Welcome to Briargate Dental, your premier destination for dental care in Colorado Springs, CO. We prioritize your dental health and strive to offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. One common dental procedure that many individuals may require is getting a crown. Whether you’re addressing damage or seeking cosmetic enhancement, understanding the process of obtaining a crown is crucial. At Briargate Dental, we’re proud to offer same-day crowns, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. Let’s explore the journey of acquiring a crown with us.
Understanding Same-Day Crowns
Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, revolutionize the traditional crown process by enabling patients to receive their permanent restoration in just one visit. Utilizing advanced CAD/CAM technology, we can design, fabricate, and place custom crowns in a single appointment, eliminating the need for temporary restorations and multiple visits.
Initial Consultation:
Your journey towards a same-day crown begins with an initial consultation at Briargate Dental. During this appointment, our experienced dentists will assess your oral health, discuss your concerns and treatment goals, and determine whether a crown is the ideal solution for your needs. With our commitment to patient-centered care, we ensure that you feel informed and empowered throughout the decision-making process.
Treatment Planning:
Once it’s established that a crown is necessary, we’ll collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan. We’ll discuss the available options for crown materials and address any questions or concerns you may have. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your treatment options, ensuring that you feel confident and comfortable moving forward.
Preparation:
With same-day crowns, the preparation process is similar to traditional crowns. We’ll prepare the affected tooth by removing any damaged or decayed portions and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Digital Impression:
Following tooth preparation, we’ll take digital impressions of the treated tooth and surrounding teeth using our state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology. These digital impressions provide precise 3D models, allowing us to design your custom crown with unparalleled accuracy.
Design and Fabrication:
Using the digital impressions, our skilled team will design your custom crown using advanced computer-aided design software. Once the design is finalized, the information is sent to our in-house milling unit, where your crown is fabricated from high-quality ceramic material. Our streamlined process ensures that your crown is crafted to exact specifications, guaranteeing a perfect fit and natural appearance.
Final Placement:
After the crown is milled, it is immediately ready for placement. Your dentist will carefully fit the crown onto the prepared tooth, ensuring optimal aesthetics and functionality. Once the fit is confirmed, the crown is permanently bonded in place, allowing you to leave our office with a beautiful, fully restored smile in just one visit.
Post-Treatment Care:
Following the placement of your same-day crown, our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your new restoration. Proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your crown. With proper care, your same-day crown can provide years of durable, aesthetic enhancement.
Conclusion
At Briargate Dental, we’re committed to delivering exceptional care and innovative solutions to our patients. With our same-day crown technology, we’re able to streamline the process of obtaining a crown, providing you with a convenient and efficient experience. If you’re in need of a crown or any other dental treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us and discover the difference of Briargate Dental. Trust us to restore your smile with same-day crowns and experience the convenience of modern dentistry.
Today, we’re tackling some of the most common myths surrounding dental care. It’s easy to be misled by old wives’ tales or misinformation circulating on the internet. However, when it comes to your oral health, believing in these myths can be more than just harmless fun – it can lead to poor dental practices. Let’s set the record straight and ensure you’re equipped with the right information for a healthy smile.
Myth 1: Sugar is the Main Cause of Cavities
Reality: While sugar plays a role in cavity formation, it’s not the sole culprit. Cavities are caused by the acid produced when bacteria in your mouth break down carbohydrates, not just sugar. This means foods like bread, cereals, and fruits can also contribute to cavity formation. Regular brushing and flossing, along with a balanced diet, are key to preventing cavities.
Myth 2: Brushing Harder Means Cleaner Teeth
Reality: Brushing with too much force can damage your enamel and irritate your gums. The key to effective brushing is not in the force, but in the technique and the consistency of the routine. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush in a circular motion to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
Myth 3: Flossing Isn’t Necessary
Reality: Flossing is an essential part of dental care. It removes food particles and plaque between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Skipping flossing can lead to gum disease and cavities in between teeth. Make flossing a daily habit for a comprehensive oral hygiene routine.
Myth 4: You Should Visit a Dentist Only When You Have a Problem
Reality: Regular dental check-ups are crucial, even if you don’t have any apparent issues. These visits allow your dentist to detect problems early and keep your oral health on track. Preventive care is always better than treating problems after they’ve developed.
Myth 5: Teeth Whitening Damages Enamel
Reality: When done professionally or with dentist-approved at-home kits, teeth whitening is safe and does not damage tooth enamel. However, excessive or improper use of whitening products can lead to sensitivity and damage. It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendations and use products as directed.
Myth 6: Gum Bleeding during Brushing is Normal
Reality: Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. If your gums bleed regularly when you brush or floss, it’s time to see your dentist. Good oral hygiene and professional dental care can reverse gingivitis.
Myth 7: No Pain Means No Dental Problems
Reality: Many dental issues, like cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer, can be asymptomatic in their early stages. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and treatment, even if you’re not experiencing any pain.
Conclusion
Debunking these myths is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Remember, the best source for dental information is your dentist. Don’t hesitate to ask questions during your next visit – we’re here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Keep brushing, flossing, and debunking those myths!
Welcome to Briargate Dental, your trusted partner in achieving a healthy and beautiful smile. At our practice, we understand the importance of straight teeth not only for aesthetics but also for oral health. Crooked or misaligned teeth can lead to various dental issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even jaw problems. Fortunately, advancements in orthodontic treatment have provided us with an innovative solution – Invisalign.
In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore the numerous benefits of Invisalign and why it is an excellent choice for achieving the smile you’ve always dreamed of. We’ll cover everything from its convenience and aesthetics to its impact on oral health and lifestyle improvements. So, let’s dive into the world of Invisalign and discover how it can transform your smile and boost your confidence.
Invisalign: The Modern Orthodontic Solution
Traditional braces have long been the go-to option for correcting misaligned teeth. While they are effective, they come with a few drawbacks, including discomfort, dietary restrictions, and the obvious appearance of metal wires and brackets. Invisalign, on the other hand, offers a modern alternative that addresses these concerns.
Aesthetics
One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign is its nearly invisible appearance. These clear aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign allows you to straighten your teeth without drawing unnecessary attention to your orthodontic treatment.
Comfortable and Convenient
Another notable benefit of Invisalign is its comfort and convenience throughout the treatment process.
Comfort
Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, which eliminates the irritation and discomfort often associated with metal braces. You won’t experience the sharp edges or wires poking your cheeks and lips, making Invisalign a comfortable choice for both adults and teenagers.
Removability
Invisalign aligners are removable, giving you the flexibility to eat, drink, brush, and floss without any restrictions. This not only improves your oral hygiene but also allows you to maintain a regular diet, unlike traditional braces that necessitate avoiding certain foods that could damage the braces.
Fewer Appointments
With Invisalign, you’ll have fewer orthodontic appointments compared to traditional braces. You’ll receive multiple sets of aligners at once, reducing the need for frequent check-ups. This convenience is especially beneficial for individuals with busy schedules.
Improved Oral Health
Beyond the cosmetic benefits, Invisalign plays a significant role in enhancing your overall oral health.
Easier Cleaning
Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to clean your teeth more effectively. Traditional braces can make it challenging to brush and floss thoroughly, which may lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Invisalign ensures that you can maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Reduced Risk of Gum Disease
Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of gum disease. Misaligned teeth can create pockets where bacteria thrive, leading to gum inflammation and, if left untreated, gum disease. Invisalign helps align your teeth properly, making it easier to prevent these issues.
Decreased Risk of Tooth Decay
Crooked teeth can create areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay. Invisalign aligners gradually reposition your teeth, reducing these hiding spots for harmful bacteria and minimizing the risk of cavities.
Enhanced Comfort and Safety During Sports
Participating in sports is essential for physical fitness and overall well-being, but it can be risky for those with traditional braces.
Sports-Friendly
Invisalign aligners are safer for athletes as they don’t involve any sharp wires or brackets that could potentially injure your mouth during contact sports. You can remove your aligners before playing, providing an added layer of protection and comfort.
Lifestyle Benefits
Invisalign offers various lifestyle benefits that can positively impact your daily life.
Confidence Boost
A beautiful, straight smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence. Invisalign allows you to work on your smile discreetly, without the self-consciousness that often comes with wearing traditional braces.
Social Comfort
Invisalign aligners are less intrusive, making social interactions more comfortable. You won’t have to worry about food getting stuck in metal brackets or feeling embarrassed about your smile during conversations.
Speech Improvement
Some individuals experience speech difficulties with traditional braces due to the presence of metal in the mouth. Invisalign aligners are less likely to affect your speech, allowing you to communicate clearly throughout your treatment.
Customized Treatment
Each Invisalign treatment plan is personalized to address your unique dental needs and goals. This level of customization ensures that you get the best results possible, improving your overall quality of life.
Treatment Process and Duration
While the benefits of Invisalign are clear, it’s essential to understand the treatment process and expected duration.
Predictable Results
Invisalign utilizes advanced technology to create a 3D representation of your teeth and plan your treatment. This precision ensures predictable results and helps you visualize the transformation of your smile before you even begin.
Treatment Duration
The duration of your Invisalign treatment may vary depending on the severity of your misalignment. However, many patients experience faster results compared to traditional braces, with an average treatment time of 12 to 18 months.
Minimal Disruptions
Invisalign aligners require fewer visits to the dentist for adjustments, meaning less disruption to your daily life.
Get Started Today!
At Briargate Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a confident and healthy smile. Invisalign offers a revolutionary approach to orthodontic treatment, addressing the aesthetic, comfort, and health concerns associated with traditional braces. From its nearly invisible appearance to its comfort, convenience, and overall impact on your lifestyle, Invisalign has numerous benefits that make it a preferred choice for patients of all ages considering orthodontic treatment or have questions about Invisalign, our experienced team at Briargate Dental, in Colorado Springs, is here to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. With Invisalign, a beautiful and confident smile is closer than you think.
Here’s a shocking statistic: more than 2% of adults between 20-65 years have lost all their teeth. Missing teeth is a common issue amongst most Americans and often leads to self-esteem issues. The good news is that people with missing teeth or unevenly spaced teeth can get dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial structures installed into the jawbone by a dental surgeon in place of missing teeth. They are typically installed with screw-like devices that act as an anchor to the crown. The crown is usually made to look, feel and function like the person’s natural teeth. With the technology and expertise involved in this procedure, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell a dental implant apart from the surrounding natural teeth.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
For most people, dental implants are often out of their budget. Luckily, there are various dental implants to choose from, and you can select the option that suits your needs and budget. There are several fees involved in the procedure. They include:
Comprehensive dental exam
Tooth/ teeth extraction
Installation of the dental implant
Placement of the screws and other abutment hardware
Molding the crown
Placement of the dental crown
The cost of the procedure will depend on the dental practice; some dental practices offer a free scan for first visits. However, if you use 3D imaging, you might have to shell out between $350-$515.
The average cost of one tooth implant, from scan to crown placement, is $4,000. Getting a mouthful of implants can cost between $60,000 and $90,000. The cost discrepancy happens because although the initial procedure is similar for all implants, patients can choose the type of dental implant, and the material they want for the crown.
What Is the Procedure to Get Dental Implants?
Getting dental implants can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months, depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced and the condition of your jawbone. The steps involved in this process include:
A Comprehensive Dental Exam
The dental exam determines the number of teeth that need to be replaced. It is done using dental X-rays and 3D imaging. Molding the teeth and jaw is also done during this process.
Placing the Implant
The dental surgeon cuts into the gum until the bone is exposed and drills holes into the bone where the dental implant metal screw will be placed. It is implanted deep into the jawbone for stability since it serves as the tooth root.
Waiting for Bone Growth
The jawbone needs to grow and unite with the dental implant before anything else can be done. This helps provide a stable base for the new artificial teeth.
Placing the Abutment
The abutment is placed after the jaw heals. It’s done by cutting the gum, exposing the dental implant, attaching the abutment to the implant, and then closing the gum tissue around it. Your gums need to heal for about 2-3 weeks before the artificial tooth can be attached.
Installing the Artificial Teeth
After your gums fully heal, it’s time to install the customized crown. You can choose removable or fixed teeth or a combination of the two.
Bottom Line
Some of the typical discomforts you are likely to deal with after the procedure include swelling gums and face, minor bleeding in the gums, jaw pain, and bruising of the gums. You might need to take pain medication if the pain is unbearable and persists for an extended period. Eating soft foods after the procedure is also advisable.
If you need dental implants or are experiencing any dental problems, don’t hesitate to call us here at Briargate Dental. We’re always happy to help, and we’ll guide you through every step of the way.
Has your dentist recently recommended a root canal for you? While many people likely recognize the name of this procedure, they probably don’t know much about the procedure itself, and most importantly, why a dentist would recommend such a treatment for one of their patients.
What Is a Root Canal?
Most people are familiar with dental procedures such as dental fillings and crowns, both of which address issues with the exterior portion of a tooth. A root canal differs from these types of procedures in that it corrects an issue with an interior portion of a tooth called the pulp.
Anatomy of the Pulp
Inside a tooth, the pulp extends all the way from the crown (the exterior surface of the tooth that first meets the gums), down to the lower tips of a tooth’s root system. The pulp itself is rich in nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
Sometimes the interior pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed. During a root canal procedure, the inflamed tissue is removed, the surrounding areas are cleaned and disinfected, and the space where the pulp formerly resided is filled and sealed with a special material.
How to Know if You Need a Root Canal
A dentist may tell their patient they need a root canal if the pulp of one of their teeth is badly infected or decayed. The decay or infection can stem from a variety of issues. Sometimes a person may injure a tooth through facial trauma. In other cases, a tooth may crack or chip, which invites infection/decay into the inner tissues (the pulp). Some people may have a cavity on the exterior of one of their teeth that has been allowed to decay. Over time, the decay from the cavity extends into the interior portion of the tooth where the pulp resides.
A person may need a root canal if they notice recurring, severe pain when they chew or bite down on foods with the affected tooth. Other symptoms associated with infected/decaying pulp include:
Tender or swollen gums
Heat/cold sensitivity
Darkening of the gums
Pimples on the gums near the affected tooth
If left untreated, infected/decaying pulp can eventually become very sensitive and painful as pus begins to form in the affected area. This is known as a tooth abscess. Without treatment, an abscessed tooth can quickly become a very painful, serious condition.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
A patient can expect to be awake and pain-free during their root canal. After the procedure is over and as the anesthetic wears off, you’ll likely begin to feel some pain around the affected tooth, and you may notice that the surrounding gums are swollen. For pain after the procedure, your dentist will likely recommend over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If your pain lasts more than several days, or if it becomes severe at any time, you should report it to your dentist.
You should plan to take it easy for the rest of the day after your root canal, and you should avoid chewing on the side of the affected tooth until your next dentist appointment (typically a few days after your root canal). Most people can resume their normal level of activity the day after having a root canal.
When you return to the dentist, they’ll take an X-ray to make sure all the infection and decay are gone. Although the purpose of having a root canal is to preserve a tooth, sometimes the tooth may have undergone significant decay. If a dentist feels there’s not enough structure to properly support the original tooth, they may decide to place a permanent crown over the affected tooth.
Root canals are very effective and have a 95% success rate. Many people, especially if they take good care of their teeth, have no further issues with their once-infected tooth.
Takeaway
If you’ve been experiencing pain in one or more teeth, it’s always a good idea to see a dentist sooner rather than later. Prompt treatment can eliminate your pain, and it increases the likelihood you’ll be able to save your tooth while also avoiding some of the more complicated dental issues that may occur.
We want to help you maintain a bright, healthy, and confident smile for a lifetime. Contact us today to schedule your next dental appointment with Briargate Dental.
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