The powerful, precise, highly-concentrated beam of light originally known as Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) is so ubiquitous that the acronym has now been relegated to lower case. Lasers are used in everything from weapons to barcode scanners. They have increased efficiency and advanced technology in numerous industries such as communications, manufacturing,…
sedation dentistry
Should Lafayette Teens Whiten Their Teeth?

Getting a smile just like their favorite singer or movie star might be high on your teen’s priority list. However, you may want to talk with your dentist before buying an at-home tooth whitening product. As with any cosmetic dentistry procedure, teeth whitening should be overseen by a professional. There are a number of variables…
Suspect A Bite Problem?

Hello! I’m Gordon West, DDS, of Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette. Thanks for visiting my dental blog. The topic of today’s post is malocclusion – literally – “bad bite”. Edward Angle, a pioneer in modern orthodontics invented the term malocclusion. Malocclusion is fairly common in the population as a whole but, fortunately, in most cases…
Innovative Orthodontic Treatment For Confident Smiles

Many dental patients have experienced a boost in self-confidence with orthodontic treatment at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette. Nothing gives us more satisfaction than helping individuals dramatically improve their smile and overall self-assurance. We Offer The Latest Orthodontic Treatments We offer the latest orthodontic treatments to correct dental problems and imperfections. sedation dentistry prepless veneers…
Understanding Dental Sedation Options

Visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience, but there are ways to make your appointment more comfortable. Sedation dentistry is an option available to those who need help managing anxiety during their dental visit. There are different types of sedation available, and it’s important to understand which one is right for you. Let’s break…
Less Is More At Boulder County Smiles In Lafayette

There are significant new developments in Colorado dentistry: stronger, natural-looking materials; improved techniques; more effective diagnostic methods; and more precise instruments. Combine these with the experience and expertise of Dr. Gordon West and you’re left with less of what used to make people dread going to the dentist. Less Pain Improved painkillers, lasers, and innovative…
Is Grandpa Smiling?

How are Americans doing when it comes to the dental health of the 65+ population? The Good News: The rate of cavities in the elderly has decreased in the past thirty years.1 The Bad News: 25% of persons age 65+ have no remaining teeth2 Nearly 20% have untreated cavities3 10% of adults 65 and over…
Looking For The Top Orthodontist In Lafayette?

Hello friends! Welcome to our blog. This site is for our fantastic patients and anyone looking for exceptional orthodontic care in Lafayette. When a new patient comes in for an orthodontic consultation, we do a thorough exam and evaluation. At the same time, we encourage prospective patients to thoroughly evaluate Boulder County Smiles. We Evaluate…
What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation during dental treatment helps you feel relaxed, comfortable, and relaxed during the dental procedure. It’s a moderate level of sedation, so you’re still technically awake but it feels a bit uninteresting. It is sometimes called conscious sedation or “twilight sleep” because it creates a state of short-term amnesia (forgetting) where you feel a sense of insensitivity of pain without loss of consciousness. Who needs sedation dentistry? People of all ages can benefit from sedation dentistry, including children.…
We Keep Dental Patients Comfortable

To state the obvious, nobody enjoys pain. Dr. West knows this, and that is why the dental team at Boulder County Smiles have made patient comfort our top priority. In conjunction with creating a relaxing environment, we have various medications that can decrease and even eliminate pain associated with different dental procedures to give you a more…