Common Causes of Toothaches and Their Treatments

Common Causes of Toothaches and Their Treatments

Common Causes of Toothaches and Their Treatments

Common Causes of Toothaches and Their Treatments in Colorado Springs, CO

A toothache can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it can be a sign of an underlying dental issue that needs immediate attention. If you’re experiencing persistent dental pain, it’s essential to identify the cause and seek professional treatment. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we provide expert care to help you achieve lasting relief. Read on to discover the common causes of toothaches and their treatments, and why choosing the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, can make all the difference in your oral health.

Common Causes of Toothaches

1. Tooth Decay

One of the most frequent causes of toothaches is tooth decay (cavities). When bacteria erode the enamel, they create small holes that expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity and pain.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet

  • Visible holes or pits in the tooth

  • Persistent tooth sensitivity

Treatment:

Mild decay can be treated with tooth-colored fillings, while more extensive damage may require a dental crown to restore strength and function. If decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when plaque buildup leads to inflammation and infection in the gums. Advanced stages can cause gum recession and tooth pain.

Symptoms:

  • Swollen, red, or bleeding gums

  • Bad breath

  • Loose teeth

Treatment:

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene. More advanced cases may require deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) or even gum surgery to restore oral health.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common cause of discomfort, often triggered by hot, cold, or acidic foods. This occurs when the enamel wears down, exposing the underlying dentin.

Symptoms:

  • Sudden sharp pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods

  • General discomfort when brushing teeth

Treatment:

Using desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride treatments can help strengthen enamel. If sensitivity is severe, dental bonding or sealants may be applied to protect the exposed dentin.

4. Cracked or Fractured Tooth

A cracked or fractured tooth can result from biting down on something hard, trauma, or grinding your teeth at night.

Symptoms:

  • Pain when chewing

  • Sensitivity to temperature changes

  • A visible crack or rough edge on the tooth

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the severity of the crack. Minor cracks may be fixed with dental bonding, while deeper fractures might require a crown or root canal. In severe cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.

5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth that do not have enough space to grow properly can become impacted, leading to pain, swelling, and even infection.

Symptoms:

  • Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth

  • Swelling around the gums

  • Difficulty opening the mouth

Treatment:

The best solution for impacted wisdom teeth is wisdom tooth extraction. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we offer comfortable and professional extractions to relieve pain and prevent future complications.

6. Abscessed Tooth

A dental abscess is a severe infection at the root of the tooth, typically caused by untreated cavities, trauma, or gum disease.

Symptoms:

  • Intense, throbbing pain

  • Swelling in the face or gums

  • Fever and bad taste in the mouth

Treatment:

An abscessed tooth requires immediate dental treatment, usually in the form of a root canal to remove the infection. In extreme cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.

7. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding your teeth, often during sleep, can lead to toothaches, jaw pain, and enamel wear.

Symptoms:

  • Sore jaw muscles

  • Frequent headaches

  • Worn or flattened teeth

Treatment:

Wearing a custom night guard can protect your teeth from further damage. Additionally, stress management and relaxation techniques may help reduce grinding.

When to See a Dentist

While some mild toothaches may resolve on their own, persistent pain is a sign that something more serious may be occurring. Seek immediate dental care if you experience:

  • Severe, persistent pain lasting more than two days

  • Swelling in the gums or face

  • Fever or signs of infection

  • Difficulty chewing or biting

How Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Can Help

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing expert, compassionate dental care. Whether you need a filling, root canal, tooth extraction, or professional cleaning, we offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure your comfort and successful treatment.

If you’re searching for the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, look no further! Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.

Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we understand that maintaining your oral health is essential, and sometimes, that means taking proactive steps to preserve your smile. While tooth extraction may seem intimidating, it’s sometimes necessary to protect your overall dental health. Understanding the signs that indicate you might need a tooth extraction can help you take the right steps to address the issue before it worsens.

As the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, we’re here to guide you through the signs that may suggest you need a tooth extraction. Here are some common indicators to watch out for:

1. Severe Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems. If decay is left untreated, it can cause significant damage to the tooth structure. When the decay reaches the inner layers of the tooth, it can lead to an infection. In some cases, the damage can be so severe that a filling or root canal won’t be enough to save the tooth. If your tooth is too decayed or broken to be restored, a tooth extraction may be necessary.

If you notice persistent pain or sensitivity that doesn’t subside, it may be time to consult with the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. We’ll evaluate the damage and determine if extraction is the best solution for your oral health.

2. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Gum disease is a progressive infection that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. When left untreated, it can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth, leading to loosened or shifting teeth. In advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis), teeth can become so loose that they need to be extracted.

If you notice your gums bleeding when brushing, bad breath, or swollen gums, it’s important to schedule a visit with a dentist. Catching gum disease early can help prevent the need for extractions and other costly treatments.

3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, the third set of molars, often cause problems due to lack of space in the mouth. If they don’t fully erupt through the gums, they can become impacted, leading to pain, infection, and even damage to adjacent teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth are a common reason for tooth extraction.

If you’re experiencing pain in the back of your mouth or notice swelling or redness around your gums, it could be a sign that your wisdom teeth are impacted. The best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO can evaluate the situation and recommend the best course of action, which may include extraction.

4. Tooth Fractures or Breakage

Accidents and injuries happen, and sometimes teeth can be severely fractured or broken. While minor chips can often be repaired with dental bonding or crowns, more severe fractures might require extraction. If a tooth has broken down to the root, it may no longer be salvageable, and extraction may be necessary to prevent infection.

If you’ve suffered an injury to your mouth or experienced a broken tooth, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry right away. We’ll assess the damage and discuss your options for treatment, including the possibility of extraction.

5. Overcrowding of Teeth

Sometimes, your teeth may become overcrowded in your mouth, especially if you have a small jaw or if your teeth are growing in misaligned. When this happens, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction to create enough space for the remaining teeth to align properly. This is common in orthodontic treatment, particularly before getting braces or clear aligners.

If you have difficulty keeping your teeth clean, experience discomfort from overcrowding, or your dentist recommends it, an extraction may be the solution. The best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO can help guide you through the process and ensure you receive the care you need.

6. Dental Abscess or Infection

A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket caused by an infection. It typically develops at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Infections can occur when bacteria enter the tooth due to deep decay or a cracked tooth. Left untreated, an abscess can cause severe pain and spread infection to surrounding tissues.

If you notice severe pain, swelling, or a bad taste in your mouth, you may have a dental abscess. In some cases, a tooth extraction may be required to remove the infection and prevent it from spreading further.

7. Tooth Mobility or Loosening

Teeth that become loose or shift from their original positions could indicate an underlying issue, such as advanced gum disease or severe tooth trauma. When a tooth is no longer stable in its socket, it may need to be extracted to avoid further complications, such as infection or misalignment of neighboring teeth.

If you notice a loose tooth or experience any discomfort when chewing, it’s important to visit a dentist promptly. The best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO will assess your situation and determine whether an extraction is necessary.

8. Root Canal Treatment Isn’t Effective

Root canal therapy is often a solution to save a severely decayed or infected tooth. However, if the infection is too advanced, or if the tooth structure is too compromised, a root canal may not be sufficient. In such cases, the best option might be to extract the tooth to prevent further complications.

If your tooth doesn’t improve after a root canal or if the infection keeps recurring, it’s essential to consult with your dentist. We’ll help determine whether an extraction is necessary to restore your oral health.

Contact Us

While tooth extraction may seem daunting, it is sometimes necessary to protect your overall oral health and prevent more serious issues. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you maintain a healthy smile.

If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s important to consult with the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. We will thoroughly evaluate your situation, explain your options, and guide you toward the best solution for your oral health. If extraction is necessary, we will ensure the procedure is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Don’t wait for the problem to get worse—schedule an appointment with Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today to take control of your dental health.

Understanding the Process of Tooth Extraction

Understanding the Process of Tooth Extraction

Understanding the Process of Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can be necessary for various reasons, including severe decay, damage, overcrowding, or gum disease. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, recognized as the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, we prioritize patient comfort and care throughout the extraction process. IWe’ll provide a comprehensive overview of tooth extraction, including the reasons for the procedure, what to expect, and post-extraction care.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction may be recommended for several reasons, including:

  1. Severe Tooth Decay: When extensive decay damages a tooth beyond repair with a filling or crown, we may need to extract it to prevent infection and further complications.

  2. Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often become impacted due to lack of space in the jaw. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection, making extraction a common solution.

  3. Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, we extract teeth to create space for orthodontic treatment. This is especially true when there is overcrowding or misalignment of the teeth.

  4. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can weaken the supporting structures of teeth, leading to mobility. If a tooth is at risk of falling out or causing further problems, extraction may be necessary.

  5. Dental Trauma: We may need to extract teeth fractured or damaged due to injury if they cannot be restored.

The Tooth Extraction Process

Understanding the tooth extraction process can help alleviate any anxiety you may have about the procedure. Here’s what to expect when you visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry:

Step 1: Consultation and Examination: Before the extraction, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. This may include X-rays to assess the position of the tooth and determine the best approach for extraction. During this consultation, be sure to discuss any medical conditions or medications you are taking, as these can impact the procedure.

Step 2: Anesthesia Administration: To ensure your comfort during the extraction, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. In some cases, sedation dentistry options may be available for patients who experience anxiety or require multiple extractions.

Step 3: Tooth Removal: Once the area is numb, your dentist will begin the extraction process. For simple extractions, the dentist will use specialized tools to loosen the tooth and remove it from the socket. In cases of surgical extraction, we may make an incision in the gum tissue to access an impacted or below-the-gum-line tooth.

Step 4: Cleaning the Extraction Site: After removing the tooth, the dentist cleans the extraction site to remove any debris or infection. This step is crucial for preventing complications during the healing process.

Step 5: Closing the Wound: In some cases, we may need to use stitches to close the incision. Your dentist uses dissolvable stitches that do not need removal, allowing for easier healing.

Post-Extraction Care

Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery following a tooth extraction. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

  1. Manage Bleeding: It’s normal to experience some bleeding after the extraction. Bite down on a gauze pad for about 30-45 minutes to help stop the bleeding. If bleeding persists, contact your dentist.

  2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for pain management.

  3. Dietary Considerations: Stick to soft foods for the first few days after the extraction. Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that could irritate the extraction site.

  4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid rinsing vigorously for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.

  5. Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

When to Contact Your Dentist

While some discomfort is normal after a tooth extraction, you should contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe pain that does not improve with medication.
  • Excessive bleeding that does not stop after a few hours.
  • Signs of infection, such as fever, swelling, or pus discharge.

Contact Us

Tooth extraction is a common procedure that can be necessary for maintaining your oral health. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, we strive to provide compassionate care and ensure your comfort throughout the extraction process. If you have any concerns about a tooth that may need to be extracted, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!

The Role of Root Canal Therapy

The Role of Root Canal Therapy

The Role of Root Canal Therapy

The Role of Root Canal Therapy in Preserving Your Natural Smile: Expert Insights from Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

When it comes to preserving a natural smile, the experts at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs understand the importance of root canal therapy. Root canals, often misunderstood, play a crucial role in saving teeth from decay, infection, and potential loss.

Understanding the Essence of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy, commonly called a “root canal,” treats infections and preserves teeth from decay. Infected or inflamed tooth pulp causes severe pain and compromises overall tooth health. Root canal therapy is a precise and effective solution to address these issues, allowing patients to retain their natural teeth.

Pain Relief and Immediate Comfort

Contrary to common belief, root canal therapy is not a painful experience. In fact, it is the remedy for the pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth. At Kissing Camels, our skilled team employs advanced techniques and anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Root canal therapy provides immediate relief from toothache and eliminates the source of pain.

Preserving Natural Teeth

One of the primary objectives of root canal therapy is to preserve natural teeth. Instead of opting for tooth extraction, which may lead to the need for tooth replacement options like dental implants, root canal therapy allows patients to keep their original teeth. Preserving teeth not only maintains smile aesthetics but also contributes to long-term oral health and stability.

Comprehensive Smile Analysis

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, our approach to root canal therapy begins with a comprehensive smile analysis. Our skilled team assesses the condition of the infected tooth, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. Our personalized approach ensures successful root canal therapy, aligning with our commitment to excellence as the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs.

Seamless Integration with Dental Implants

In cases of severely compromised tooth structure, Kissing Camels excels in seamlessly integrating root canal therapy with dental implant procedures. Dental implants, another specialty offered by Kissing Camels in Colorado Springs, provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Combining root canal therapy and dental implants ensures a comprehensive restoration of both health and aesthetics for your smile.

Expertise and State-of-the-Art Technology

Root canal therapy at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is performed with a blend of expertise and state-of-the-art technology. Our skilled practitioners use advanced equipment for precise and efficient root canal procedures, including rotary instruments and digital imaging. This commitment to excellence solidifies our reputation as the go-to choice for root canal therapy in Colorado Springs.

Patient-Centric Care and Education

At Kissing Camels, patient-centric care is at the core of our philosophy. We prioritize educating our patients about the importance of root canal therapy and dispelling any myths surrounding the procedure. Our team addresses concerns, answers questions, and ensures each patient feels confident and informed about their dental treatment.

Post-Treatment Follow-Up

Root canal therapy doesn’t end with the procedure. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry emphasizes post-treatment follow-up to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. This comprehensive care extends beyond the chair, demonstrating our commitment to your long-term oral health and satisfaction.

Contact Us Today! Kissing Camels, Your Partner in Dental Wellness

Root canal therapy at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is more than just a procedure; it’s a lifeline for saving smiles. As the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, our commitment to excellence, personalized care, and cutting-edge technology make us the ideal choice for root canal therapy and comprehensive dental wellness. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the Kissing Camels difference – where expertise and compassion converge to preserve your natural smile.

Tooth Extractions and Oral Health

Tooth Extractions and Oral Health

Tooth Extractions and Oral Health

Tooth Extractions and Oral Health: How Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Ensures Comprehensive Care

Maintaining optimal oral health involves a combination of preventive care, routine check-ups, and, in some cases, tooth extractions. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in the picturesque Colorado Springs, we understand that tooth extractions are a critical aspect of preserving overall oral health. Trust the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, Kissing Camels, to guide you through this crucial dental care.

The Necessity of Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions become necessary in various scenarios, including severe decay, advanced gum disease, or when a tooth poses a threat to surrounding teeth due to overcrowding. At Kissing Camels, our experienced team recommends extractions when necessary for your overall oral health.

Preserving Oral Health

Although losing a tooth may be unsettling, the primary goal of extraction is to preserve overall oral health. Removing a damaged or infected tooth helps prevent the spread of infection to adjacent teeth and the surrounding gums. At Kissing Camels, we view tooth extractions as a proactive measure to safeguard your oral health and prevent further complications.

Impact on Adjacent Teeth

Decayed or infected teeth can have a detrimental impact on neighboring teeth. If left untreated, the problem can escalate, leading to widespread issues within the oral cavity. Tooth extractions strategically halt dental problems, ensuring the health and stability of surrounding teeth.

Considerations for Dental Implants

Following a tooth extraction, considerations for tooth replacement become crucial. Dental implants emerge as an ideal solution, providing a permanent and natural-looking replacement for the extracted tooth. Kissing Camels, known for Dental Implants in Colorado Springs, seamlessly combines extractions with implants for a restored smile.

Minimizing Discomfort and Anxiety

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we understand that the prospect of a tooth extraction can evoke discomfort and anxiety. Our compassionate team takes pride in providing a comfortable and stress-free environment. We employ modern techniques and, when necessary, sedation dentistry to ensure your experience is as painless and anxiety-free as possible.

Comprehensive Aftercare

Post-extraction care is integral to a smooth recovery process. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry ensures you receive clear instructions and necessary supplies to manage immediate aftercare. Our team collaborates closely to create a personalized plan that aligns with your oral health needs, including tooth replacement options like dental implants.

Customized Treatment Plans

What sets Kissing Camels apart as the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs is our commitment to customized treatment plans. Your tooth extraction is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Our team works closely with you to create a personalized plan that aligns with your oral health needs and includes considerations for tooth replacement options, such as dental implants.

Holistic Approach to Oral Health

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry takes a holistic approach, considering both immediate dental concerns and the long-term well-being of your smile. Our comprehensive care goes beyond extractions, covering preventive measures, check-ups, and tooth replacement solutions like dental implants for lifelong optimal oral health.

Contact Us! Guiding You Towards a Healthier Smile

At Kissing Camels in Colorado Springs, extractions are strategic interventions preserving and enhancing your oral health. As the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, we take pride in guiding you through a comfortable process for a seamless transition to a healthier, more beautiful smile. Contact us today to explore how our holistic approach to oral health can benefit you and your family. Trust Kissing Camels for a lifetime of smiles that radiate health and confidence.

Post Tooth Extraction Care

Post Tooth Extraction Care

Post Tooth Extraction Care

The Importance of Post-Extraction Care: How Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Ensures Optimal Healing

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry in the scenic city of Colorado Springs, our commitment to your dental health extends beyond treatments to include comprehensive post-tooth extraction care. Whether you’re considering dental implants or exploring your options for tooth replacement, our team is here to guide you through a seamless recovery process. Trust the experts at Kissing Camels, your destination for optimal dental care and the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs.

Understanding Post-Tooth Extraction Healing

Post-tooth extraction care plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth recovery process. As the top dentist in Colorado Springs, Kissing Camels stresses the importance of adhering to post-extraction care instructions for a speedy and comfortable recovery. Our skilled team dedicates care and expertise to guide you through this phase.

Immediate Aftercare: What to Expect

In the immediate aftermath of a tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some bleeding. Bite on gauze to control bleeding and aid in forming a crucial blood clot for healing. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help minimize swelling. At Kissing Camels, we give clear instructions and provide necessary supplies for your immediate aftercare.

Pain Management and Medication

You can effectively manage post-extraction pain with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. At Kissing Camels, we ensure your thorough understanding of medications for a comfortable recovery.

The Role of Dental Implants in Post-Tooth Extraction Care

For those considering tooth replacement options, dental implants are a popular and durable solution. As Dental Implant specialists in Colorado Springs, Kissing Camels seamlessly integrates post-tooth extraction care with the implant process. Our team prepares the extraction site for the implant, establishing a foundation for a robust and natural-looking tooth replacement.

Follow-up Appointments: Monitoring Your Progress

As the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, Kissing Camels emphasizes the importance of follow-up appointments in post-tooth extraction care. Our team conducts follow-up appointments to monitor your healing, address concerns, and discuss the next steps in your treatment plan, especially if dental implants are involved.

Oral Hygiene During Recovery

Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during the post-tooth extraction recovery period. Kissing Camels’ team guides you on gentle cleaning to keep the extraction site infection-free. We believe that a healthy smile starts with proper oral care, even during the recovery phase.

Customized Care Plans: Tailoring Solutions for You 

Kissing Camels excels as the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs with our commitment to personalized care plans. We tailor your post-tooth extraction care plan, particularly if it involves dental implants, to suit your unique needs. Our team closely collaborates with you to align each step with your preferences and expectations.

Contact Us Today! A Seamless Journey to a Healthier Smile

At Kissing Camels in Colorado Springs, post-tooth extraction care is a vital step in your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile. Choose the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs for expert guidance, whether opting for dental implants or exploring other tooth replacement options. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward optimal oral health and a radiant smile.

Do I Need My Tooth Extracted?

Do I Need My Tooth Extracted? - Dr. Boals

Do I Need My Tooth Extracted?

During your visit to your Colorado Springs dentist, you may hear some unsettling news. It could just be that you need to have a tooth extracted. There are several reasons beyond your wisdom teeth removal that you may need to have one or more teeth extracted.

We’ve gathered some of the reasons that your dentist in Colorado Springs might recommend an extraction as the best course of treatment.

Overcrowding In Your Mouth

It could just be that there simply isn’t enough space in your mouth to accommodate each of your adult teeth. This can lead to alignment concerns and lead to more serious damage later on.  As your teeth shift about in your mouth, each jostling for space that simply isn’t available. You may also experience trouble with gum disease and advanced tooth decay. Patients with overcrowded teeth also experience discomfort and have difficulty chewing some foods. This is one of the most common reasons for tooth removal in Colorado Springs, says Dr. Cody Boals.

Severe Decay in One or More Teeth

For some patients in Colorado Springs, root canal therapy can salvage a tooth that has been damaged by severe decay. In other patients, the tooth may be so extensively damaged that there is no way to salvage any part of the tooth’s structure. Removing the tooth will be the best choice to get the patient out of pain and halt the continued spread of an infection present in the tooth.

Dr. David Moghadam, a dentist who offers root canal therapy in Easton, PA, says that there’s no fighting decay once it has spread far into a tooth’s roots. Antibiotics can only do so much. The tooth may be lost in time, but it may cause significant pain before then. Extraction is the best way to avoid that pain.

Gum Disease

If it has been some time since you have visited your Colorado Springs family dentist, there is the chance that you may have evidence of gum disease. Periodontal disease can take a toll on your gums and your teeth. The bacteria present can damage the bone structures that provide support for the teeth. Decay will accelerate, and pain may set in. The infection can also potentially spread between teeth.

Your dentist may suggest that a tooth be removed for any of the following reasons.

  • A tooth has developed an abscess and is badly infected
  • The tooth is no longer supported by the jaw and is loose
  • The infection can be seen spreading to the bone, surrounding teeth and even the soft tissue in the mouth

Early stages of gum disease will typically not require a tooth extraction. It is only once an infection has advanced to serious stages that removing an infected tooth is necessary to halt the infection spread and to offer protection for other teeth.

One or More Impacted Wisdom Teeth

It is very common to have impacted wisdom teeth. These teeth erupt in your mouth once all of your other teeth are already in place. This can result in some concerns, including overcrowding and misalignment. 

When wisdom teeth are impacted, they don’t erupt correctly. They are impacted in the gum, beneath the gum. They may partially erupt or not erupt at all. Being the very back molars in your mouth, these teeth are at high risk for damage and decay. The decay may go undetected, to the degree that the tooth begins to cause discomfort and pain.

Your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, may recommend an extraction before the teeth begin to cause issues. 

Tooth Damage That Cannot Be Repaired

Whether a tooth has been damaged or broken due to an accident or an injury, it could be that the damage is too extensive. The majority of the time, your dentist can repair the damage using a crown. In some situations, the tooth break may be beneath the gum line. In this situation, removing the remaining tooth structure will typically be better for keeping the infection at bay.

Remember that your situation is unique, and your treatment plan will be tailored to meet your individual needs. If you’re looking for a new dentist in Colorado Springs, you can count on Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to provide you with the best care possible. Call us to make your appointment.

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions - Dr. Boals

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we always do everything in our power to preserve your natural teeth. However, your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, may recommend a tooth extraction if your tooth is severely decayed or damaged. If you just found out you need a tooth extraction, Dr. Cody Boal, a CO Springs dentist, shares everything you need to know about tooth extractions. 

Types of Tooth Extraction

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we categorize tooth extractions into two distinct groups, as explained below.

Simple Extractions

When the tooth being extracted is visible inside the mouth, we call this a simple tooth extraction. Tooth extractions in Colorado Springs begin by numbing the targeted tooth and its surrounding tissue so that you will not feel any pain or discomfort during the extraction process. Thereafter, Dr. Boals will extract the tooth. You should never feel any pain during your tooth extraction. So when you visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, you will have nothing to worry about!

Surgical Tooth Extraction

A surgical tooth extraction procedure is performed to remove teeth that haven’t erupted or have broken beneath the gum line. Dr. Boals can perform a surgical extraction or refer your case to an oral surgeon if necessary. To extract the tooth, your Colorado Springs dentist will make a small incision in the gum. The tooth may be removed in one piece or cut the tooth into two or more pieces before removing one segment at a time.

When Would I Need Tooth Extraction?

Many reasons may necessitate a tooth extraction procedure, including the following:

  • Badly decayed teeth
  • Delay by baby teeth to fall out so that permanent teeth can erupt
  • Dental infections that destroy most of a tooth or the surrounding bone
  • Extra teeth blocking some teeth from emerging normally
  • Orthodontic treatment (braces, for example) necessitating tooth extraction
  • Severe tooth damage that can’t be fixed with crowns and other restorative procedures
  • Wisdom teeth predicted to cause problems in the future may be removed

What Happens Before Tooth Extraction?

Before your tooth is removed, Dr. Boals will review your dental and medical history in addition to taking dental X-rays. The X-rays give your dentist in Colorado Springs vital information about the shape, length, and position of the tooth so that an appropriate plan can be made for the extraction process. If this review reveals that the procedure will be a complex one, Dr. Boals may refer you to a specialist. 

What Happens During the Tooth Removal?

Before the tooth is extracted, Dr. Boals will administer local anesthetic (for simple tooth extractions) or IV sedation in the case of surgical extractions. As a precautionary measure, you will need a friend or family member to drive you home once the procedure is over. This person should accompany you until the anesthesia wears off.

Once the sedative starts working, the team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will proceed to extract the tooth in the manner described earlier for simple extractions and surgical removal.

After the Tooth Extraction

Dr. Boals emphasizes that this is the most important phase of the procedure. It is vital that you follow the instructions given at our Colorado Springs dental office. We asked our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker CO, for recommendations to keep in mind after the tooth extraction:

  • Bite down on a piece of gauze as instructed so that a clot can form and bleeding stops.
  • Don’t smoke, clean the nearby teeth or rinse your mouth vigorously within the first 24 hours after the tooth extraction.
  • Use an ice pack or take the pain medication prescribed by Dr. Boals. Your pain and discomfort should subside in a few days. If it worsens, call your Colorado Springs dentist immediately.
  • Avoid strenuous physical activity, such as jogging or going to the gym, during the first few days after the tooth removal.
  • Don’t use a straw or drink any hot fluids since these can melt or dislodge the clot at the extraction site.

Whether this is your first tooth extraction or your tenth, it’s important to follow before and after instructions given by your Colorado Springs dentist. If you need a professional opinion about tooth extractions, we are more than happy to help!

Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

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.