Tooth Extractions

Extractions are needed for multiple reasons: to avoid getting a root canal, to remove wisdom teeth that are pushing against other teeth, or to remove an impacted and infected tooth. Here at Southern Cross Dental, we provide extractions for patients that need to get a tooth removed. It is not a difficult process and is done under anesthesia, so no pain is experienced. We do ask that patients have a ride home following the anesthesia, as it is not safe for them to drive.

 

After the extractions are completed by our team at Southern Cross Dental, it is important that patients follow these tips:

 

1. Only eat soft foods for the first few days following the surgery, such as yogurt, pudding and mashed potatoes.

2. Don’t use a straw when drinking liquids.

3. Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the tooth was extracted.

4. Avoid smoking cigarettes, as the sucking motion can pull the blood clot.

5. Call our office if excessive pain or bleeding is experienced.

 

You may notice some minor bleeding at the extraction site, which is temporary. An ice pack works wonders for any lingering pain.

 

If you want to find out more about getting extractions done in our Colorado Springs, CO office, visit us online at www.southercrossfamilydentistry.com or call us today at (719) 471-1717.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are one of many procedures we offer our patients when they lose one or multiple teeth.  A bridge is made with abutment teeth to replace the missing teeth, and tailored to natural teeth on either end. These natural teeth will be covered with crowns to make them more stable, and must be contoured and reshaped slightly to make room for the crowns. Here at Southern Cross Dental, patients choose this option as a quick and easy way to replace their missing teeth, allowing them to eat as normal.

 

The following are some facts patients should know about dental bridges:

• Bridges help prevent other teeth from shifting as a result of the missing tooth.
•  They require a natural tooth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth.
•  The bridge can be done for one or multiple missing teeth in a row.
• A bridge is like a partial denture, though it cannot be removed.

The bridge is not obvious to anyone other than the patient, so they have more confidence when smiling, talking and eating. They must be taken care of the same way as their other teeth, including regular brushing.

 

Call us at 719-471-1717 or visit our websitewww.southerncrossfamilydentistry.com to learn more about bridges.

Porcelain Veneers

Many of us wish we could change something about our smile.  We might want to improve our alignment and brightness or correct chips and cracks.  While there are many ways to improve the cosmetic appearance of our smiles, veneers provide my patients with the opportunity to completely makeover their smile look.  Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are individually crafted to meet an individual patient’s needs.  Some of the many cosmetic problems veneers can correct include:

• Discoloration
• Cracks
• Chips
• Gaps
• Misalignment

Since veneers cover your existing tooth structure, you can create a truly picture perfect smile.  Colorado Springs, CO patients that have chosen veneers have been thrilled with the results of their new makeover.  In as little as two visits to the office, you can find confidence in a new, beautiful smile.  Veneers are a great way to completely makeover your smile, but they aren’t for everyone.  If you are interested in this cosmetic dental service, schedule an appointment at my office.  I’m happy to help patients decide if veneers are the best option for their smile needs.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are one of many restorative dentistry procedures we offer here at Southern Cross Dental. Crowns have multiple purposes for our patients, including covering imperfections of the tooth, protecting a tooth weakened from tooth decay, and preventing cracking or breaking after a root canal. Crowns cover the tooth like a cap, and are made to look and function just like a regular tooth.

Receiving a dental crown takes about 2-3 visits and includes the following:

1. Shade matching - We match the shade of the crown to your existing teeth so they look perfectly natural

2. Reshaping the enamel of the broken tooth so the crown can be placed over the affected area properly

3. After the tooth is reshaped, we will create a mold of the area that the crown will be placed

4. The mold is sent to a dental lab where it will be created, this usually takes about two weeks. We will place a temporary crown until the permanent crown is ready

5. Once the crown is completed, we will bond it to your existing teeth with cement.

Whether you have staining, need to save your natural tooth, or have other imperfections, crowns can be incredibly beneficial. If you live in the Colorado Springs, CO area and are in need of a dental crown, schedule a consultation with either Dr. Navid Rahimpour or Dr. Faranak Rahimpour today. We are welcoming new patients.