Frequently Asked Questions
How do dentists count teeth?
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.
How many dentists are currently working in the U.S.?
As of 2021, there are 201,927 professionally active dentists in the U.S. There are 60.84 dentists per 100,000 U.S. population. Ratios vary by state.
What Payment Methods Does Your Dental Office Accept?
For your convenience here at Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry we accept cash, check, Visa, Master Card, Amex and Discover. If none of these payment methods suit your needs we also provide payment plans through our office or third party financing through Care Credit. We also provide discounts for those able to pay in full at the time of service. If you have any more questions regarding payment methods please give us a call at 719-598-3502 and we’ll do our best to find the right solution for you.
Do You Accept Dental Insurance?
Here at Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry we accept most insurance and PPO plans. We are also a member of Kleer, a discount plan available to our patients who do not have dental insurance. Please call our office for more information about insurance at 719-598-3502 . Prior to calling please have your insurance information ready. Also, please plan to pay your co-pay or deductible portion at the time of service.
How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?
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.
When Should I Change My Tooth Brush?
Dr. Holsteen recommends at least every three months. If you’re using an electronic toothbrush, make sure to check the recommendation of the type of toothbrush because you may not have to change the head of the brush often. If a patient has gum disease Dr. Holsteen recommends that you change your brush more often then every three months. Also, after brushing it’s very important to wash and rinse your brush out with hot water. This will kill germs and bacteria and keep your toothbrush clean.
At What Age Should I Bring My Child To See The Dentist?
Recommendations by professionals throughout the dental industry as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is as early as six months of age. This is when a child’s teeth begin to show. Dr. Holsteen, our dentist, will be able to examine the health of your child’s first few teeth and make recommendations.
What’s A Dental Cleaning Like At Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry?
Sixth-month cleanings are recommended for proper oral hygiene. At Mountain Shadows Family Dentistry an appointment will include a full oral examination, oral cancer exam, professional x-rays to catch cavities and a full cleaning by our amazing hygienists. Your cleaning will remove tartar, debris, and plaque from your mouth. Dr. Holsteen will coordinate with your hygienist and recommend a treatment plan for any problems that are found. We’ll also recommend any aesthetic and cosmetic treatments to improve your smile. Please call our office at 719-598-3502 to schedule an appointment or for any additional questions.
Do I Need To See A Dentist Even If My Teeth Feel Fine?
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.
Are Regular Dental Cleanings Necessary?
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.
What Is A Dentist?
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)
What Is Dentistry?
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.
Book an Appointment
Thank you for choosing our office for your family’s oral healthcare needs! We’ve been serving the community in northwest Colorado Springs at our dental office on Garden of the Gods Road for nearly 35 years.
Call or text our office at (719) 598-3502 and let us know what we can do to help you!
Book an Appointment
Important: Please note that the date and time you requested may not be available. We will contact you to confirm your actual appointment details.
About Our
Colorado Springs
Dental Practice
Dr. Daniel Holsteen has been caring for the dental needs of Colorado Springs for over 32 years.
Our Mission is to become lifetime partners in the healthcare of our patients, to help them to achieve the highest standard of dental care, to respect their unique and individual needs and desires, and to become the best family denstist in Colorado Springs.