How Can Poor Oral Health Affect the Rest of the Body?

Oral health is extremely important for many reasons. If patients suffer from gum disease, cavities, or bad breath this can cause issues with your teeth and mouth. Our mouths are a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria are able to enter the blood stream, and this can also cause infection or inflammation in other parts of our body.

Taking good care of your teeth and mouth can keep your body healthy, and can also help avoid serious issues in the future. At Boulder Total Dentistry in Boulder, CO, we encourage our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. We also promote overall health and wellness. Our team cares about each patient, and keeping up with your oral health not only can keep your teeth and mouth feeling great, but your body feeling great also.

What Problems Can Occur From Poor Oral Health?

Respiratory Infections

If you have infected or inflamed gums that bacteria can transfer into the lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.

Dementia

Inflamed gums can release substances that are harmful to our brain cells. This can lead to memory loss that is a result of bacteria spreading to the nerves.

Cardiovascular Disease

If you have poor oral health you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. The bacteria from the infected gums enters the bloodstream, and can cause the arteries to build up plaque. This can put you at risk for a heart attack.

Prostate Problems

If men suffer from periodontal disease they may have prostatitis. This condition causes irritation and other prostate related problems.

Diabetes

Diabetics are more likely to have infected gums over those that do not have diabetes. This can make diabetes difficult to control due to unregulated blood sugar levels. Gum disease can lead to higher blood sugar levels and this can put a person at risk for developing diabetes.

Infertility

Poor oral health and infertility in women are linked. If a woman suffers from gum disease this can lead to issues with infertility, and may make it difficult for a woman to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy.

Cancer

Poor oral health can put patients at risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, or blood cancer. In addition if patients smoke or use tobacco products this can lead to oral or throat cancers.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

People who have gum disease are more likely to have Rheumatoid Arthritis. The bacteria in our mouths can increase inflammation in the body, and this increases the risk for developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a health problem that affects the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Periodontal disease can lead to kidney disease. Patients with gum disease typically have weaker immune systems, and this can make them susceptible to infection. Many patients that have poor oral health also have kidney disease, and this can lead to kidney failure if not treated.

How Can I Prevent These Health Issues?

In order to prevent serious health issues caused by bad oral health habits you must take care of your oral health. Scheduling regular dental exams in our office can help keep your teeth and gums clean, and get in front of any issues before they arise. Dr. Sever & Dr. Schook’s friendly Boulder dental team  always put our patients first, and complete a thorough exam of your teeth and mouth to ensure everything is looking and feeling great. If we do have concerns, we will discuss those with you and develop a customized treatment plan to take care of any issues right away.

Tips for Good Oral Hygiene

  • Brush and floss your teeth daily
  • Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products
  • Use mouthwash that contains fluoride
  • Try and stay away from food and drinks that contain lots of sugar
  • Eat a well-balanced diet
  • Exercise and take care of your overall health

If you take care of your oral health, you take care of your body. Good oral hygiene can help prevent problems such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, as well as prevent more serious health issues in your body.

Looking for a Family Dentist Near You?

At Boulder Total Dentistry, we provide the highest level of dental care for patients of all ages. We welcome all new patients, and use state of the art technology to ensure our patients have an exceptional experience when visiting our office.

If you are looking for a dentist in Boulder, CO, contact Boulder Total Dentistry to schedule your next dental exam and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Is Gum Disease Over if the Bleeding Stops?

If you have inflammation in your mouth or gums it may be time to consult with a Periodontist. Gum disease is one of the most common disease patients face today. This condition must be treated promptly to avoid receding gums, or even tooth loss. Attending regular visits to our office can help to prevent gum disease and get in front of any issues with your gums or teeth before they become worse. At Boulder Total Dentistry, we provide many periodontal treatment services in Boulder, CO for our patients including scaling and root planing.

If you have had previous treatment for gum disease, you may have had great results, and your gums have improved or stopped bleeding. Once you have suffered from gum disease, it is important to keep up with your oral hygiene and gum treatments, because gum bleeding and disease can reoccur. Brushing and flossing around the gums carefully at home help continue to keep your teeth and gum free of disease.

How Do I Care for My Gums and Prevent Gum Disease from Returning?

Routine dental cleanings and periodontal treatment help to get rid of plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease to return or get worse. Scaling and root planing is a great technique to remove plaque and tarter, and also helps to smooth out the surface of your gums. This procedure shrinks periodontal pockets to prevent future bacteria from entering the area. Dr. Sever, Dr. Schook, Dr. Hinsberger, Dr. Bishop, and Dr. Takemoto, our dentists in Boulder, CO recommend patients come in for their regular dental exams twice a year, and for periodontal treatment at least once a year.

Keeping up with good oral hygiene is the most important part of preventing gum disease. Our team recommends patients brush twice a day, and floss once a day. If you keep up with your oral hygiene you can reverse gum disease, and never have to deal with painful bleeding gums again. Attending your regular dental exams can help keep an eye on any developing periodontal pockets, and stop gum disease in its tracks.

Staying on top of your general health is also important. This includes avoiding alcohol or smoking, and staying away from sugary drinks. Taking care of both your oral and general health is imperative, to ensure your teeth and gums will last you a lifetime.

Our team at Boulder Total Dentistry provides a detailed consultation process to examine your teeth and gums and determine if you can benefit from periodontal treatment. Our creates a customized treatment plan to help restore your gums and teeth and keep any signs of inflammation or gum disease from progressing further.

Looking for Gum Disease Treatment Near You?

Choosing the best option is important, and our team at Boulder Total Dentistry is here to help give you all of the options available to achieve that bright white smile. We welcome all patients, and strive to always provide quality service our patients can count on.

If you are interested in finding out more about gum disease solutions in Boulder, CO, please contact Dr. Sever, Dr. Schook, Dr. Hinsberger, Dr. Bishop, or Dr. Takemoto to schedule your consultation.

When Should a Person Switch Dentists?

Switching dentists can be a hard decision, but patients need to make a change if they notice things aren’t working out with the current practice. Knowing when to make the move can be hard, but there are some tips you can follow to help you find your new dental office or dental clinic in the Austin, TX area.

There are signs you can look out for that indicate it may be time to start your search to find your next dental practice. At Boulder Total Dentistry, we welcome new patients to our practice, and strive to provide exceptional service to patients of all ages. We know how important finding the right dentist is, and we go above and beyond to provide the highest level of service and care for our patients!

What Are Some Signs That Indicate it May Be Time to Switch Dental Practices?

  • Your dentist has retired or moved
  • You have decided to move away from the area
  • Appointments tend to be at inconvenient times
  • Getting to your dentist is difficult, and the practice may be in an inconvenient location
  • The practice does not offer the dental procedures you need
  • Your friends or family have recommended another practice that sounds like it may be a better fit
  • You have had to call the billing department and dispute charges multiple times
  • Your dental insurance has changed
  • You do not feel comfortable with the recommended treatment plan at your current dentist

How Should I Go About Switching Dentists?

Once you have made the decision to switch dentists you can focus on finding your new practice. Making sure the new dentist is a good fit is important, and there are many things to consider. Think about what type of dental practice you would like for you and your family. Would a family practice work better and if so, make sure the new practice can provide all of the necessary services for your entire family. Research if the practice offers orthodontics if you have teenagers, should you need that type of treatment. This will help to eliminate the need for switching dentists again in the future.

Do your research and check out some online reviews to read about the dentist’s certifications or background. Read about the mission statement to understand the practice values, and how the practice is run. Make sure the facility is updated, and has the latest technology and advanced procedures available.

Once you have done your research and have found a dentist you think may be a good fit, schedule a visit to check out the practice. This way you can see firsthand if you are comfortable, and if your family would benefit from joining the practice. 


When visiting the office take mental notes of important things such as how you are treated during your visit, and how long it takes you to get to and from the practice. Ask the staff if you can have a tour of the office to ensure the practice meets your expectations.

Looking for a quality Dentist in Boulder for your next Dental Exam?

If you are looking for a family friendly dentist in Boulder, Co, contact Boulder Total Dentistry today for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provide exceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Dr. Sever, Dr. Schook, Dr. Hinsberger, Dr. Bishop, or Dr. Takemoto, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

How Often do Dental Implants Need to Be Replaced?

If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to be replaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and last upwards of 25 years if they are cared for properly.


At Boulder Total Dentistry, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options done in our dental office in Boulder, CO. Many patients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years. Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration options available to patients.


However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, and we encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keep the implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which can make them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shifts out of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contact our dental office in Boulder, Colorado immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

  • Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and free of plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around the implants.
  • Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
  • Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
  • Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Avoid products that contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. These ingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Call Our Team for Quality Dental Implants in Boulder, Coloardo

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. Our team of Boulder dentists are here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answer questions and help you every step of the way.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants in Boulder, Colorado and how they may benefit you, contact Bloom Total Dentistry to schedule your consultation with us today!

Is a Dental Crown Permanent?

Teeth that have broken,
fractured or cracked may need to be crowned. Dental crowns are one of the most
common restorations that help to not only enhance your smile but restore
overall functioning to a particular area of the mouth. The crown can replace a
tooth that is jagged, rough and broken so that you can eat, chew and bite into
foods more comfortably. Crowns can even be helpful in protecting the tooth
underneath, since they act as a protective cap over existing dentition.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is made to
mimic the look and even feel of a real tooth. The crown is placed over a tooth
that has cracked or broken so that the tooth looks better and functions more
normally. Crowns can be made of many different materials, like porcelain and
ceramic, to create a high-quality and strong restorative option for your dental
needs. If you have recently had a root canal, you may have been told that the
tooth needs a crown because it is susceptible to breaking and fracturing.

Are Dental Crowns Permanent?

While dental crowns are
long-lasting and durable, they are not permanent in the sense that they will
last a lifetime. However, crowns can last for many decades, so they are a
long-term solution to problem areas within the mouth. Proper care and routine
checkups can extend the life of your crown and keep it looking its best. When
replacement is needed, the procedure is as simple as removing the old
restoration and making a new one. It’s not uncommon for patients to have crowns
that are 30 or more years old before they need to be replaced.

What to Expect with Your Dental Crown

Crowns are made from durable
and realistic-looking materials. They mimic the feel and look of real teeth and
can help you feel better about your smile. They are one of the most common
restorations in the dental field and most people will need at least one crown
at some point in their life. To extend the life of your crown, it’s important
that you keep up with routine checkups and brush and floss your teeth daily at
home. Your crown will help to improve your smile for years with appropriate
care and can be a wonderful alternative to other options that may be available
to you in the dental office.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns help to restore compromised teeth that have broken, cracked or fractured. Oftentimes, a crown is recommended after having a root canal, since the tooth is susceptible to breaking and chipping. Crowns are made to look like your natural teeth and are crafted from materials that are able to withstand quite a lot of pressure and force. Your crown isn’t just an aesthetic option for your smile, but it can even help in restoring overall functioning when eating, chewing and biting into foods.

What are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a small restoration that fits over an existing tooth. Oftentimes, crowns are recommended if a tooth has cracked, broken or has severely fractured. Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic and even have a metal base to make them more secure. These crowns are known as PFM or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Regardless of the material being used to make the crown, the restoration is natural and realistic-looking so that it helps to enhance your smile and correct dentition problems.

How Long Will Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns can last for anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper care. However, it’s not uncommon for patients to have dental crowns that are older than 20 years because of taking good care of the restoration. Certain things will affect how long your crown will last. For example, if you smoke, have gum disease and do not brush and floss daily, you may find that your restoration lasts for only a few years before it will need to be replaced. Most dental crowns are long-lasting and highly durable restorations that can improve dentition and overall functioning of the tooth.

How to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown

The best way for you to extend the life of your crown is to keep up with regular dental appointments. The appointments help to check for signs of decay underneath the crown, which could cause the restoration to become loose. Brushing and flossing daily is important in extending the life of your crown and keeping it looking its best. Crowns that have cracked or broken should be replaced or repaired as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse. You can expect many years of good use with your new dental crown and can enjoy a smile that is full, bright and beautiful thanks to the help of dental restorations.

Are Dental Implants as Good as Real Teeth?

Dental implants can replace a single tooth as well as an entire arch of teeth with the help of a denture prosthesis. Implants have quickly become the go-to alternative for many other procedures and it is why so many patients have benefited from them. Dental implants are easy to place and take just a few months to fully heal and bond with surrounding bone. They can last for up to 30 years before needing replacement or repair.

Understanding How Implants Work

Implants rely on a bodily process known as osseointegration. This simply means that the surrounding bone will naturally fuse with the implant’s post over the course of three to six months. Osseointegration keeps the implant in place, giving it a secure and firm hold in the mouth and providing a stable abutment for crowns, bridge work and even dentures. The surgery itself is easy and straightforward, with most patients being good candidates for the procedure. If there isn’t enough bone in the area that will be receiving the implant, you may need a bone graft.

Are They As Good As Real Teeth?

Dental implants are securely placed deep into the bone of the jaw and given several months to bond fully with the bone. This allows the implant to act like the natural roots of your teeth, securely fitted deep into the jaw and providing an abutment for any type of restoration to be placed on top. The restoration, whether it’s a crown, bridge or denture, will all be made to fit your mouth perfectly. They look and feel like real teeth so that oral functioning is restored and you can enjoy a full, beautiful smile. Because implants don’t compromise surrounding teeth like a fixed bridge would, they can blend seamlessly into the rest of your smile and look completely natural. They are just as good as real teeth but without all of the problems that may come with natural teeth, like cavities and the need for fillings and root canals.

How to Maintain Your Implants

After you’ve had implants placed, you will need to come in regularly to ensure they’re healing properly and bonding with the surrounding bone. Once the actual procedure has been completed successfully, you should still make time to come in for your regular bi-annual appointments. These appointments enable us to check the implants for any signs of damage so that treatment can be provided immediately. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy while wearing implants helps to extend their lifespan.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants have become the go-to option for patients missing one or all of their teeth. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth and several implants can be placed to keep a denture plate securely in place. Regardless of how the implant is used for your own dental needs, many patients wonder how long they last and what should be expected after the procedure is actually done. When compared to other dental restorations, implants are more long-lasting and can provide decades of high-quality use.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are normally made of titanium, which allows them to withstand a lot of force and pressure. They rely on a process that is known as osseointegration to successfully bond with the bone over the course of a few months. Once the implant has been given enough time to heal, a crown, fixed bridge or denture can be made and placed on top. Implants are ideal for most patients, but some individuals may require a bone grafting prior to surgery to ensure successful bonding with underlying bone.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

While many dental professionals argue on how permanent dental implants are, they are one of the more permanent and long-term options for replacing missing teeth. On average, dental implants can last for 20 to 30 years before it’s recommended they be repaired or replaced. However, it’s not uncommon for patients to have implants for a much longer period of time without needing any additional work. What is not permanent on the dental implant is what is added to it within the mouth. For example, the crown, bridge or denture that has been made for the implant will need to be changed at the recommended time allotment.

Extending the Life of Your Dental Implant

One of the best ways to keep your implant in place is to keep up with routine dental appointments. Your bi-annual checkups are essential in checking for problems with the implant that can be fixed early on before they’re allowed to get worse. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy will prevent inflammation and infection in the area, which would otherwise compromise the implant. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily can have a profound impact on the health of your mouth and the restorations that you have and are trying to maintain.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants are often made of titanium and are used to replace missing teeth. They can be utilized to replace just one missing tooth at a time as well as several in a row or an entire denture. Implants are considered permanent because they can last for 20 to 30 years without the need for repair or replacement. They are a more permanent option when compared to partial dentures and bridge work, since they do not require surrounding teeth to be compromised.

What are Dental Implants?

Titanium dental implants are surgically inserted deep into the bone of the jaw to replace one or more missing teeth. They can even be used to keep a denture securely in place, eliminating the need for adhesives, gels and creams. Implants are ideal for most patients, as they do not require surrounding teeth to be compromised to make room for a fixed bridge. If you are missing a tooth that has fallen out on its own or has been extracted, implants are a long-term and highly reliable option for you.

How do Dental Implants work?

Dental implants rely on a process known as osseointegration to work successfully. This refers to the post of the implant bonding with the surrounding bone over the course of several months. For some, osseointegration can take as little as three months while others may find it takes their implant six to eight months to fuse with surrounding bone structure. Once the implant has been given time to bond with the bone and heal fully, a crown, bridge or denture can be placed on top of the appliance. If there is not enough bone structure for the implant to bond to, a bone graft may be needed prior to implant surgery.

What can be expected with the Dental Implant procedure?

The procedure involves making a small incision through the gums to gain access to the underlying bone. The post of the implant is then placed deep into the bone and the gums sutured to give them time to heal. You will come in for regular appointments to have the implants checked periodically while they are healing. Once they’ve healed fully and been given time to bond with surrounding bone, you’ll have another restoration made for you that will snap or twist onto the implant securely to keep it in place. Implants are a more reliable option for patients missing one or all of their teeth.