Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We're always excited to welcome new patients at Dr. Ryan Rush's dental office! As a leading Fort Collins dentist, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality dental care to our community. Our team is committed to providing a welcoming, friendly environment where all dental needs are met with the utmost professionalism and care.

New Patients Are Always Welcome!

Whether you're new to the area or looking for a change in dental providers, we invite you to join our dental family. We understand that choosing a new dentist is an important decision. That's why we strive to make the transition as smooth as possible by offering:

• Comprehensive Dental Services — From routine cleanings to restorative treatments, we offer a full range of dental services to meet your individual needs, including teeth whitening. 
• Modern Dental Technology — Our dental office has the latest technology, ensuring the most effective and comfortable treatments.
• Our Patient-Centric Approach — Our patient-centric approach is at the heart of our dental office. We value your needs and preferences, and we tailor our care to ensure you feel valued, comfortable, and fully informed.

How to Become a Patient at Our Dental Office 

Ready to join our dental family? Becoming a new patient is as easy as calling our office at (970) 223-5393.

We can't wait to meet you! 

Yes! At Ryan Rush DDS PLLC, we understand that navigating dental insurance can be complicated, which is why we accept a variety of insurance plans to make your experience as smooth as possible. 

Insurance We Accept

We are pleased to work with: 

• Anthem
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Cigna
• Delta Dental
• Guardian

Our experienced dental team is dedicated to helping you understand your insurance coverage, providing accurate estimates for your copays, and minimizing unexpected costs. We also handle the submission of claims and any necessary communications with your insurance provider on your behalf.

Other Payment Options 

We gladly accept various forms of payment, including:

• Cash
• Personal checks
• HSA cards
• All major credit cards 
• CareCredit 

CareCredit allows you to receive the dental care you need immediately while providing the convenience of paying off the balance with manageable monthly payments.

Contact Our Fort Collins Dental Office Today! 

If you do not see your insurance provider listed or if you have any questions regarding your coverage, please don’t hesitate to call us. 

A friendly and knowledgeable member of our team is always available to provide the assistance you need. We are here to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits your insurance has to offer, allowing you to focus more on your dental health and less on the paperwork.

Are you looking for a dentist with a new patient special? Your search ends here! We understand that choosing a new dental provider is a big decision, and we're here to make it easier for you.

As part of our dedication to new patients, we're offering an exclusive special that not only welcomes you but also ensures your journey to optimal dental health starts off on the right foot.

Take Advantage of Our New Patient Special!

For just $89, new patients at our practice can receive a comprehensive dental package that includes: 

• A basic exam
• X-rays
• A professional cleaning

This special is designed to thoroughly assess your dental health while ensuring that your teeth are clean, healthy, and vibrant. It's an excellent opportunity to experience our high-quality care at a significantly reduced cost.

Call Our Dental Office in Fort Collins Today

Our team is committed to providing top-notch dental services in a warm and welcoming environment. We strive to make your first visit with us a pleasant and beneficial experience. 

If you're looking for a new dental home and want to take advantage of this special offer, please don't hesitate to contact us and schedule your appointment. 

We look forward to seeing you soon! 

At Ryan Rush, DDS, PLLC, we're committed to harnessing the latest in dental technology to provide the most effective, efficient, and comfortable dental care to families in Fort Collins.

By investing in the most advanced tools, equipment, and training, our team is well-prepared to provide every patient with an optimal overall experience, thanks to comfortable and accurate early diagnoses and precise preemptive treatments.

The technologies we use to achieve this include:

• Digital and panoramic x-rays — Offer faster and more comprehensive imaging with significantly less radiation exposure than traditional film imaging
• Digital impressions — A cleaner, more comfortable, and accurate option for planning treatments like crowns, bridges, and Invisalign® without goopy molds
• Intraoral cameras — Allow our dental team to show you exactly what we see and clearly explain treatment options
• Soft tissue lasers — For gentle and precise treatment of soft tissue concerns like gum disease, often without stitches or extended recovery
• Cone beam imaging — Provides detailed 3-D views of your teeth, jaw, and bone structure to guide treatment planning and execution.

Benefit from the Latest Dental Technology in Fort Collins 

If you’re looking for a Fort Collins dentist harnessing the power of high-tech to deliver the best dental care to our community—all with a personal touch, of course—contact Dr. Rush and the outstanding Ryan Rush, DDS, PLLC team today to schedule a consultation!

DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. Dentists earn this degree after completing dental school and are licensed to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health conditions. Dr. Ryan Rush holds a DDS degree and provides comprehensive dental care for patients in Fort Collins and the surrounding areas.

At Ryan Rush, DDS, PLLC, we’re proud to provide compassionate, high-quality dental care to patients across Northern Colorado. Conveniently located at 383 W Drake Rd, Suite #101, in Fort Collins, our practice welcomes individuals and families from a wide range of nearby communities.

Fort Collins and Beyond: Neighborhoods and Areas We Serve

Our central Fort Collins location allows us to serve patients throughout the city and beyond, including:

• Old Town Fort Collins
• Rigden Farm and Bucking Horse
• West Fort Collins and Pineridge Natural Area
• Southridge Greens and Fossil Lake Ranch
• Bellvue and LaPorte
• Timnath, Wellington, and Windsor
• Loveland and Northern Berthoud

Whether you’re just down the street or making a short drive from a neighboring town, we aim to make every visit as convenient and personalized as possible. Our team takes time to get to know you, understand your dental goals, and tailor care to your specific needs.

Effective and Efficient Dental Care in Fort Collins

Are you looking for a compassionate, skilled, and trustworthy dentist in Northern Colorado? Dr. Ryan Rush and our caring team are here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile!

Call or visit us today to schedule your next appointment and safeguard your smile without having to venture far from home!

At Ryan Rush, DDS, we are committed to providing exceptional Fort Collins dentistry in a friendly, laid-back environment. We take the time to get to know our patients personally, share a smile or a laugh, and catch up on what’s been happening in your life. We want you to feel like a valued part of our dental family. 

We hope this relaxed approach to dental visits makes you feel more like you're visiting with an old friend when you visit our Fort Collins dental office. 

Comprehensive Dental Services for Your Best Smile

Whether you need to maintain your smile with a preventive teeth cleaning and checkup, replace a missing tooth with a dental implant, or enhance your smile with porcelain veneers, Dr. Rush has the skills and expertise to meet your needs. 

At Ryan Rush, DDS, we believe in personalized dental care. We understand that each of our patients has unique needs and desires for their smile. That's why we take the time to get to know you and your goals to tailor our treatments to ensure you achieve the best results. 

We believe that outstanding service, exceptional dental expertise, and our warm, friendly environment set us apart from other dental practices in the area. 

If you'd like to schedule your next dental appointment, call (970) 223-5393. We look forward to meeting you! 

When you're choosing a trusted dentist for your smile, there are several factors to keep in mind.

Looking for Exceptional Fort Collins Dentistry?

Here are some things to consider when you're looking for the right dentist for your needs.

• Location — Is your provider's location convenient? Is parking easy and convenient?
• Office Hours — Does your dentist offer hours that fit the needs of your family's schedule?
• Dental Services — Does your prospective dentist offer the wide range of services you need to protect and maintain your smile and dental health? Do they offer specialty services you may not find at other dental practices?
• Skill Level — How long has the dentist been practicing? Do they have the skills and expertise to meet your dental needs?

Tips for Finding the Right Fort Collins Dentist

Now that you know what to consider, here are some tips to help get started. 

• Ask friends and family for referrals.
• Read online reviews to see what other patients are saying about your prospective provider.
• Book a consultation with your prospective dentist to discuss their treatment recommendations and philosophies.
• Stop by for a tour of the dental office.

If you're looking for exceptional dental care in Fort Collins, we invite you to contact Ryan Rush, DDS, at (970) 223-5393 to learn more about what we offer.  

Ryan Rush DDS PLLC’s dental office is conveniently located at 383 W. Drake Road, Suite 101, in Fort Collins, CO 80526, with easy access from different parts of the city.

Getting to Ryan Rush DDS PLLC

If you’re coming to us via I-25, take exit 268 for Prospect Road. Head west on E. Prospect Road until you reach S. Shields Street. Turn left onto S. Shields Street and then right onto W. Drake Road. The office will be on your left, just before the intersection with S. College Avenue.

If you're coming from downtown Fort Collins, head west on E. Mulberry Street., toward S. College Avenue. Turn left onto S. College Ave. and continue until you reach W. Drake Road. Turn right, and look for our office on your left, just past the intersection with S. Shields Street.

For patients using public transport, our office is accessible via the #7 Transport bus line, which stops near the intersection of W. Drake Road and S. College Avenue, just east of our office.

As you make your way to Ryan Rush DDS PLLC, make sure to keep an eye out for these local landmarks:

• Northeast of our office is Colorado State University.
• Just southwest are the scenic views and outdoor activities of Spring Canyon Park
• Minutes southeast of the office, you’ll find excellent shopping and dining at Foothills Mall.

Finding the Best and Most Conveniently Located Fort Collins Dentist

If you’re looking for a Fort Collins dentist with a convenient location and an unwavering commitment to providing you and your family with the best in preventive, corrective, and cosmetic dental care, contact Dr. Ryan Rush and the outstanding Ryan Rush DDS PLLC team to schedule a consultation!

Cosmetic dentistry offers transformative solutions that have enhanced millions of smiles. If you're unhappy with the appearance of your teeth due to discoloration, misalignment, gaps, chipping, or other damage, you might benefit from cosmetic dental procedures. However, determining if you're a candidate for cosmetic dentistry involves a few key factors.

Good oral health is a critical prerequisite for cosmetic dentistry. Dentists typically require a healthy foundation before starting cosmetic procedures. This means addressing issues like gum disease or cavities before beginning cosmetic treatments. Lifestyle also plays a role, with ideal candidates committing to maintaining oral hygiene and avoiding harmful habits like smoking.

Cosmetic solutions, like porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or Invisalign® may be suitable based on your current oral health profile. If your dentist spots any issues that may be exacerbated by cosmetic treatments or hinder their effectiveness, they may recommend certain corrective treatments before commencing with cosmetic care.

Top-Quality Cosmetic Dentistry in Fort Collins, CO

If you’re looking for an experienced Fort Collins cosmetic dentist to help you safely and efficiently achieve the smile of your dreams, contact the excellent team at Ryan Rush, DDS, PLLC to schedule an appointment!

General dentistry keeps your smile healthy and functional, while cosmetic dentistry focuses on making it look as amazing as it feels. Both are important and often work together to give you the best results.

General Dentistry: The Foundation of a Healthy Smile

General dentistry is like the maintenance crew for your teeth and gums. Common treatments include cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions. These treatments tackle issues like cavities and gum disease, so your smile stays strong and healthy. General dentistry gives you the solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy grins.

Cosmetic Dentistry: The Finishing Touch

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetics of your smile. We use treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and clear aligners to correct discoloration, chips, gaps, or crooked teeth. While many cosmetic procedures have functional perks, the main goal is to help you feel confident and excited to show off your smile.

Why Choose Between Them? Have Both!

You don’t have to pick between form and function with Dr. Ryan Rush. General dentistry can keep your smile healthy, and cosmetic dentistry can give your smile a wow factor. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create a strong and stunning smile! 

Yes! Once Dr. Rush has permanently placed your dental crown or bridge, you'll be able to chew and eat with ease again. 

It's normal to have some tenderness as you're getting used to your new bite; however, if it persists, contact our team to have Dr. Rush adjust your bite. You may also want to stick with soft foods for the first meal or two after your restoration is placed.

Protecting Your Smile Investment

Once you have your crown or bridge, you'll want to know how to protect your smile investment, and the answer is simple: treat it like you would your natural teeth.

Daily brushing and flossing is a must for keeping gum tissues around your restoration healthy. Routine checkups with your Fort Collins dentist will also ensure the health and function of your dental restorations. 

Avoiding sticky or chewy foods, which could pull a crown off is helpful. Cut hard foods like crusty bread, apples, or carrots into bite size pieces instead of biting directly into them. 

Never use your natural teeth to carry things or open packages or other items. Treat your restoration like your natural tooth and it will be able to serve you for many years to come. 

Do you have questions about dental crowns or bridges in Fort Collins? Contact our team at (970) 223-5393 for more information.

Dental crowns and bridges are durable dental restorations designed to protect and replace damaged or missing teeth. Of course, like any dental work, they’re neither indestructible nor permanent.

With proper at-home care and consistent professional care, dental crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or more. Dental bridges, meanwhile, typically last from 5 to 15 years. The exact lifespan depends on several factors, including your bite force, the materials used, your at-home oral hygiene habits, and maintaining routine dental care.

Factors Affecting Crown and Bridge Lifespan — What Can You Do?

Porcelain and ceramic crowns offer a seamless, natural appearance, but at the cost of longevity under heavy pressure. Metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns tend to be more resilient but don’t offer the same aesthetic benefits.

Likewise, bridges rely heavily on the health of surrounding teeth (called abutments), which means decay or gum disease in those areas can shorten the bridge’s lifespan.

To help your crown or bridge last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss daily, especially around the gumline and bridge area.
• Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, hard candy, or olive pits.
• Schedule regular checkups so your dentist can monitor the restoration’s condition and catch potential issues early.

If you’re noticing wear or discomfort with your restoration, consult your dentist to see if repair or replacement is needed.

Effective, Customized Dental Restorations in Fort Collins, CO

If you’re in Fort Collins and want to learn more about dental restoration options like crowns and bridges and how to maximize their effectiveness and lifespan, contact Dr. Ryan Rush, DDS, and our friendly and helpful team today to schedule a consultation.

If you break a tooth, call us and let us know what happened, even if it’s not painful. A broken tooth doesn’t heal itself, and even if it’s not a problem now, the situation will only worsen the longer you wait.

The sooner we can treat a broken tooth at our Fort Collins dental office, the more likely we can save it. 

Options to Repair a Broken Tooth

The treatment that Dr. Ryan Rush recommends for a broken tooth depends on the extent of the break and where in your mouth the tooth is located.

Tooth Filling or Bonding

If only a small part of tooth enamel has broken off, we may be able to repair the damage with a tooth-colored filling material. This process is called dental bonding.

Dental Inlay or Onlay

A dental inlay is a tooth restoration that can replace the broken-off part of a tooth. Inlays are much stronger and more durable than dental bonding.

Dental onlays made of porcelain or zirconia are typically used on molars where a large part of the tooth structure is broken.

Dental Veneer

If the break affects only a small part of the tooth and is cosmetic in nature, we may recommend a porcelain veneer as the best treatment option.

Porcelain Dental Crown

If the fracture or break is large and has affected the tooth's cusps, we would likely recommend a dental crown. A crown is a tooth cap that covers and protects the damaged tooth.

We Repair Broken Teeth in Fort Collins, CO

If you have a broken tooth, call us to schedule an appointment so Dr. Rush can examine it and recommend the most appropriate treatment. If your broken tooth is painful, we will do our best to see you the same day for treatment.

Yes! Dr. Rush has the skill and expertise to place and restore dental implants here at our comfortable Fort Collins dental office.

The first step is to meet with Dr. Rush for a dental implant evaluation. To be a good implant candidate, there must be dense, healthy bone in the area of your jaw that we plan to place your implant.

How Dental Implant Placement Works

If you’re a good candidate, we proceed to implant placement, where Dr. Rush uses 3-D cone beam CT scans and creates a surgical guide that allows him to place the implant in the optimal position in your jawbone.

Implant Placement

Thanks to this precise planning, placing a dental implant at our Fort Collins dental office is straightforward and the procedure takes about an hour. Dr. Rush performs implant placement under local anesthesia so you won't feel any pain. 

Dental Implant Healing

The next step is to wait for the dental implant to heal. Over the next 3-6 months, a process called osseointegration occurs, where bone and tissue in the jaw fuse around the implant post. Healing is the most crucial part of the procedure as it’s how the implant gains its strength and stability.

Implant Restoration

Dr. Rush will monitor you during the healing process, and once the implant is fully integrated, the tooth is ready for the implant restoration—crown, bridge, or denture—that is visible when you smile. Once we attach the tooth restoration to the implant post, your new tooth will look, feel, and function just like a real tooth.

Are You a Good Dental Implant Candidate?

If you’re interested in dental implants and want to see if you’re a good candidate, please call us at (970) 223-5393 to schedule an appointment.

If you have missing teeth, choosing the right dentist for dental implants in Fort Collins is crucial. Below, we explore:

• What Are Dental Implants?
• Why Choose Dr. Rush for Your Dental Implants?

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots made of strong titanium. Your Fort Collins dentist surgically places the implants into the jawbone for integration. After osseointegration (when titanium fuses to bone), we top your implants with abutments and crowns. If you have more than one missing tooth or significant tooth loss, talk to us about implant-supported dentures and bridges. It takes approximately four implants to fix a denture to the jaw.

Dental implants are long-lasting, offer superior function, are easy to care for, and can last a lifetime with proper care. They really are the gold standard!

Why Choose Dr. Rush for Your Dental Implants?

Dr. Rush earned his DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and was awarded the Henry B. Schwartz award for his work in prosthodontics.

Here are a few more reasons to consider Dr. Rush:

• He is committed to ongoing education and all the latest advances in implant dentistry.
• He does implant placement and restoration attachment in our dental office.
• He runs periodic specials and accepts CareCredit to give patients more access to advanced care.
• He offers early morning appointments to complement your busy schedule.

Considering Dental Implants in Fort Collins?

To learn more or schedule a consultation, please call us today at (970) 223-5393.

At your Fort Collins Dentist, we understand that sometimes dental emergencies just can’t wait, which is why we treat emergency dental conditions and toothaches in our Fort Collins dental office quickly. We usually try to see emergency patients on the same day, whenever possible.

Have You Been Treated?

Toothaches and oral pain can indicate a severe condition, and the sooner you seek treatment, the better. For problems such as an infection requiring root canal treatment and cracked or fractured teeth, seeking treatment early can mean that you have more options, better outcomes, and may even avoid the need for extraction.

Other dental emergencies include broken dentures or crowns, and losing a filling or restoration. Talking to one of our team members will help you decide if an emergency dental appointment is necessary.

If you are not a current patient in our practice, not only will we invite you in for emergency treatment, but we will also help you develop a preventive dentistry routine to keep you out of pain and out of trouble. The best insurance for your smile is prevention, which we consider the foundation of our dental practice.

Emergency Dentistry in Fort Collins

If you have tooth pain, give our Fort Collins dental office a call. Don’t wait for it to get worse or to cause missed work or sleep. Our gentle team will have you feeling like yourself again fast!

Accidentally injuring your gums or the roof of your mouth while eating can be alarming and painful. However, not every such instance qualifies as a dental emergency. Minor cuts or punctures from sharp foods like tortilla chips or fish bones often heal on their own with simple at-home care. Of course, it’s important to monitor the wound and prevent infection.

Avoiding Oral Wound Infection

To ensure that any cuts or wounds in your mouth heal fully and without complications, there are certain steps you can take:

• Start by rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce bacteria.
• Avoid irritating the injury further by sticking to soft foods and steering clear of spicy, acidic, or hot items that could exacerbate discomfort.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if the area is particularly tender or painful.

However, if the wound is deep, continues bleeding after 10 minutes of gentle pressure, or shows signs of infection like swelling, pus, or worsening pain, seek professional care immediately. Additionally, if you feel something lodged in the wound, visit your dentist or an emergency clinic immediately.

Addressing Your Dental Emergency in Fort Collins, CO

If you’re in Fort Collins and looking for an experienced emergency dentist for immediate care or just want to be prepared in the event of an emergency, contact the friendly and knowledgeable team at Ryan Rush, DDS, PLLC to schedule an appointment!

If you have a toothache, call us, and we will arrange to see you as soon as possible. Our Fort Collins emergency dentist understands how difficult it is to deal with any tooth pain and wants to provide relief as quickly as possible.

Why You Have a Toothache

Toothaches are generally the result of inflammation of the dental pulp, the tooth's innermost layer where its nerves are located. There are several reasons why pulp becomes and inflamed and results in a toothache:

• Tooth decay
• Cracked tooth
• Broken tooth
• Root infection
• Damaged or broken fillings

We will take digital x-rays to determine the cause of your toothache and plan the appropriate treatment. In most cases, a toothache results from a cavity, and Dr. Rush would recommend a tooth filling to resolve it.

If he discovers a root canal infection, he will do what is necessary to get you out of pain and then plan root canal treatment for our next open appointment. Depending on the nature of a cracked or broken tooth, there are several treatment approaches that may be appropriate, and Dr. Rush will discuss these with you.

Have a Toothache? Call Our Fort Collins Dentist!

Don’t ever hesitate to contact Ryan Rush DDS if you have a toothache. Tooth pain isn’t normal, and the sooner we address the source, the sooner you’ll find relief.

General dentistry keeps your smile healthy and functional, while cosmetic dentistry focuses on making it look as amazing as it feels. Both are important and often work together to give you the best results.

General Dentistry: The Foundation of a Healthy Smile

General dentistry is like the maintenance crew for your teeth and gums. Common treatments include cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions. These treatments tackle issues like cavities and gum disease, so your smile stays strong and healthy. General dentistry gives you the solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy grins.

Cosmetic Dentistry: The Finishing Touch

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetics of your smile. We use treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and clear aligners to correct discoloration, chips, gaps, or crooked teeth. While many cosmetic procedures have functional perks, the main goal is to help you feel confident and excited to show off your smile.

Why Choose Between Them? Have Both!

You don’t have to pick between form and function with Dr. Ryan Rush. General dentistry can keep your smile healthy, and cosmetic dentistry can give your smile a wow factor. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create a strong and stunning smile! 

DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. Dentists earn this degree after completing dental school and are licensed to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health conditions. Dr. Ryan Rush holds a DDS degree and provides comprehensive dental care for patients in Fort Collins and the surrounding areas.

Most patients know occlusal guards by the name night guards, an oral appliance that’s prescribed to protect teeth against bruxism and grinding forces during sleep.

Bruxism affects all ages; sometimes it’s related to stress or anxiety, but crooked or missing teeth or an uneven dental bite can make you more prone to teeth grinding than others. 

Since bruxism occurs involuntarily, most people aren’t aware that they are grinding their teeth. The result is significant dental wear and breakdown, but our dentist can diagnose teeth grinding by the wear and tear on your teeth.

How an Occlusal Guard Helps Bruxism

An occlusal guard or night guard is worn while you sleep and acts as a cushion so the grinding and clenching motions don’t damage your teeth. Wearing the guard also gives your TMJ or jaw joint a chance to rest and recover during the night.

Some common symptoms of teeth grinding or bruxism to be aware of are:

• Worn teeth
• Fractured teeth
• Jaw pain
• Chronic headaches
• Tooth sensitivity
• Facial pain
• Cracked teeth

Need a Night Guard for Teeth Grinding?

If you have any of the symptoms of bruxism, please let Dr. Rush know at your next appointment. He will prescribe a custom-made occlusal guard that will protect your teeth and jaw joints and relieve your pain.

Please call our Fort Collins dental office to schedule an appointment.

There are several different types of dental x-rays, but the most common are bitewings that should be taken yearly. Bitewing x-rays show an image of both upper and lower teeth in one part of the mouth. Bitewings help us find decay and changes in bone that indicate gum disease. We also commonly use bitewings when preparing tooth restorations like crowns and bridges. 

What We Look for on Routine Dental X-Rays

• Tooth decay, especially the areas between teeth
• Cavities beneath existing fillings
• Condition of dental fillings
• Jawbone loss
• Root canal infections
• Position of teeth for implant placement
• Cysts and tumors

Other Types of Dental X-Rays

At the dental office of Ryan Rush DDS, we use only low-dose digital radiographs (x-rays) for our patients’ safety. Here are some of the other types of x-rays we commonly use:

Periapical x-rays show the whole tooth from the crown to the point where it is attached to the jaw. These x-rays are commonly used as needed for restorative dentistry or when we need a single image of the entire tooth structure. 

Panoramic x-rays give us a single continuous image of your entire mouth, including all teeth in your upper and lower jaws. With panoramic x-rays, our dentist can view teeth that have emerged and teeth still in the gums, such as impacted wisdom teeth. 

Are You Due for Your Next Dental Exam?

We only take dental x-rays as needed, and when we do, our dentist will explain why and how it will benefit you. If you have other questions about dental x-rays or would like to schedule your next dental exam, please call our Fort Collins, CO dental office.

Most patients visit their dentist every six months for dental checkups and teeth cleanings. This schedule has been shown to lower cavity risks and help prevent other oral health conditions like gingivitis and gum disease.

Six-month teeth cleanings are for patients with healthy smiles. If you have specific dental health issues, your Fort Collins dentist may recommend more frequent visits, especially in the case of gum disease, which can threaten your overall health and cost you your teeth.

Your Professional Teeth Cleaning in Fort Collins, CO

Your teeth cleaning is a chance to relax in our comfy dental chair. While you recline, the hygienist gently uses special tools to rid your teeth of tartar buildup, thereby lessening the odds of oral health complications.

Between dental checkups and teeth cleanings, adopt an excellent oral care routine. You enjoy excellent dental health for life through your efforts and ours.

Is It Time for Your Teeth Cleaning in Fort Collins, CO?

If you have not been in to see us in a while or if you’re looking to establish dentistry in our area, give us a call today. Additionally, reach out if you ever have questions about your oral hygiene or our dental treatments.

A root canal becomes necessary when a tooth's inner pulp—consisting of nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue—becomes infected or severely damaged. This issue can arise because of various factors, including deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or traumatic injury to the tooth. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent more severe complications.

Some of the most common symptoms indicating the need for a root canal include:

• Persistent tooth pain — A lingering or throbbing ache, especially when eating, drinking, or placing minimal pressure on a tooth, can signal deep decay.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold — Discomfort that lingers well after consuming hot or cold foods or beverages may suggest a tooth’s nerve has been affected.
• Swollen or tender gums — Periodontal inflammation near the affected tooth could be a sign of an infection.
• Darkened discoloration — A tooth that appears gray or darkened may have severe internal damage.
• Dental abscesses — These pimple-like bumps on the gums indicate an infection that could endanger a tooth if not treated immediately.

Effective and Pain-Free Root Canals in Fort Collins

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and want to determine if a root canal is the best way to save your tooth and relieve pain, contact Dr. Ryan Rush DDS PLLC and the compassionate and dedicated Fort Collins dental team to schedule a consultation!

Yes! The improvements may be significant and life-changing. Here's what you should know.

Loud snoring could be an indicator of a blocked airway. If you have a blocked airway, you may suffer from a sleep disorder known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) that keeps you from getting the rejuvenating sleep you need. 

When you can't get restful sleep, it impacts your body. Here are some of the debilitating symptoms of a sleep disorder:

• Frequent headaches
• Cardiovascular disease
• Mood Swings
• Depression
• Chronic fatigue

Snoring Treatment in Fort Collins

Dr. Ryan Rush has helped hundred of patients reclaim their good night's sleep, and he can help you too!

Dr. Rush uses a dental laser that can treat problems that contribute to snoring like a long uvula or enlarged tonsils. Laser treatments help to tighten the soft tissues in your throat and minimize airway blockages, which reduces snoring. 

This can improve the quality of sleep for you and your bed partner, especially if loud snoring was keeping them awake at night. 

If you're interested in learning more about snoring treatment, contact your Fort Collins dentist at (970) 223-5393 for more information on how we can help you reclaim your rest.

Snoring is often more than just a nighttime annoyance. It can be a sign of an underlying issue like sleep apnea or restricted airflow. Left untreated, chronic snoring can adversely impact sleep quality, resulting in daytime fatigue, irritability, impaired short-term memory, and even an increased risk of health issues like high blood pressure. Fortunately, Dr. Ryan Rush in Fort Collins offers effective snoring treatments to help patients breathe easier and sleep better!

How Does Your Fort Collins Dental Practice Treat Snoring?

One of the most common and comfortable solutions provided by Dr. Rush is a custom oral appliance. These specially designed devices help by:

• Repositioning with a properly fitted appliance to move the lower jaw slightly forward and keep the airway open
• Preventing soft tissues in the throat from collapsing during sleep and blocking airflow
• Enhancing sleep quality and reducing fatigue through more restful sleep thanks to better airflow

Unlike CPAP machines, which can be bulky and uncomfortable, oral appliances are small, easy to wear, and travel-friendly—and Dr. Ryan Rush customizes each device to ensure a perfect fit for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Finding Effective Snoring Treatment in Fort Collins, CO

Addressing snoring early can lead to better rest, improved health, and a more peaceful night’s sleep for everyone. If snoring is affecting your sleep or that of anyone in your family, a consultation with Dr. Rush and our experienced and knowledgeable team can help determine the best treatment option!

Yes! Whitening your teeth under the supervision of your dentist is ideal because they can address any concerns that arise, such as tooth sensitivity. 

Store-bought teeth whitening products are generally safe because the bleaching gel they use is not as strong as what your dentist provides. However, this might mean you don't achieve your desired results as quickly as you'd like, or at all.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Fort Collins

At Ryan Rush, DDS, we offer several teeth whitening options for your convenience. 

In-Office Teeth Bleaching

This procedure takes approximately 90 minutes and delivers immediate results. Patients who require quick results for a wedding, vacation, or other significant event appreciate in-office whitening for its fast and effective results. 

Custom Take-Home Teeth Whitening Trays

Custom bleaching trays offer excellent results that you can achieve at home based on your own schedule. We'll take impressions of your teeth and use them to create custom plastic bleaching trays made to fit your teeth.

Dr. Rush will determine the right strength of bleaching gel for your needs and show you how to apply it to your trays so you can safely brighten your smile at home. Most patients achieve their smile goals by bleaching 30 minutes a day for 10 to 14 days. 

We also offer Opalescence Go™ prefilled whitening trays as an affordable, easy option for patients who want a brighter smile. Call us at (970) 223-5393 for more information about professional teeth whitening. 

If you are someone who likes options when it comes to teeth whitening, you’ve come to the right place. We offer three ways for busy patients in Fort Collins to get the bright, white smile they want in the most convenient way for them.

Opalescence™ Boost In-Office Whitening

Since our dentist oversees in-office teeth whitening, we can use a higher concentration of whiteners to comfortably and safely brighten your smile. We start by placing a protective gel on your lips gums to prevent irritation, then apply the Boost gel directly to your tooth surfaces.

The product is applied for 20-minute intervals, then removed and reapplied. We typically repeat this process three times until the desired level of whiteness has been reached.

Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays

We create custom take-home teeth whitening trays by taking comfortable digital impressions of your teeth and using them to fabricate trays that cover your teeth perfectly. You select the whitening intensity you are comfortable with and use the gel and trays daily for 2-3 weeks for about 20 minutes a day until you see the desired results. You can also hold onto your trays and continue to use them and any leftover gel for monthly touchups.

Opalescence Go™ Pre-Filled Whitening Trays

If you want convenient teeth whitening that delivers stunning results, we offer Opalescence Go prefilled whitening trays that are ready to use right out of the box! You’ll receive 10 trays that conform perfectly to any smile and come in two strengths, and we’ll help you choose the right one for your needs.

Schedule a Teeth Cleaning to Get Started

All teeth whitening treatments start with a cleaning with our dental hygienist at our Fort Collins dental office. Please call us to schedule an appointment to see your brightest smile!

Professional teeth whitening works well on some surface stains; however, there are some tooth stains that don't respond to teeth bleaching products, such as:

• Internal discoloration due to trauma 
• Stains from medications like tetracycline
• Deep discoloration from tobacco products

If you're not achieving your desired results with professional teeth whitening, Dr. Rush may suggest treatment, such as a dental veneers, crowns, or bonding to change the shade of your smile. Sometimes we use professional teeth whitening in tandem with other treatments for a full cosmetic smile makeover. 

Professional Teeth Whitening at Ryan Rush, DDS

We offer several options for professional teeth whitening at our Fort Collins dental office, including:

• In-Office Treatment — A quick option that leaves you with immediate results after 60 to 90 minutes of treatment. 
• Custom Take-Home Trays — Plastic whitening trays made with impressions of your teeth that you can use at your convenience at home.
• Pre-Filled Whitening Trays — One-size-fits-all trays filled with high-strength bleaching gel that conform to your smile and brighten your teeth. 

Ready to Learn More?

If you'd like to learn more about professional teeth whitening in Fort Collins, we invite you to contact our team at (970) 223-5393 for more information about how we can brighten your smile!

No one wants to undergo a dental extraction, but sometimes, removing a tooth is the best option for oral health. At Dr. Ryan Rush's Fort Collins dental office, we offer gentle dental extractions for you and your loved ones.

So, what can you eat once you've had a tooth removed? Keep reading to find out.

Eating after a Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know

It's essential to care for the extraction site after leaving the dentist's office. Here are the foods you can safely eat to avoid issues:

1. Protein-rich foods — Any soft protein-rich foods can help you repair tissues and build new cells. Try to eat eggs, chicken, fish, tofu, or cottage cheese to get the protein and vitamins you need.
2. Soft vegetables — Mashed potatoes and cooked vegetables are easy to chew and swallow, making them suitable after extraction.
3. Soups — After an extraction, broth and soups are good options if they aren't too hot.
4. Other soft foods — Pudding, smoothies, applesauce, and oatmeal can all satisfy your hunger and are easy to eat after your dental procedure.

Questions about Tooth Extraction in Fort Collins, CO?

To learn more about tooth extraction or if you have questions about what you can eat or drink after the procedure, please call our dental office at (970) 223-5393. We will happily assist you!

Tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin, while metal fillings (aka amalgam fillings) are made from a mix of metals like silver, tin, and mercury. Here’s what makes them different and why we use tooth-colored fillings over metal fillings. 

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite fillings, are pretty much invisible. They’re crafted from a durable resin material that blends right in with your natural teeth, making them a fantastic choice for visible areas of your smile. Plus, they bond directly to your tooth, meaning less healthy enamel has to be removed. The result? A natural feel and a seamless look you’ll love.

Metal Fillings

On the other hand, metal fillings are the OG of cavity repairs. While they’re durable and budget-friendly, they’re hard to miss in your mouth. Over time, metal fillings can expand or contract with temperature changes, which might weaken the surrounding tooth. If keeping a natural look is important to you, they might not be your first choice.

Call Us for Tooth-Colored Fillings in Fort Collins, CO

If you’re ready for a discreet, long-lasting solution, tooth-colored fillings are the way to go. Contact us today to explore your options with Dr. Rush. 

We welcome patients of all ages to our conveniently located dental office.