Clenching and grinding your teeth can lead to a number of long-term problems. Unfortunately, most people who clench and grind do so at night, when they are unable to control the action. Because clenching and grinding are something you do unconsciously, use of a nightguard is one of the best ways to keep the habit from damaging your teeth. You can find out more about nightguards from our Centennial dentist, who is dedicated to keeping your teeth strong and healthy.

Causes of Clenching and Grinding

The causes of clenching and grinding can vary. In addition, clenching and grinding can be a symptom of other problems that need to be addressed. Some issues that can cause grinding include:

• Misalignment
• Stress
• (TMD)

If clenching or grinding are symptoms of misalignment or TMD (also known as TMJ), your dentist will probably want to investigate the root cause and provide appropriate treatment. In addition, your dentist might recommend a nightguard to reduce the side effects of clenching and grinding.

Using a Nightguard

A nightguard is a latex appliance that is custom-molded to fit your mouth. Your dentist uses a special gel to make a mold of your teeth. The nightguard is then manufactured in an offsite lab. When it returns from the lab, your dentist will have you try it on and make any necessary modifications so that it is comfortable.

For the best results, you should wear your nightguard all night, every night. The hard latex helps protect the surfaces of your teeth from damage when you clench and grind. It won’t stop the actual grinding, but it will greatly reduce the risk that you might inadvertently damage your teeth.

If you do not wear the nightguard every night, not only will your teeth possibly be damaged, but after a couple of weeks the nightguard might not fit properly anymore. This is because your teeth might move in small increments that cause the mold of your bite to no longer be accurate. So, for the best possible results, wear the nightguard regularly.

For more information about clenching and grinding and how a nightguard can help, please contact the doctor Family Dentistry at 303 -730-1222.

Dental implants are a popular and natural-looking option for replacing missing teeth. To some, they might seem expensive, but in the long term, dental implants can reduce the long-term cost of maintaining your teeth. If you’re considering , here are some facts to help with your decision.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants provide several advantages over other options to replace missing teeth. Once implants are placed, they are permanent. They match the size and appearance of your natural teeth, and do not require any adjustment over time. They are also long-lasting. Regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups will keep your implants looking great for many years.

Other options for tooth replacement require special maintenance over time. For example, dentures typically need to be adjusted or even completely refitted every few years. Because dentures do not stimulate the jawbone to regenerate tissue, the bone can shrink over time. Loss of bone tissue in the jawbone leads to changes in the way your dentures fit as well as changes in the contours of your jaw and face. These changes mean that your dentures might become uncomfortable, requiring them to be adjusted.

The Consequences of Missing Teeth

Dental implants can also help reduce the long-term expenses of correcting problems that can occur when missing teeth are not replaced. If gaps are left unfilled, remaining teeth will shift into the empty spaces. This affects your alignment as well as your bite. If your teeth do not fit together correctly, you might need additional treatment for:

• Misalignment that requires orthodontic correction
• TMD that requires extensive treatment
• Wear and tear that leads to additional lost teeth

Having missing teeth replaced immediately with dental implants will reduce the possibility that you will have these long-term, costly problems. If you have lost teeth, consult with our experienced implant dentistry team to find out how dental implants can help you keep your smile intact and avoid unnecessary long-term discomfort and expenditures.

To find out more about how dental implants can help you keep your smile healthy and attractive, please contact our office at 303 -730-1222 today.

Dental bridges have been used for many years to replace missing teeth. If only one or a few teeth are missing, and a full denture is not required, dental bridges are a common option. If you are considering dental bridges as an option in Littleton, here is some information to help you understand how dental bridges work.

The Dental Bridge

Unlike full dentures, a dental bridge replaces only a few teeth. A bridge consists of replacement teeth that are anchored to the adjacent teeth in the mouth. In order to anchor the bridge, the adjacent teeth must be restructured. One way to anchor a bridge is to attach it to a crown. The crown is placed over an adjacent tooth, and that tooth must be restructured to support it.

Placing a crown requires the dentist to make modifications to the tooth. The crown is then set into place over the restructured tooth. The prosthetic tooth is attached to the crown.

Another way to anchor a dental bridge is to have it attached to the adjacent teeth with wires. This also requires some restructuring of the adjacent teeth, but not as much as is required for a crown. Bridges can be anchored between two teeth or, if necessary, to a single tooth.

Why Choose a Dental Bridge?

Missing teeth can lead to a variety of issues. If there is a gap in your smile, it can make you self-conscious about your appearance. will improve your look and restore your confidence.

In addition to being detrimental to your appearance, missing teeth can cause problems with the rest of your mouth. Gaps can lead to shifts in your other teeth that can disturb your alignment and shift your bite. Alignment problems could cause abnormal wear and tear to your teeth. It can also lead to clenching and grinding, which can also damage your teeth. In some cases, misalignment can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, which can cause severe headaches, earaches, or problems with the jaw, upper back and neck.

For more information about dental bridges and other options to replace missing teeth, please contact the doctor Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.

Pregnancy has a tremendous effect on the entire body, and the mouth is no exception. Often, during pregnancy, the body and the immune system seem to function at an ultra-sensitive level, reacting unpredictably to normal situations.

The body’s response to the signs and symptoms of pregnancy can have a direct effect on the oral health. Always heed your obstetrician’s advice regarding your general health during pregnancy, and trust our to provide expert advice regarding your prenatal dental health.

Inflamed gums. It is not uncommon for minimal amounts of plaque accumulation to cause the gums to become tender and inflamed. Bleeding during brushing and flossing is also a more common observation during pregnancy. Pregnant women should not be alarmed or feel the need to avoid the sensitive areas. Instead, careful and diligent brushing and flossing can help to curb these signs of gingivitis before it progresses to true periodontal disease.

Dry mouth. Stuffy nasal passages and late-night snoring can contribute to a dry, irritated mouth throughout pregnancy. Dry mouth can lead to irritated gum tissue that bleeds easily, as well as an increased incidence of tooth decay. Without the proper amount of saliva necessary to neutralize plaque acids, the risk for cavities rises significantly. Your dentist may recommend drinking more water throughout the night, choosing alcohol free mouthrinses, or using an over-the-counter saliva substitute.

Tooth decay. Consuming more frequent meals and snacks is the prime contributor to tooth decay in pregnant women. It can be difficult to impossible to brush and floss properly after every snack, and the residual food particles provide fuel for the bacteria that normally reside in the oral cavity.

Acid reflux. Gastrointestinal issues such as gas, acid reflux, and nausea can trigger bad breath and acid erosion of the enamel. Even women with no history of gastrointestinal disorders may notice these symptoms during pregnancy. By recognizing the symptom, observing careful plaque control, and eating mild foods, the effects can be minimized.

The best defense against some of the more unpleasant effects of pregnancy is a close relationship with your medical and dental healthcare professionals. For your health, dental examinations before, during, and after pregnancy are recommended. Call the doctor Family Dentistry at our office and schedule your visit today.

The term “cosmetic dentistry” refers to a broad range of dental procedures designed to improve the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic procedures can range from a simple touch-up to a full-blown smile makeover, completely dependent on the needs and desires of the patient.

Patients seeking a minimally invasive, safe and effective cosmetic dental option may be interested in teeth whitening in Littleton. Since teeth whitening does not require the removal of any tooth structure and does not change the composition of the enamel in any way, the procedure is often viewed as one of the most conservative cosmetic procedures.

Natural tooth structure may become stained or discolored as a result of:

• dark foods or drinks such as coffee, tea, red wines, and whole grains
• lifestyle habits such as smoking or medications
• The natural aging process

In addition to the external factors that can cause staining, many patients are interested in lightening the natural shade of their own enamel. In virtually all of these circumstances, .

By introducing oxygen into the enamel, teeth whitening solutions can bleach away impurities without altering the structure of the enamel. Stains and discolorations are eliminated, and patients are left with a brighter, whiter smile.

When applied properly, and under the instruction of an experienced cosmetic dentist, teeth whitening is one of the safest cosmetic choices available. Even with professional application, patients may experience a mild level of temporary tooth sensitivity following whitening. This type of response is normal and completely reversible, not the result of damage to the enamel.

Patients should note that no method of teeth whitening is permanent. As you return to your daily life style, a certain level of shade rebound is common. Depending on the shade of white that you wish to maintain, a periodic whitening touch-up is safe and appropriate.

A consultation with our cosmetic dentists is recommended in order to find out if teeth whitening is right for you. Schedule your appointment today.

Even before the very first tooth has erupted, it is important to think about providing proper dental care for infants and toddlers. Many parents and caregivers are unsure as to how the care should be provided, or even what type of care is necessary. Just as you can turn to your pediatrician for guidance and advice about your child’s medical needs, you can also trust your to keep you informed regarding your child’s dental health.

In the very earliest stages of infancy, gently wiping the gums with a soft cloth is an important part of daily dental hygiene. It is not uncommon for an infant to be born with a small tooth, called a neonatal tooth. These teeth can also be gently wiped clean each day.

As infants begin to grow, keep a watchful eye on thumb-sucking. Even before the teeth have fully erupted, thumb-sucking can a negative effect on the shape and size of the palate. At this early age, your dentist can evaluate the size and shape of your child’s palate, upper jaw, and lower jaw. This type of early examination is useful for identifying developmental abnormalities or orthodontic concerns.

At home, as soon as the baby teeth are in the mouth, controlling plaque and preventing cavities becomes a high priority. A soft-bristled child’s tooth brush and training toothpaste are an effective method of introducing proper brushing after meals and snacks. To establish a habit of good oral hygiene, allow your child to participate in this daily routine, as well as observe other family members perform normal brushing and flossing.

Babies and toddlers should never be permitted to sleep with bottles containing any beverages other than water. Even milk, baby formula, and fruit juices contain natural sugars that can lead to decay. In addition to drinks that can cause tooth decay, many snack foods can cause cavities. Rather than choosing snacks high in sugars and carbohydrates, offer babies and toddlers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables whenever possible.

Even with diligent home care and healthy diets, unexpected dental conditions can arise. Introduce your child to the dental office as early as possible, and contact the doctor Family Dentistry at our office with questions and concerns as soon as possible.

The term “root canal” is a noun used to define the pulp filled channel in the root of a tooth.  The procedure of “root canal” is defined as a treatment in which diseased tissue from this part of the tooth is removed and the cavity is then filled with an inert material.  A root canal in Littleton can bring you much needed relief if you are suffering from discomfort or pain.

Why would someone need a root canal?  If a tooth is damaged due to excess decay or infection, the root canal is a process that could repair a tooth in an effort to save the tooth.  During a root canal, the nerve and pulp of the tooth is removed.  Once removed, the dentist will clean out the cavity of the tooth, and the tooth is then sealed.

The primary purpose of the nerve itself is to provide the sensation of heat or cold.  Since the nerve of the tooth is not needed once the tooth has emerged through gum tissue, having it removed will not affect the tooth’s day to day function.  And if the nerve and pulp become infected due to damage, the ensuing bacteria can result in an abscessed tooth.

If the dentist does not perform a root canal when needed, an abscess or infection at the root of the tooth can result in facial swelling, bone loss near the tip of the root, and eventual loss of one or more teeth.

What causes damage to a tooth’s nerve and pulp?  Irritation, inflammation or infection as a result of decay, repeated dental procedures to a tooth, a crack or chip in a tooth or a trauma to the face can lead to needing a root canal.

There are no definitive or specific symptoms that identify the need for a , but a severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tooth discoloration, swelling or gum tenderness, or persistent or recurring pimples on the gums are possible indicators that you might need a root canal.

Any or all of these conditions should encourage you to visit your dentist for needed treatment and relief, and to try to save your natural teeth for as long as you can.

For heavily compromised teeth, a crown may be the recommended restoration. A history of excessive forces such as clenching and grinding can fracture and crack the teeth. Widespread decay or very large, defective fillings can also take a toll on the teeth. Teeth that are severely broken down or not fully functional are common candidate for crowns, as well. Crowns are designed to protect and preserve your own tooth’s structural integrity.

A damaged tooth is not only uncomfortable; it can be unattractive in many instances. A dental crown is a widely utilized restorative option because it provides strength and stability where necessary. Fortunately, crowns can also be customized to a beautiful and natural appearance, improving the look and feel of the natural teeth.

Traditionally, dentists could only use amalgam, gold, and other metals to fix damaged and decayed teeth. While these options were proven to be durable, creating an attractive restoration was challenging. Today, strong tooth-colored ceramic materials are also an option to restore your teeth to their natural strength and beauty. Porcelain or ceramic materials are biocompatible; meaning the risk for an allergic response is low.

Your dentist will recommend a crown when it is necessary to completely cover, or cap, the entire tooth. The procedure generally involves the use of a local anesthetic for comfort. The existing defective filling and decay are removed from the tooth. The tooth will be shaped and prepared for the new crown, and an impression of the tooth is taken. This impression is critical to ensuring that your new crown fits well and provides adequate coverage.

Your crown will be designed with precision and shade matched to mimic the natural tooth appearance. Once the crown is in place, it should blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth and feel completely natural during eating and drinking. Crowns are considered permanent restorations and will not require any additional maintenance in terms of your homecare routine.

For more information about how you can improve the appearance of your natural teeth with , contact our dentistry team at 303 -730-1222 to schedule a consultation.

Stress can manifest itself in a multitude of ways throughout the human body.  Your mouth may not only be impacted physically, but the mouth can announce to the world how stressful we are feeling by the appearance of our lips, smile and teeth.  A visit to our family dentist serving Columbine can resolve issues inside the mouth to allow our outward persona to reflect a less stressful life.

What types of dental conditions can be attributed to everyday stress?  Cold sores, canker sores, halitosis, cracked or broken teeth and TMJ Disorder are some of the primary problems that you might suffer due to stress or anxiety.  Regular visits to your family dentist can help alleviate many dental problems, especially when going through a particularly stressful situation.

Cold sores or canker sores can be attributed to many things with stress near the top of the list.  Stressful situations can change how our body fights bacteria; can modify hormone levels; or affect our diet which can challenge our bodies nutritionally.  These physical changes along with trauma to the mouth, poor brushing habits, and even sun exposure can result in cold or canker sores.

Halitosis, or bad breath, is due to bacteria build up in the mouth.  In times of stress, changes in diet, beverage consumption, smoking and not taking care of our overall health can result in excessive bacteria build-up.  Regular visits to your dentist for professional dental cleanings and excellent oral habits like brushing and flossing daily can help rid the mouth of the bacteria that contributes to bad breath.  And since the tongue harbors much of the bacteria that promote halitosis, a tongue scraper can aid in helping to control this condition.

During times of stress, bruxism or teeth grinding often occurs during sleep or at times when we are not conscious of jaw clenching or grinding.  The result can be cracked or broken teeth from the grinding pressure or even , which is a term used to describe a joint disorder or inflammation of the temporomandibular joint which impacts the jaw in many ways.

Our mouths can tell a lot about us, but regular visits to the doctor Family Dentistry will aid in doing everything possible to keep our mouth and teeth healthy and free from these and other stress induced conditions.

One of the best ways you can makeover your smile is by whitening and brightening your teeth.  has a variety of options that can help to achieve that new, brighter smile.  A cosmetic dentist trains for many years to be able to help patients achieve that confident new smile in a variety of ways.

A professional teeth cleaning and polishing by your dentist or dental hygienist is a good start.  But if your teeth have developed a dull, lackluster appearance, teeth whitening in your dental office can alter your appearance significantly in a short period of time.  The process of in-office whitening primarily involves the use of a high-concentration peroxide gel and a curing light.  Your dental professional will apply a product to prevent the gel from exposure to your gum tissue and other parts of your mouth.   Once completed, your dentist may advise you to avoid consuming dark colored food or beverages for at least one week.   Very stubborn stains may require additional treatment or you may wish to enhance your office treatment with one of the many home-use whitening products.

If this teeth whitening process is not for you, there are more permanent options available.  Your cosmetic dentist may recommend dental veneers, which is basically a shell or layer of tooth colored porcelain or composite material that is placed on the front surface of your teeth.  This process can be used for discolored teeth, which may have lost their luster due to worn tooth enamel or trauma, or due to stains from eating, drinking, smoking or aging.

Another process you may opt for is cosmetic bonding.  This involves placing composite material on the teeth you wish to whiten.  This process is more extensive than teeth whitening, but less invasive than dental veneers.

If your goal is a whiter and brighter smile, our cosmetic dentists can offer you an option that will fit your budget, time frame, and desired result.  Call our office to schedule an appointment.  Whatever treatment you choose, you can expect to see a substantial improvement in your smile.  You can extend the life of the smile you achieve by seeing your dentist for regular check-ups, and practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice each day.