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Anderson Family Dental Blog

Porcelain Veneers Let Your Smile Shine in Colorado Springs, CO

October 10, 2014

Shutterstock Healthy GumsIf you think your teeth aren’t perfect, you’re not alone. Many people, if given the opportunity, would change something about their smiles. Perhaps you’d like to change the color, shape or size of one or more of your teeth. Well, porcelain veneers may allow you to do just that. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson have created 100s of happy smiles with porcelain veneers!

Are Porcelain Veneers the Right Choice for You?

The first thing the dentists at Anderson Family Dental will need to do is carefully examine your teeth, gums and overall oral health in order to determine whether or not you are a candidate for porcelain veneers. If the answer is yes, then together you will discuss the goal you have in mind for your smile. Whether that goal is repairing one broken tooth or giving yourself an entirely brand new smile, porcelain veneers are a viable option.

Porcelain veneers, also called dental veneers, are commonly used to treat a variety of cosmetic dental flaws, including:

  • Worn or discolored teeth, whether because of genetic predisposition or consuming richly colored foods and drinks
  • Chipped or cracked teeth, whether caused by the aging process or injury
  • Gaps between teeth that may widen with age
  • Uneven teeth that are the result of teeth grinding or normal wear and tear

Your Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are micro-thin, custom-made casings of tooth-colored dental porcelain that are fabricated in a dental lab. During your initial visit for veneers, the dentist will use a shade chart to accurately match the color of your existing teeth. Then, a thin layer of the teeth receiving veneers will be removed and an impression of those will be made. The lab uses that impression to accurately produce your veneers. You’ll return to the office and your new porcelain veneers will be applied with special dental cement. With a little gentle care, your new smile will give you pleasure for years!

Schedule an Appointment Today

To discuss porcelain veneers, call Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO. Drs. Erick and Richard Anderson will be happy to see you. Our office also serves Black Forest, Fort Carson, Stratmoor, Falcon and surrounding communities.

How Cosmetic Bonding Can Repair Your Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry in Colorado Springs, CO

September 22, 2014

476106489Everyone loves to laugh and smile, but cosmetic concerns like cracks, chips, and uneven spacing can make showing off your teeth something you’d prefer to avoid. At Anderson Family Dental, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson provide Colorado Springs, CO patients with a variety of cosmetic dentistry services, including cosmetic bonding. Let us show you how quickly and easily we can repair your damaged teeth, allowing you to once again smile with confidence.

Benefits of Cosmetic Bonding

If one of your teeth is cracked or chipped, you may feel hesitant to smile openly in public and in photos. You may also put off a visit to the dentist because you fear that the repairs will be extensive or costly. Fortunately, there is a solution that is relatively quick, generally pain-free, and very affordable: cosmetic bonding. With a special tooth-colored resin, our doctors can repair your smile in a way that promotes natural-looking results.

There are a number of undesirable dental issues that can be easily corrected with cosmetic bonding, including the following:

  • To correct a small gap between two teeth
  • Recontouring a tooth that is misshapen
  • To mask discoloration that is resistant to tooth whitening efforts
  • To decrease sensitivity in a tooth whose root is exposed
  • To enlarge a tooth that is too small in relation to other teeth
  • To repair a crack or chip in a tooth

Our experienced doctors are always happy to help you decide which cosmetic dentistry solution is best for your individual case. We welcome your questions, and we promise to always provide you with accurate answers that are personalized to fulfill your unique needs.

Schedule Your Cosmetic Bonding Consultation

If your smile is plagued by noticeable flaws like cracks, chips, or gaps, our Colorado Springs, CO cosmetic dentist can help. Our state-of-the-art dental practice offers an all-encompassing range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services to patients from throughout Colorado Springs, Black Forest, Fort Carson, Stratmoor, Falcon, and beyond. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!

Custom Athletic Mouthguards Protect Your Smile this Sports Season

September 11, 2014

144324835As adults and children from across the country gear up to play their favorite sports, it’s important to remember a vital piece of protective equipment: an athletic mouthguard. Proven to help prevent a variety of severe orofacial injuries across a broad spectrum of activities, custom athletic mouthguards are just as important as the helmets and pads you wear while you play. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson offer families from throughout the area an extensive selection of preventive dentistry solutions, including custom athletic mouthguards.

Why Choose Custom Athletic Mouthguards?

While it is true that you can find athletic mouthguards on the shelves at your local pharmacy or sporting goods store, these generic oral appliances simply cannot defend against injury as effectively as a customized mouthguard from your dentist. Because a custom athletic mouthguard is precisely modeled to fit your unique dentition, it is substantially more comfortable and will not shift in the mouth during rigorous gameplay.

According to the ADA, custom athletic mouthguards are strongly recommended for use in the following sports and recreational activities, among others:

  • Baseball, basketball, softball, and racquetball
  • Soccer, football, squash, and field hockey
  • Weightlifting, boxing, and wrestling
  • Surfing, water polo, and skateboarding
  • Equestrian events
  • Ice hockey and inline skating
  • Extreme sports

With a custom sports mouthguard from Anderson Family Dental, you can protect your smile from potentially serious injuries, including knocked out teeth, partially dislodged teeth, soft tissue injuries, broken jaws, and even concussions.

Protect Precious Smiles with an Athletic Mouthguard

Are your children planning on participating in football, baseball, softball, karate, or any other contact sport this season? Make sure that their pearly whites are adequately protected with custom athletic mouthguards from Anderson Family Dental. Our doctors and team genuinely look forward to helping you keep your family’s smiles safe and healthy this busy sports season and all year round. Contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO today to schedule your free consultation. Our family-friendly dental practice proudly serves patients from communities in Fort Carson, Stratmoor, Falcon, Black Forest, and more.

Common Dental Myths & Facts from Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO

August 20, 2014

178067655Separating dental facts from fiction is an important part of maintaining your oral health. When it comes to dental hygiene, how do you know if what you hear or read is true? At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson emphasize the importance of providing our patients with accurate information regarding all aspects of their care; today, we’d like to talk about some common dental myths.

Debunking Oral Health Myths

There’s an abundance of information available to consumers spread across thousands of web pages online. The real trick is learning how to differentiate myth from truth. How many of the following dental myths have you heard?

Myth: You shouldn’t go to the dentist when you are pregnant.

Truth: While it is true that pregnant women should avoid oral surgery and exposure to x-rays, visiting the dentist and making sure that your gums are healthy while you’re pregnant is actually integral to the health of your baby. During your appointment, be sure to bring up any bleeding or swelling you may have noticed so that we can address the problem before it has a chance to worsen.

Myth: You should brush your teeth after every meal.

Truth: Brushing right after you eat can actually harm your teeth. The acids in the foods and beverages we consume temporarily soften tooth enamel, and brushing while they are in this state can contribute to undue erosion. Instead, wait at least an hour after you eat to brush to prevent this kind of damage.

Myth: My teeth look and feel just fine, so I don’t need to visit the dentist.

Truth: Even if your teeth appear healthy, routine exams and cleanings are vital to continued oral health. It is during our regular checkups that we examine all teeth and soft tissues for signs of damage that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Myth: Diet soda won’t hurt my smile like regular sodas will.

Truth: Though diet sodas do lack the sugar known to contribute to decay, they still contain large amounts of citric acid; this acid softens enamel and makes it more susceptible to erosion and cavities. Limit the amount of carbonated soft drinks and citrus juices you drink every day to reduce your risk of enamel damage.

Being an Informed Patient

Knowing the difference between oral health myths and the truth can help you avoid disease, decay, and other common dental problems now and in the future. If you’d like to learn more about ways to achieve and maintain optimal oral health, contact our office today. Conveniently located in Colorado Springs, CO, our practice warmly welcomes patients from throughout nearby communities in Fort Carson, Black Forest, Falcon, Stratmoor, and beyond.

Periodontal Therapy: Protecting Your Health from Gum Disease at Anderson Family Dental

August 4, 2014

164125777Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in America, affecting nearly half of all adults in the country. Understanding how gum disease affects your smile and the rest of your body is an important part of treating it; at Anderson Family Dental, we help educate our patients about periodontal disease and its treatment in order to promote more effective, long-lasting results. From our office in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson provide patients suffering from advanced gum disease a treatment that has been proven extremely effective: periodontal therapy.

How Does Periodontal Therapy Work?

Plaque is the sticky, colorless substance that accumulates on our teeth throughout the day. As plaque collects along the gum line, the bacteria it contains causes inflammation of the gingival tissue. Over time, deep pockets form between the gum tissue and the teeth, providing bacteria an ideal place to hide and continue causing inflammation. As the body’s immune system fights to eliminate the infection, the connective tissues within the gums deteriorate, as does the bone within the jaw. Eventually, teeth become loose and may even fall out.

With periodontal therapy, the doctors at Anderson Family Dental remove the infected tissue and any bacteria present, halting the progress of the infection. In cases in which the gum tissue has receded significantly, gum grafts may be necessary in order to restore the appearance and function of the gum line. We are always happy to discuss the status of your condition and your proposed treatment plan with you, ensuring that you feel comfortable and fully informed along every step of the way. We are your trusted partners in your journey toward a healthier smile and improved well-being overall.

Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation Today

Have you experienced any of the common symptoms associated with periodontal disease? It’s not too late to seek treatment and drastically reduce your chances of developing the complications listed above. Contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO today to schedule your appointment with Drs. Erick T. Anderson and Richard L. Anderson. We genuinely look forward to helping you treat your periodontal conditions so that you can enjoy the full benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile. Our warm, welcoming practice proudly serves families from throughout Colorado Springs, Stratmoor, Falcon, Black Forest, Fort Carson, and beyond.

Enjoy Life Without Jaw and Facial Pain: TMD Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO

July 25, 2014

shutterstock_196648349Temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, is a condition that affects the hinge joints that connect your jaw to your skull. The structures of the muscles, bone, ligaments, and nerves in this area are incredibly delicate and complex, making them susceptible to damage and discomfort. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson have studied TMJ disorder and its treatment extensively, providing patients with the solutions they need to find lasting relief from their symptoms.

The Importance of Treating TMD

The TMJ allows the jaw to open, close, and move side to side for speaking, eating, yawning, and more. When a patient is affected by TMJ disorder, even these seemingly simple actions become difficult. Painful inflammation in the jaw and near the ear can place an inordinate amount of pressure on nerves, sending aching sensations throughout the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back. Other symptoms of TMD include:

  • Tenderness or pain in the muscles of the face
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • An odd popping or clicking noise when the jaw is opened or closed
  • Limited range of jaw movement
  • A feeling that the jaw is locked in place (open or closed)
  • General tired feeling in facial and neck muscles
  • A sudden sensation of discomfort or pain when chewing

TMD treatment at Anderson Family Dental will be personalized to suit your unique needs, and may include the use of a custom nightguard, orthodontic treatment, and stress management. Our team is here to ensure your complete oral health and overall wellness, and we aren’t satisfied until you feel your absolute best.

Say Goodbye to Chronic TMJ Pain

If you suspect that you may be suffering from TMD and you’re ready to experience life without daily discomfort, contact our office today to schedule your consultation with our experienced, caring doctors and staff. We can’t wait to show you what a difference our customized TMD treatment can make in your life. Our conveniently located office in Colorado Springs, CO also serves patients from throughout the surrounding areas of Stratmoor, Falcon, Black Forest, Fort Carson, and more.

How Do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea? OSA Information from Anderson Family Dental

July 9, 2014

Shutterstock Sleep Apnea SnoringIs your sleep often interrupted due to snoring or odd breathing sounds from your partner? Perhaps you suffer from excessive snoring yourself in addition to feelings of exhaustion during the day. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson offer a variety of general and family dental solutions to help our patients achieve and maintain optimal health and wellness. One of these services is the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA.

Do I Have Sleep Apnea?

Though clinical testing is required in order to definitively diagnose a condition like sleep apnea, there are some warning signs that you can keep in mind and share with your doctor if certain symptoms arise. Common symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea include the following:

  • Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
  • Worsened depression or irritability
  • Excessive daytime fatigue
  • Feeling unreasonably drowsy when driving or at work
  • Loud snoring, often interrupted by gasps or choking sounds
  • Waking suddenly from a deep sleep with a feeling of breathlessness
  • Night sweats
  • Difficulty concentrating on even simple tasks
  • Headaches throughout the day, particularly in the morning

A test that measures your breathing, blood oxygen level, and other factors while you sleep can aid in diagnosing sleep apnea. If it turns out that OSA is the reason for your troubles, our doctors can help. With the use of a customized oral appliance – often called a nightguard or a snore guard – you may be able to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea in a way that is easy and comfortable. You simply wear the appliance while you sleep, and it effectively keeps your tongue and jaw in their proper positions throughout the night. This keeps the airway open and unobstructed, and typically helps prevent snoring as well.

Schedule Your Visit Today

If you suffer from sleep apnea or excessive snoring, now is the time to take a step toward a healthier life and more restful sleep. Contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO today to schedule your consultation with Drs. Anderson and Anderson. We look forward to serving you! We also welcome patients from the nearby areas of Black Forest, Fort Carson, Falcon, Stratmoor, and beyond.

Finally Find Relief from Recurring Tooth Pain: Root Canal Therapy in Colorado Springs, CO

June 20, 2014

shutterstock_84577195Though the term “root canal” often conjures up a variety of negative thoughts and emotions in many, the truth is that this elemental restorative dentistry service is among the most effective at actually relieving pain, not causing it. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Richard L. Anderson offer a variety of general and restorative dental treatments to help keep our patients’ smiles healthy and bright, including root canal therapy when necessary.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

During root canal therapy, the infected portion of the tooth will be removed and all bacteria will be eliminated from the resultant cavity. The area will be filled with a biocompatible material and sealed off with a protective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing crown. We’ll always make sure that you are completely comfortable throughout the duration of your procedure, taking your individual needs into consideration every step of the way.

Though a thorough examination and consultation with our doctors are necessary in order to definitively determine the need for a root canal treatment, there are some things that you can keep an eye out for at home between visits to our practice. Some examples of symptoms that may indicate the need for treatment include:

  • A tooth that persistently hurts, even after brushing and flossing carefully
  • Change in tooth color, usually to a pale gray shade
  • Pain and sensitivity to cold and heat
  • Inflammation in the gum tissue surrounding a particular tooth
  • Pain when chewing, or when the tooth in question is touched

Family Dentistry You Can Trust

At Anderson Family Dental, we believe that each and every patient deserves to enjoy optimal oral health as well as the beautiful smiles that come with it. If you suspect that you or someone in your family is in need of root canal treatment, please contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our caring team and experienced doctors. We look forward to treating you to the best, most compassionate dental care in Colorado Springs, CO and the surrounding areas. We also serve patients from throughout communities in Fort Carson, Stratmoor, Black Forest, Falcon, and beyond.

CEREC One-Visit Crowns for a Beautiful, Strong Smile on Your Schedule

June 10, 2014

Shutterstock Senior Couple Hug SmileCrowns are a common restorative option in modern dentistry, offering fundamental support and protection for teeth that have been compromised by decay or damage. At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Dr. Richard L. Anderson understand that your time is a valuable commodity, so we offer a variety of restorative dentistry services that fit your lifestyle, including CEREC one-visit crowns.

Benefits of CEREC One-Day Restorations

Prior to the advent of CEREC one-visit crowns, a patient in need of a dental restoration would need to make multiple appointments with his or her dentist before the final restoration was actually placed. Messy impression materials were used to take molds of the patient’s dentition and then sent to a separate lab in order to fabricate the crown. In the meantime, the patient would have to leave wearing a temporary crown and return when the final piece had been completed.

Today, however, the advanced technology of CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic) makes it possible to capture digital impressions, fabricate a customized dental crown, and place the restoration all in a single visit. Patients are free to leave our office with their complete crown intact, looking and feeling better than ever before.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Whether you are planning to receive treatment that involves a ceramic restoration or you currently have a dental crown and need a replacement, we are here to help. Contact our office in Colorado Springs, CO today and schedule your appointment with our team. We can’t wait to see your smile, and to help you rejuvenate and restore it with our wide range of dental services. Our practice happily welcomes patients from throughout the nearby areas as well, including Falcon, Fort Carson, Black Forest, Stratmoor, and beyond.

Enjoy a Brighter, Whiter Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening in Colorado Springs, CO

May 22, 2014

Shutterstock Pretty Woman SmileDo you ever look in the mirror and wish that your smile were just a little brighter? Are your teeth flawed by deep, set-in stains that simply won’t go away, even with whitening toothpastes and over-the-counter whitening products? At Anderson Family Dental in Colorado Springs, CO, our team wants to help. Dr. Erick T. Anderson and Richard L. Anderson understand how important your smile is to you, so we offer a comprehensive array of cosmetic dentistry services to help you shine your brightest. One of our most popular cosmetic services is professional teeth whitening.

Not All Teeth Whitening Solutions are Equal

While many over-the-counter teeth whitening products may claim to whiten your smile as effectively as treatment from your dentist, the truth is that no store-bought product is capable of providing the same results as professional-grade whitening systems. At Anderson Family Dental, we believe that every one of our patients deserves to experience the full benefits of a radiant, confident smile; that is why we offer the revolutionary Zoom! Whitening system.

The Zoom! Whitening in-office treatment features a patented whitening formula that is capable of brightening your smile by numerous shades, all in about an hour! You may come in with yellow, lackluster teeth, but you’ll leave our office feeling like a brand new person, showing off a smile that you can truly feel confident about. If you’d rather whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home, ask our doctors about our take-home whitening treatments, completely customized to fit your unique dentition.

Reserve Your Teeth Whitening Visit Today

Whether your teeth suffer from severe staining that makes you feel insecure about your smile or you have a special occasion around the corner and want to look your best, we are here to help! Contact our office today to schedule your appointment for advanced teeth whitening services at Anderson Family Dental. We can’t wait to show you what a dramatic difference our cosmetic dentistry treatments can make in your smile as well as in your daily life. Our family-friendly office warmly welcomes patients from throughout Colorado Springs, CO, as well as Fort Carson, Falcon, Stratmoor, Black Forest, and beyond.

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