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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!

The Best Children’s Dentists for Your Kids in Aurora, CO is D’Amico & Mauck, DDS

February 26, 2014

Shutterstock Child at DentistWhen it comes to your kids, you want to make sure that they get the best in everything – from proper nutrition at home to a future with a good education and career. Giving your children the best possible start in the oral healthcare department should be a top priority, too, building the foundation for a happy, healthy smile for decades to come. At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck provide our youngest patients with all of the essential general dental care they need to keep on smiling.

Prevention is the Key

Your little one’s teeth go through a lot during the first few years of their development. In order to make sure that everything is progressing as it should from the very start, we recommend having your kids visit the dentist by the age of three. These initial checkups allow Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Mauck to assess the growth and health of the primary teeth.

We’ll talk with you about how your child’s teeth and gums should be cleaned at home, as well as look for any signs of decay. We can recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen young teeth and sealants to protect them. For older children who are involved in sports, we can provide customized athletic mouth guards to prevent oral injury while they play. As a parent, you can rest assured in the knowledge that you’ll be apprised of every step of your child’s oral healthcare process.

At D’Amico & Mauck, DDS, we believe that visiting the dentist should be a fun, positive experience, especially for our youngest patients. We’ll do everything we can to make sure your children feel welcome, calm and comfortable so that every visit to the dentist in the future will be a pleasant one.

Protect Their Pearly Whites 

There are few things more important than ensuring your child’s future oral health. Contact our office in Aurora, CO today to discover what a difference our dedication, compassion and expertise can make in your kids’ dental experience. Drs. D’Amico and Mauck happily welcome patients from throughout the entire Denver area, as well as from the surrounding communities of Englewood, Centennial, Boulder and more.

Smoking and Oral Health: More Than Just Yellow Teeth

February 13, 2014

Shutterstock SmokingIt’s common knowledge that smoking can lead to bad breath and stained teeth, as well as a whole host of medical problems that affect various parts of the body. It may surprise you to discover, though, that cigarettes can lead to a number of other, lesser known complications that directly affect your oral health. Dr. Nicholas D’Amico and Dr. Matt Mauck at D’Amico & Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO want you to be aware of some of the hidden consequences of smoking and what you can do to protect yourself.

Unseen Oral Health Hazards

In addition to causing the obvious cosmetic issues for which they are notorious, cigarettes can wreak havoc on your overall oral health in ways that aren’t so immediately visible. Smokers are, for example, significantly more likely to experience deterioration of the bone within the jaw. Teeth can become loose and even fall out when the supporting structures of the jaw and gums are weakened. Other oral health issues directly associated with smoking include:

  • Higher risk of infection and dry socket after tooth extraction
  • Increased probability that the patient will develop gum disease
  • Longer recovery time following oral surgery or periodontal therapy
  • Higher likelihood that dental implants will fail
  • Inflammation and/or blockage of salivary glands located in the roof of the mouth

As any medical professional will agree, the clear solution to these and other health problems is to quit smoking altogether. However, current smokers can help prevent potentially serious complications by visiting D’Amico & Mauck for regular checkups, cleanings and screenings every six months. Periodontal therapy can aid in the reversal of gum disease caused by years of tobacco use, and professional teeth whitening can lift even set-in nicotine stains.

Reclaim Your Oral Health

Whether you’re a former smoker interested in repairing damage caused by cigarettes or a current tobacco user with concerns about how it may be affecting your oral health, we’re here to help. Contact us at our office in Aurora, CO and schedule your appointment today. We also welcome patients from throughout and around Denver, including the nearby communities in Centennial, Englewood, Boulder, Castlewood, Commerce City and beyond.

What Does Periodontal Disease Have to Do With Pregnancy?

December 25, 2013

Shutterstock Perio Pregnancy

What Does Periodontal Disease Have to Do With Pregnancy?

When you think of gum disease, or periodontal disease, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it swollen gums, bleeding when you floss or increased sensitivity? What about babies? Though a newborn child probably isn’t even on the list of things you think about when you consider periodontal disease, perhaps it should be. Gum disease can actually prove incredibly dangerous to an unborn baby if its mother fails to receive proper treatment. This is why our Drs. D’Amico and Mauck in Aurora, CO offer exceptional preventative dental care to all of our patients, defending against gum disease and other oral health conditions before they cause a potentially serious problem.

The Important Connection

When a pregnant woman suffers from periodontal disease, the harmful bacteria in her mouth can travel through her bloodstream and affect the well being of her baby. In fact, women with untreated gum disease are seven to eight times more likely to give birth to a preterm infant.

Babies born before 37 weeks are at a higher risk for complications like respiratory failure, heart conditions and digestive issues. They may not feed normally and are typically underweight for the first few weeks to months of their lives.

Fortunately, periodontal therapy and routine cleanings are all that it takes to protect yourself and keep your bundle of joy safe and healthy. If you’re pregnant or thinking about making an addition to your family, Drs. D’Amico and Mauck would like to welcome you to our office in Aurora, CO for a cleaning and exam to ensure optimal dental health, for now and in the future. Contact us today to see what a difference our commitment to our patients can make for you. We also serve patients in Parker, Englewood, Denver, Centennial and the surrounding areas.

 

Dental Implants in Aurora, CO Can Help Rebuild Your Smile and Self-Confidence

October 26, 2013

dental_implantsLosing a tooth is often considered one of the most devastating dental injuries. After all, not only is your oral health compromised (an increased risk of periodontal disease and additional tooth loss are common consequences), but your self-image suffers a blow too, making it difficult to even leave your house, much less interact with people in professional and social settings for fear of embarrassment. While traditional replacement solutions, such as dentures and bridges, are often available, many patients find themselves unsatisfied by their bulky, unnatural nature. While Drs. D’Amico and Mauck can’t rewind the clock and bring your lost teeth back, they do offer the next best thing at their Aurora office: dental implants. With the help of dental implants, our team can give you back the beautiful, seamless smile you’ve been dreaming of.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small, titanium screws that fuse successfully with your jawbone tissue, effectively replicating the entire structure of your lost tooth. The process is simple – first, Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Mauck will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon; they will handle the placement of these screws. Then, once an appropriate amount of time has passed for you to heal, you’ll return to our Aurora office where we’ll place your brand-new, customized restorations atop them, completing the process.

How are dental implants better than other tooth replacement treatments?

Dental implants are so effective because they replace the root of your tooth, not just the crown. While dentures and bridges often look nice, the lack of tooth roots will cause your jawbone to deteriorate over time, resulting in a hunched appearance for your face. Dental implants are the only restorative dentistry solution that provides a solution to this problem! Additionally, dental implants are much more sturdy, lifelike, and long-lasting than their tooth replacement counterparts.

Don’t settle for an incomplete smile – instead, bolster your oral health with help from D’Amico and Mauck, DDS! Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from all over the greater Denver area, including Aurora, Centennial, Englewood, Denver Tech Center, and beyond.

Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Mauck Can Help You Achieve the Smile of Your Dreams with Cosmetic Dentistry Services

October 17, 2013

smile and dental mirrorWe all know maintaining optimal oral health with brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups is crucial – but what patients who wish their smile looked more like the ones they see every night on TV? A beautiful set of teeth can be a truly valuable tool, both in professional and social settings where first impressions can make all the difference. The sad truth is, though, that very few of us are born with a naturally flawless smile. Don’t give up hope yet, though! At D’Amico and Mauck, DDS in Aurora, CO, our team is committed to providing personalized cosmetic dentistry services that help patients achieve their wildest dental dreams. Whether you’ve suffered stains, cracks, or gaps, we’ll be sure to create a look that you can finally feel proud of!

Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Mauck offer a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry services, including:

What if you’re not sure what kind of treatment you need to help your smile shine again? No problem! After a thorough examination, we’ll be happy to help create a customized smile makeover plan that streamlines the process and ensures that you receive the care you need as quickly as possible.

Here in Aurora, you don’t have to settle for a smile that’s simply lackluster – instead, show your pearly whites with pride with help from Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Mauck! Contact D’Amico and Mauck, DDS today if you have any questions about our available treatments, or if you’re ready to go ahead and schedule an appointment. Our team is committed to providing friendly, comprehensive care that leaves teeth happier and healthier than ever before. We serve the greater Denver area, including Centennial, Englewood, Denver Tech Center, and beyond.

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