk to your dentist in Colorado Springs about what they recommend. It’s okay to get a few opinions about your smile. To help save you a visit to our office, we now offer virtual dental consultations. Find out what our dental professionals recommend!

The Root Canal Procedure Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction

A root canal has a higher success rate than a tooth extraction because there are few to no long-term consequences. Dentists perform root canals to clean and mend diseased teeth. There is no need to extract the infected tooth with root canal therapy.

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canals are often misunderstood. Many patients have the misconception that root canals are painful. In reality, the tooth infection is what’s painful. Once the tooth’s root has been restored, the pain will disappear. If your tooth is damaged due to decay but is repairable, your dentist will recommend root canal therapy. The process begins with X-rays. Here, we see the severity of the infection as well as the number of teeth infected. Once we’ve determined that root canal therapy is the better option, we will place rubber or vinyl over the neighboring teeth. This is done to keep the infection from spreading.

A hole is then drilled into the tooth. Then your dentist will remove infected pulp as well as any dead tissues. The whole will be filled with a filling or dental crown so that the tooth is fully functioning again. Your dentist may recommend antibiotics or pain relievers post-surgery. 

What Are the Dangers?

If root canal therapy is not performed correctly, the enamel may be damaged. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist Grand Junction, CO, highly recommends seeing an experienced professional. A root canal gone wrong can be extremely painful. 

Which is Better: Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?

A root canal is a superior solution for many dental offices. However, in extreme circumstances, tooth extraction is the only alternative. These restorative dentistry treatments both have advantages and disadvantages, so they will rely on your total oral history and process preference. If you’re experiencing tooth decay, please contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. We’re happy to take a look and recommend the best treatment plan for your unique smile.

Types of Dental Restorations

types of dental restorations - Colorado Springs CO

Types of Dental Restorations

Dental restoration is usually done to restore missing, damaged, or decayed teeth. Restorative dentistry offers a few approaches for dealing with these types of dental issues. Below, our Colorado Springs dentists share some popular types of dental restorations. 

Dental Crowns

Crowns in Colorado Springs are used to restore broken, cracked, or chipped teeth to their original height. Dental crowns can meet your esthetic and functional needs by replacing teeth weakened by normal wear and tear caused by aging and tooth grinding.

When it comes to dental restorations, on lays provide far more coverage than fillings or inlays. Colorado Springs dentists use an impression of the mouth to develop them in the dental lab. They are often referred to as partial crowns because they protect a significant portion of a damaged tooth without completely covering it. Their primary function is to protect and restore teeth with a custom-designed tooth, similar to a fitted cap.

Bridges 

Dentists in Colorado Springs use partial dentures, dental implants, and dental bridges to repair damaged teeth that would otherwise have a major effect on the appearance and function of your teeth. One or more missing teeth may cause other teeth to move. Our friend, Dr. Kim, a general dentist in Lexington, KY, says this may cause a change in the bite that can impair your ability to chew or speak. 

Dental Bonding

This type of dental restoration is affordable and effective. Dental bonding is used to temporarily fix dental imperfections like cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. Dental bonding can be completed in just one visit to our dental office in Colorado Springs. Ask your dentist if bonding is the right treatment for you. 

Veneers

Dental veneers are extremely effective when it comes to restoring your smile. They are a form of dental prosthetic that is used for cosmetic purposes. They are most often made of porcelain ceramic, but resin may be used as well. Veneers are wafer-thin shells designed to “cap” teeth and conceal several cosmetic flaws such as chips, stains, unevenly spaced, discolored, or gapped teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants may be the only option in some cases. A single implant can replace a single missing tooth, while multiple implants can support a dental bridge to replace multiple missing teeth. These tooth-shaped dental prosthetics are often used to repair teeth that have been cracked or decayed. After a root canal, a dental crown may protect the underlying tooth structure from further damage. Your dentist will make sure to match your crown with your natural teeth perfectly.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

If you have missing, damaged, or decayed teeth, you should consider these types of dental restorations. Before starting restorative dentistry, you should contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for a consultation. Our team will assess your smile and recommend the best treatment plan. Don’t hide your smile any longer. Call us today!

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. 

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

Do I need root canal therapy?

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

If you’re experiencing a severe toothache, you may be wondering if you need root canal therapy. So, how do you know if you need professional dental care? If you are in excruciating pain, contact Kissing Camels Dentistry for emergency dentistry services in Colorado Springs. Dr. Boals will get you in for a quick examination and let you know what the best solution is. That said, several signs can point you to the possibility that you may need to undergo root canal therapy. The following are some of those signs.

Persistent Tooth Pain

If you feel tooth pain even when you chew or drink a beverage, you will likely need root canal therapy. Don’t panic. 

Dr. Boals will examine your tooth and find out the root cause of the pain. If your dentist in Colorado Springs finds that the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth are infected and inflamed, he will perform a root canal and prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection. 

A Cracked or Chipped Tooth

Your tooth is more likely to chip or crack during contact sports or eating hard foods. No matter what the cause, the nerves inside your cracked or chipped tooth could get exposed and develop an infection. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown KY, agrees that a tooth infection like this will cause intense pain. If left untreated, the germs could migrate to other parts of the body and cause systemic problems. Root canal therapy performed at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will eliminate the infection before it gets worse.

Sensitivity to Cold and Heat

Another sign that you may need root canal therapy is sensitivity to hot and cold. What begins as a dull ache when you take a hot cup of tea or coffee can intensify into excruciating pain. The same happens when you drink or eat something cold.

A Colorado Springs root canal procedure may be needed to put an end to this sensitivity and allow you to eat and drink normally again.

Dark Tooth Discoloration

Several factors can cause a tooth to become discolored. For example, poor oral hygiene, pigmented drinks, foods, and even nerve damage inside the tooth can all cause dark discoloration.

If it is confirmed that the discoloration is due to nerve damage, our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will schedule root canal therapy so that we can save your tooth and remove all the damaged nerves.

Prolonged Sensitivity

If a tooth hurts each time you bite down, you might want to see Dr. Boals. Prolonged sensitivity is normally linked to root damage. 

When the root of a tooth is damaged, and no amount of waiting will make the sensitivity go away. You’ll need to book a consultation at our Colorado Springs office so that Dr. Boals can determine the best way to resolve the issue. Root canal therapy is one of the options most likely to be recommended in this case.

Deep Decay

You may need to undergo root canal therapy if deep decay has affected the root of your tooth. Unfortunately, mouthwash, flossing, and brushing will not reverse the decay. A root canal may be the only and best treatment option available at this point.

If you believe that you are in need of a root canal, seek professional help before it’s too late. Our team over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will make your root canal experience quick and painless. Call our dental office in Colorado Springs to get your root canal consultation scheduled today!

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.