General Dentistry

General Dentistry

Extractions

A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth. Our goal is to help you keep your teeth, but in some cases, our options are limited due to advanced dental conditions. If you need dental extractions, we will work closely with you to ensure your comfort and make sure you are aware of your tooth replacement options.

If it is necessary to remove a tooth, this is the optimal time to plan for tooth replacement. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone can degenerate and change shape during healing. This can cause a bony defect and adjacent teeth may begin to shift. This can create problems in your bite and affect your oral health. If you are considering filling the space with a dental implant, adequate bone is important and if you want a bride, it should be placed before teeth shift.

If you have questions about extractions or tooth replacement, please call us today.

Site Preservation/Bone Grafting

Bone grafting following extraction is a common, simple procedure. After the socket is cleaned, bony fragments are packed into the site and may be covered with a dissolving covering.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that emerge, usually during your late teens to early twenties. Some people have enough room for these teeth but many people need them removed.  Wisdom teeth can be malpositioned or they can become impacted. When they are not able to fully come in or lack space, they can cause structural damage to the jaw and other teeth. They can also provide a place for food and bacteria to gather which can lead to pain and infection. Routine radiographs during your exam can help reveal if you should have your wisdom teeth removed.

Root Canals

Contrary to popular belief, root canals should not be painful. Root canal therapy may be indicated for teeth that have advanced nerve inflammation or infection. This can be due to large or repeated dental procedures on a tooth, a cracked tooth, or dental trauma. Teeth needing root canals are often sensitive, have a history of dental restoration, or may be discolored. Root canals are used to repair and save your tooth instead of removing it.

Once root canal therapy is started, your symptoms should resolve and eventually disappear.  If left untreated, the tooth, gums, or bone can become
infected and an abscess may form. This can lead to further infection, swelling, and pain.

After healing, a tooth with a root canal needs a crown to protect it. If you would like more information or to schedule and evaluation, please call us today.

Nitrous & Oral Sedation

Several medications are available to help create more relaxed, comfortable dental visits. Some medications control pain, some help you relax, and others put you into a deep sleep during dental treatment. The type of procedure, your overall health, history of allergies, and your anxiety level are considered when determining which is best for you.

Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option your dentist may offer to help make you more comfortable during certain procedures. It is not intended to put you to sleep. You will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions the dentist may have. Your dentist will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes you should start to feel the effects of the nitrous oxide. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Some people say their arms and legs feel heavy. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off soon after the mask is removed.

Ask Dr. Willden if nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.

Comfort Aids

For your treatment, we have comfort-aids including neck pillows, blankets, essential oil therapy, bite blocks, and IsoVac®. Please ask us how we can make your visit more comfortable.

      Emergency Visits

      If you have an emergency after regularly scheduled hours, please call us at (970) 249-2533.

      Please leave a message and we will work with you to
      find a solution. 

      Walk-ins

      Our office welcomes walk-ins, but we encourage pre-arranged
      appointments to ensure optimal timeliness and attention. We understand that emergencies happen and with advanced notice, we can usually address your needs on the same day.

      Please contact our office to schedule: (970) 249-2533

      New Patients Are Always Welcome!

      Please call us if you have any questions or
      would like to schedule your appointment.

      We look forward to meeting you!

      (970) 249-2533

      Willden Family Dental

      204 S. Uncompahgre Avenue
      Montrose, CO 81401

      OFFICE HOURS

      Monday By appointment only
      Tuesday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Wednesday 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
      Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
      Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM