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Is This a Dental Emergency? Helpful Tips from D’Amico & Mauck, DDS

July 21, 2014

shutterstock_94401604Despite our best laid plans and precautionary measures, accidents do happen. Do you know what constitutes a dental emergency or what you should do right away if one occurs? Any injury to the teeth, gums, jaw, or mouth should be considered serious and addressed accordingly. Keep this information from Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck in mind and make sure your family is fully prepared should a dental emergency arise.

What is a Dental Emergency?

The following are the most common types of dental emergencies, along with suggestions regarding first-aid care until you are able to visit our practice or an emergency room.

  • Cracked tooth or chipped tooth. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water and retain any pieces of tooth that you can, rinsing these as well. If the area is bleeding, use a piece of sterile gauze to apply light pressure until bleeding stops. Contact us as soon as possible.
  • Tooth that has been knocked out. Holding the tooth by the crown (the portion that is usually visible in the mouth), gently rinse it with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Do not scrub the tooth or attempt to remove any attached tissue. Ensuring that it is facing the proper way, try to place the tooth back into its socket gently. If the tooth will not remain in its socket, simply place it in a small cup or bag of milk to preserve it and see our office immediately. In many cases, a tooth that has been knocked out can be replaced if treated by a dentist in a timely manner.
  • Lost crown or filling. The first thing you should do is make an appointment with our office as soon as possible so that we can repair your restoration. In the case of a lost crown, it may be feasible to replace it temporarily with over-the-counter dental cement or denture adhesive. Avoid eating or drinking anything that contains sugar; this will intensify any pain or sensitivity you may be experiencing.
  • Soft tissue injury. If you have suffered a laceration or other injury to the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips and you are not able to stop the bleeding with normal first-aid, contact our office immediately. Keep the area clean in the meantime and use a cold compress to minimalize pain and swelling.

At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS, our doctors hope that you never experience a dental emergency, but if you do, know that we are here to help. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today. We look forward to providing your family with superior dental care that suits your lifestyle and your unique needs. We also serve patients from throughout the nearby cities of Denver, Englewood, Parker, Centennial, and more.

Proper Toothbrush Care: More Important Than You May Think

July 13, 2014

shutterstock_140040793Every day, you brush your teeth to keep your smile healthy and looking its best. You know it’s an important part of your day and it’s been a consistent habit for years. How often, though, do you actually take the time to really consider your toothbrush? At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck help patients achieve their healthiest, most beautiful smiles through a variety of general dentistry services, including patient education. Part of that education involves proper home care and explaining the importance of maintaining your toothbrush.

Taking Care of the Brush that Cares for Your Smile

Our doctors and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste to prevent the buildup of plaque, a sticky substance that contains decay-causing bacteria. The CDC also suggests the following toothbrush care techniques to keep your smile safe from cavities, bad breath, and more.

  1. Never share your toothbrush, even with a spouse or family member. This may lead to a variety of health problems, including the spread of infection.
  2. After each use, rinse your brush with tap water to remove any remaining debris and toothpaste. Store it upright and allow it to dry; avoid closeable travel toothbrush holders that keep the bristles from drying. This can lead to the growth of bacteria.
  3. Replace your toothbrush approximately every three months, or even sooner if the bristles show obvious signs of wear and tear. The American Dental Association (ADA) bases this recommendation on the effectiveness of the brush after regular use rather than the potential for bacterial contamination.
  4. It is not necessary to soak your toothbrush in any kind of specialized disinfectant or mouthwash unless otherwise directed by your dentist. In fact, this practice may result in unintentional cross-contamination if multiple brushes are soaked in the same solution.

Other Important Oral Health Basics

In addition to brushing and flossing at home, it is vital that you and your family visit our office for routine exams and thorough cleanings about once every six months. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today to schedule your visit with Drs. D’Amico and Mauck and our friendly team. We look forward to seeing and serving your beautiful smile! Our state-of-the-art dental practice also happily serves patients from the surrounding areas, including Denver, Parker, Englewood, Centennial, and beyond.

Athletic Mouthguards Help Keep Your Smile Safe this Summer

June 25, 2014

Shutterstock Mouth Guard Athletic BaseballAs the weather grows warmer and school lets out for the summer, kids and adults of all ages are gearing up for some fun on the field and on the court. Summer sports are a great way to spend time with family and friends, and the beginning of the season is a great time to make sure that we’re taking all the right safety precautions for ourselves and our kids. Athletic mouthguards, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Academy of Sports Dentistry, have been shown to significantly reduce the severity of injuries sustained while playing a variety of sports. At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, our team offers a variety of general and family dentistry solutions, including the customization of protective athletic mouthguards.

The Importance of Athletic Mouthguards in Recreational Activity

Every year, more than 5 million teeth are avulsed, or forcibly knocked out, during competitive recreational activities. Many of these incidents can be prevented with the use of a customized athletic mouthguard. Other dental and orofacial injuries commonly sustained include lacerations of the lips and tongue, fractures to the jaw, crown and root fractures, and trauma to the gums.

The American Dental Association (ADA) strongly urges the use of an athletic mouthguard during gameplay to prevent orofacial and dental injuries. Some of the common sports included in the ADA’s list include the following:

  • Basketball, football, and soccer
  • Ice hockey, field hockey, and inline skating
  • Racquetball and tennis
  • Boxing, wrestling, and martial arts
  • Softball and baseball

It is estimated that more than $500 million is spent on treating orofacial injuries every year. Protect yourself and your children this summer with an athletic mouthguard from Drs. D’Amico and Mauck.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Is your child involved in sports or other recreational activities? Protect your little one’s precious smile with a customized oral appliance from D’Amico & Mauck, DDS. We look forward to helping you and/or your children preserve your oral health and comfort this season with athletic mouthguards that fit your lifestyle and protect your smile. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with our skilled, experienced doctors and friendly staff. Our family-friendly, state-of-the-art practice in Aurora, CO also warmly welcomes patients from nearby communities in Englewood, Parker, Centennial, Denver, and beyond.

Caring for Your Dentures: Helpful Tips from D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO

June 12, 2014

shutterstock_179301155You want your dentures to last, fit well, and look great; the only way to accomplish this is to ensure that they are cared for properly and regularly. At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck offer our patients helpful information regarding all aspects of restorative dentistry, including how to properly care for their dentures, partials, and other dental prosthetics. Here are some simple tips that can help you keep your dentures in optimal shape for years to come.

Easy-to-Follow Denture Care Tips

  • Always handle with care. Your dentures are crafted specifically for you using high-quality dental materials, but they can still be damaged. When you remove your dentures, do so over a folded towel or a sink full of water. This will help prevent breakage if they should be accidentally dropped.
  • Clean daily and after meals. Rinsing your dentures after eating will help prevent the buildup of plaque and odor-causing bacteria. Every night, remove your dentures and brush them with a special brush and cleansing agent designed for cleaning dentures; regular toothbrushes and toothpastes can be too abrasive and actually cause unnecessary damage.
  • Store dentures properly. The way you store your dentures when you are not wearing them is extremely important. Dentures must be kept moist so that they maintain their shape, so keep them in a container of specialized soaking solution or water. Never place your dentures in hot water, as they may warp and will no longer fit properly.

Your Trusted Partners in Lifelong Oral Health

At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS, we believe that every patient deserves to experience the full benefits of a healthy, happy, and beautiful smile. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today to schedule your appointment with our experienced doctors and caring staff. We look forward to showing you what a difference our dedication and skill can make in your oral health and in your life. Our conveniently located dental practice happily serves patients from throughout Aurora and the surrounding areas, including Englewood, Parker, Centennial, Denver, and beyond.

When Do Teeth Fall Out? What to Expect and When

May 22, 2014

Shutterstock Little Girl at DentistFor an adult, the prospect of losing a tooth can be terrifying – unless, of course, you are the proud parent of a little one who is looking forward to his or her first visit from the tooth fairy! At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck offer a wide range of general and family dentistry services, as well as accurate, reliable information for parents looking to keep their child’s smile healthy and looking great.

Tooth Loss Time Table

In most cases, a child’s primary teeth (more commonly referred to as baby teeth) begin to grow loose naturally at around the age of five or six. Girls typically precede boys in tooth eruption and loss, though this isn’t always the case. Teeth will generally fall out in the order in which they erupted, with the two bottom front teeth – lower central incisors – coming out first. The two top teeth, or upper central incisors, are next. By the age of about 9 to 12, all four of the canines will be lost and replaced gradually by adult teeth.

Under normal circumstances, all primary teeth will have been lost by the age of about 12 or 13 years. It is important to remember that, while baby teeth will eventually be replaced by permanent ones, their care during these formative years is still incredibly important. Proper oral hygiene at home and regular visits to our office will ensure that your child’s smile remains as healthy as it is bright.

Tooth Loss as an Adult

Of course, tooth loss doesn’t only affect children. The loss of a permanent tooth is a very serious event and should be addressed as soon as possible by our trusted team of doctors and staff. If you are an adult and are missing one or more permanent teeth, please contact our office to schedule your consultation with Drs. D’Amico and Mauck. We’d be happy to provide you with a full array of tooth replacement options, including crown and bridgework, dentures and partials, and dental implants.

D’Amico & Mauck: Your Trusted Source for Comprehensive Care

Whether your child has already begun to lose his or her primary teeth and you have concerns regarding childhood oral health, or you’d simply like to schedule a routine checkup appointment, we’re here to help. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today and speak with our caring, experienced staff. Our conveniently located office proudly serves families from throughout the Aurora area, as well as nearby communities in Denver, Englewood, Centennial, Parker, and beyond.

What is Bruxism and How is it Treated? Information from D’Amico & Mauck, DDS

May 14, 2014

Shutterstock Mouth GuardBruxism isn’t a common household term, and the majority of people who suffer from it aren’t even aware that they’re affected by it. So what is bruxism and how important is it to treat it? At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck offer an all-encompassing selection of general dentistry services to patients in need of help with a variety of dental health concerns, including bruxism.

How Bruxism Affects You

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, typically occurs at night when the patient is completely unaware that they are engaging in the behavior. Extreme forces, much more intense than those experienced during daily chewing, are exerted by the jaws. In some cases, the jaws are simply clenched tightly as the patient sleeps. In others, the clenching graduates to a grinding movement that moves back and forth. This grinding may even become loud enough to wake a sleeping partner, therefore disturbing an otherwise restful night.

Though patients with bruxism are not conscious of their nightly activities, there are some things that you can keep watch for between visits to our office. Signs and symptoms associated with bruxism include the following:

  • Teeth that appear shorter, flatter, or otherwise worn down
  • Increased sensitivity to hot and cold as enamel is worn away
  • Aching or fatigue in the muscles of the jaw, face, or head
  • Chronic headaches, particularly in the morning
  • Damage to inner cheek or tongue
  • Earaches that are caused by the extreme tension in the jaw muscle

Fortunately, there are solutions to bruxism that can help stop the destructive nighttime cycle. Ask our doctors about how a customized oral appliance, fabricated specifically for you, can put an end to your teeth grinding concerns in a way that suits your lifestyle.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Do you or your partner suffer from any of the symptoms of bruxism? Are you interested in learning more about how treatment for bruxism can help you enjoy improved oral health and a better quality of life overall? We invite you to contact our office in Aurora, CO to talk to our staff and to schedule your appointment with Drs. D’Amico and Mauck today. Our doctors happily welcome patients from throughout the greater Aurora area, in addition to surrounding communities in Parker, Englewood, Centennial, Denver, and more.

Porcelain Crowns Provide Your Smile with Exceptional Form and Function

April 21, 2014

Shutterstock Pretty Woman SmileDental crowns have long been used to supply necessary strength and protection to teeth that have succumbed to injury or decay. Thanks to modern dental technology and revolutionary cosmetic dentistry advancements, porcelain crowns can also be used to seamlessly correct visible flaws as well, including deep staining, gaps, persistent discoloration and more. At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck offer a variety of exceptional cosmetic dentistry treatments to build flawless smiles, including custom-crafted porcelain crowns.

Why Choose Porcelain Crowns?

Dental porcelain is an incredibly strong, full customizable material that very closely resembles the luster of natural tooth enamel. When a tooth sustains a serious injury, such as a fracture or chip, our doctors can preserve the affected tooth with a porcelain crown that looks great and fortifies the area as well. Following treatment of a root canal, a crown may be placed to add strength and beauty to the tooth in question, all while sealing out additional harmful bacteria. Smiles that feature teeth that are oddly spaced or misshapen may also benefit from the placement of porcelain crowns.

One of the primary benefits of porcelain crown restoration at D’Amico & Mauck, DDS is the speed with which we can provide you with your new crown right here in our office. With E4D technology, our doctors will take precise digital impressions of your teeth and transmit this information to our on-site milling unit for fabrication while you wait. In only about an hour, we can place your beautiful new porcelain crown, allowing you to leave our office smiling comfortably and confidently once again. No messy impressions or multiple visits required!

Enjoy the Benefits of a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Whether you currently have unsightly metal crowns that you’d like to have replaced or you are in need of a new restoration soon, Drs. D’Amico and Mauck are here to help. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our restorative dentistry procedures and provide you with the information you need to make your decision about treatment, so contact our office today. Our family-friendly dental practice in Aurora, CO happily welcomes patients from the surrounding areas of Parker, Denver, Centennial, Englewood, and beyond.

Strange Facts and Dental Myths Explored with D’Amico & Mauck, DDS

April 5, 2014

shutterstock_156782423Though the field of dentistry is founded upon decades of evolving science and technology, many strange myths and beliefs still surround the subject of dental care and oral health in general. At the Aurora, CO practice of D’Amico & Mauck, DDS, we strive every day to provide our patients with factual, easy-to-understand information and answers to their questions regarding oral hygiene and dental wellness. These myths and facts are not only useful in understanding more about oral health; some of them are pretty entertaining, too!

 

  1. Myth: Baby teeth don’t need to be brushed because they’re going to fall out anyway. Unfortunately, this is among the most common dental myths out there. While it is true that primary teeth do fall out to make way for permanent pearly whites, caring for them beginning at a young age is still incredibly important. Teaching early oral hygiene practices give children the best possible opportunity to enjoy lifelong dental wellness, and brushing primary teeth can actually help ensure the health of permanent teeth in the future.
  2. Myth: My teeth look and feel fine, so I don’t need to go to the dentist. Even when your teeth and gums seem entirely normal, routine visits to D’Amico and Mauck, DDS are key components of your oral health regimen. Brushing and flossing at home are crucial, of course, but check-ups, x-rays, and professional cleanings are even more pivotal. These regular appointments also allow us to spot the signs of any potential problems before they become serious.
  3. Myth: Teeth whitening will damage my teeth. The formulas used in teeth whitening products today have been stringently tested for safety and effectiveness. Drs. D’Amico and Mauck are always happy to address any concerns you may have regarding all of our cosmetic dentistry treatments, including teeth whitening.
  4. Fact: The average American spends only 48 seconds per day on teeth brushing… but a little extra time spent definitely pays off! We recommend a thorough brushing – about two to three minutes – to help ward off decay and prevent periodontal disease.
  5. Fact: Say “Cheese!” The enzymes in certain cheeses, including Monterey Jack, Swiss, and cheddar, have been shown to protect against tooth decay.
  6. Fact: Sharks lose and regrow up to 20,000 teeth over the course of a lifetime. People, however, are limited to just 32, so be sure to take excellent care of them and visit D’Amico & Mauck, DDS regularly!

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Drs. D’Amico and Mauck are your trusted oral healthcare providers in Aurora, CO, offering a comprehensive array of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services in a warm, inviting environment. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with our doctors and discover what a difference our commitment to you and your family can truly make. We also serve nearby communities in Denver, Englewood, Centennial, Parker, Boulder, and more.

 

How Porcelain Veneers Help You Reclaim Your Smile Faster Than Ever at D’Amico & Mauck, DDS

March 19, 2014

shutterstock man smile closeup white teethDo stained, cracked, or chipped teeth keep your smile from reaching its full potential? Exposure to certain foods, drinks, and tobacco can alter the appearance of your teeth, as can dental injuries and the natural process of aging. At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, we believe that everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile they’re proud to share with the world. We can help you achieve just that with a variety of customized cosmetic dentistry services, including porcelain veneers.

Can Porcelain Veneers Help Me?

Because every patient’s oral health situation and dentition are unique, we’ll first assess your teeth and gums in a comprehensive consultation here at our practice in Aurora, CO. Our doctors will talk with you about your desired results and your expectations, as well as the cosmetic flaws you wish to correct. Porcelain veneers can effectively solve the following common problems in the teeth that show when you smile:

  • Chips and cracks
  • Discoloration caused by certain antibiotic medications (including tetracycline)
  • Mild to moderate misalignment and/or crowding
  • Uneven spacing and gaps between teeth
  • Teeth that are too small or too large in relation to surrounding teeth

Porcelain veneers are thin, stain-resistant layers of durable porcelain that are affixed to the front surfaces of your existing teeth. They look and feel absolutely natural, giving you the beautiful, bright-white smile of your dreams in as little as two visits to our office. You’ll be showing off your flawless new pearly whites in no time!

Schedule Your Veneers Consultation Today!

How would you like the ability to smile freely and confidently anytime, all without the worry of exposing cracked, chipped, or heavily stained teeth? Drs. D’Amico and Mauck want to help you achieve that freedom with cosmetic dentistry services, including porcelain veneers. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today to schedule your consultation! We also happily serve patients from throughout Denver and the surrounding areas, including Centennial, Englewood, Boulder, Parker, and beyond.

The Many Benefits of Dental Implants: Restorative Dentistry in Aurora, CO

March 11, 2014

Shutterstock Dental ImplantMissing teeth affect your life in a number of ways, limiting your ability to speak, eat, and smile with comfort and confidence. Thanks to modern dental technology and advanced restorative options, patients with missing teeth can once again enjoy the numerous benefits of a full set of teeth with dental implants. Drs. D’Amico and Mauck in Aurora, CO offer comprehensive restorative dentistry services, including dental implant placement, to rebuild smiles that last a lifetime.

Restore Form and Function with Dental Implants

If the teeth you are missing are within the visible area known as the “smile zone,” it is likely that your primary concern is one of aesthetics. You may feel embarrassed of your teeth, hiding your smile behind your hands – or even avoiding smiling at all. This can have immensely detrimental effects on your overall sense of self-esteem, self-image, and self-confidence. Some people with multiple missing teeth will even shy away from the opportunity to engage in social functions with friends and coworkers.

Missing teeth also present a very real and serious problem that isn’t cosmetic at all, but function-related. When you can’t bite or chew a variety of different foods, your body may begin to suffer from vitamin deficiencies and even malnutrition. Without the sturdy root of a tooth to support it, the bone tissue in your jaw begins to deteriorate. This can lead to an entirely new host of problems, making tooth replacement a priority regardless of where in the mouth the problem is.

With dental implants, Drs. D’Amico and Mauck replace missing teeth to solve all of these problems at once, utilizing a time-tested restorative solution that allows you to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Whether you’ve been missing teeth for months or even years, or you plan to undergo an extraction soon and you’re interested in viable tooth replacement options, contact our office today and ask about dental implants. From our conveniently located dental practice in Aurora, CO, our experienced doctors happily serve patients from surrounding communities throughout the greater Denver area, including Englewood, Parker, Centennial, Boulder, and beyond. We look forward to becoming your partners in your journey toward a healthier smile!

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