Dental Emergency Prevention Tips

Dental Emergency Prevention Tips

Dental Emergency Prevention Tips

Dental Emergency Prevention Tips: What You Need to Know

Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and they can often be quite unexpected. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a cracked tooth, or a lost filling, dental emergencies can be painful, and inconvenient. If left untreated, they can often lead to more serious dental problems. That’s why it’s important to take preventative measures to minimize your risk of experiencing a dental emergency. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to prevent dental emergencies, so you can protect your teeth and stay healthy.

Practice good oral hygiene

One of the simplest ways to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove the harmful bacteria and plaque that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and healthy.

Wear a mouthguard during sports activities

If you participate in sports or other physical activities that pose a risk of dental injury, be sure to wear a properly fitting mouthguard. These devices can help protect your teeth and prevent them from being chipped, cracked, or knocked out during contact sports. Even non-contact sports, such as surfing or skateboarding, can result in dental injuries. It’s important to take the necessary precautions to prevent dental injuries from happening. 

Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods

Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can cause damage to your teeth, especially if they’re already weakened or compromised. Avoid eating hard candies, popcorn kernels, ice cubes, and other similar foods that can chip, crack, or break your teeth. Instead, opt for softer, easier-to-chew foods like yogurt, soups, and cooked vegetables.

Schedule regular dental check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health and detecting problems before they escalate into more serious dental emergencies. Your dentist can assess the condition of your teeth and gums, identify potential problems, and recommend preventive measures to keep your teeth and gums healthy. In addition, routine cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that can build up over time.

Keep dental emergency supplies on hand

Despite your best efforts to prevent dental emergencies, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s important to be prepared by keeping a dental emergency kit on hand. This kit should include gauze, a small container with a lid, over-the-counter pain relievers, and the contact information for your dentist. If a dental emergency does occur, you’ll be able to take immediate action and get the help you need.

In conclusion, dental emergencies can be a real pain, but they don’t have to be inevitable. By following these prevention tips, you can minimize your risk of experiencing a dental emergency and protect your overall oral health. Of course, it’s always a good idea to have a trusted and experienced dentist on hand, who you can rely on in case of an emergency. If you’re in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and you’re looking for a dentist you can trust, contact us at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry. Our team will be happy to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy for years to come.

Gentle Tooth Extractions in Colorado Springs

Gentle Tooth Extractions in Colorado Springs

Gentle Tooth Extractions

Gentle Tooth Extractions in Colorado Springs

To begin, tooth extractions are a dental operation that is carried out when one or more teeth must be extracted from the mouth. In fact, the majority of teeth pulled are those that are irreparably damaged, as our dentist Colorado Springs will always try to save your natural tooth. However, if you need gentle tooth extractions in Colorado Springs, we’re here to help. 

What Are the Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction?

Below, our Colorado Springs CO dentist shares the common reasons for a tooth extraction. 

Overcrowding

Overcrowding may necessitate the extraction of one or more teeth in order for the remaining teeth to grow properly. During treatment, a tooth (or many teeth) may need to be extracted in order to straighten up the rest of the teeth. Also, this can provide a way for them all to move into their proper positions.

Harm or Decay

One of the most common causes for tooth extraction is that the tooth has been damaged beyond the point where the emergency dental Colorado Springs can repair it. Then. extraction is frequently required. Oftentimes, an implant, bridge, or other device is inserted in the place of the missing tooth/teeth.

Replacement Required

If a tooth becomes chipped or cracked to the extent that it cannot be healed, it may need to be pulled. Our dentist in Colorado Springs explains that the tooth would then need to be replaced with an implant or a dental bridge.

Wisdom Teeth 

Wisdom teeth often emerge between the ages of 17 and 24. Not everyone is born with the bud structure that allows them to grow wisdom teeth. Some people may have up to four wisdom teeth. In fact, in the back of the mouth, one will develop behind each tooth. Sometimes they grow in crooked (interfering with the other teeth) or cause pain, swelling, or discomfort. Then, in this case, the teeth must be extracted.

These are the most common reasons for tooth extraction. In some situations, a tooth may need to be extracted for more than one of the reasons listed above. Generally, extracting the tooth is the last resort when nothing more can be done to save it.

Pain Management Options

After having a tooth extracted, you may experience discomfort and soreness. Our friend Dr. Dave, dentist Easton PA, explains that he will give you pain medication to assist you to deal with the discomfort.  Having the prescription filled and using the prescribed medicine dosage can significantly minimize. Also, you can take this medicine for your pain in the days following the procedure.

Additionally, to keep food particles from entering into the area where your tooth was extracted, avoid chewing hard foods near the extraction site. For example, eating softer foods like mashed potatoes or even macaroni and cheese for a few days will be beneficial. For several days, avoid hot/spicy foods as well as alcohol. Also, to help keep the region around the pulled tooth from becoming infected, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of salt diluted in a cup.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry For Gentle Tooth Extractions

As you can see, a patient may require a tooth extraction for a variety of reasons. It may also be required to remove teeth to make room for a full arch of dentures. Thus, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry’s Dr. Boals and Dr. Johnson have significant experience doing gentle extractions, so you’ll be in good hands. Contact our team today. 

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

dental tips for thanksgiving

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends, family, and loved ones for a feast and to enjoy one other’s company. All of that tasty food is tempting, but you should be careful of the consequences it will have on your teeth in the long run. There are a few things to bear in mind if you want to do more for the well-being of your oral health. Today on the blog, our family dentist Colorado Springs shares dental tips for Thanksgiving.

Sweets Should Be Limited

First, our Colorado Springs dentist explains that sugary meals are among the worst for your enamel. For example, a slice of pumpkin pie after a meal is okay, but you must be careful not to overdo it. This is especially important because Thanksgiving involves a lot of leftovers. Additionally, make sure you don’t overindulge in sweets and candy over the holiday weekend without brushing your teeth afterwards.

Consume a Variety of Foods

Secondly, our emergency dental Colorado Springs team urges patients to  be sure that you get get a proper balance of food while you’re loading up your plate for the holiday feast. Make an effort to consume a variety of vegetables, fruits, carbs, and other vital dietary categories. Our neighbors at OG Dental Denver, Denver Highlands dentist, suggests that some foods, such as raw carrots, are really good for your teeth because they work as natural cleaning agents.

Have Your Toothbrush Ready

Additionally, if you’re going to see relatives, don’t forget to bring your toothbrush. If you forget it, you can acquire one at the airport or a local store. You don’t want to go a whole weekend without brushing your teeth thoroughly.

Avoid Snacking Between Meals

While everyone is focused on the main dinner, you should also be cautious of how much you snack during the weekend. It’s easy to consume a handful of little sweets or chips without recognizing how much you’re actually eating. As follows, exposing enamel to acidity on a regular basis might wear it down. Make sure you have plenty of time while you aren’t eating.

Although Thanksgiving is frequently linked with overindulging during a weekend, our Colorado Springs dental office urges you to always take care of your teeth. You may enjoy the holidays without worrying about your dental health if you take the necessary measures.

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving!

From the bottom of our hearts, we hope you all have a beautiful Thanksgiving holiday this year. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule your final teeth cleaning of 2021 today. 

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

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TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ Awareness -Dr. Boals

TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ Awareness Month As we all know, our jaw plays an important role in our daily lives, from speaking to chewing to drinking. However, you may occasionally find yourself in a significant deal of agony and anguish. If you have recurrent jaw discomfort, it could be an indication of a TMJ problem. Because November is TMJ Awareness Month, your Colorado Springs dentist, Dr. Cody Boals, is answering some of the most often asked questions concerning TMJ/TMD.

Understanding TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which usually functions as a sliding hinge, connecting to the jawbone and skull. The two joints are located on each side of your jaw. As follows, when these joints are working correctly, they work smoothly for various actions such as yawning, chewing, singing, swallowing, and talking. However, if they are not working seamlessly, you may experience some discomfort and, sometimes, pain.

TMJ disorders are problems of the jaw that may cause pain in your jaw joints as well as in the muscles that help in jaw movement. Thus, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as well as the best dentist in Colorado Springs, categorizes TMJ disorders in the following ways:

  • Myofascial pain – In most cases, this is usually the culprit. Myofascial pain causes pain or discomfort in the connective tissue that covers the muscles that control the neck, jaw, and shoulder function.
  • Degenerative Joint disease – This includes rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis in the jaw joint
  • Internal derangement of the joint – This means a displaced disk or a dislocated jaw. It may also mean injury to the condyle, the jaw bone which articulates with the temporal skull bone. 

It should be noted that an individual may have more than one of these conditions at the same time. If you’re experiencing any pain, be sure to contact an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, immediately.

What Are the Causes of TMJ disorder?

In most cases, the cause of TMD may be too much strain on the jaw joints as well as the muscle group that controls speech, chewing, and swallowing. Sometimes, the strain on your jaw joints maybe because of teeth grinding.

However, the single main cause of an individual’s TMD is not easy to determine as the pain may be caused by a jaw injury, trauma, stress, genetics, arthritis, poor posture, or misaligned teeth.

Other times, a different painful condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia, may also cause TMJ pain. It’s best to see your family dentist in Colorado Springs for a full mouth evaluation. 

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?

Below are the most common signs of TMJ disorder: 

  • Jaw soreness or discomfort. This is often during late afternoons or in the mornings. 
  • Popping or clicking of the jaw when you open your mouth
  • Frequent headaches
  • Ringing in the ears or earaches that are not caused by an infection in the ear canal
  • Involuntary grinding and clenching of the teeth
  • Locking of your jaws
  • Difficulty opening your mouth wide or chewing.
  •  Neck pain
  • A tingling feeling or numbness in the fingers

Additionally, if you experience teeth sensitivity but have no diagnosed oral health ailments, then you might be suffering from TMD. 

Since these symptoms may also be other conditions presenting themselves, it is important to visit the best dentist in Colorado Springs at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry as soon as you can for a professional diagnosis and treatment.

What is The Treatment for TMD?

Dentists may use various methods to diagnose and treat a TMJ disorder.

  • Your Colorado Springs dentist may conduct a full mouth exam. The dentist will examine your jaw and how it moves and also check if you may be experiencing jaw or facial pain when you move your jaw. The dentist may also check to hear if there are noises when you close or open your mouth.
  • In addition, your dentist may also look over your health history, enquire about any past history of jaw or facial pain.
  • Your dentist may recommend CT scans, dental X-rays, or/and MRIs, which may be useful in getting a correct diagnosis.

Determining Treatment

The type of treatment is dependent on your age, symptoms, general health, as well as the severity of your condition. Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says that dentists may, in some cases, recommend an oral appliance whose use is to hold the jaw in the desired position. 

In other cases, one may need an occlusal adjustment. This is when your Colorado Springs dentist alters your teeth slightly to create a more even bite, which spares your jaws from unnecessary stress. 

Other forms of treatment include:

  • Pain medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Ice packs and hot packs
  • Correcting your posture
  • Behavior changes, which will help stop or reduce teeth clenching
  • A mouth guard to help reduce grinding of teeth
  • Diet changes that will rest the jaw muscles
  • Surgery. This is usually the last resort and is normally not recommended as a way to provide long-term relief from TMD or fight TMJ disorders. 

Sometimes, TMD symptoms may recur when one is stressed. Knowing what triggers your symptoms may help you prevent a reoccurrence. So, visit your dentist in Colorado Springs for a TMJ evaluation. Our experienced team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is always happy to help! 

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

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!

When You Need to See An Emergency Dentist

When You Need to See An Emergency Dentist Colorado Springs

When You Need to See An Emergency Dentist

When You Need to See An Emergency Dentist in Colorado Springs 

So you’re sitting at home when you notice some soreness in your mouth. Maybe your tooth hurts, but you’re not sure if it’s a serious problem or just a little annoyance. How do you tell if you have a true dental emergency? Fortunately, your Colorado Springs dentist is aware of some common dental emergencies that you should be aware of. Continue reading to learn when to see an emergency dentist.

 

#1. Tooth Pain/Toothache

One of the most prevalent reasons for emergency dental appointments is a toothache. To relieve discomfort, rinse your mouth with warm salt water when you first notice pain. You can also try flossing around the affected area to see if it’s simply some annoying food debris. If the discomfort persists, however, you should see your emergency dentist in Colorado Springs as soon as possible.

 

#2 Broken Tooth

If you have a broken or fractured tooth, you should contact your dentist right away. To alleviate soreness, Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson recommend that you rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. You should also apply a cold compress to the side of your face to reduce swelling.

 

#3 Lost Crown or Filling

If you lose a crown or filling, you should see an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs right away. These dental restorations protect your natural tooth against pain and infection. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, agrees that if you lose this protection, you may experience a great deal of pain and agony. As a result, if this happens, you should contact your dentist right soon.

 

#4. Infection or Abscess

An abscessed tooth can be excruciatingly painful. Contact your dentist straight away if you discover a pimple-like bump in your mouth. The sooner you receive treatment, the less likely it is that you will have to deal with some of the issues that abscesses can cause.

 

#5 Bleeding Gums 

While bleeding gums may not appear to be a major issue, they are frequently a warning indication of more serious diseases such as gum disease or oral cancer. If you discover that your gums are bleeding, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule your next visit.

 

#6 Exposed Nerves

Are your teeth more sensitive to cold or hot temperatures? This could be due to poor tooth enamel. When your enamel is removed, nerve endings are exposed, producing pain and sensitivity. If you are in excruciating pain, you should see an emergency dentist. Until then, you can protect the affected region with sugarless gum.

 

Now that you know more about some of the situations that necessitate emergency dental appointments, follow these guidelines to deal with some of the most prevalent dental disasters.

 

Contact Dentist in Colorado Springs

Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Johnson’s office provide high-quality dental care for the Colorado Springs community. Please don’t hesitate to contact our dental office for an emergency dental appointment. Our Kissing Camels team will get your oral health back on track!

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!