A continual student, Dr. Andow has participated in advanced education classes concerning the topics of biological dentistry, gum disease, cosmetic dentistry, implants, Invisalign® technology, teeth whitening, safe mercury amalgam removal protocols, restorative dentistry, Lumineers® , CAD/CAM technology, children’s dentistry, complete dental makeovers, oral surgery and root canal therapy.
He is licensed in the state of Colorado and a member of the American Dental Association , the Colorado Dental Association , the Metropolitan Denver Dental Society , the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) , the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM) , the Holistic Dental Association , the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) , the Colorado Prosthodontic Society and the Denver Implant Study Club . He volunteers his time with such worthy causes as Kids in Need of Dentistry and the Dental Lifeline Network .
Special awards obtained by Dr. Andow include:
Graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry
Inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honorary Society
Awarded the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon’s Award
Completed a General Practice Residency Program at Denver General Hospital (now Denver Health)
Awarded fellowship status to the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
Awarded accreditation status to the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT)
Understanding Dental Implants :
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Generally speaking, if you have a missing tooth, have several missing teeth or have no teeth at all, you are a candidate for dental implants. It is important that you are in good health, however, as there are some conditions and diseases that can affect whether dental implants are right for you. For example, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer or radiation to the jaws may affect whether dental implants will fuse to your bone. It is important to let Dr. Andow know all about your medical status (past and present) together with all medications you are taking, whether prescribed, alternative (herbal) or over-the-counter.
Where and how implants are placed requires a detailed assessment of your overall stomato-gnathic system (“stoma” – mouth; “gnathic” – jaws), within which the teeth function. This will necessitate compiling records that include study models of your mouth and bite, and specialized radiographs (x-rays), which will include 3D scans known as cone beam computed tomograms (CBCT). Planning with the help of computer imaging ensures that dental implants can be placed in exactly the right position in your jaw.
How and why is bone lost when teeth are lost?
Bone needs stimulation to maintain its form and density. In the case of the bone that surrounds and supports teeth (called alveolar bone), the necessary stimulation comes from the teeth themselves. When a tooth is lost, the lack of stimulation causes the loss of this bone. There is a 25% decrease in width of bone during the first year after tooth loss and an overall decrease in height over the next few years.
The more teeth lost, the more function lost. This leads to some particularly serious aesthetic and functional problems, particularly in people who have lost all of their teeth. And it doesn’t stop there. After alveolar bone is lost, the bone beneath it, basal bone — the jawbone proper — also begins to resorb (melt away).
How can bone be preserved or re-grown to support dental implants?
Grafting bone into the extraction sockets at the time of tooth loss or removal can help preserve bone volume needed for implant placement. Surgical techniques are also available to regenerate (re-grow) bone that has been lost, to provide the necessary bone substance for anchoring implants. In fact, a primary reason to consider dental implants to replace missing teeth is the maintenance of jawbone.
Bone needs stimulation to stay healthy. Because dental implants fuse to the bone, they stabilize it and prevent further bone loss. Resorption is a normal and inevitable process in which bone is lost when it is no longer supporting or connected to teeth. Only dental implants can stop this process and preserve the bone.
How can cosmetic dentistry help improve the appearance of my smile?
If you’re feeling somewhat self-conscious about your teeth, or just want to improve your smile, cosmetic dental procedures may be the answer to a more beautiful, confident smile.
Cosmetic dentistry has become very popular in the last several years, not only due to the many advances in cosmetic dental procedures and materials, but also because patients are becoming more and more focused on improving their overall health. This includes dental prevention and having a healthier, whiter, more radiant smile.
There are many cosmetic dental procedures available to improve and enhance your smile. Depending on your particular needs, cosmetic dental treatments can change your smile dramatically, from restoring a single tooth to having a full dental make-over. Ask Dr. Andow how you can improve the health and beauty of your smile with cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic Procedures:
1.Teeth Whitening
2.Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings
3.Ceramic Veneers
4.Ceramic Crowns
5.Dental Implants
6.Orthodontics
What are ceramic veneers and how can they improve my smile?
Ceramic veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. Veneers change the size, shape and color of your teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. They are very durable and do not stain, making them a very popular solution for those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile.
What can I do about stained or discolored teeth?
Having white teeth has become the number one aesthetic concern of many patients. There are many products and methods available to achieve a brighter smile so Dr. Andow has done extensive research to provide you with the most effective and safest teeth whitening system available today.
How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though Dr. Andow or his dental hygienists may recommend more visits if they feel that you would benefit with more frequent check-up appointments.
Regular dental exams and cleaning visits are essential in preventing dental problems and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and checked for cavities. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked and monitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health. Click here to see what we do at your check-up appointment.
How often should I brush and floss?
Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease. The frequency that you should brush and floss will be determined on how well you control this plaque and bacteria.
Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.
Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.
Toothbrushing– Brush your teeth at least two to three times a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste. Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Dr. Andow recommends the Rotadent® as it is more gentle on the gums, reducing your chance of toothbrush abrasion.
Flossing– Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces but it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Rinsing– It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with Dr. Andow or his dental hygienists on its appropriateness for you.
Why is it important to use dental floss?
Brushing your teeth removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from all tooth surfaces, except in between the teeth. Unfortunately, your toothbrush can’t reach these areas that are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease.
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone. Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay. Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar). If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal disease.
How to floss properly:
1.Take 12-16 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches of floss between the fingers.
2.Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
3.Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?
Four out of five people have gingivitis or periodontitis and don’t know it! Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages. Unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort, it is possible to have gingivitis or periodontitis without noticeable symptoms. Having regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are very important and will help detect if periodontal problems exist.
Gingivitis begins when plaque, a sticky, colorless, film of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, is left on the teeth and gums. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that inflame the gums and slowly destroy the bone. This is the beginning stages of periodontitis. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will ensure that plaque is not left behind to do its damage.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Red and puffy gums– Gums should never be red or swollen.
Bleeding gums– Gums should never bleed, even with vigorous brushing flossing.
Persistent bad breath– Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
New spacing between teeth– Caused by bone loss.
Loose teeth– Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
Pus around the teeth and gums– Sign that there is an infection present.
Receding gums– Loss of gum around a tooth.
Tenderness or Discomfort– Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.
How do you treat gingivitis or periodontitis?
Gingivitis or periodontitis is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Through a series of periodontal cleanings, root planing & scaling and/or local antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal surgery is only necessary for severe cases.
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes and gels that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have sensitive teeth.
Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe?
Over the years there has been some concern as to the safety of amalgam (silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and zinc, bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy is due to claims that the exposure to the vapor and minute particles from the mercury can cause a variety of health problems.
Although studies indicate that there are no measurable health risks to patients who have silver fillings, we do know that mercury is a toxic material when we are exposed at high, unsafe levels. For instance, we have been warned to limit the consumption of certain types of fish that carry high levels of mercury in them.
Because of Dr. Andow's philosophy, holistic approach to dental treatment and the toxicity of mercury, he has felt that it is safer and healthier for his patients not to place amalgam fillings in their teeth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw. There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the dental implant and the bone fuse together (integrate). This creates an anchor for a new crown or bridge to be placed on the dental implant.
With major advancements in dentistry and dental implants, most people are candidates for dental implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis. With routine dental hygiene appointments and proper home care, a dental implant can last over 20 years.
The benefits of dental implants
Dental implants look and function like natural tooth.
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
Dental implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits.
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 adjacent teeth.
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