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December 7th, 2011
 Our oral cavity requires as much care as the rest of our body. We use our teeth to break down the food we eat and our tongue is a hyper-sensitive sensory mechanism that helps us taste every morsel we ingest. Many people focus on the superficial needs of their mouth without fully understanding that this structure is also a breeding ground for bacteria if not maintained properly. To maintain your oral health, it would be best if you visit Dr. Alan Gurman, your dentist serving Thornton CO, regularly for plaque debridement and check-ups.
Brushing and flossing regularly is essential to keep the bad bacteria at bay. Make sure you incorporate this into your daily lifestyle, especially if you are fond of beverages that can stain the teeth. Drinking coffee, tea and red wine or smoking increases your risk of stains that will require bleaching treatments to resolve. It is imperative that you maintain your dental hygiene by meticulously brushing your teeth.
Plaque build-up can lead to tooth loss. When the soft, cheese-like matter hardens, it will turn into calcular deposits. This shell-like deposit can seep into the free gingival and give bacteria an entry point to subgingival structures like your periodontal ligament or roots. Once the bacteria have settled down in the area, the colonization will lead to periodontal problems.
An infected pulp chamber will require your dentist to perform root canal treatment. If it is left untreated, an abscess could develop. This will cause extreme discomfort because it involves the alveolar bone and the supporting structures. Your immune system will try to combat the foreign organisms and this will cause an inflammatory response. The patient will notice that the area around the tooth is swollen. There will usually be discomfort in the area when the specific tooth is used to chew food.
If this is not resolved, the bacteria may travel to the nervous tissue, maxillary sinus and in severe cases, even the brain. Your oral cavity is made up of vital tissue. Although we have an immune system that fights infections, we are not invincible. Ask your dentist for tips on how to maintain excellent dental hygiene.
To schedule your next exam, call Alpine Dental Center at 303.428.6367 today!
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November 22nd, 2011
Tooth whitening is one of the easiest and most popular treatments offered by cosmetic dentists. In only an hour, the look of your teeth can be dramatically improved, turning a brown, yellow or dingy smile into a bright, white smile you can be proud of. Teeth whitening in Thornton can give you self confidence and security about your looks with little risk and few side effects.
How Tooth Whitening Works
Most professional teeth whitening is performed in the dentist’s office, though more stubborn staining might require an at-home approach. Typically, your dentist paints a whitening agent on your teeth which is then left in place for about twenty minutes. It is then removed and re-applied. Most teeth whitening sessions last an hour, and can produce dramatic results, lightening your teeth anywhere from five to ten shades.
For at-home tooth whitening, your dentist will supply special trays for you to wear, usually for fifteen minutes at a time, twice a day. This provides increased exposure to the whitening agent, making it more likely that stubborn or severe staining can be treated.
Tooth Whitening and Safety
Teeth whitening is a very safe procedure. For in-office whitening, the dentist places a protective gel on your gums and lips before the whitening agent is applied. This will protect these sensitive tissues from direct contact with the whitener. If the whitening agent does make contact with your lips or gums, there might be some irritation or discomfort, but it will not be severe, and it will wear off quickly.
Tooth whitening can have mild side effects. These include increased sensitivity in the teeth as well as mild irritation to the lips and gums. These side effects are more common with over-the-counter whitening products and take-home professional products. With over-the-counter products, you are more likely to accidentally let the whitener contact the soft tissues of the mouth, leading to irritation. Take-home professional kits often include a stronger whitening agent, which can lead to temporarily increased tooth sensitivity.
If you’d like to find out more about making your smile the best it can be with teeth whitening, please contact the office of Dr. Alan Gurman at 303.428.6367 today.
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November 8th, 2011
 Even a single missing tooth can have a dramatic impact on how you feel about your looks. However, the side effects of a missing tooth are more than just aesthetic. Missing teeth can affect other aspects of your dental health, as well. If you are debating whether to have dental implants in Thornton Colorado, here are some facts to help you decide.
Effects of Missing Teeth
One of the most important issues involving tooth loss is that of tooth alignment. Even having one tooth missing can cause the rest of your teeth to move out of position. If one tooth is gone, other teeth might move into the empty space, leading to a domino effect that can leave your bite severely misaligned. Poor alignment can lead to various issues such as:
- Teeth grinding
- Premature wear
- Temporomandibular joint disorder
Correcting these problems could require extensive orthodontic work. If teeth wear down prematurely due to grinding or misalignment, you might even find yourself facing the loss of more teeth.
In addition, missing teeth can lead to breakdown of the jawbone. The roots of the teeth help stimulate bone growth in the jaw when you chew. If teeth are missing, the bone is not stimulated, and can break down over time. This can also change your bite, as well as the shape of your face and your overall appearance.
To prevent these long-term effects of tooth loss, consider dental implants to keep your bite—and your smile—intact.
Tooth Replacement with Dental Implants
Dental implants can be used to replace even a single missing tooth. Unlike a dental bridge, an implant does not require adjacent teeth to be restructured to accommodate anchoring crowns or wires.
A dental implant is set directly into the jawbone, and bonds with the bone over a healing interval. A prosthetic tooth can then be put into place on the root portion of the implant, restoring your smile. The implant is virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Regular visits to your dentist will help keep your teeth healthy and maintain the health of the implant, as well.
For more information about dental implants and how they can restore your smile, please contact Alpine Dental Center at 303-428-6367 to schedule a consultation.
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October 19th, 2011
Before we discuss the specifics of Invisalign treatment, one must first understand what it is and how it works. This breakthrough in orthodontics has been used to successfully treat malocclusions. It works like braces by slowly moving your teeth into the best possible alignment, minus the metal and wires.
The process starts with your dentist taking an impression of your teeth. The cast is then put through the Invisalign 3D computer imaging system which creates a number of trays for you to wear. The first one will fit your current dentition perfectly. The succession of trays will gently move your teeth into proper alignment. Each series is to be worn 24 hours a day for about two weeks. They can be removed during meals, of course.
This treatment has been known to fix different types of cases. Those with large spaces ( 1 to 5 mm) due to heredity or missing teeth have noticed a significant closure. People with overly crowded dentition ( 1 to 5 mm) have also responded well. Individuals who have had braces but did not wear their retainers religiously can also benefit from wearing Invisalign trays. Those with crossbites have noticed a drastic change as well.
Patients who have overbites can definitely benefit from Invisalign retainers. If the lower teeth are supra-erupted, the aligner can slowly guide them back into the proper position. This is a common problem and easily resolved. If the upper teeth are too extruded and the jaws do not exhibit macrognathia nor micrognathia, the anterior dentition can be pushed back at a steady pace. Lastly, the front teeth of the mandible might be leaning in, that may have resulted into an overbite. By use of this treatment, they can be pushed outward, correcting the overbite.
Patients with jaw or bone irregularities that result into malocclusion might need to seek the help of an oral surgeon to resolve their problems. Orthodontic treatments work, but they have their limits. After appropriate surgical techniques are done, the orthodontist may be able to fix the faulty occlusion by use of Invisalign trays.
To learn more about Invisalign treatment in Thornton Colorado, please contact the office of Dr. Alan Gurman at 303-428-6367 to schedule a consultation.
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October 5th, 2011
 Pregnancy is when the mother and child are at their most vulnerable state. Many people do not realize that some procedures can undermine fetal health. Our dental team serving Thornton CO would like to give a few guidelines about how expectant mothers can keep their unborn child safe and protect their oral health at the same time.
There is a link between gum disease and pre-term or underweight children. Those women affected by it produce increased amounts of hormones that can induce labor. Females with pregnancy gingivitis will exhibit red, inflamed gums that bleed at the slightest touch. It is important to brush and floss regularly to ensure the health of your bundle of joy.
It would be best to resolve any dental problems before planning a pregnancy. If you already have conceived and wish to seek treatment, consult your OB-GYN beforehand. You will usually be advised to wait until the fourth to sixth month for any procedure aside from routine cleaning. The fetus is very sensitive during the first three months of life. This is when your baby undergoes the most development, and any irritant might cause harm.
Calcium is needed by both mother and child. Drink as much as you can to keep your bones healthy and to help boost your baby’s osseous growth. Studies have shown that pregnant women who are deficient in calcium are prone to tooth loss. Milk, cheese and yogurt are great sources of bone-building nutrients.
In the first trimester, make it a point to visit your dentist. Inform him or her about your pregnancy and ask what sort of treatment procedures you need to avoid until the fourth month. You will be told to avoid x-rays, antibiotics (i.e. tetracycline), certain pain medications and anesthetics unless it is absolutely needed. Should you require emergency dental treatment, please inform the dentist of how far along you are and provide a list of medications you are currently taking. This will help him assess what to give you for the procedure.
Be sure to ask Dr. Alan Gurman at Alpine Dental Center how you can keep you and your bundle of joy safe and healthy by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
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September 20th, 2011
Dental crowns are permanent protective coverings for teeth that require additional strength to support normal biting and chewing. Generally fabricated from strong porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, crowns completely encircle the tooth.
Your dentist may recommend a crown if your natural tooth has fractured, if a root canal procedure has occurred, or if extensive decay has resulted in a very large filling. By surrounding and covering the tooth, crowns essentially hold the tooth together. As an added benefit, crowns can be designed to look and feel just like a natural tooth. Anatomic details such as shade and shape are added for a customized finish.
Crowns can also be useful for cosmetic purposes. The appearance of front teeth can be improved through the application of dental crowns. If you feel that you could benefit from crowns in Thornton, schedule your next dental visit as soon as possible. You will discover that crowns are simple to apply and even easier to care for.
Dental crowns are applied to the teeth with an ultra-strong adhesive designed to withstand moisture and temperature changes. The adhesive or cement is also proven to remain secure in the presence of extreme forces, generally recognized during biting and chewing.
When your dentist has prepared your natural tooth for the crown, an impression or mold is taken in order to capture the proper measurements for the new crown. The crown is typically created in a dental laboratory and approved by your dentist prior to placing the crown in the mouth. Your dentist will place the crown on the tooth to evaluate its fit and appearance. Sometimes, minor adjustments are necessary for an accurate fit, and then the crown is ready to be cemented!
Within a few minutes, the crown is permanently cemented and normal eating and drinking can be resumed. You will be instructed to brush and floss thoroughly around the crown, just as you care for your other teeth.
Dental crowns are a fantastic solution for restoring teeth when strength has been compromised. To find out how crowns can reinforce your smile, call 303-428-6367 to schedule a visit with us right away.
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September 6th, 2011
 Regular visits to your Thornton Colorado family dentist are important for identifying decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. They also present a valuable opportunity to discuss your homecare habits and recommend products that may improve your health.
By far, the most important factor for your dental health consists of what you are able to do at home. By controlling plaque bacteria through proper brushing and flossing, you can prevent two of the most common dental diseases: periodontal disease and decay.
Every day, the bacteria in your mouth become colonized within a clear, sticky film called plaque. This layer of plaque covers the surfaces of your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks, providing a safe place for the bacteria to multiply. As the bacteria become organized, they produce toxic acids that can cause bad breath, destroy the gums, and lead to cavities.
Although plaque bacteria can be controlled with a manual toothbrush, power toothbrushes have been proven to be more effective in terms of the amount of plaque that can be removed. Power toothbrushes are designed to move hundreds of times faster than a manual brush, sweeping plaque away and polishing the teeth. Some power brushes are designed to move fast enough to create ultrasonic vibrations within the water and toothpaste, effectively disrupting the film of plaque between the teeth and below the gum line.
Power toothbrushes are also useful for removing plaque in hard to reach areas such as the bottom front teeth and the very last molars. Because the brushing motion is automatic, your only task is to place the brush in the proper location. With no concerns about awkward brushing angles, you can hold the brush gently in place and allow the bristles to sweep the area clean.
The gentle vibration of a power brush can be challenging to adjust to. Many patients find that the vibration tickles the gums. This vibration is useful for stimulating and massaging the gums. This type of regular stimulation can help to strengthen and tighten the gum tissue, promoting good health and reducing tenderness and bleeding.
For patients with gingivitis, periodontal disease, braces, crowns and bridges, or heavy stain, power toothbrushes can be a fantastic investment in your dental health.
Contact the office of Dr. Alan Gurman at 303-428-6367 to learn more about proper oral hygiene habits and to schedule your next dental exam.
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August 19th, 2011
The phrase orthodontic treatment generally conjures up thoughts of metal brackets and bands and years of enduring wires and rubber bands along with a mouthful of metal. But a visit to your dentist to discuss your options with Invisalign in Thornton CO will certainly change that image.
Invisalign offers a procedure that can transform teeth misalignment due to:
- Over bite
- Under bite
- Cross bite
- Lack of jaw space
- Spaces between teeth
What is Invisalign and how does it work?
Invisalign is a series of soft plastic aligners that are prescribed by your dentist to correct your exact dental problems. With the first aligner, the soft plastic is starting to gently shift your teeth to their new correct position.
Every two weeks or so, your dentist provides you with the next aligner in the series to continue to reshape the structure of your teeth. Over time, the aligners do their job to shift your teeth to correct your bite.
Advantages to Invisalign aligners over the traditional metal brackets and bands:
- The aligners are made of a soft, clear plastic so they are practically undetectable making them very aesthetically pleasing.
- Since the aligners are removable, you are able to eat as you normally would.
- You are better able to brush and floss to help maintain your dental health while straightening your teeth. With traditional braces, this is not possible.
It is advisable to wear your aligners a minimum of twenty to twenty-two hours per day to maximize their benefit.
In addition, with Invisalign’s clear aligners, many adults who thought straightening their teeth was not practical find that they are able to obtain that smile makeover without undergoing the discomfort and embarrassment of metal bands and brackets once associated with teeth straightening.
As with all dental procedures, the time needed to make your desired corrections will be based on your specific case. But most adults can expect treatment to be completed in one year. Young adults and teenagers can expect their treatment to take approximately the same length of time as traditional metal braces.
Visit our dentistry team at Alpine Dental Center for answers to your questions about transforming your smile with Invisalign clear aligners.
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August 5th, 2011
 Caring for your toddler’s teeth can be a full-time responsibility. The normally recommended plaque control measures apply to your little ones, just as they apply to adults. Regular brushing and flossing after meals and before bedtime are the foundation for everyone’s home care routines, both for children and adults. Though there are many similarities, there are also some important differences.
The care that you provide for your toddler will go a long way towards caring for the baby teeth as well as the developing adult teeth. Even as the baby teeth are growing in, the permanent adult teeth are already forming. Also, teaching good dental habits at an early age can lay an important foundation for your child’s healthy future.
Even as a toddler, your child should be receiving routine preventive dental care from your dentist serving Thornton Colorado. Your dentist can provide valuable insight into your child’s dental and skeletal development, and also answer questions about the recommended homecare measures. Between dental visits, remember these important tips for protecting your toddler’s teeth:
- Limit sugary drinks and snacks- As toddlers begin to gain independence, they may enjoy feeding themselves and carrying their own beverages. Even healthy fruit drinks, milk, and crackers can break down into harmful sugars, and frequent exposure can lead to tooth decay. Try offering water or encouraging brushing between snacks whenever possible.
- Encourage brushing and flossing- Allowing your toddler to brush and floss his own teeth at least once daily promotes independence of responsibility. Even if your child’s efforts are not perfect, simply introducing the concept and establishing a routine can send an important message to your little one.
- Enjoy healthy food choices (but don’t eat toothpaste!)- Eating a variety of healthy fruits and vegetables is good for the entire body, including developing teeth. It is also important to prevent your child from eating fluoridated toothpastes, or risk damage to the permanent teeth that may be developing. Choose training toothpastes specifically designed for children who may not have learned to spit rather than swallow.
Caring for your toddler’s teeth can be challenging. Don’t hesitate to schedule your child’s first dental visit. Call our office at 303.728.6367 for your toddler’s appointment today.
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July 19th, 2011
Dental crowns are special caps placed over teeth to help protect them or to provide cosmetic corrections. The most common uses for caps are to protect teeth that have been cracked or broken, and as the final step in a root canal procedure.
Caring for Crowns
Crowns do not require special care. However, regular dental hygiene is vital to be sure the tooth that carries the crown is kept healthy and free from decay. The crown extends slightly under the gum line, but beneath the gum line a part of the tooth is still exposed. To keep this part of the tooth clean, you must be sure to brush thoroughly and floss between the tooth that holds the crown and the adjacent teeth.
If you experience any kind of unusual symptoms in the crowned tooth, it is important to bring this to the attention of your dentist. Some indications that there might be problems with the crown include unusual sensitivity to heat or cold, discomfort during chewing, or redness or bleeding in the gums surrounding the tooth.
Uses for Crowns
Crowns are most often used to repair teeth that have been cracked or otherwise damaged. This can occur due to trauma, injury, or sometimes happens when a filling is replaced or removed. Crowns are still used for aesthetic treatments, as well, but in most cases a dentist is more likely to use porcelain veneers, since they are less invasive and easier to place.
Another use for crowns is to anchor bridges used to replace missing teeth. The replacement tooth is attached to the crown, which is placed over the adjacent tooth and holds the bridge in place.
Crowns are also used to cover a tooth that has received a root canal treatment. After the root canal procedure is complete, the tooth is modified in order to accommodate the crown. This protects the tooth and allows you to keep the tooth rather than having it removed.
If you would like additional information about crowns in the Thornton area, please call our office at 303-428-6367 to schedule a consultation.
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