FAQ’s

You are definitely not alone. Many people feel anxious about visiting the dentist, so we have created a comfortable, calm atmosphere for our patients. We offer sedation calm, beautiful treatment rooms and views of the incredible San Juan River.

Dr. Smith and our team make patients comfortable. We take our time, and do it right. With a warm inviting atmosphere that feels like your living room to gentle injections and first class treatment, we believe that the level of service and comforts we provide will make you feel great. We will treat your family like we are family.

Most sensitivity is not actually caused by brushing too hard (believe it or not) Bite issues, previous extractions, clenching and grinding all play an important role in why teeth get sensitive. Dr. Smith can take a look and tell you great ideas to help. Sometimes desensitizing pastes can work for the short term.

Home care is #1. Brush floss, rinse repeat. This alone will not keep you out of our office, it will however minimize the amount of time here because let’s face it there is fishing and hiking to do, it’s Pagosa after all.

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear. They include:

• Bad Breath
• Gum Recession
• Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
• Abscesses
• Tooth Pain
• Tooth Loss

Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing & Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades. Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong. Most people call these “mercury fillings.” Though there is no official research pointing to problematic relationships with these fillings, I simply do not place them. I only offer enamel like materials and ceramics.

White Fillings, also known as composites are similar to new enamel. They look great and may be very conservative to the tooth structure, but require good homecare. Some folks call these bonded, or “bonding.”

Healthy teeth don’t need to be California White. We certainly can do that, but it is not always necessary for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

These are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your natural teeth. . This entire procedure can take as few as One Visit! Caps, overlays, onlays and crowns are generally diffent terms for the same procedure. These strengthen what is left of teeth and preserve the remaining tooth from previous decay or cracking or old yucky fillings. Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Many times, patients ask for Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

Good thing you asked. Steve Austin would tell you a Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. All dental implants are grade V titanium (surgical grade) from the same mine in nearby Silverton. Our implants are manufactured in the states (in Albuquerque) There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant. Dr. Smith has placed and restored hundreds and hundreds of Dental implants and is in fact a lecturer for a major international implant company.

• Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
• Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
• Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
• Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
• Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
• Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

Fees from Dental Implants vary from patient to patient Some implants are very easy and thus Far less expensive. Always schedule an Implant Consultation with Dr. Smith to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.

We hope forever! However they require good care as it is a piece of titanium in your jawbone. Don’t worry… it doesn’t hurt.

Of course. We offer upfront discounts, Pagosa Plan discounts, and Care Credit to make your life easier.

At this time we do not accept Medicaid.