general dentistry Archives - Gordon West DDS - Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Three Great Reasons to Floss Your Teeth

Posted on November 16, 2018November 15, 2018

Flossing is a bit of a chore. It comes after “brushing your teeth” in things a lot of us intentionally forget to do. It takes a little extra time, and if you haven’t flossed in a while, it can even be painful. But the team at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO is constantly reminding patients to brush and floss … brush and floss!

Flossing is important, You’ll never hear one of us say “don’t worry about the flossing.” It just isn’t going to happen, and for three really good reasons. Here they are:

1. Bad Breath

Bad breath is something we all worry about. It’s part of our appearance, and we are all aware of how that can affect our relationships.

When we meet new people, speak with others in close quarters, or greet a partner, bad breath is on our mind. We worry about how bad breath affects first impressions.

It makes sense, then, that bad breath would be one of the things you might worry about.

Flossing is a great way to help you avoid bad breath.

Flossing your teeth helps reduce plaque buildup between your teeth. It also helps flush out pockets of bacteria. Together, plaque and bacteria can create bad breath.

To reduce your chances of being caught with bad breath, floss every day.

2. Cavities

When bacteria is allowed to concentrate on your teeth, cavities can occur. Plaque buildup is a concentration of bacteria. When plaque is allowed to remain between your teeth it gives bacteria a chance to destroy enamel and damage your teeth. Cavities are damage to your teeth caused by bacteria.

Flossing gets between your teeth where your brush can’t get and helps remove plaque buildup. It also loosens pockets of bacteria that can be removed with a quick rinse.

Flossing will help you keep plaque and bacteria from developing between your teeth. You will have fewer cavities and your visits to Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry will be more productive.

3. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel by acids. Acids are created by bacteria when they feast on leftover carbohydrates in your teeth.

Flossing can help you in two ways. First, you will remove leftover food particles so bacteria have less to work with. By the way, the food particles we are concerned about aren’t always visible. Food between your teeth can be microscopic, and that’s why it isn’t good enough to do a quick tongue slide to check your teeth. The particles are too small to see or feel.

Second, flossing will help remove the bacteria from between your teeth, so there aren’t enough left to create destructive acids.

Avoid tooth decay with a regular flossing. How often, you ask?…

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we recommend you floss your teeth every time you brush. Our services include general and family dentistry, sedation dentistry, and dental implants. Make an appointment with us today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

ArticleID 7780

What is Patient-Centered Dental Care?

Posted on November 2, 2018November 1, 2018

What is your perception of the patient-dentist relationship? Would you characterize it as one-sided? In other words, the dentist examines the patient’s teeth, decides on the course of treatment, and performs the procedure-while the patient is an unimportant participant. That is not the approach, at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO.

It Starts With The Atmosphere

At Boulder County Smiles, you will recognize the difference when you first walk in our doors. You will discover a pleasant, inviting atmosphere. We don’t push patients through as if they were on an assembly line.

We see you as a whole person, not just an disembodied mouth full of teeth. When we meet with you, you will be able to talk about more than just your oral health. You will discuss your lifestyle, your past dental experiences, your goals, and your concerns. We want to create a long-term relationship with you—it benefits you and helps us do our jobs well.

We Listen

When we examine a patient and find a problem that needs treatment, there is rarely only one solution proposed. We take as much time as necessary explain the options and answer your questions.

By listening carefully, communicating clearly, and asking the right questions, we can fully assess the many vital factors that influence your present and future oral health.

Does This Sound Good to You?

Does patient-focused dental care make sense to you? If so, we invite you to become one of our valued patients. At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, available services include general and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

ArticleID 7499

Super Smiles Have Strong Enamel

Posted on October 26, 2018October 24, 2018

Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the body? It’s true! This substance, found on the outer surface of your teeth, is meant to last a lifetime. But Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO reminds you that just because it’s super durable doesn’t mean you don’t have to work to take care of it.

Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.

1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks impair your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.

On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize acid in your mouth and safeguard your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt!

2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to weakening from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, examine teeth whitening and speak with your dentist.

3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, the stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is essential to talk to your Lafayette doctor about treatment.

4. Talk to us about dry mouth and teeth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major trouble for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Make sure your dentist is aware if you experience either of these issues.

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO we want our patients to have the best dental health possible, and enamel health is a critical component. Our services include restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Make an appointment with us today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

ArticleID 7132

It’s Not About Vanity

Posted on October 19, 2018October 18, 2018

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we provide confidence and dignity to our patients through cosmetic dentistry.

Many people seem to have it all together with bright eyes and great smiles. We want you to be on the same footing as your friends, colleagues and customers. Wanting to look your best and feel your best is not about vanity, it’s about reality in the professional community. An unforgettable smile creates a favorable first impression and demonstrates polish and attention to detail. These are advantages for people in every field of work.

Popular ways to achieve such a worthy goal might be found in the services we offer at Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Lafayette. We offer prepless veneers, teeth whitening, and dental crowns as ways to improve your confidence and security.

No matter your age, 25 to 75 – no matter your location from Boulder County to Louisville to Broomfield – we invite you to see our state-of-the-art dental care in a comfortable environment staff and take the step toward that impressive smile you deserve.

Cosmetic dentistry from Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO can transform your personal and professional life. We also offer valuable services like sedation dentistry, and sleep apnea treatment. Schedule an appointment with us today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

15 Things You Didn’t Know About Teeth

Posted on October 12, 2018October 10, 2018

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we enjoy sharing information about dentistry and teeth. Some of it is useful, and some of it is just fun to know.

Children’s teeth are soft until about age 10.
A tooth with a crown can still get a cavity.
Your gum tissue is as vital as your teeth.
Some prescription painkillers can increase your risk of dental caries.
Some home faucet water filters remove fluoride.
19 percent of little ones between the ages of 2 and 19 have untreated dental caries.
Heartburn can damage teeth.
Allergies can cause tooth grinding.
Dried fruit is just as bad for teeth as sticky candy.
Tooth enamel cannot repair itself, though dentin and cementum (the substance that surrounds the tooth root) are capable of partial regeneration.
A Harvard-led team used low-powered lasers to activate stem cells and stimulate the growth of teeth in rats and human dental tissue in a lab.
There are about 300 types of bacteria in your mouth.
Chewing sugarless gum after meals can help remove food particles on your teeth. You still need to brush, but if you can’t brush immediately after meals, sugarless gum can help keep your teeth clean.
Cavities often don’t cause pain until they have reached the root and nerve of the tooth. Visit your dentist regularly to prevent cavities or at least to detect them when they are small.
Bone recession can cause tooth loss even if no decay is present.

We hope you have found this post interesting, and perhaps even learned something new about teeth. At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we provide general and family dentistry, and a range of cosmetic dentistry services. Make an appointment today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

ArticleID 7003

Don’t Put Off Your Dental Exam

Posted on September 7, 2018September 6, 2018

Hi kids and adults in Lafayette. No matter what age you are, as long as you have teeth, dental exams are a vital practice for keeping your smile healthy and beautiful, and the Boulder County Smiles dentist wants to help.

We have an excellent office and state-of-the-art dental care in a comfortable environment and a team of professionals to make your exams something you’ll look forward to.

Knowledge is Power
Dental exams are often put off because they can be seen as unnecessary. But exams are truly one of the best methods for preventative care. At each check up, our experienced and well trained hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth. Once they are polished sparkling clean, your teeth will receive a thorough analysis. They will be inspected for any dental caries, gum recession, excessive wear, or other risks. Catching these types of threats early is crucial so you can be certain that they don’t turn into larger problems.

Innovative Dental Technology
Technology is moving swiftly, so it’s essential to find a dental office that has the latest instruments to ensure your check up is detailed and comprehensive. At Boulder County Smiles, we have state-of-the-art technology that is used for your exams. If a malfunction is detected, an appropriate, individualized treatment plan will be designed.

Peace of Mind
After your entire mouth has been examined, we will detail what is required moving forward. Whether that’s flossing more often or discussing major fixes such as braces, we will be certain that you get all the information you need to ensure your smile is bright and beautiful!

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette we provide general and cosmetic dentistry.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

ArticleID 7260

Dental Questions? Gordon West DDS Has Answers

Posted on August 24, 2018August 23, 2018

Health conscious people want to take care of their teeth. However, many men and women need a place where they can review basic principles of dental health and get straightforward information about restorative and cosmetic dental procedures such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and veneers. This blog from a Lafayette CO dentist is your source for this helpful oral care information.

Many of our dental patients have concerns and questions about their oral care. That’s why we include hot-button dental issues in our blog such as:

Smile Makeovers
Sealants
Invisible Braces
Toothbrush Care
ADA Seal Products
Tooth Protection
Gum Contouring
Dental Implants

We hope that this information will help you make educated decisions about your oral care.

At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we provide general and family dentistry, dental implants, and treat conditions like sleep apnea. Schedule an appointment today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

Schedule Your Coronation

Posted on August 17, 2018August 15, 2018

We treat all of our patients royally here at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, but some of them receive actual crowns. Not what a king or queen wears, but crowns for your teeth!

Crowns are a therapy for a host of problems:

To protect a weak tooth from decay, breaking, or to hold together a cracked tooth.
To cover and provide strength to a tooth with a large filling and little tooth structure remaining.
To restore a broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down.
To improve a tooth that is too small or misshapen.
To cover a tooth with severe discoloration.
To add strength to a tooth following a root canal procedure.

If you feel like you have a need for a crown, don’t look any further than Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Our dentists and lab techs have the experience, training, and expertise to make sure your crowns are constructed and placed accurately. There are many different kinds of crowns that serve different purposes. We complete an extensive examination to ensure the crown you get is perfect for you and your smile.

We then prepare your tooth so that the crown will fit the way that it should. Once the tooth is prepared and ready, we use state-of-the-art tools to fit the crown on your tooth. When done properly, crowns can last many years.

Crowns are wonderful way to safeguard and beautify your smile. Schedule a coronation today! Boulder County Smiles also provides dental implants, and sedation dentistry.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

Restore Or Replace: New Life For Your Damaged Tooth

Posted on August 10, 2018August 15, 2018

As the saying goes, there is more than one way to skin a cat (although we don’t know anyone who has actually tried). And with cosmetic dentistry at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, there is more than one way to fix a tooth.

If you are the lucky owner of a set of perfectly healthy teeth, you may never need any of these procedures. However, if you are like most of us, you will probably need to restore a tooth eventually. Today’s post looks at six restoration procedures that are used routinely to repair damaged teeth:

A Porcelain Veneer
These wafer-thin covers can hide a chip or crack or fix the alignment of a tooth that is slightly crooked.

A Filling, Inlay, or Onlay
This procedure has been used to restore teeth for over a century though the materials and techniques have advanced. One fairly new option is white filling replacement for metal fillings. A traditional filling is shaped and molded after it is applied to the tooth. Because inlays and onlays are created in a dental lab, they are frequently called indirect fillings. Inlays are applied to just the center of the biting surface of a tooth (not to a cusp or point) and are frequently smaller than onlays. An onlay restores one or more cusps of a tooth.

Dental Bonding
Bonding, officially called direct composite veneers, is used to correct chips, cracks, stains, and make teeth longer. It is also sometimes used to fill cavities. A skilled cosmetic dentist applies pliable composite resin and molds it to the specific shape needed. The resin is then hardenend with a special curing light.

A Dental Crown
A crown replaces the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring appearance, strength, and function. Crowns are used for teeth that have had a root canal, teeth with acute decay, the replacement tooth in a dental bridge, and the visible portion of a dental implant. Crowns can be made of all metal (such as gold), porcelain-fused-to-metal, all ceramic, or all resin.

Dental Implants
Many dentists consider a tooth implant to be the ultimate restoration because it restores the entire tooth – both root and crown. Most dental implant recipients report that the implant is indistinguishable from a natural tooth. Another boon is the fact that an implant can prevent bone recession which is common at an extraction site. Dental implants are used in a variety of applications such as anchoring dentures and dental bridges.

For more information about any of these cosmetic dentistry procedures, call Boulder County Smiles. We also treat sleep apnea and other conditions. Make an appointment with us today.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

Can My Dentist Help Stop My Snoring?

Posted on July 6, 2018July 23, 2018

Partner can’t sleep because you snore? Is it finally time to do away with it? At Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO, we can help.

Snoring sounds can develop when the tissue in the back of the throat collapses onto the soft palate. This narrows the air passageway. As you breathe, this area opens and closes—with a noisy result.

Your snoring may be a symptom of a condition called sleep apnea. With Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the air passageway not only narrows, you actually stop breathing. These pauses can last for up to a minute and occur dozens or even hundreds of time per night.

Many people with sleep apnea snore, but not all snorers have sleep apnea. Regular snoring does not generally wake you up during the night. (Though it may wake your partner up again and again.)

Is My Snoring a Symptom of Sleep Apnea?

Do you wake up multiple times during the night gasping?
Are you excessively tired during the day?
Do you wake up with a headache?
Do you nod off during the day because you are sleepy?
Are your mouth and throat noticeably dry when you wake up?

Snoring is more than a pesky annoyance, but you are not without options. Contact Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette CO. We also provide general and family dentistry.

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

720-862-3630

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1140 W South Boulder Rd Ste 201
Lafayette, Colorado
80026

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

Contact Gordon West DDS – Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

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