What is periodontics?

Periodontics is the dental specialty focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease and supporting structures of the teeth.

What are the signs of gum disease?

Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth.

How is gum disease treated?

Treatment may include deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical interventions depending on severity.

Can gum disease be reversed?

In its early stage (gingivitis), gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleanings and good oral hygiene. Advanced stages may require more extensive treatment.

Why is treating gum disease important?

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth, gums, and smile.

What are common cosmetic dentistry treatments?

Common treatments include veneers, bonding, teeth whitening, crowns, and implants.

Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?

Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by dental insurance, but financing options may be available.

How long do cosmetic dentistry results last?

Results vary depending on the procedure, but with proper care, many treatments last years or even decades.

Is cosmetic dentistry safe?

Yes, when performed by a qualified dentist, cosmetic dentistry is safe and effective.

What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring damaged or missing teeth to improve function and appearance.

What treatments are included in restorative dentistry?

Treatments include fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.

How long do dental restorations last?

Longevity varies by treatment and oral care, but many restorations can last 10 years or more.

Is restorative dentistry painful?

Most procedures are done with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.

Does restorative dentistry improve oral health?

Yes, it helps restore proper function and prevents further damage or decay.

What is preventive dentistry?

Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health to prevent dental problems.

What services are part of preventive dentistry?

Services include regular exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants.

How often should I visit for preventive care?

Most patients benefit from dental check-ups and cleanings every six months.

Can preventive dentistry reduce dental costs?

Yes, preventing problems reduces the need for expensive treatments later.

Does preventive dentistry help with overall health?

Maintaining oral health can reduce risks linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.

What is oral surgery?

Oral surgery involves surgical procedures to treat diseases, injuries, and defects in the mouth and jaw.

What are common oral surgery procedures?

Common procedures include tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and jaw surgery.

Is oral surgery painful?

Procedures are performed under anesthesia, and pain is managed with medication afterward.

How long is recovery after oral surgery?

Recovery varies but often takes a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the procedure.

Are there risks with oral surgery?

Like all surgeries, there are risks, but they are minimized with a skilled surgeon and proper care.

What should I do if I have a dental injury?

Seek immediate dental care to assess and treat the injury properly.

Can dental injuries be repaired?

Many injuries can be treated with bonding, crowns, or root canals depending on severity.

How can I prevent dental injuries?

Wear mouthguards during sports and avoid using teeth as tools.

When is a dental injury an emergency?

If a tooth is knocked out, severely cracked, or bleeding heavily, seek emergency care.

Can dental injuries cause long-term problems?

Yes, untreated injuries can lead to infection, tooth loss, or alignment issues.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder involves dysfunction of the jaw joint causing pain and limited movement.

What are common TMJ symptoms?

Symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, clicking sounds, and difficulty chewing.

Treatment options include nightguards, physical therapy, medications, or in severe cases, surgery.

While some cases improve with conservative care, others may require ongoing management.

When should I see a dentist for TMJ?

If you have persistent jaw pain or difficulty moving your jaw, you should consult a dental professional.

Veneers are thin shells placed on the front surface of teeth to improve appearance.

What are dental implants?

Implants are artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone to support crowns or dentures.

What is dental bonding?

Bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, gaps, or discoloration.

When are crowns used?

Crowns cover damaged or weakened teeth to restore shape and strength.

How does teeth whitening work?

Teeth whitening uses bleaching agents to lighten discoloration and brighten smiles.

What are digital X-rays?

Digital X-rays capture images of teeth and bone with less radiation than traditional methods.

How does an intraoral camera help?

It allows dentists to take detailed images inside the mouth to better diagnose issues.

What is CAD/CAM technology?

CAD/CAM uses computer design and milling machines to create dental restorations quickly and precisely.

What are digital impressions?

Digital impressions use scanning technology to create 3D models of teeth without messy molds.

How is 3D printing used in dentistry?

3D printing helps create models, surgical guides, and even some dental appliances efficiently.

What is laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry uses focused light to treat soft and hard tissues with precision and less discomfort.

Meet Dr. Ellie Cochran

Dr. Ellie Cochran

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Dr. Ellie Cochran joined our practice in 2025 and is passionate about combining creativity with patient care. She loves being a dentist because it allows her to meet a diverse range of people, build meaningful connections, and perform intricate work that has a positive impact on overall health and self-esteem.

Dr. Cochran earned her DDS and is a member of the American Dental Association and Colorado Dental Association. She participates in yearly continuing education to provide the best possible care.

A native of Southern Colorado, Dr. Cochran is a devoted mom to two children and enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, including her two pet guinea pigs! When she’s not working, she enjoys being outdoors, staying active, and playing with her kids. A fun fact about Dr. Cochran: she played college basketball!

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