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.

Will A Root Canal Save My Tooth?

Will A Root Canal Save My Tooth?

Will A Root Canal Save My Tooth?

Will A Root Canal Save My Tooth?

You might be experiencing tooth pain and thinking a root canal is your only option. But, is a root canal really necessary? The purpose of this blog post is to answer that question for you as best as possible. Tooth pain is no joke. When you’re dealing with a toothache, all you can think about is making the pain stop. If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you may be wondering if the dentist will be able to save your tooth. But the truth is, root canals are often the best way to save a tooth that is badly infected or damaged. 

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside your tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

There are several reasons why you might need a root canal, including:

  • You have a tooth that is severely decayed or infected.
  • You have suffered an injury to your tooth that has resulted in damage to the pulp (the tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue).
  • You have developed an abscess (a pus-filled pocket) in your gum tissue near the roots of your teeth.

Signs that you might need a root canal:

  • Severe toothache pain that doesn’t go away
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Swelling in your gum tissue
  • Discoloration of your tooth
  • Tenderness or pain when you bite down

If you’re experiencing teeth pain, it’s important to see your dentist right away. They will be able to determine whether or not you need a root canal. While root canals have a bad reputation, they are often the best way to save an infected or damaged tooth. If you do need a root canal, our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs will make sure that you’re comfortable throughout the entire procedure. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Tooth Infection Symptoms

Tooth Infection Symptoms

Everything You Need To Know About Tooth Infections

Tooth Infection Symptoms

Tooth Infection Symptoms

A tooth infection occurs when bacteria enters the tooth and begins to multiply. Although, the most common way for bacteria to enter the tooth is through a cavity or crack. Once bacteria are inside the tooth, they can begin to damage the tooth structure and cause an infection. Your Colorado Springs Dentist, Dr. Johnson shares common tooth infection symptoms and treatments. 

Signs That You Might Have A Tooth Infection

If you think you may have a tooth infection, it is important to see the best dentist in Colorado Springs, as soon as possible. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications. Along with this, the most common symptom of a tooth infection is a throbbing pain that gets worse when you chew or brush your teeth. Other symptoms include sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling in your face or gums, bad breath, and a fever. Most infections can be cleared up quickly and without complications with proper treatment.

Treatments For A Tooth Infection 

There are two main types of treatment for tooth infection: antibiotics and root canal therapy. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection, while root canal therapy involves removing the infected tissue from the tooth. Our friends at Park Hills Dentistry in Lexington KY believe that both treatments may be necessary to fully clear the infection in some cases. It’s important to see Kissing Camels Family Dentistry as soon as possible to get the appropriate treatment.

There are a number of different treatments that can be used to address tooth infections. The most common is antibiotics, which can kill the bacteria that cause the infection.However, in many cases, simple home care measures such as good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist can help to prevent tooth infections from developing in the first place.

 

If You Are Experiencing Tooth Pain, Contact Us Today!

Thank you for considering Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry as your dental care provider. We are a full-service dental office that offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of our patients. We offer both general and cosmetic dentistry services, and we are proud to be a family-owned and operated business. We take pride in our reputation for providing quality dental care, and we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible experience. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your dental goals. 

Root Canal vs. Extraction

root-canal-vs.-extraction-colorado-springs-co

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.

Root Canal Treatment FAQ

dentist in Colorado Springs

Root Canal Treatment FAQ

When patients experience tooth infections or severely damaged decay, Colorado Springs dentists will often recommend root canal therapy to save the tooth. A root canal removes the contaminated or infected pulp from the tooth. Doing so allows patients to preserve their teeth, alleviate pain, and avoid reinfection. In the article below, Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson answer root canal treatment FAQ in honor of Root Canal Awareness Week! We hope this helps you better understand root canal therapy.

 

What Are The Signs of a Root Canal?

  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums/around the tooth
  • Tooth or gum discoloration
  • Sensitivity to hot/cold drinks
  • Severe tooth pain, especially when applying pressure or chewing

What Is The Root Canal Treatment Process?

Root canal therapy is similar to a regular filling and can often be performed in one or two appointments. Of course, it depends on the severity of the tooth infection and decay. Root canal therapy starts by numbing the surrounding gums as well as administering local anesthesia. Dr. Boals or Dr. Johnson will numb the tooth before drilling a small hole in the top of the tooth to expose the dental pulp. To ensure that the infection is cleared and avoid reinfection, the pulp will be washed out, and the interior of the tooth will be covered with an antibiotic. To fill and seal the tooth, a sealer paste or other synthetic material will be used. A temporary filling and sealant will follow this.

Do Root Canals Hurt?

Patients who haven’t undergone root canal therapy may feel uneasy about starting treatment. Luckily, root canals are completely painless. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we offer local anesthesia and sedation dentistry for residents in Colorado Springs. After getting root canal treatment, you may feel numb for a few hours. Our friends at College Hill Dental Group, a dental office in Easton, PA, say that most patients can return to daily activities without any problems. So, if the dentist or endodontist suggests a permanent filling or crown for the tooth, a second appointment may be needed.

What Are the Advantages of Using a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is important for saving natural teeth. If damaged teeth are left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the body. Patients who undergo root canal therapy will preserve their natural appearance and restore their tooth’s original functionality. Additionally, it also protects other teeth from more wear or tear, lowering the likelihood that you will need further restorative dental work in the future.

What Exactly Is A Root Canal In An Emergency?

An emergency root canal is similar to a scheduled or expected root canal in that they all result from the same cause—inflamed or infected tooth. However, many patients visit our dental office because they require emergency dental care in Colorado Springs. The procedure has most likely become the infection has gone on for too long. If you have any of the signs of a tooth infection, please contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry immediately. Our team will do everything we can to get you smiling again. 

Ways to Restore Your Smile

ways to restore your smile -Dr. Boals

Ways to Restore Your Smile

A healthy set of teeth allows you to chew and speak properly, but it also allows you to talk and smile with confidence. Although dentistry has been around for a long time, the past few decades have seen advancements in technology that have allowed dentists to perform the most complex dental procedures with great success. 

These advances have led to a boom in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. A beautiful smile will give you more confidence! There are tons of cosmetic dentists in Colorado who would be happy to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. According to dental health professionals at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs CO, being well informed and knowing all your options will allow you to make the right choice. To find out which treatment option is best for you, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for a virtual consultation. 

Dental Implants and Crowns

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. So, there’s no surprise why dental implants are among the most popular treatments. Dental implants are titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone where a missing tooth would be. Once the titanium screw is implanted, your dentist in Colorado Springs CO will mount a replacement crown onto it.

Dental implants have a longer lifespan than alternative treatments like dental bridges and partial dentures. Dr. Cody Boals has extensive experience with dental implants. If you’re a patient who lives in Mountain Shadows, Old Colorado, Fillmore, or Colorado Springs, you can count on Dr. Boals to restore your smile.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to close or bridge gaps in your smile caused by missing teeth. The false tooth or teeth used to fill the gap are held in place by the abutment teeth on either side of the gap. The false tooth or pontic is usually made from porcelain to aesthetically blend in with your teeth. If you’re looking to restore your smile, dental bridges are a quick and affordable option. 

Root Canals

In Colorado Springs or elsewhere, root canal therapy is usually used to repair and save badly decayed or infected teeth. It is a treatment designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, which houses the nerves and pulp and prevents reinfection of the tooth. During this procedure, the nerves and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed by your CO Springs dentist. The pulp is a soft tissue beneath the outer enamel and dentin, and it contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Although a fully developed tooth can survive without the pulp, it uses the nerves in the pulp for temperature detection.

Dr. David Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, adds that you may need a root canal if you experience severe pain while chewing or biting. Have pimples on the gums, a chipped or cracked tooth, swollen or tender gums, or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold. The complexity of the procedure depends on the severity of the infection, so make sure you seek emergency dental care in Colorado Springs if you notice any of these symptoms.

Dentures

These are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. Some dentures can be removed and put back in your mouth, held in place and supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of your mouth. There are two types of dentures: 

  • Complete dentures are broken into conventional dentures that are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum has started healing. They can be placed into the mouth 8-12 weeks after the teeth have been removed. Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be used as soon as the teeth are removed.
  • Partial dentures are used when there are one or more natural teeth left in the upper or lower jaw. Partials consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases. Partials may have a metal framework and clasps that connect to the teeth or precision attachments that are more aesthetic.

There are numerous ways to restore your smile and give you strong, healthy teeth. Whether it’s through dental implants, dental bridges, root canals, or dentures, Colorado Springs dentist Dr. Boals is glad to help. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today for a consultation.

Is Sedation Dentistry for Me?

Is Sedation Dentistry for Me? - Dr. Boals

Is Sedation Dentistry for Me?

Do you fear dental procedures? Are you concerned about the discomfort, pain, and vulnerability associated with being in a dental chair? You may be a good candidate for sedation dentistry at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, but is sedation dentistry right for you? In this article, you’ll discover what sedation dentistry is, why you may need it, and the different forms of sedation available when you visit the best dentist in Colorado Springs.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

During sedation dentistry, your Colorado Springs dentist will administer a sedative before or while performing a needed dental procedure, such as root canal therapy. Dr. Boals, the best cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, explains that only general anesthesia will put you to sleep. Other sedation forms will just make you relax, but you will remain fully conscious of your surroundings.

The following are some sedation dentistry options offered at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide

This is popularly referred to as “laughing gas.” Your dentist in Colorado Springs will administer this using a mask. Once the laughing gas kicks in, the dental procedure will be performed. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so Dr. Boals may allow you to drive yourself home after your procedure at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO.

Oral Sedatives

These are in pill or capsule form. In most cases, you will be advised by your CO Springs dentist to take this sedative about an hour before your dental procedure. For example, if you need wisdom teeth removal in Colorado Springs, Dr. Boals will write a prescription for the oral sedative, and you will take it an hour before the tooth extraction process begins. The sedative will make you relaxed, and you may feel sleepy, although you will be aware of your surroundings.

Intravenous Sedatives

IV (or intravenous) sedatives can put you into varying states of consciousness, depending on the assessment of your needs done by your dentist. Generally, IV sedation takes the form of general anesthesia, and you will be unconscious during the dental procedure. However, Dr. Kacos, a sleep dentist in Shreveport, LA says that some IV sedatives may not knock you out completely, and you will be in what is referred to as “twilight sleep,” from which you will wake up without any memory of the procedure you underwent.

General anesthesia may not always be the best option for you since it comes with more risks when compared to other forms of sedation. Make sure you let Dr. Boals know of any allergic reactions you have had in the past so that we can recommend you the best sedation dentistry option.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

There is a wide variety of dental patients who turn to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for the sedation dentistry needs. Here are some of them:

  • General anxiety disorder
  • Bad experience at a dentist’s in the past
  • Very sensitive oral nerves (low pain threshold)
  • Dental procedure phobias
  • Small oral cavity, hence soreness during dental procedures
  • Inability to respond to local anesthetics

If any of the above applies to you, talk to Dr. Boals about sedation dentistry.

How Sedation Dentistry Works

The process of sedation dentistry depends on the specific form that the team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry has selected for you.

For example, if nitrous oxide will be used, you don’t need to do anything to prepare.

If you plan on taking an oral sedative, Dr. Boals will write you a prescription, and you will take the sedative an hour or so before your dental appointment.

Some preparation is needed if you choose intravenous (IV) sedation. For instance, the best dentist in Colorado Springs CO may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything within a certain number of hours before the dental procedure. You may also be told to avoid taking certain medications the day before your appointment since these could compromise the effectiveness of the IV sedation.

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we don’t compromise on offering individualized dental services. For this reason, we will discuss your general response to dental procedures before recommending the best type of sedation for your needs. For example, we can recommend sleep (general) anesthesia if you have a strong phobia of dental work. Are you interested in sedation dentistry? Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today!

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!

Sedation Dentistry Myths

Sedation Dentistry Myths - Dr. Boals

Sedation Dentistry Myths

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

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

Myth One: Sedation Dentistry is Exclusively for Complicated Surgical Procedures

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

Myth Two: There is just one type of sedation

Generally speaking, there are three types of sedation dentistry.

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

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

Myth Three: Sedation Dentistry Is Not Safe

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

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

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

Myth Four: Sedation Dentistry is Safe for Everyone

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

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

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

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

Myth Five: Only Patients with Anxiety Qualify for Sedation Dentistry

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

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

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

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

Most Common Dental Emergencies

common dental emergencies - Dr. Boals

Most Common Dental Emergencies

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

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

One or More Cracked Teeth

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

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

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

Accidents and Trauma to a Tooth

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

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

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

Tooth and Gum Pain

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

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

Lost Crowns and Fillings

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

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