3 Signs of Trouble After a Tooth Extraction

Just had a tooth extraction in Fort Collins, CO? While this is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures, a tooth extraction does not come without a few risks. Take a look at a few signs that something may be wrong after you have had a tooth pulled at the dentist.

Excessive bleeding

Once your tooth is pulled, there will be some bleeding. However, within a few hours, a blood clot should start to form within the open socket. If the blood clot does not form, you may experience excessive or prolonged bleeding. This issue can lead to a painful situation known as dry socket and should be treated right away.

New pain at the extraction site

It is perfectly normal to have a bit of pain after you get a tooth pulled. For the most part, over-the-counter pain relievers will help soothe the discomfort. However, if you suddenly start to experience some new level of pain, it could be a sign that something is wrong. For example, if you suddenly experience severe pain several hours after extraction or even the next day, you may be dealing with a dry socket.

Pain in the jaw

When a tooth is pulled, the dentist applies pressure to the tooth to dislodge it from the jaw bone. For most people, this procedure does not lead to any further issues with the jaws. However, older patients or those with weakened jawbones may sustain a jaw fracture. This problem most often comes along with pain around the jaws.

Visit a Fort Collins, CO Dentist Right Away

Even though tooth extractions generally heal just fine after the procedure, occasionally, a problem arises and a Fort Collins dentist should take a look. If you suspect something is wrong after getting your tooth pulled, reach out to us at Radiant Dental Health for help.

When Is It Bad Enough to Go to an Emergency Dentist?

If you’re having dental issues outside of standard office hours, you might be wondering if it’s bad enough to contact an emergency dentist. This question isn’t an easy one to answer, especially considering everyone has their own level of pain tolerance. We’ll look at the unequivocal times when you need to see someone — before the problem gets any worse.

Extreme Swelling or Bleeding

Whether it’s bleeding gums or a swollen mouth, it’s important to seek help as either of these issues could indicate a more serious underlying health condition. An emergency dentist in Fort Collins, CO will examine you to determine what kind of treatment you need.

Exposed Nerves

This time-sensitive matter is not only uncomfortable, but it puts you at risk of further nerve damage. Typically, you won’t have to wonder whether or not you need to see a dentist because the pain will be excruciating enough that you won’t need to be convinced.

Knocked-Out or Abscessed Tooth

Believe it or not, if a tooth is knocked out of your mouth, you might still be able to keep it. If your tooth gets knocked out, be sure to keep the tooth, don’t touch the root, and take it to an emergency dentist to see what can be done.

For an abscessed tooth, the situation is a little more complicated. This pus-filled gap is an infection, and it could be life-threatening, so you’ll need to see someone soon before it spreads any further.

Dentists in Fort Collins, CO

If you go to an Emergency Room when you’re in dental pain, you’re likely to be given some general painkillers only. If you’re looking for a dentist in Fort Collins, CO that can treat you, Radiant Dental Health is here for you. Contact us if you have a severe dental issue that can’t wait.

IV Sedation for Dental Care – Myths & Facts

Considering sedation dentistry in Fort Collins, CO? Be sure you know the facts so you can make the best decision about your dental care. Here is a closer look at a few of the myths associated with IV sedation before dental treatment.

Myth: Most people are not good candidates for IV sedation

IV sedation can be versatile. Different medications can be used, the concentrations can be adjusted, and the anesthesiologist can make sure the treatment is low-risk for pretty much every patient. Occasionally, some patients are not good candidates due to certain medical conditions, but this is actually relatively rare.

Myth: Sedation dentistry can only be done in a hospital

Sedation dentistry does not always have to occur in a hospital setting. The only true requirement is that the procedure is overseen by the proper professionals. Therefore, IV sedation can be done in a dentist’s office.

Myth: You stay asleep for a long time after IV sedation

IV sedation for standard dental treatment is not as intense as it would be for something like surgery. Most patients are semi-conscious throughout the treatment and may not be completely asleep. This is because lower levels of anesthesia are used to induce a state of relaxation. Most patients are awake when the treatment concludes. You may feel a little groggy for a few hours, but you will be ready to go home right after your treatment.

Find Out More About Sedation Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO

For people who have anxiety about dental treatment, sedation dentistry with a Fort Collins, CO dentist can be a lifesaver. Reach out to us at Radiant Dental health to discuss how we can help you get through your next dental appointment perfectly at ease.

3 Fast Facts About Stains on Your Teeth

Ever considered smile whitening in Fort Collins, CO? If so, you are definitely not alone. Smile whitening is easily the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure performed today. The thing is, your teeth can be susceptible to stains, and the rule applies pretty much no matter how well you take care of your smile or what kind of foods you eat. Here are some fast facts you may not know about stains on your teeth.

Not all stains are surface level

Even though stains on your teeth can look like they could easily be scrubbed away, this is not always the case. Discoloration that looks like stains can actually stem from the interior of your teeth. Likewise, teeth are slightly translucent, which means stains on the back of your teeth can be visible from the front.

Acidic intake can have a lot to do with dental stains

The enamel of your teeth is solid, but the enamel can also be eroded by acidic foods. Even certain types of fruit juice, which are otherwise good for the body, can be detrimental to your teeth. When acid erodes the enamel, particles of other foods can settle into your teeth and cause stains.

Tea is more likely to stain your teeth than coffee

This particular fact can come as a surprise to a lot of people. Yes, both tea and coffee can lead to dental stains, but tea is actually far worse because it contains tannins where coffee does not.

Find a Fort Collins, CO Dentist to Help

If you are unhappy with the shade or stains on your teeth, find a Fort Collins, CO dentist to help target the problem with professional teeth whitening services. Reach out to us at Radiant Dental Health to schedule your appointment today.

When Bone Grafts Are Needed For Dental Implants

Did you recently lose a tooth? If so, you may be feeling really self-conscious about your smile. Maybe you avoid people at social gatherings. Perhaps you often eat alone at work. More often than not, losing a tooth can cause you to change your lifestyle, but the adjustment doesn’t have to last forever. The good news is that dental implants can be a true lifesaver, but will a bone graft be necessary? Check out why you may need a bone graft for dental implants.

Dental Implant Surgery

If you want to get a beautiful smile with dental implants, surgery will be necessary. A surgeon will begin the surgery by removing the damaged tooth. The dental implant in Fort Collins, CO will not be placed right away, though. Once the tooth is properly extracted, bone grafting may be needed before the dental implants are placed.

Why You May Need Bone Grafting

When a tooth is lost because of injury or decay, the jaw bone usually shrinks and deteriorates, which ultimately results in significant bone loss. In order for a dentist to properly place a dental implant, bone grafting may be necessary. Bone grafting allows the dentist to create bone growth so that dental implants can be properly anchored to the jawbone.

Post Bone Graft And Dental Implant Surgery

Before a dentist can anchor the dental implants, your jawbone needs time to heal. Many patients experience slight discomfort during the healing, but this is normal. As soon as the healing is complete, the dental implant procedure can occur. The entire process will likely take months.

Whether you’ve lost a tooth to trauma or decay, you may need bone grafting before getting dental implants in Fort Collins, CO. Bone grafts are totally worth it, though, since they help to ensure your dental implants last as long as possible.

When Is It a Dental Emergency?

Do you know when you’re having a dental emergency? If you don’t, you should. Dental emergencies can be painful and scary – and without help from a dentist in Fort Collins, CO, the problem could get worse. Knowing when it’s a dental emergency can help you take care of your teeth. Below are four signs you’re having a dental emergency.

1. Lost Tooth

Losing a permanent tooth is definitely a dental emergency. If you’ve just lost your permanent tooth, find the tooth and hold it by the crown. Wash it off with a saline solution or milk. Finally, put the tooth back in your socket, if you can handle it. If you aren’t able to put it back in its socket, keep it safe in the cheek of your mouth, or put the tooth in some milk.

Call your dentist in Fort Collins, CO to alert them to your dental emergency, and let them know you’re on your way! It’s important to see the dentist as soon as possible. The faster you can see the dentist, the more likely you are to save the tooth.

2. Severe Tooth Pain

Are you experiencing sudden, severe tooth pain? You shouldn’t be. Severe tooth pain could be a sign that you’re having a dental emergency. Contact the dentist as soon as possible to describe your pain.

3. Your Tooth is Loose

No permanent tooth should ever become loose. If you’ve noticed that one of your teeth is loose, talk to your dentist to find out whether you need to be seen by the dentist.

Think you’re having a dental emergency? Call us to make an appointment. We have same day appointments available for dental emergencies!

What to Expect With Sedation Dentistry

In Ft. Collins, CO sedation dentistry is commonly used on patients who feel a little bit anxious during dental visits. Sedation dentistry is simply the practice of dentistry while the patient is under a mild form of sedative. It’s FDA-approved and is widely used all over the world. Still, if you’ve never had sedation dentistry, you will want to know what you can expect.

Two Types of Sedation Dentistry in Ft. Collins, CO

When a patient wishes to use a sedative for their dental visit, two choices are available; oral sedation and IV sedation. Oral sedation consists of a tablet that is taken before the visit. By the time your dental treatment begins, the oral sedative will have started to work. IV sedation is administered via a small needle. The IV sedative drips into your system slowly and keeps you sedated the entire time of your visit.

Differences Between IV and Oral Sedation

Besides how they are administered, there is another distinguishing difference between these two types of sedation. Oral sedation is very mild. You will be fully aware of your visit and treatment, but you will be completely relaxed, almost like the treatment is happening to someone else. Patients say it is similar to the sleep-awake period before you are fully awake.

IV sedation is a little bit heavier of a sedative. You will be asleep during the treatment, and will only wake up after it’s over. IV sedation dentistry in Ft. Collins, CO is recommended for those with severe dental anxiety.

Sedation dentistry often makes the difference between having healthy teeth and avoiding the dentist so long that serious dental issues arise. If you have any hesitancy about visiting the dentist, chances are that sedation dentistry could be a solution for you.