What to Expect When Visiting an Emergency Dentist

November 30, 2023 1:41 am
Published by Vero Dental

Dental emergencies can happen suddenly and without warning, causing pain and anxiety. When faced with a dental crisis, it can be helpful to know what to expect when visiting an emergency dentist for emergency dental care.

Evaluation & Diagnosis

Once you get in touch with an emergency dentist, it’s likely that you’ll be asked to come in as soon as possible. This may even mean right after your emergency happened.

Upon your arrival, the emergency dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your condition. They will ask about your symptoms, recent trauma or injuries, and medical history. Dental X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of the problem and ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Pain Management

Relieving pain is often the first priority in dental emergencies. Your dentist may administer local anesthesia or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate your discomfort.

Emergency Dental Treatment

Depending on the nature and severity of your dental emergency, your treatment may involve procedures such as:

Tooth Extraction – If a tooth is severely damaged or cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary.
Dental Fillings – For severe cavities or minor tooth damage, a dental filling may be placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
Root Canal Therapy – In cases of infection, a root canal may be performed to preserve a tooth’s structure.
Tooth Reattachment – If you’ve had a knocked-out permanent tooth, your dentist will attempt to reattach it.
Future Prevention – You may benefit from getting fitted for a custom mouthguard if your emergency was caused by a sports injury or teeth grinding.

Emergency Dentistry in Denver, CO

Visiting an emergency dentist can provide timely relief and treatment for dental emergencies. Knowing what to expect during your visit can help alleviate anxiety and ensure you receive the care you need promptly. At Vero Dental, we provide emergency dentistry in Denver, CO, and would be happy to provide relief for you during an emergency.

Teeth Whitening Options: DIY to Professional Treatments

October 31, 2023 6:49 am
Published by Vero Dental

A bright, white smile can do wonders for your confidence and overall appearance. With all of the teeth whitening options that are out there, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each method. Below, we explore different teeth whitening options, ranging from DIY solutions to professional treatments, to help you make an informed choice when it comes to achieving a dazzling smile.

DIY Whitening Kits

DIY teeth whitening kits are readily available in stores and online. They typically include a whitening gel and one-size-fits-all trays or strips. While cost-effective and convenient, it’s important to have realistic expectations and exercise caution. Improper use can lead to uneven results, tooth sensitivity, or gum irritation. Your results could be disappointing even if you carefully follow the product’s instructions. Consult with our team if you have any concerns.

Whitening Toothpaste & Mouthwash

Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash are popular over-the-counter options. They contain mild abrasives or peroxide to help remove surface stains. While they can be effective as part of your regular oral care routine for ongoing maintenance, they may not produce dramatic results if you have deep or stubborn discoloration.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal has gained popularity as a teeth whitening remedy. Advocates claim it absorbs stains and toxins from the teeth. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. In fact, frequent use could be harmful due to its abrasive texture.

In-Office Professional Whitening

Professional teeth whitening treatments administered by a dentist offer the safest, quickest, and most significant results. The procedure involves applying a highly concentrated whitening gel, sometimes activated by a special light or laser. This method is safe, controlled, and very effective. At Vero Dental, our team can tailor the treatment to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results.

Take-Home Professional Kits

Take-home professional whitening kits offer the benefits of in-office treatments in a more affordable, flexible format. You can pick up custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel from our office. This allows you to whiten your teeth at your own convenience while still benefiting from expert guidance.

Consult with Our Team!

Choosing the right teeth whitening option depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. While DIY solutions can be effective to a certain extent, professional treatments, whether in-office or take-home kits, offer the most reliable and noticeable results. We recommend consulting with our team to determine the best approach for achieving a radiant, confident smile that truly dazzles.

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Benefits of Our In-House Dental Membership

September 30, 2023 3:47 am
Published by Vero Dental

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are extremely beneficial to your oral health and overall wellbeing. However, dental costs can often be a concern for patients without dental insurance. While financial concerns can make it tempting to only visit the dentist when something is wrong, consistent visits can actually help prevent more expensive dental disease and dental emergencies.

At Vero Dental, we offer an in-house dental membership plan to make quality dental care more affordable so you can access the care you need to prevent and treat oral health problems!

Affordable Annual Fee

The Vero Dental in-house dental membership plans can provide significant cost savings compared to traditional dental insurance. With no middlemen or third-party involvement, you pay a fixed annual fee directly to our dental practice. This eliminates the complexities of copays, deductibles, and claim forms, making budgeting for dental care simple! Our adult plan is $390/year and our child plan is $230/year.

Comprehensive Preventive Care

Our dental membership plans prioritize preventive care. Members receive routine checkups, cleanings, and X-rays as part of their membership. Preventing dental issues saves money and time and ensures a healthier, pain-free smile. Membership also unlocks a 15% discount on other non-cosmetic services!

Personalized Treatment

Choosing to receive all your dental care from Vero Dental allows us to foster a closer dentist-patient relationship. With consistent visits, our team has a better understanding of your dental history, preferences, and specific needs. This personalized approach enhances the quality of care we can provide.

No Waiting Periods

Unlike traditional insurance, our dental membership plan has no waiting period. This means you can start receiving care as soon as you sign up.

Enroll Today in Our Dental Savers Plan!

With a major focus on preventive care, personalized treatment, and financial transparency, our dental membership plans offer a convenient and cost-effective way to prioritize your oral health. Contact us today for more more details about our in-house dental savings plan!

How to Handle Loose Adult Teeth

August 29, 2023 9:13 pm
Published by Vero Dental

A wiggly baby tooth is normal at various stages of your child’s development. But for adults, a loose tooth is considered a dental emergency and is a major concern! Some of the common causes of loose teeth include:

Trauma or Injury

Accidents or injuries involving the mouth can cause teeth to become loose. Falls, impact during sports, or any trauma to the face can result in abnormal tooth mobility. If you experience dental trauma, it’s crucial to seek dental attention immediately.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease can lead to gum recession and bone loss. Consequently, teeth may become loose and unstable. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices can help prevent gum disease.

Teeth Grinding

Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, puts excessive pressure on the teeth and can cause them to become loose over time. Wearing an occlusal guard or bite split can protect the teeth during sleep.

How to Treat Loose Adult Teeth

If you experience loose adult teeth, it’s important to stay calm. Panicking can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety! Schedule an emergency dentist appointment as soon as possible at Vero Dental. Until your visit, it’s best to avoid wiggling or pushing the loose tooth. Regularly rinse your mouth with water mixed with salt to reduce the risk of infection. Stick to soft foods, like yogurt and pasta, that don’t require much chewing and maintain your oral hygiene by brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing daily.

Emergency Dental Care at Vero Dental

For routine oral healthcare and dental emergencies like loose teeth, please contact Vero Dental today! Our knowledgeable team can help you pinpoint the cause of your loose tooth, treat it, and recommend changes you can make to help prevent it from occurring again in the future.

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Can Veneers Help with Bruxism?

July 31, 2023 2:37 pm
Published by Vero Dental

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It often occurs unconsciously during sleep due to chronic stress and can lead to various dental issues, such as tooth sensitivity, worn-down enamel, and jaw pain. As patients seek solutions to manage bruxism, they may wonder: can veneers help with this condition? In this post, we will delve into the relationship between veneers and bruxism.

What Is Bruxism?

Bruxism is a habitual grinding or clenching of teeth that can occur during the day or night. It often stems from factors such as stress, anxiety, and misaligned teeth. It can lead to discomfort and pain, as well as severe dental issues down the road.

What Are Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of teeth by enhancing their color, shape, and size. Veneers are a popular cosmetic solution for issues like discoloration, gaps, and chipped teeth.

Veneers & Bruxism

While veneers are durable and can dramatically enhance the appearance of teeth, they are not a treatment for bruxism. Veneers are a cosmetic improvement and will not address the underlying cause of your teeth grinding or protect your jaw and uncovered teeth from damage. In fact, untreated bruxism can chip and crack your veneers! However, veneers can restore the length, shape, and symmetry of teeth that have been negatively affected by bruxism.

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

A comprehensive approach is necessary to effectively manage bruxism. This typically involves addressing the underlying cause of bruxism by using appliances like durable custom mouthguards to protect the teeth, and, if necessary, orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth.

Reducing stress and protecting the teeth with a mouthguard is typically a better course of action than simply getting veneers. Something else to consider is that veneers are only placed on the front teeth, while chronic teeth clenching and grinding can greatly affect the molars.

Consult with Our Denver Dental Team!

If you suspect that you have bruxism, it is crucial to consult with our team for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. We can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on the best course of action. We may recommend veneers, a custom nightguard, or both, depending on your unique oral health preferences and needs.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

June 29, 2023 1:55 am
Published by Vero Dental

Implant-supported dentures are a great alternative to traditional dentures. These dentures are attached to dental implants that are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing a range of benefits that greatly enhance oral health and quality of life.

Stability

One of the primary benefits of implant-supported dentures is their stability. Unlike traditional dentures that rely on adhesives or suction to stay in place, implant-supported dentures are firmly attached to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. With implant-supported dentures, there’s no need to worry about dentures slipping or shifting. This can boost your confidence and give you peace of mind.

Normal Speech

Shifting of traditional dentures can cause speech impediments and make it difficult to speak clearly and pronounce certain words. Implant-supported dentures eliminate these concerns since they are more stable and do not interfere with natural tongue movements.

Preservation of Jawbone & Facial Structure

When teeth are lost, the jawbone gradually deteriorates due to lack of stimulation from chewing forces. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and do not provide the necessary stimulation to the underlying bone. In contrast, implant-supported dentures stimulate the jawbone just like natural teeth, which prevents bone loss and preserves the facial structure.

Longevity

Dental implants fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for the dentures. Implant-supported dentures can last many years with proper care and regular dental checkups, providing patients with a reliable and cost-effective solution for missing teeth.

Improved Quality of Life

The numerous advantages of implant-supported dentures contribute to an improved quality of life for individuals who choose this treatment. The enhanced stability, improved chewing function, and natural appearance provided by implant-supported dentures enable individuals to enjoy a diverse diet, engage in social activities without fear, and regain their self-confidence!

Tooth Replacements in Denver, CO

The stability, efficiency, natural appearance, and other benefits of implant-supported dentures make them a preferred choice for many individuals seeking a long-term solution to tooth loss. If you’re missing teeth, we encourage you to consider implant-supported dentures so you can enjoy a confident smile and improved oral function. Contact our office today to schedule your dental implant consultation!

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Should I Get a Custom Mouthguard for Sports?

May 31, 2023 8:00 am
Published by Vero Dental

A nightguard protects your teeth and jaw from damage if you grind your teeth and clench your jaw as you sleep. An athletic mouthguard is meant to protect your teeth, lips, and mouth when playing contact sports or engaging in high-impact physical activity. Whether you play recreational soccer on the weekends or you’re a regular at the boxing gym, a custom mouthguard for sports will help keep your smile safe while you work up a sweat.

Benefits of a Sports Mouthguard

The main benefit of wearing a mouthguard is that you can participate in an athletic activity without worrying that you might wind up breaking, cracking, or losing a tooth if you fall or get hit in the face. Some sports’ organizations require a mouthguard as part of the uniform, like football. But even if you or your child aren’t required to wear a mouthguard, it’s not a bad idea to wear one anyway as a buffer if an accident occurs.

While many sporting goods stores sell generic one-size-fits-all plastic mouthguards or boil-and-bite mouthguards, a custom mouthguard made by your dentist is the best option. A custom mouthguard is specially made to fit snugly against your teeth for optimal protection. It is also more comfortable to wear, which makes it easier to talk and breathe than if you were wearing a bulky store-bought mouthguard. Athletes are more likely to actually wear an oral appliance if it is comfortable!

Custom Mouthguards in Denver, CO

Do you need a custom mouthguard to protect your smile for an athletic activity? The first step in getting your custom mouthguard is to visit our office. We use an iTero scanner to create an incredibly precise digital impression of your mouth, which will then be sent to a dental lab. When your mouthguard is ready, you’ll come back in to try it on and we’ll evaluate whether it needs any adjustments.

Please contact our team to schedule an appointment at Vero Dental in Denver, CO!

5 Signs You Should See a Denver Emergency Dentist

May 17, 2023 8:00 am
Published by Vero Dental

While some dental issues can wait until your routine checkup, others require immediate attention. Here are a few signs that it’s time to see your emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

A crack or break in a tooth allows bacteria to reach the sensitive inner layer of your tooth, called the pulp, that has blood vessels, connective tissue, and your tooth’s nerve. It’s important to seek attention quickly for a cracked or broken tooth to prevent additional damage and infection.

Severe Pain or Swelling

Pain and swelling can indicate a number of dental issues, including serious infection and tooth decay. While it’s OK to use over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses to help relieve your tooth pain, you should still call your emergency dentist to schedule an appointment.

Loose Adult Teeth

Loose adult teeth can happen as a result of oral trauma or gum disease. No matter the cause, if you notice that one of your adult teeth is feeling loose, call us immediately! Catching the problem early may allow us to save your tooth.

Damaged Dental Restoration

If you notice that your bridge or crown is dislodged or even fallen out completely, call us for an emergency appointment. We can repair your restoration to restore your oral function and prevent damage.

Uncontrollable Bleeding

Persistent bleeding could indicate gum disease, vitamin deficiency, or a serious blood disorder. If your mouth won’t stop bleeding, reach out quickly to schedule an emergency appointment.

Emergency Dentist in Denver, CO

You can trust that our qualified team at Vero Dental will take good care of you if you need emergency dental care in Denver, CO. If you are unsure whether or not you require immediate assistance, call our office ASAP and we can advise you on your best next steps.

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Do I Need Dental Bonding, Veneers, or a Crown?

April 24, 2023 8:00 am
Published by Vero Dental

Preventive dental care emphasizes maintaining healthy teeth and gums to prevent issues from developing. Restorative dental care involves fixing the structure or health of damaged or compromised teeth. And cosmetic dental care improves the aesthetics and appearance of teeth. Our team can help you decide whether you only need preventive care or if your teeth would benefit from a restorative treatment, such as a dental crown, or a cosmetic enhancement, like dental bonding or veneers.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain and metal. While a dental crown can be used to hide an irregularly shaped or a severely discolored tooth, it is generally utilized as a restorative solution. It is bonded in place to cover the top of a cracked, broken, or decayed tooth to restore and strengthen its structure, or to complete a bridge or dental implant.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is when we apply tooth-colored resin to a tooth to improve its shape and appearance. This simple, quick procedure doesn’t require multiple visits nor extensive preparation of a tooth. Bonding is best for minor defects like small chips or little gaps between teeth.

Custom Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of a tooth-colored material, typically porcelain, that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. This permanent cosmetic procedure changes your tooth’s size, length, shape, and color. Veneers can hide chips that are too large for dental bonding and discoloration that cannot be corrected with professional teeth whitening. More severe structural issues should be addressed with dental crowns.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Denver

If you think you might need dental bonding, custom veneers, or dental crowns, contact us at Vero Dental in Denver. Our team provides all of these services and more at our practice. During a consultation, we can give you our professional recommendation about what your smile needs to shine.

Solutions for Common Denture Problems

April 10, 2023 8:00 am
Published by Vero Dental

Have you lost multiple permanent teeth? Partial or full dentures could be a great option to give you back a beautiful, full smile. While it can take some time getting used to dentures, the good news is there are solutions for common denture problems. Here are some tips!

Trouble with Chewing & Eating

After spending decades biting down and chewing food with your natural teeth, it can feel slightly odd to do it with dentures. Like with everything else, the easier it becomes the more you practice! Start off by eating small bites of soft foods. As you become more comfortable, ease into eating harder foods and larger bites that require more chewing.

Difficulty Speaking

You may not realize how much the position of your teeth affects speaking. If you’re new to dentures, you may find that some normal words are harder to pronounce since your tongue is having to move around your artificial teeth differently than it did before. Try privately reading aloud and singing to develop your confidence.

Dentures Slipping

Some dentures are held in place by suction and the work of the muscles in your mouth. It’s normal to deal with some slippage in the first weeks after you’ve gotten your dentures. If the problem continues and you can’t get the hang of it, ask your dentist about other options. Some patients use denture adhesive or have their dentures fixed in place with dental implants.

Consult with Our Team!

If you’re having a hard time getting used to dentures, please contact our team at Vero Dental in Denver, CO. We’d be happy to check the fit of your dentures and adjust them as necessary for your comfort. We can also give you more tips and tricks when it comes to caring for and wearing your dentures.