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.