Dentists typically use a system called the Universal numbering system to count teeth. In this system, the teeth are numbered 1 to 32, starting with the upper right third molar and ending with the lower left third molar. Each quadrant of the mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left) has eight teeth, numbered from 1 to 8. This system is used to help dentists keep track of the teeth and to make it easier to communicate about specific teeth.

Yes,

Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. Plaque and bacteria build up in a patients mouth. When this build-up is not treated in the early stages it can cause gum disease. Periodontal disease can also be caused by smoking and chewing tobacco, teeth grinding, certain medications and genetics. Advanced forms of periodontal disease can cause bone and tooth loss as well as permanent damage. Dr. Holsteen recommends that brushing and flossing every day as well as scheduling dental appointments every six months is the best way to fight gum disease. Some of the most common signs of periodontal disease are the following: Abscessed teeth Extreme tooth sensitivity Chronic bad breath Loose teeth and or loss of teeth Red, swollen or bleeding gums Receding gum line If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us at 719-598-3502 or email us to schedule a consultation. Your dental health is our highest concern.

It’s very important to schedule regular cleanings here at Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry. Dr. Holsteen recommends seeing you twice a year. There are many problems with can exist without knowing. Not only can we identify problems before they become painful and expensive but we can also help to keep your smile looking fantastic. We know how important it is to feel comfortable with your smile. This is why we offer many treatments to help improve patient aesthetics.

Here at Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry we know how busy life can be. Fitting a dental appointment into your busy schedule seems to be one of the most difficult things you have to do. Proper oral hygiene is difficult to maintain. Brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing after every meal will keep many oral hygiene problems away, but not all. Scheduling a cleaning at Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry twice a year is highly recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene and catch problems before they become costly and painful.

A dentist is a specialist who has been trained to diagnose, treat and prevent oral health conditions problems. Dr. Holsteen has completed many years of medical schooling in order to practice dentistry. After schooling, a dentist can receive either a DDS or DMD degree. DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. Some doctors specialize in pediatric dentistry as well, which means that he or she works with children from infancy up through teenage years. There are other specializations that a dentist may go to school for: Oral and maxillofacial (includes pathology, radiology and surgery) Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics Endodontics (specialization in root canals) Periodontics (specialization in gum disease) Prosthodontics (specialization in dental implants)

Dentistry is the treatment and prevention of disorders and diseases of a patients teeth, gums, mouth and jaw. Dentistry performed properly is necessary for complete oral health and it has a significant impact on the health of a patients entire body.