3 Great Reasons to Become a Patient of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller

3 Great Reasons to Become a Patient of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller

1.       On your very first visit to our office you will feel a very warm welcome. We think of our patients as a friend and want to help you obtain optimal health through an individualized approach to treatment.  Trust is our number one priority and we will work hard to maintain it. Our trained and experienced staff offers a private consultation to review your needs. We have many years of experience in periodontics and dental implants.

2.       You will feel at ease with what the doctors are recommending for treatment because of their extensive background.

Dr. Versman:

·         One of a few Board- Certified Periodontists in the Denver area.

·         Served a five-year term in the Colorado State Board of Dentistry by appointment of Governor Romer.

·         Past President of the Colorado Dental Association.

·         Past professor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

·         Trustee to the American Dental Association representing Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Hawaii.

Dr. Heller:

·         Current Professor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

·         Past President of the Rocky Mountain Periodontal Society.

·         Present of the North American Society of Periodontists.

·         Past president of the Aurora Dental Society.

·         Fellow member of the American College of Dentists.

·         Chairman of Peer Review Committee, MDDS.

·         Fellow member of the International College of Dentists.

·         Has been practicing Periodontics in Aurora since 1991.

3.       We understand how important it is to you to maintain the health of your mouth.  Periodontal treatment is your first step towards restoring your mouth and teeth to keep them for a lifetime.  Periodontal therapy will also help to improve:

·         Systemic Health

·         Appearance

·         Chewing

·         Elimination of Bad odors and tastes

·         Increased self-esteem and happiness

Our goal is quality in comfort, service and dental care. It’s a goal to which we are committed and a standard which our patients have come to expect. Feel free to call our office in the Denver/ Aurora Colorado area at (303)755-4500, or check out our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.

The New Vice President of the American Dental Association

Dr. Ken Versman was recently elected Second Vice President of the American Dental Association, after serving a four year term as the ADA Trustee for the states of Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

Dr. Versman received his dental degree from the University of Illinois and his certificate and masters degree in periodontology from the University of Iowa.  He is currently in full time private practice in the Denver, Colorado area.

He was president of the Colorado Dental Association and has served on the Colorado State Board of Dental Examiners.  For the ADA, he chaired the Joint Committee on International Accreditation, the ADA Diversity Committee and the Future of ADABEI Committee. 

Dr. Versman was in the first fellowship class of the Academy of Osseointegration.  He also has served the Academy in the past by being on the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws Committee, the Nominating Committee, the Education Committee, the ADHOC Reach Out Program Committee, as well as chairing the Lunch for Learning Committee and the Annual Session Table Clinic Committee.

Dr. Versman is also a diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology, and a fellow in the International and American Colleges of Dentistry and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.  He is married to his wife, Linda, for 37 years and they have 2 daughters.

 

3 Surprising Teeth Stainers

Learn which liquids may damage your enamel, create protein build-up and more 

Photo: © Shutterstock

When it comes to less-than-pearly whites, coffee’s not the only culprit. Watch out for these little-known teeth tainters, says Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, a spokeswoman for the Academy of General Dentistry:

White Wine
It’s actually more acidic than red—and acid breaks down tooth enamel, making it more likely to absorb color from food or drinks. That means if you drink white wine while enjoying, say, a plate of berries, your teeth are at risk. No need to nix the vino entirely; just alternate with sips of water to avoid unsightly marks.

Orange Juice
Also acidic, it’s especially damaging when paired with a dark beverage (like coffee). Daily cups of OJ can also leave your mouth more prone to stains because the acid continues to break down enamel over time. Lower the acidity level a little (and save calories) by diluting your juice with water or seltzer.

Swimming
If you’re a competitive swimmer or swim for hours each week, you could end up with spots called “swimmer’s calculus.” The high pH of the chemicals in the pool water causes proteins to harden into a dark brown tartar. You’ll probably need to get your teeth professionally cleaned three or four times per year.
--As appeared in Woman's Day magazine. September 2011 issue.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. A cleaning appointment at Periodontal Associates in the Denver/Aurora, CO area will include a dental exam and the following:

• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

 
To schedule a cleaning, or a dental exam by Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, appointment at Periodontal Associates, visit our contact form online, call us at 303-755-4500 or email us. 

Periodontal Associates is a periodontal health practice in the Denver - Aurora, Colorado (CO) area with a focus on dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, and the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease to restore patients' oral health.

Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club

Please join Dr. Versman & Dr. Heller in Denver for the next Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club.

Upcoming Events

Event Marketing by Constant Contact

For event details and to register, visit our event page.

"My Five Favorite Teeth"

Presented by Dr. Norm Stoller, Past Chairman of the Division of Periodontics at the University of Colorado

Teeth That Have:
*Influenced my thinking
*Been intellectually challenging
*Made me realize that I had/have much to learn

This discussion will utilize five mini case studies to explore a wide range of topics that are of interest to all dental professionals.

This complimentary evening is courtesy of Periodontal Associates - The Dental Implant Team and Procter & Gamble. Food and drinks will be served at 6:00pm. Presentation will begin at 6:30pm. All attendees will receive a sample package courtesy of P&G.

Register Now! 

Norm Stoller received his dental degree from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 1967, a dental internship compliments of the US Army (1967-70), and a residency in periodontics at the University of Pennsylvania (1971-73).

His professional career was that of an academic dentist. From 1973 to 1983 Norm taught at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1983 he moved west to Chair the Division of Periodontics at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry. His research interests concentrated on the measurement and meaning of horizontal tooth mobility, the development of chemotherapeutic agents useful in the management of periodontal disease and the study and treatment of periodontal disease in the domesticated dog and cat as well as zoo-kept exotic animals. His academic career allowed for extensive travel, presenting papers, attending meetings and included a sabbatical to Geneva Switzerland in 1981. He retired from academic dentistry in 2006.

Norm and his wife currently reside in Frisco. He is an avid skier, road biker and wood turner.

Periodontal Associates is a periodontal health practice in Aurora, Colorado (CO) , serving the entire Denver metro area, with a focus on dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, and the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease to restore patients' oral health.

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5 Surprising Secrets to a Great Smile

This weekend I came across a great article in the Denver Post, Parade section, highlighting foods that may help keep your gums healthy. Thought we would share it with our patients at Periodontal Associates and with you too!

 

Want a Hollywood-perfect Grin? Fill up on these foods.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a dazzling smile. And while brushing and flossing are key, new research shows that eating these five foods can also help keep your gums in the pink. 

1. Salmon:  This fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation all over the body, including the gums. A study found that people who ate the most omega-3's slashed their risk of gingivitis by up to 20 percent. 
2.  Strawberries: They're bursting with vitamin C, which builds collagen, an important component of healthy gum tissue. In fact, people who consume less than 60 milligrams of C each day [the amount in six large strawberries] are 150 percent more likely to develop gingivitis. But stay away from fizzy vitamin supplement drinks; they have been shown to erode tooth enamel.
3. Whole-grain bread: Whole grains contain iron and B vitamins - nutrients essential to gum health. One large study found that eating three servings daily reduced the risk of gum disease by 23 percent. Barley, oatmeal and brown rice count too. 
4. Green tea: Hot or iced, this brew is brimming with antioxidants that kill the bacteria that lead to gingivitis. Bonus: The beverage also wipes out the germs that cause bad breath. 
5. Pistachios: These nuts are rich in the antioxidant CoQ10, shown to fight gum inflammation. If you already have gingivitis, ask your dentist or doctor whether you could benefit from a CoQ10 supplement.

  By Nancy Kalish, Parade supplement Denver Post, July 24, 2011

 

Periodontist's Role and Diagnosing Diabetes

Yesterday we discussed Periodontal Therapy for the Diabetic Patient. Today we talk about the role of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller at Periodontal Associates, in addition to dentists in general, and their ability to play a favorable role in detecting diabetes. 

Through observation of our patients' soft tissue response to periodontal therapy, dentists are in an ideal position to detect alterations which may result in an earlier diagnosis of diabetes.

In addition to the basic diagnostic tools for periodontitis, analysis of subgingival bacteria is another important diagnostic tool for the extended management of periodontal disease in diabetics. Subgingival cultures are frequently helpful in identifying these pathogens.

Recognizing other unexpected soft issue treatment response patterns may also lead to the discovery of diabetes, including dry mouth, and sporadic, aching pain in the lower anterior teeth without apparent cause.

It is best to treat controlled, insulin-dependent diabetic patients about 90 minutes after a meal and insulin dose. Ordinarily, this would be mid-morning to allow blood sugar levels to drop and to reduce the risk of diabetic complications during treatment. In addition to an appropriate postoperative diet, diabetic patients usually require antibiotics concomitant with treatment due to their lowered resistance to infection. The diabetic patient requires close monitoring the shorter maintenance intervals. Because glucose concentrations in diabetics are elevated in gingival fluid and saliva, the diabetic patient with root exposure has a substantially increased incidence of root caries. Fluoride rinses, gels or NaF varnishes may be helpful.

Initiating periodontal care for the diabetic patient should be a foremost concern of physicians as it may make their task easier and reduce insulin requirements. A close cooperation between the endocrinologist and the periodontist is vital to manage the patient's periodontal problems and diminish the detrimental effects of inflammatory disease on diabetes control and cardiovascular health. Working in concert, these two disciplines have a greater success in the diagnosis and control of diabetes and periodontitis.

Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller are Periodontists at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO and serve the entire Denver Metro and surrounding area. For more information, please visit www.periodontalhealth.com.

Periodontal Therapy for the Diabetic Patient

 Periodontal Associates - Therapy for the Diabetic Patient

Part of our role here at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, Colorado is to educate our patients and the Denver metro community. We have several useful health related articles involving the periodontal connection on our website. We have provided information about periodontitis and diabetes entitled "Periodontal Disease and Diabetes". It's a great article to share. 

Prevention, early diagnosis and consequent treatment of periodontal diseases may have a major impact on the control of diabetes. Research suggests that not only does diabetes influence the progress of periodontal diseases, but active periodontal disease also influeces the diabetic state.

The systemic inflammatory response generated by inflamed periodontal tissues aggravates insulin resistance and increases blood sugar, thus creating a vicious cycle of diabetes and periodontitis exacerbating each other and putting diabetic patients at increased risk for diabetic complications.

People with diabetes are more than twice as likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes because diabetics are more susceptible to contracting infections. This may be due to numerous physiological phenomena seen in diabetes, such as impaired immune resistance, vascular changes, altered microflora, and abnormal collagen metabolism. People with uncontrolled diabetes are especially at risk. A study in the Journal of Periodontology found that poorly controlled type 2 diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease then well-controlled diabetics.

Aggressive management of oral health in diabetic patients may diminish the adverse inflammatory effects on diabetes control. Several studies have reported that when periodontal infections were treated, the management of diabetes markedly improved. 

These studies suggest that the reduction of periodontal inflammation can be very helpful in controlling blood glycemic levels and reducing insulin requirements. 

For diabetics, periodontal disease therapy is a long-term venture, requiring some modifications of the customary periodontal treatment applied to non-diabetics. If you're concerned about your periodontal health, please contact Periodontal Associates to schedule a comprehensive exam. For your convenience, you may also email us at appointments@periodontalhealth.com or call (303)755-4500.

What do those numbers mean to me and my Dentist?

Pockets in my gums?

Have you ever wondered what those numbers mean that your Denver Dentist or Hygienist calls out while checking your teeth and gums? Or what those numbers mean in relation to gum disease?

At your dental visit the dentist or hygienist should perform a screening where a tiny ruler called a 'probe' is used to check for and measure any pockets in your gums. This probe is a depth measurement device - the measurements are taken in millimeters (mm). With very little pressure the probe is slipped down next to the root of the tooth until there is resistance. The mark which is then at the gum line demonstrates the depth of the gum pocket. You'll often hear your dentist or hygienist calling out numbers, or the pocket depth. In a healthy mouth, free of gum disease, the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.

See the guide below:

If your numbers are in the higher range, you will often be referred to a periodontist. Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates are Periodontists who are specially trained to diagnose and treat gum disease and dental implants. Periodontal Associates is conveniently located in Aurora, Colorado and serves the entire Denver metro area.

Dr. Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller, recipients of the Top Periodontist Award by Denver magazine

2011 Top Periodontists Award 

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller have been awarded the 2011 Top Periodontists Award in the June issue of 5280 Magazine. It is an honor to receive this award for the fourth year in a row! 5280 Magazine identifies top dentists as chosen by their peers. We are thankful for the continued confidence and trust we receive from our fellow dental professionals and by our patients.

Caring for your teeth and gums...Denver and Beyond

While Vacationing...Gum Disease could be your Unwanted Guest

As the days grow longer and Summer draws closer, thoughts may be turning towards summer vacation plans away from Denver. Whether your idea of the perfect summer vacation includes camping in the mountains, a beach-side cottage by the ocean or lake, or a cross-country trek visiting family and friends along the way -- know that gum disease risk factors are tagging along for the ride.

Gum disease just might be one of the sneakiest diseases taunting Americans worldwide. That’s because it starts in the background without any symptoms to warn you of it's arrival. The disease begins with plaque build up on the surface of your teeth that results in tiny pockets along the gum line.
These pockets then serve as the perfect habitat for the bacteria that causes gum disease. Perhaps the most amazing part is the speed in which this all takes place. Within a two week time span the bacteria in your mouth can more than double if you're neglecting your oral care.
As you prepare for that fun filled vacation, be sure to follow these tips to ensure your gums are just as healthy at the end of your trip as they were when you left:

• Store your toothbrushes in travel containers that have holes for proper air circulation. This airflow will allow the brush to thoroughly dry and discourage the growth of bacteria.
• Store toothbrushes separately to prevent the spread of bacteria from one brush to another
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect the travel containers before and after your trip
• Regularly disinfect your toothbrush while on vacation or at home by washing it in the dishwasher, storing it in the fridge or placing it in a cup of mouthwash
• When traveling abroad brush with bottled water 
• Keep your toothbrush 2-5 feet from the sink and toilet to avoid water contamination
• Always pack extra oral care supplies in case you can’t readily purchase them
• If you don’t have toothpaste, brush with water to remove food and bacteria. Brushing with water alone is better than not brushing at all.
• If you forget your toothbrush and are unable to purchase a new one, wrap a washcloth around your fingertip and rub along teeth surfaces. Finish with  floss and rinse with mouthwash if available. 
• Don’t share a toothbrush! Oral bacteria can be passed from one mouth to another via the brush.

There’s no excuse for letting your oral health decline while on vacation. Stay on top of your oral routine and monitor your mouth closely. If you notice signs of gum disease or any unusual changes you are unsure about contact your dental practitioner right away.

If you're dealing with or suspect gum disease, Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, Periodontists in Aurora Colorado, treat gum disease patients in the Denver metro area. Call Periodontal Associates at 303-755-4500 or visit us on the web at www.periodontalhealth.com.

Periodontics and Periodontists

Periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. 
 

Yesterday, we wrote a bit about the nine dental specialties recognized by the ADA. Today, we would like to focus on one of those specialties that's near and dear to us: Periodontics.
Periodontics is a dental specialty concerned with dental implants and the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the tissues supporting and surrounding the teeth. (In layman's terms, a periodontist treats dental implants and gum disease.) 

Periodontists are specially trained in the placement of dental implants to help replace missing teeth.  Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller are Periodontists at  Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO -  Dr. Versman & Dr. Heller work as a team with your general dentist in coordinating dental implant treatment. Periodontists also supervise patients in the maintenance of periodontal health and are experts in the treatment of oral inflammation.

Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. They are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

Every aspect of periodontal treatment aims at restoring health to the gums and bone so that teeth may be saved. Patients may be referred to a periodontist by their dentist, family, or friends, or they may schedule an appointment or consultation if they are in need of implants or suspect gum disease. 
If you, or someone you know, is interested in replacing a missing tooth or teeth, please contact us today and find out why Periodontal Associates is Colorado's Premier Provider of Dental Implants and Periodontics. In fact, 80% of our work is referred to us by dental professionals in the Denver metro and surrounds area!

Dental Specialties - A Simple Guide

What are the Dental Specialties recognized by the American Dental Association? 

Periodontics is the specialty recognized by the ADA for Treatment of the gums, and dental implants. 

The other eight specialties the ADA recognizes (in simple terms) are:

• Dental Public Health - Dental health issues dealing with the public at large.
• Endodontics - Root canal treatment.
• Orthodontics - Straightening of the teeth. 
• Oral Surgery - Implant placement, jaw alignment surgeries, extractions.
• Oral Pathology - Diseases of the oral cavity.
• Pediatric Dentistry - Children’s dentistry.
• Prosthodontics - Tooth restoration and replacement.  
• Dental Radiology - Radiology of the mouth. 

For more information, please visit the ADA's site or you may contact Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO - Dr. Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller  or call us at 303-755-4500. 

 

Dry Mouth?

Mental health and your dental health

Are you one of the many Americans taking an antidepressant? Experts believe that certain antidepressants — such as Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft—may increase the risk of tooth decay. Many of these medications are known to cause dry mouth, which creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and sets the stage for bad breath.

 

Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO suggest frequently sipping water to prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth. While you may think the answer to fresher breath is using a mouthwash, you may actually want to avoid certain over-the-counter mouthwashes. Many of the mouthwashes on the market today contain a high alcohol content and may further contribute to mouth dryness or Xerostomia.

Xerostomia is the academic term for what you and I call dry mouth. It is, quite simply, the feeling you have when there is little to no saliva in your mouth. You can probably recall times in your life when you were particularly anxious, dehydrated or otherwise exhausted and had that awful dry feeling, as if your mouth was full of sand.

Dry mouth can in some cases be a result of certain medications, health conditions or from aging. Several prescription drugs are available to treat or prevent Xerostomia if it is a persistent problem. Continuously having dry mouth may actually threaten your overall dental hygiene. Saliva is important to the health of your teeth. The absence of saliva can cause a dramatic increase in cavities. Quick and easy remedies may include sipping water or sugarless fluids. Chewing on gum can also aid in increasing the saliva in your mouth and help to relieve that dry mouth feeling.

If you have frequent dry mouth or Xerostomia, contact us today so that we can help you find the best solution to your dry mouth. (303)755-4500

Our dental office is located in Aurora, CO near I-225 and Parker Rd. We're a short drive from Denver, Cherry Hills, Greenwood Village, Denver Tech Center (DTC), Centennial, Lone Tree, Englewood, Parker, Inverness, Castle Pines, Castle Rock and Highlands Ranch.

Dental Implants or Dentures?

At Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO, Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller and our hygiene team are often questioned about the option of dentures and dental implants. We offer this fact finding as the first step to exploring the option of dental implants. We welcome your call to our office at 303-755-4500 for more information and a free, no-cost, no-obligation dental implant consultation.


Replacing a Missing Tooth

A natural tooth is anchored into the jawbone by its tooth root. Tooth roots attach firmly to the jawbone and keep your teeth stable when chewing solid foods.

Traditionally, if you were missing a tooth (or one needed to be extracted), the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth would have the enamel removed and the whole thing replaced with a three-crown “bridge”.

Dental Implants are the modern alternative. Instead of shaving down two perfectly good teeth, a dental post (Dental Implant) is inserted into the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root with very little discomfort. This post becomes fixed in your jaw (like a natural tooth root). A crown is then placed onto this artificial tooth root that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth.

Quite simply, Dental Implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth.

Replacing Several Missing Teeth

Traditionally, several missing teeth would have been replaced with a removable partial or full set of dentures.
One of the drawbacks of dentures is that dentures need to be taken out, soaked and cleaned nightly. During the day, dentures can also look unnatural and rub which can cause pain and discomfort. Dentures and partials make it difficult or impossible to eat certain foods such as steak and corn on the cob. Often times, many people will remove their dentures before eating a meal so that they can "taste" the full flavor of the food.

Dental Implants can now be used to anchor partial and full dentures.

Dentures can be well retained with as few as 2 implants. This prevents the slipping, irritation, and pain associated with “floating” partials and dentures. It also prevents the tedious removal of dentures for overnight soaking and cleaning. With Dental Implants, these restorations are anchored firmly into the jawbone becoming much more like natural teeth.

Natural tooth roots and dental implant posts are fixed firmly in your jawbone. When you chew, these tooth roots and posts stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. You may have noticed a person who looked prematurely old because of wearing floating dentures and having their jawbone "shrink". Dental Implants help preserve your jawbone and your appearance.

The Success Rate of Dental Implants

After their healing period, the success rate of Dental Implants is close to 96%. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene, the success rate rises closer to 98%!

Does the Procedure Hurt?

Placing a Dental Implant is usually like getting a cavity filled or even easier. It is done under local anesthesia (novocaine) and patients generally experience little discomfort after the procedure. Read a few of the comments that we have received from our patients:

The implant was painless and an easy experience.  --Walter

I had a great experience. I felt comfortable having the surgery done and the staff was incredible. Dr. Heller really made the process easy and I am very happy with the results.  --Sergiane Hendrix

It was the easiest experience I've had....and I had 7 children! --Millie

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental Implants become fixed to the jawbone. Dental Implants have successfully been in patients' mouths for over 30 years without needing replacement. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, Dental Implants should last a lifetime. In contrast, the average life span of a traditional fixed bridge is between 8-10 years.

What is the cost of Dental Implants? Is it expensive?

It is difficult to define the value of dental implants. Dental implants are NOT expensive, when one factors in the life long use and the benefits that come from having secure, functional, attractive teeth and a winning smile. A winning smile surely adds great value to your professional image not to mention your social life! For some who prioritize dental health, the concept of eating well until death is a very significant motivation for implant treatment. We offer many payment options and for those who qualify, an interest free payment plan.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental Implant treatment begins with a FREE evaluation by Dr. Versman or Dr. Heller of Periodontal Associates in the Denver - Aurora, Colorado area. They will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure and discuss your options.

Call us today for your free evaluation at 303-755-4500. Our office is conveniently located near I-225 and Parker Road at 2900 South Peoria Street in the Aspens Dental Park, Building D in Aurora, CO. We serve Aurora and the surrounding cities of Denver, Centennial, Parker, Lone Tree, Bennett, Strasburg, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Englewood and Lakewood, CO.

The Value of a Smile

At Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO, we never underestimate the value of a healthy and beautiful smile. I spoke with one of Dr. Heller's patients today who had previously undergone connective tissue grafting surgery due to gum recession. Jenny, a daughter of an orthodontist, was quick to flash me her lower gums and tell me how happy she was with the results. I immediately thought she was speaking of the health benefits and comfort of no longer being 'long in the tooth'. After all, the lower gum area is seldom seen by anyone, right? Wrong! Jenny was just as pleased with being able to correct the gum issue as she was with being able to look in the mirror and see a beautiful and healthy set of gums. It continually gives Jenny a reason to smile.

The Value of a Smile

 by Francie Baltazar-Schwartz

“The value of a smile is priceless, yet it is the cheapest, easiest, most rewarding and most sincere gift to anyone that crosses your path. A smile makes a person’s day, anybody’s day even a stranger’s day. A smile is infectious. Start infecting people with your smile today. 

A smile is nature’s best antidote for discouragement. It brings rest to the weary, sunshine to those who are sad, and hope to those who are hopeless and defeated.

A smile is so valuable that it can’t be bought, begged, borrowed, or taken away against your will. You have to be willing to give a smile away before it can do anyone else any good.

So if someone is too tired or grumpy to flash you a smile, let him have one of yours anyway. Nobody needs a smile as much as the person who has none to give.” 

 Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller find great satisfaction in keeping our patients at or returning them to the highest level of dental health in which they desire. At Periodontal Associates, it is our belief that better oral health enhances self-esteem, growth, and rewards you with a better quality of life. Our goal is quality--in comfort, service, and dental care. It's a goal to which we are committed and a standard which our patients have come to expect. If you would like to schedule a periodontal exam to assess the health of your teeth and gums, please contact Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO at 303-755-4500. Dr Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller proudly serve the greater Denver metro area and are Colorado's Premier Provider of Dental Implants and Periodontics.

Top 10 Strangest Dental Requests in Denver & Aurora CO heard by Drs. Versman & Heller

Here at Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO we receive many interesting questions in regards to dental implants, replacing lost or broken teeth and how to keep smiles healthy and bright. Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller have heard many stories including how one patient cleaned his teeth most of his life using burnt tortillas instead of a toothbrush and floss. We, of course, don't recommend using tortillas for home care. Apparently we are not the only dentists hearing interesting dental stories, questions and requests.

According to drbicuspid.com the Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 300 members to find out the strangest dental requests they'd  ever received from patients.  
Here are their responses:

10. "Can you extract my tooth without anesthesia?"
9. "Please wire my mouth shut to aid in my diet."
8. "Can you ID this set of dentures left in the bathroom of the bar I work at?"
7. "I will pay you or your hygienist to floss my teeth at my office every day."
6. "Pull all my teeth and just give me dentures."
5. "I just broke off my engagement. Can you prepare my tooth so that I can keep the diamond in it?"
4. "Will you give me local anesthesia in my lips? I'm going in for permanent "lipstick" tattoos on my lips and would like to avoid the pain."
3. "May I have an emergency cleaning visit? It's my high school reunion and I need a bright, white smile to face my old boyfriend."
2. "Can I keep the teeth you pull out of my mouth? I'd like to make a necklace out of them."

And the No. 1 strangest dental request ever received according to those dentists surveyed?

1. "Can you give my dog braces?"

The survey also included examples of how patients attempt self-treatment. It found that nearly 70% of the dentists surveyed have taken care of a patient who tried to treat their own dental problem before visiting the dentist. The most common home treatment among patients, dentists said, is Super Glue for broken crowns and dentures. Using an emery board to file chipped teeth or overusing topical painkillers, such as teething gels, to deaden pain also were common. Remarkably, several dentists had treated patients who attempted to give themselves a root canal using power tools. OUCH!


If you have any questions or concerns regarding dental hygiene or care, dental implants and replacement procedures for a missing tooth or teeth...or whether we recommend using power tools for a do-it-yourself root canal (No!), please feel free to contact our office by phone at 303-755-4500 or email. Periodontal Associates (Drs. Versman & Heller) are happy to serve the Denver Metro area and are conveniently located in Aurora, CO. We serve the surrounding cities of Denver, Centennial, Parker, Lone Tree, Bennett, Strasburg, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Englewood and Lakewood, CO.

Periodontal Prognosis - Hygiene Study Club

Calling all Denver area Dental Hygienists and Assistants

If you missed attending the 2011 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention recently held in Denver, CO...

then plan on attending Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club on February 16th! You will experience Dr. Paul Glick present "Periodontal Prognosis". Included in the evening of networking and education (that you won't want to miss!): expanded information that was not provided at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention including twin studies and the correlation between smoking and periodontitis.

Periodontal Prognosis 

Tooth or Dare

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

• Roll of Hygienists in long term maintenance
• Systemic effects related to periodontal health
• Success factors involved in periodontal treatment

The event will be held at the MDDS/CDA Building in Denver, CO.

For more information or to register to attend, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/periodontalhealth or email Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club at hygienestudyclub@gmail.com.

Dr. Ken Versman, Dr. Doug Heller, Dr. Paul Glick and the staff at Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO look forward to seeing you there!