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Preventive Dentistry
Prevention Is the Key to Successful Smiles!

Preventive teeth cleanings and exams protect your dental health and beautiful smile.

Preventive Dentistry | Dentist

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is the foundation of maintaining your dental health and also your overall health and well-being. With routine x-rays, exams, and professional teeth cleanings every six months, we can help you protect and maintain your healthy, beautiful smile.

Even if it’s been a few years since you’ve visited a dentist for preventive care, it’s never too late to start caring for your smile and dental health again. At Mountain Vista Dental, we provide a judgment-free environment with a friendly team that genuinely cares about your well-being and is prepared to meet you wherever you are with your dental health.

The Benefits of Checkups and Teeth Cleanings in Colorado Springs

Good oral health doesn’t just benefit your smile; it also protects your overall well-being. Here are some additional benefits of maintaining your routine preventive care appointments.
Prevents Emergencies
When we can spot common problems like tooth decay early, it helps you avoid painful dental emergencies.
Saves Money
Dealing with dental concerns early on typically means needing less expensive and less invasive treatment.
Maintains Function
When your teeth are healthy and in good repair, you’ll be able to enjoy all the wholesome foods you love comfortably.
  • Dr. Steven Carlson

    Dr. Steven Carlson

    Dr. Steven Carlson has been providing exceptional dental care at Mountain Vista Dental since 2001. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Dr. Carlson leads his practice with a patient-centered approach and a commitment to creating a positive work environment for his team.

    As the practice owner, Dr. Carlson coordinates comprehensive treatment plans and delivers high-quality restorative dental care. He finds tremendous fulfillment in building lasting relationships with patients and their families, and takes pride in earning their trust while consistently exceeding their expectations.

    Dr. Carlson was drawn to ...

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Understanding the Oral Systemic Connection

One of the reasons preventive dentistry is so critical is because of the close relationship between your oral health and general health.

Studies show a connection between the bacteria that cause gum disease and those that cause other non-dental systemic health concerns, such as:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Dementia
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Respiratory concerns

There are also links between gum disease and complications during pregnancy, including pregnancy diabetes and low birth weights.

Testimonial

Kindness, communication, and service goes a long way with me and they had it all.

Wow...just wow! I had my 1st visit with this dental office today and I am so impressed. Everyone from the front desk to Dr. Carlson were just amazing. Kindness, communication, and service goes a long way with me and they had it all. Somsri was so gentle on my sensitive gums/teeth and thoroughly. I have not had good dental experiences for several years, but dislike making changes not knowing what you will get. I wished I would have made the change from my previous dentist to this office years ago. Highly recommend!

-Barbara

Frequently Asked Questions

Our team takes a comprehensive approach to treating periodontal disease, tailoring treatment to each patient's specific condition and severity level.

Understanding Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease)

For gingivitis, treatment typically begins with a thorough professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline. Our hygienists will also provide personalized oral hygiene instruction to help you maintain healthy gums at home through proper brushing and flossing techniques.

Treating Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)

When periodontal disease has progressed to more advanced stages, we offer scaling and root planing, often called "deep cleaning." This non-surgical procedure involves carefully removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots to promote healing and prevent future bacterial accumulation.

For severe cases, Dr. Carlson may recommend additional treatments such as antibiotic therapy to control bacterial infection or referral to a periodontal specialist for surgical intervention when necessary.

Throughout your treatment, we emphasize the importance of ongoing maintenance. Regular periodontal maintenance cleanings, typically every three to four months, help prevent disease recurrence and maintain your oral health gains.

Contact Mountain Vista Dental

Colorado Springs residents trust our expertise in identifying early warning signs of gum disease, including bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and gum recession. Early intervention is crucial for preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall health, as research has linked periodontal disease to various systemic conditions. 

Our goal is to restore your gum health and provide you with the tools needed for long-term success. Contact our Colorado Springs dental office at (719) 598-8886 for more information on how we can help with gum disease. 

Gum Disease: Know the Signs

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease can help you take proactive measures and prevent more severe problems. Many patients can reverse gingivitis (early gum disease) by taking action to make changes and seeking treatment when they see the early signs.

  • Swollen gums — Red, swollen, or irritated gums are an indicator of gingivitis.
  • Chronic bad breath — Bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing, flossing, or mouth rinse is a telltale sign of gum disease.
  • Bleeding gums — If your gums bleed during brushing or flossing, it’s time to schedule an appointment for an exam to manage gingivitis.

If gum disease advances (periodontitis), you may notice symptoms like pain when chewing, receding gumline, and tooth mobility.

Contact Mountain Vista Dental

Is it time for your next dental cleaning and checkup? Request an appointment at our Colorado Springs dental office online, or talk with a team member when you call us at (719) 598-8886.

Preventive Dentistry Technology

Intraoral Camera

Intraoral Camera

At Mountain Vista Dental, we use special intraoral cameras to take clear, close-up pictures of your teeth and gums. Dr. Carlson can show you exactly what's happening in your mouth on a screen right next to your chair, making it easy to see small cracks, early cavities, or how well your fillings are holding up.

These tiny cameras can zoom in to show details that are hard to see with the naked eye, helping us catch problems early when they're easier and less expensive to treat. Seeing the pictures yourself helps you understand your dental health and make informed decisions about your treatment.