How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

how often should i change my toothbrush?

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

How often should you change your toothbrush?  If you’ve been brushing your teeth with the same instrument for several months, it’s probably time for a change. In fact, our dentist Colorado Springs explains that regularly replacing your old toothbrush with a new one may keep you healthy. Plus,l it guarantees that you’re getting the most out of your brushing sessions. But how often should you change your toothbrush? Our dentist in Colorado Springs explains below.

Replacing Your Toothbrush

Dr. Boals, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. One of the reasons you should replace your toothbrush after this period is that the bristles lose their cleaning effectiveness. They could drop out or change shape. When the bristles get spread, they lose their energy. Frayed bristles do not efficiently reach the areas between the teeth and along the gum line.

Additionally, germs can also be found on toothbrushes. While viruses are unlikely to make you sick again, bacteria can live on the bristles. When you load up on toothpaste, those bacteria can move to the tube, making other people in the house sick if you share toothpaste.

When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush More Frequently?

In rare circumstances, they are replacing your toothbrush more frequently than every 12 to 16 weeks may be necessary. Some people opt to wash their teeth with great vigor. They may clean their teeth after each meal or consume a sweet snack. Brushing your teeth more than twice a day can cause your toothbrush to decay faster.

You might be tempted to use your electric toothbrush to the fullest extent possible. Our dental office in Colorado Springs explains that this is because the heads are typically more expensive than disposable alternatives. However, if you do not change the tool within the suggested time limit, it will not function properly.

Also, our friend Dr. Helgerson, dentist in Grand Junction, explains that if someone in the family is unwell, you should also consider tossing away everyone’s toothbrush. You’re unlikely to reinfect yourself if you use the same toothbrush you used when you had a cold or another virus. In addition, most people acquire antibodies to an illness, making it less likely that they would contract the same disease again soon after renting it.

On the other hand, cold and flu viruses can live on a toothbrush for up to three days. You can spread germs by keeping your toothbrush in the same cup as the rest of the family’s toothbrushes.

Furthermore, germs can survive on a toothbrush longer than viruses. One bacteria-caused ailment is strep throat. Once you’ve been on antibiotics for 24 hours, your chances of passing the sickness on are usually reduced. However, bacteria on your toothbrush may stay. If you have strep throat or another bacterial infection, throw away your toothbrush to avoid reinfecting yourself after you’ve finished your antibiotics.

When Should You Throw Away Your Toothbrush?

If you inspect your toothbrush after each usage, you’ll notice when it starts to deteriorate. Maintain your focus on the bristles. They should be elastic and sturdy while remaining soft. In addition, they must be robust enough to remove food particles and plaque.

When the bristles stop bouncing back to their former shape, it’s time to throw out the toothbrush. Toss that toothbrush if the hairs are no longer straight and stiff.

Inspect the Cleanliness

It would help if you also inspected the cleanliness of the area. For example, if you don’t thoroughly rinse your toothbrush, toothpaste residue might accumulate at the base of the bristles or along with the handle. This muck has the potential to trap microorganisms and make you sick. Replace your toothbrush if it is no longer as fresh as it once was.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Today

If you have questions about your dental health, please don’t hesitate to contact our team! We are here for you and can answer any questions you may have. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today.

What Are Dental Veneers?

what are dental veneers?

What Are Dental Veneers?

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells. They are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance. Additionally, they are usually constructed of porcelain or a resin-composite material and are permanently attached to your teeth. Our cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs explains that this is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. Below, Dr. Johnson answers the question, “what are dental veneers?”

What Are Dental Veneers Colorado Springs Used For? 

Dr. Johnson, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, explains that veneers can be used to correct various cosmetic issues. For example, they can fix chipped, fractured or discolored teeth. Additionally, multiple veneers can be placed at once to redo your entire smile. Our dentist near me explains that some people may only need one veneer to repair a cracked or chipped tooth. However, others may require six to eight veneers to achieve an equal, symmetrical smile. Commonly, the top front eight teeth are the teeth that we work with the most. 

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers refers to the material we use to construct the veneer. Our cosmetic dentist Colorado Springs CO explains that dental veneers are typically constructed of porcelain. Thus, they require extensive prep work. 

Some dentists will start by grinding down your teeth. However, please don’t worry. We do not grind them down too much – we use this to fit the veneer and take an impression of the tooth to create the mold. Then, the mod will be sent to a lab. Here, the porcelain veneer is created.

What are the Advantages of Using Dental Veneers?

The most obvious advantage of veneers is that they improve the appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter and more even smile. Dental veneers are frequently used to correct the following cosmetic issues:

  • Teeth that are cracked or chipped
  • Teeth with significant discoloration or uneven coloring that cannot be corrected with whitening gaps in the teeth smaller-than-average teeth pointed or strangely shaped teeth
  • Depending on the type of veneer you pick, veneers can last for more than a decade, making them an investment that can boost your confidence in your smile.

How to Care for Your Veneers After They’ve Been Installed

In contrast to other dental treatments, the recovery time is relatively short. Instead, after the veneers have been bonded in place and any anesthetics have worn off, you can eat and chew normally. Avoid biting on your cheeks or tongue while the anesthesia is wearing off.

Our dentist Colorado Springs explains that you may notice that the veneers feel a little harsh just after they are put in certain situations. These rough patches (typically caused by additional cement adhering to the veneer) fade away after a few days of normal eating and brushing. If they don’t, your dentist will be able to smooth them out.

Below, we got with our friend, Dr. Eastham, cosmetic dentist in Grand Junction CO, to put together a list of what not to do when you have new veneers.

  • Avoid chewing on harsh objects such as pens, ice, or your fingernails.
  • Never open a package with your teeth.
  • Avoid chewing with your front teeth. Eat harder meals only with your back teeth; chop up hard foods to make this possible.
  • Get a splint or retainer to safeguard your veneers if you grind or clench your teeth at night.
  • Wear a mouth guard if you participate in sports.
  • You should acquire a mouth guard or retainer if you grind or clench your teeth.

Contact Dr. Boals and Dr. Johnson For Cosmetic Dentistry in Colorado Springs

Ready to get started with veneers? We’re here to help makeover your smile. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today to craft the smile of your dreams!

Signs of an Abscessed Tooth

Signs of An Abscessed Tooth - Colorado Springs

Signs of an Abscessed Tooth

Most Common Signs of an Abscessed Tooth

One of the most common reasons people seek emergency dental care is because they have an abscessed tooth. If this dental problem isn’t treated right away, it can have serious consequences for both oral and overall health. Avoiding serious, long-term oral health issues starts with knowing the warning signs of an abscessed tooth. Please continue reading this article to learn more about a tooth infection or abscessed tooth.

More About a Tooth Abscess

As we mentioned above, an abscessed tooth is a serious and painful dental emergency. An abscess is a bacterial infection that produces pus. Additionally, it causes pain and swelling and must be treated right away. Blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue are all found in the tooth’s root, where the infection occurs. An abscess can form between the gum and the tooth as well, but this is rare.

Colorado Springs dentists explain that in the majority of cases, tooth abscesses are the result of advanced decay or damage to the tooth. Furthermore, this may be the result of an infected chipped or broken tooth, worn enamel that allows bacteria to enter the tooth, or an untreated dental cavity. Periodontal (gum) disease that is left untreated for a long time can lead to an abscess, especially if it has progressed to the advanced stage, which is called periodontitis. It is possible that the infection from the abscessed tooth could have reached nearby bone, which could result in tooth loss or even spread to other parts of the body when left untreated.

Signs You Might Have an Abscessed Tooth

If you have a tooth abscess, contact a Colorado Springs emergency dentist right away so that the infection does not spread. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you may have a tooth abscess.

  • Pain is excruciating 
  • Fever
  • Swelling of the gums 
  • Redness of the gums
  • Soreness of the gums
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks
  • Sore on the gums
  • Bad taste in your mouth

How to Treat a Tooth Abscess 

Tooth abscess treatment will be tailored to meet your individual requirements, but in most cases, a combination of the following treatments will be recommended by Dr. Cody Boals or Dr. Alexa Johnson.

Get Rid of the Extra Pus

Draining an abscessed or infected tooth is the most effective treatment. The pus can be drained by making a small incision in the abscess. The dentist may also debride the infected area and use saline to irrigate or wash it. Debridement is the process of removing diseased or dead tissue from an area of the body.

Take Directed Antibiotics

Draining an abscess isn’t always simple, and sometimes it isn’t even possible. Dental infections can counteract the effects of local anesthetics, making it difficult to completely sedate the patient before treatment. Lower molars infected with a serious infection are particularly difficult to numb. When this occurs, a patient must be given an antibiotic to help fight the infection so that local anesthetics will work properly. Our friend Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, says that patients won’t be able to undergo antibiotics until they’ve seen their dentist for a consultation first. Additionally, antibiotics are one of your best bets to fighting off a tooth infection.

Root Canal Therapy 

When the nerve, arterial and vein center of the tooth root is removed, a root canal is performed in the dentist’s office. A root canal can help remove infection and drain an abscess from a tooth that’s infected. The tooth is restored with a crown after the infection has healed in order to increase the tooth’s strength and prolong its life.

Tooth Extraction

If the infected tooth cannot be saved, the abscess will be drained, and the infection will be healed by extracting it to promote healing.

Is an Abscessed Tooth a Dental Emergency?

A tooth abscess necessitates immediate dental attention. If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, see a dentist right away. Abscesses, if left untreated, can cause infection to spread throughout the body, posing serious health risks. Taking care of these problems as soon as possible is crucial!

When to Contact a Colorado Springs Dentist

If you experience any of the above-mentioned signs of an abscessed tooth, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. We will do everything we can to accommodate you on the same day. Our dentists may even recommend that you come to the office after hours because of the risks of a tooth abscess. Take action as soon as you feel pain or an infection starting to spread. Seek assistance as soon as possible.

Our dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry treats patients with dental emergencies on a daily basis. Patients with dental infections who are in pain can receive emergency dental care from us the same day. Many of our emergency dentistry patients are first-time visitors to our dental office, and we welcome them with open arms! Contact our Colorado Springs dental office right away if you need an emergency dentist.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

What to Expect During a Root Canal - Colorado Springs

What to Expect During a Root Canal

What to Expect During a Root Canal in Colorado Springs

Root canals really aren’t as bad as everyone thinks they are. In fact, root canals are the actual treatment for the pain caused by the tooth infection. If you’re getting nervous about your upcoming root canal therapy, consider reading the blog below where Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson discuss what to expect during a root canal. Please contact us if you need a Colorado Springs emergency dentist.

What Exactly Is a Root Canal?

Although most people have heard of root canals, not everyone understands what they are or why they are necessary. As we mentioned before, a root canal is used to treat a decaying or infected tooth. The damaged nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of your tooth is completely cleaned and sealed. If you don’t receive a root canal and your tooth becomes infected, it might develop into a tooth abscess. Treatment is key to stopping the tooth infection. Patients who do not undergo treatment may experience face swelling, bone loss, pain, and tooth loss. 

What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?

It is normal to be concerned before a dental procedure, especially if you are unfamiliar with the technique. From start to completion, here’s what to expect during a root canal:

Beginning Stage 

  • An x-ray of your tooth and gums is taken. Your Colorado Springs dentist examines the contour of your root canal and checks for bone infection.
  • A topical anesthetic is applied to your gums. This is mere to make you feel more at ease. Because the nerve in your tooth is likely to be dead, any pain should be mild.
  • To keep the region dry and prevent saliva from entering, a rubber dam is placed around your teeth.
  • To access the root canal, a hole will be bored into your tooth.

Clean-up Stage

  • Your dentist will remove the pulp, decaying nerve tissue, germs, and debris from the root canal. This is referred to as a pulpectomy.
  • Your tooth will be cleaned thoroughly by Dr. Boals or Dr. Johnson.
  • The following procedure is to close the root canal. This is frequently done on the same visit using sealer paste and a rubber compound. If you have an infection, it may be necessary to treat it first, which will necessitate a follow-up appointment for the sealer. In such a case, a temporary filling will be applied.
  • After the root canal has been sealed, a filling is placed in the access hole that was previously drilled.

Final Stage

  • Finally, this stae is normally performed several weeks after the initial root canal. Because your remaining tooth is likely weaker or decaying, it must be protected. A crown can be fitted over an existing tooth.
  • While a root canal is a frequent and perfectly safe procedure, you may want to discuss your alternatives to alleviate any anxieties or fears. Dental sedation can be as simple as breathing nitrous oxide while the operation is being performed, or you may choose to inquire about oral sedative options.

Following the Procedure

You should not feel any pain during root canal therapy. Additionally, our friend Dr. Wade, a dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, says that you may suffer tooth sensitivity after your root canal procedure. This could be due to gum inflammation, the now-healing infection, or any earlier pain you experienced. An over-the-counter pain reliever would most likely suffice, but consult your dentist first. Also, if the pain worsens or the prescription does not relieve it, consult your dentist. Here are more post root canal tips.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

Brush and floss twice a day and see your dentist for regular checkups to avoid root canals. However, if you must undergo a root canal, make sure you understand what to expect. If you’re worried about the treatment, ask about our sedation dentistry options to help you relax. A root canal does not have to be something you dread. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today!

Strengthen Your Smile With Porcelain Veneers

Strengthen Your Teeth With Porcelain Veneers - colorado springs

Strengthen Your Smile With Porcelain Veneers

Why You Should Strengthen Your Smile With Porcelain Veneers

When you hear about cosmetic dentistry, you often hear about the wonderful smile transformations. Patients can improve the appearance of their smile with so many different cosmetic dentistry options. Porcelain veneers are easily one of the most popular, and for a good reason. So, why porcelain veneers? Well, they offer so many benefits, and the patients can achieve their smile goals. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is happy to help you decide which option is best for you. In this article, our Colorado Springs dentists share why you should strengthen your teeth with porcelain veneers. 

Porcelain Veneers

Patients love coming to our dental office in Colorado Springs because our veneers are porcelain. This not only strengthens your teeth but also gives you a cohesive-looking smile. You can choose the size, shape, and color of your veneers. Patients who have significantly stained front teeth, gaps, and chips in their teeth may be candidates for porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers may also go on after root canals.

Root Canals

Patients who require root canals on their front teeth frequently experience dental damage. Trauma to the tooth raises the likelihood of a root problem in the future. Regrettably, dentists cannot foresee when a patient will require root canal therapy. Our dentists usually use dental crowns to replace teeth that have received root canal therapy, but front teeth are a little different. When a front tooth requires a root canal, the entire crown of the tooth does not need to be replaced. The downside with this method is that the enamel often fades away, leaving the tooth practically transparent. Enamel wears down to the point that the tooth chips or even breaks in patients who have undergone root canals on their front teeth. Additionally, patients who clench or grind their teeth are also more likely to damage their front teeth. Veneers are the most effective technique to restore function and attractiveness to your front teeth.

How Porcelain Veneers Work

Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson can complete your veneers in two simple appointments. To make the restoration fit naturally, they first prepare the teeth by removing a little piece of the enamel. They take impressions for the permanent restoration after they have prepared the teeth. The permanent veneers are subsequently applied by bonding the restorations to the teeth. Your new teeth will seamlessly blend in with your natural teeth. Our friend, Dr. Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, points out that porcelain veneers cannot stain. So, you can achieve a bright, beautiful smile for many years to come! 

Other Advantages of Porcelain Veneers

  • Stronger Teeth – The most significant advantage for patients with weak enamel is that veneers strengthen the teeth. You can avoid having damaged teeth when you choose to strengthen your teeth with porcelain veneers.
  • Veneers Are a Great Investment – Although veneers can be pricy, they last for a very long time. Veneers can last from 10-20 years, depending on if you take care of them. 

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

Dental veneers are a great way to enhance your smile. Call us now to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry options. You can also save time by completing our virtual dental consultation. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Invisalign vs. Braces

Invisalign vs. Braces - Colorado Springs Co

Invisalign vs. Braces

Comparing Invisalign vs. Braces in Colorado Springs

For many years, traditional metal braces have been used to correct teeth. However, Invisalign clear aligners have become very popular. Invisalign aligners are more expensive than traditional braces, but because they provide key benefits, traditional braces do not offer. Our Colorado Springs dentists offer Invisalign or Clear Correct aligners at our dental office. In this article, we compare the pros and cons of Invisalign vs. braces.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better?

Many people who are considering orthodontic treatment wonder if Invisalign works as well as traditional braces. Invisalign has been successfully straightening smiles for over 20 years. As more advanced dental technology continues to come out, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry can solve about 95% of dental problems just by using Invisalign. As we mentioned before, traditional braces are the more affordable option. Additionally, our friend Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence, NJ, points out that some patients are not the right candidate for Invisalign or braces. You can always set up a virtual dental consultation with one of our doctors. We will help you decide which treatment is best for you. 

Advantages of Invisalign

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, the benefits of Invisalign outweigh those of traditional braces. Some of these advantages include:

  • Subtle treatment. 
  • No brackets or wires are needed.
  • Easily removable for eating, drinking, and brushing teeth.
  • There are no dietary restrictions during therapy.
  • Custom aligners are more comfortable.

Brace Advantages

  • Fixes all dental imperfections
  • There are several to pick from, including lingual and ceramic.
  • Customization for brackets and bands.

Cons of Invisalign

  • Invisalign transparent aligners are a commitment. Patients must wear their aligners for 22 hours a day until treatment is over.
  • If aligners are not properly cared for, they can be lost.
  • Only approximately 5% of severe cases can be treated (but can correct more than 95 percent )

Braces Drawbacks

  • When speaking, smiling, or taking photographs, braces are very evident.
  • Brushing and flossing properly is tough, which can result in stains and other oral hygiene difficulties.
  • There are a variety of food restrictions, including popular snacks such as popcorn, chewing gum, and hard candies.
  • Require frequent visits to the dentist
  • Broken brackets and other mishaps necessitate further orthodontist visits.
  • Furthermore, patients may cut their mouths on their brackets when doing activities.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry 

So, which option is for me? Invisalign vs. Braces. Ultimately, Invisalign and traditional braces both offer so many benefits. Since every smile is different, one treatment might be better than the other. If you’d like to have the perfect smile, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO. Our team is happy to see you for an Invisalign consultation. Contact us today!

 

Celebrate National Gum Care Month

gum care month - colorado spring, co

Celebrating Gum Care Month

 

Celebrating Gum Care Month with Colorado Springs Dentists

Preventative dentistry is a priority for us at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Our Colorado Springs dentists always encourage our patients to practice good oral health habits. In honor of September being National Gum Care Month, we are sharing a few ways you can improve your gum health. 

About Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a long-term infection of your gums. Without treatment early on, it causes loss of gum tissue, underlying bone, and, eventually, tooth loss. By the age of 45, more than 80% of Americans have some kind of gum disease. Fortunately, gum disease can easily be prevented. 

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease can go without being noticed in the early stages, which is why it’s important to take care of your teeth daily. Some of the early signs of gum disease include: 

  • Swollen/red gums
  • Sensitivity to hot/cold drinks or foods
  • Receding gums
  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing teeth
  • Shifts in your smile

How to Care For Your Mouth & Avoid Gum Disease

  • Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Sticky plaque constantly forms on the teeth, and if left there, it quickly hardens into tartar. This is a hard substance that can only be removed by your hygienist. Plaque and tartar can contribute to gum disease.
  • Floss on a regular basis. In this case, regularly should be understood as “every day.” Brushing your teeth removes plaque, but only floss can clean in between teeth.
  • To remove tiny particles and minimize plaque, our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, recommends using mouthwash. Mouthwash does not replace brushing and flossing, but when used in conjunction with other healthy practices, it can help to freshen breath, eradicate bacteria, and keep teeth strong.
  • Consume a well-balanced diet. A nutritious, balanced diet high in vitamins and nutrients and low in sugar will help your immune system fight off harmful bacteria, inflammation, and illness. Remember to eat your greens if you want to keep your teeth white!
  • Every six months, visit your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, for a thorough cleaning. Dr. Boals or Dr. Johnson can also examine your teeth and gums and recommend you to a periodontist if you have any concerns. It is critical to treat gum disease as soon as possible. If left untreated, it can ruin teeth, gums, bones, and connective tissue, as well as contribute to a number of health issues. So, plan an appointment with your dentist at least twice a year.

Dangers of Plaque

Plaque is the most common cause of gum disease. Furthermore, the bacteria in plaque create toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. They may cause them to enlarge, grow red, and bleed easily. Plaque can also solidify into calculus – or tartar — a harsh, porous substance. This can happen above or below the gum line. Periodontal disease degrades the supporting gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place. Ultimately, it leads to permanent bone and tooth loss. 

Contact Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is happy to help you improve your oral health. One of the best things you can do is schedule a professional cleaning and exam. Catching gum disease early on will ensure that your teeth are happy and healthy. Schedule your appointment today! 

Temporary Crown Post-Op Instructions

temporary crown post-op instructions - Colorado Springs CO

Temporary Crown Post-Op Instructions

Temporary Crown Post-Op Instructions From Colorado Springs Dentist

Need a dental crown? Your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, will need to put a temporary crown on first until your custom, permanent crown is made. Below, Dr. Cody Boals shares temporary crown post-op instructions. 

Temporary Crowns Must-Knows

So, if you have a temporary crown on right now, know that it’s there to protect your tooth until your permanent crown is ready. There is a possibility for your temporary to come off, so we are giving you a few tips and tricks to stop your temporary crown from coming off.  Watch our YouTube video to hear from Dr. Cody Boals. 

Brushing and Flossing

Dr. Boals recommends brushing normally around that area. But when you floss, go towards the gum line instead of coming back up or coming down – pull it right through. This will prevent the crown from popping up when you’re flossing. 

Broken Temporary Crown

So another thing that can happen is that temporary can crack. The temporary crown is made of acrylic, not the hard material your permanent crown is made out of. So, if it does crack, if it does pop off, if you’re eating sticky foods, or it just pops off, just give us a call. Don’t freak out. It’s not an emergency, but we’ll get you in right away to get that area cover back up and protected. So, wait on hard or sticky foods until we have the permanent crown on. If your permanent crown does fall off, contact an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs.

Permanent Dental Crown

Your temporary crown placement will get fitted in about two weeks from your first visit. Please don’t hesitate to contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry if you have any questions or concerns about your temporary crown post-op instructions. 

How Dental Crowns Work

how dental crowns work - Colorado Springs, CO

How Dental Crowns Work

How Dental Crowns Work To Save Your Tooth

It’s natural for you to feel a little nervous when your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, recommends a dental crown. However, once you understand how a dental crown works, you’ll discover you have nothing to be worried about. In fact, dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments available. Below, Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson share how dental crowns work to save your tooth from further damage. 

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the tooth’s base. Most dentists provide a porcelain dental crown because it blends seamlessly with natural teeth. Dental crowns are extremely popular because they can solve many dental problems: 

  • Cracked Tooth
  • Decayed Tooth
  • Post root canal therapy
  • Post dental implant placement
  • Want to aesthetically improve your smile

Dental Crown Placement

Now that you understand how a dental crown works and what purpose it serves, it is time to become acquainted with the procedure. A dental crown is typically placed over the course of two appointment visits. Your Colorado Springs dentists will examine and prepare the tooth at the initial visit. Depending on the circumstances, you may be subjected to a series of X-rays. If you have an infection or substantial tooth decay, a root canal may be required before a dental crown may be set.

After numbing your gum tissue and tooth, your dentist will begin filing down the surface and sides of the damaged tooth. Note that you should feel any discomfort. To effectively support the crown, your dentist may use a filling.

After the tooth has been reshaped, your dentist will add putty, then place your temporary crown. Be gentle with your temporary crown and avoid chewing on ice or eating sticky foods.

Your dentist will place the permanent dental crown during your second visit. Dr. Boals or Dr. J will numb the area again before placing the final crown. Our friend, Dr. Wade, a dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, says that it’s normal to not feel used to your dental crown for the first few days. You’ll feel back to normal in no time. 

Maintaining Dental Crowns

Your new dental crown can last you from 5 to 15 years. You don’t need any additional maintenance. Continue to brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist’s office. Most patients don’t have any problems with their dental crowns. If you have the habit of chewing on hard or sticky foods, it is possible that the crown breaks. If this happens, contact an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs. 

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

Understanding how a dental crown functions can help to calm your nerves. The treatment is completely painless and can prevent additional dental problems from developing. If you’re looking for a dentist in Colorado Springs, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today! Additionally, we offer virtual dental consultations to all of our patients! 

Post Root Canal Tips

post root canal tips - Colorado Springs

Post Root Canal Tips

Post Root Canal Tips to a Fast Recovery

A root canal is a treatment to repair and save a damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it. If you’ve just had a root canal, congratulations! You go through it. Root canals often get a bad rap on TV shows and commercials because patients are in pain. However, this is not the case because root canals are the procedure we use to get you out of pain. In the article below, Dr. Cody Boals shares what you can expect over the next couple of days and weeks. 

Post Root Canal: Days After

So after any surgical procedure, you can expect to be sore for a few days. Dr. Boals says you can expect some discomfort around the tooth and maybe even way down at the tooth. This can go on until that area is healed and that infection is 100% cleared. It’s nothing too bad. Just expect a little bit of soreness in that area.

Post Root Canal with Dental Crown 

If you’ve had a dental crown does as well, you’ll want to avoid chewing on that tooth. That area might take at least seven to 10 days to start feeling normal again. Stay on top of your pain medication. Dr. Boals recommends taking ibuprofen 600 milligrams every six hours. You can also add Tylenol. You can do 500 milligrams at that same time.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

Root canals are done all the time by your Coloraod Springs dentists. If you have any questions or concerns about this treatment, please contact our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO. Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson are happy to help. Please subscribe to our YouTube Channel to stay informed on our latest tips and tricks.