The Progressive Nature of Dental Problems

One of the primary reasons early intervention is so crucial in restorative dentistry is the progressive nature of dental problems. Many common issues, such as cavities, chipped teeth or gum disease, start small and are relatively manageable. For example, a small cavity may require nothing more than a simple filling to restore the tooth to full function. However, if left untreated, that same cavity can grow, eventually compromising the entire tooth structure. At that point, more extensive treatment, such as a crown or even a root canal, may be necessary. In severe cases, the tooth might be too damaged to save, leading to the need for extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge.

Gum Disease: A Condition Where Timing Matters

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is another condition where early intervention is key. In its early stages, known as gingivitis, gum disease is often reversible with proper treatment and good oral hygiene care. However, if allowed to progress to periodontitis, the condition can cause permanent damage to the gums, teeth, and the bone that supports them. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to other serious health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. By addressing gum disease early, you can avoid the need for more invasive treatments and reduce your risk of systemic health complications.

Financial Benefits of Addressing Dental Issues Early

Beyond the physical aspects of dental health, early intervention also has significant financial benefits. Restorative dental procedures can be expensive, especially when they involve multiple teeth or complex treatments. By addressing issues early, you can often avoid the need for more costly procedures down the road. For example, a filling is far less expensive than a crown, and a crown is less expensive than an implant. Additionally, most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, such as regular cleanings and exams at little to no cost to the patient. Taking advantage of these benefits can save you significant money in the long run.

Patient Comfort: Less Invasive Treatments

Patient comfort is another important consideration. Early intervention typically involves less invasive treatments, which can mean less discomfort during and after the procedure. For instance, treating a small cavity with a filling is a quick and relatively painless process. On the other hand, more extensive procedures, such as root canals or tooth extractions, often require more time in the dental chair, a longer recovery period and may involve some initial level of discomfort. By seeking treatment early, you can often avoid these more invasive procedures.

Our Commitment to Early Intervention and Preventive Care

At Denver Restorative Dentistry in Broomfield, Colorado, we believe in the power of early intervention and preventive care as well as providing you with all your restorative dentistry needs. We encourage our patients to stay on top of their oral health by scheduling regular check-ups and cleanings and addressing any concerns as soon as they arise.

Please contact us at 303-586-1019 to schedule a consultation with one of our talented dentists, Drs. Goggins, Aguirre or Chertok. Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a big one—schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!

At-Home Routine (Brush and Floss)

Our prosthodontists and team is a firm believer in preventative care, which begins in the home. Daily brushing and flossing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste will help remove harmful oral plaque that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Sticking to a nutritious diet while limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages will also protect tooth enamel. You are essentially on the front lines of defense when it comes to protecting your smile, and your teeth and gums will reflect this.

Routine Dental Cleanings and Exams

Your daily oral hygiene care, combined with regular, twice-yearly dental cleanings and exams complement your efforts to protect your smile. During these visits, our prosthodontists will assess your oral health with a detailed dental exam using dental X-rays. A periodontal probing will be done to assess your gum health and to diagnose any signs of gum disease. Dr. Taylor Goggins, Dr. Brian Aguirre and Dr. Anna Pitz want to make sure that any dental conditions or diseases, like tooth decay, bone loss or other dental problems are spotted early so treatment is minimally invasive and most effectively applied.

(Optional) Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments

One of our skilled dental hygienists will remove all the hardened tartar from your teeth and around the gum line, and polish your teeth to remove stains to make your tooth enamel shine! Depending on your dental needs, this is also the time when applying dental sealants on the hard to clean molars in the back of the mouth may be done, as well as applying a fluoride treatment if your enamel needs strengthening to keep out cavities. While optional, both dental sealants and fluoride treatments are effective preventative measures to take to ensure a healthier smile.

If you have any questions or concerns about your smile or family members, our experienced team is ready to help! As always, we support healthy beautiful smiles to boost self-confidence!