expert type icon EXPERT

MARC THOMAS

Dentist (Pediatric)

Dr. MARC THOMAS is a top Dentist (Pediatric) in Parker, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. MARC THOMAS is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. MARC THOMAS is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. MARC THOMAS is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Parker, CO, Dr. MARC THOMAS is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
16 years Experience
MARC THOMAS
  • Parker, CO
  • UCLA School of Dentistry
  • Accepting new patients

How do they sedate a toddler for dental work?

There is a spectrum of sedation options you should discuss with his pediatric dentist. The options range from no sedation, nitrous oxide, mild oral sedation (like valium) with READ MORE
There is a spectrum of sedation options you should discuss with his pediatric dentist. The options range from no sedation, nitrous oxide, mild oral sedation (like valium) with nitrous oxide, moderate sedation (like Versed) up to general anesthesia. The best option for your son will depend on his medial health, the amount of dental work to be done and the comfort level of the pediatric dentist.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Does removing wisdom teeth change your face shape?

No, you shouldn't expect any change to the shape of your face. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How long after getting braces does the pain stop?

Usually, there should a reduction in pain after the first 2-3 days. Ibuprofen can help. The pressure that you feel is related to the forces on the teeth that go into the bone. READ MORE
Usually, there should a reduction in pain after the first 2-3 days. Ibuprofen can help. The pressure that you feel is related to the forces on the teeth that go into the bone. Periodically, the orthodontist will change the wires and the forces will return, as will the pain.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Do you get braces after jaw surgery?

It's hard to know without knowing the specifics of your situation. Many times braces are put on BEFORE jaw surgery. The idea would be to get teeth aligned well with an imperfect READ MORE
It's hard to know without knowing the specifics of your situation. Many times braces are put on BEFORE jaw surgery. The idea would be to get teeth aligned well with an imperfect bite prior to moving the jaw. This makes sure that the bite is ideal after the jaw is moved. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Is it normal for a 5 year old to lose a tooth?

The average age to lose a tooth is 6 years old. There are children who lose teeth earlier based on gender and ethnicity. One of the best predictors of a child losing teeth earlier READ MORE
The average age to lose a tooth is 6 years old. There are children who lose teeth earlier based on gender and ethnicity. One of the best predictors of a child losing teeth earlier than average is if their baby teeth came in earlier. For example, if a baby get their first tooth around 4 months they are more likely to lose teeth early as well. In short, yes it is perfectly normal to lose teeth are 5 years old.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How do you floss when you have braces?

There are a couple ways to floss with braces. First, your orthodontist can provide you with "flossers." This is a firm string with a loop at the end. You put the regular floss READ MORE
There are a couple ways to floss with braces. First, your orthodontist can provide you with "flossers." This is a firm string with a loop at the end. You put the regular floss through the loop and then pull it through with the firm string. It is a hard to do, especially between all the teeth. The second way is with a narrow floss stick. There is a flosser called The Harp that you can order online directly. They are easy to use and fast.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Is there an alternative to braces?

Yes, the most common alternative is Invisalign. There are plastic trays that you change periodically rather than traditional metal braces.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Can you get braces for just two teeth?

The best person to ask would be an orthodontist in your area. They will almost always provide a free first consultation. Normally, they are very comprehensive and will want to READ MORE
The best person to ask would be an orthodontist in your area. They will almost always provide a free first consultation. Normally, they are very comprehensive and will want to check your bite and all of your teeth and they will likely recommended a treatment plan that will correct all of your teeth. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Can you get braces with missing teeth?

Yes. In fact, braces can help maintain the space of the missing tooth so that your son can get a dental implant in the future. Alternatively, an orthodontist may close the space READ MORE
Yes. In fact, braces can help maintain the space of the missing tooth so that your son can get a dental implant in the future. Alternatively, an orthodontist may close the space in order to avoid an implant in the future. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Is there a toothpaste that's good for braces?

Yes. There is a prescription toothpaste called PreviDent 5000. You would need to ask your dentist for a prescription. Normal toothpaste has 1500 parts per million fluoride. Prevident READ MORE
Yes. There is a prescription toothpaste called PreviDent 5000. You would need to ask your dentist for a prescription. Normal toothpaste has 1500 parts per million fluoride. Prevident 5000 has 5000. The additional fluoride reduces the risk of getting cavities and white spots around the brackets.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How should I prepare for wisdom teeth removal?

You want to think in terms of transportation, diet, and safety. Be sure to consult with your oral surgeon if there are any specific things to do the day of the surgery or the days READ MORE
You want to think in terms of transportation, diet, and safety. Be sure to consult with your oral surgeon if there are any specific things to do the day of the surgery or the days following to reduce risks of complications like pain and swelling. You will want to come with an adult who can drive you to and from the appointment. After the appointment you will wake up with your entire mouth and face very numb and your jaw will be sore when the numbness wears off. You want to be sure that you have snacks and food at home that your will be able to eat comfortable afterwards. If you plan on being sedated you will want to go in on an empty stomach. When people are asleep there is a chance of vomiting which can be very dangerous under sedation. An empty stomach can help make sure you are safer for the visit. Finally, I would avoid filming any videos. Most people coming out of sedation are bleeding, disoriented and tired and probably not the best time to go viral.   

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Does food get under your retainer?

Yes. You have to be really careful as food and drinks can get underneath the retainer. What can happen is that bacteria can grow around the food and it can lead to the bad breath, READ MORE
Yes. You have to be really careful as food and drinks can get underneath the retainer. What can happen is that bacteria can grow around the food and it can lead to the bad breath, the retainer smelling bad and even cavities. I would recommended removing the retainer every time you eat and drink anything besides water. Also, I would brush the inside and outside of the retainer every time you brush your teeth.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How do I get relief from a toothache?

A lot depends on the source of the toothache. Unfortunately, there is usually not an instant fix. The best thing you can do is visit a dentist, get a diagnosis of the problem and READ MORE
A lot depends on the source of the toothache. Unfortunately, there is usually not an instant fix. The best thing you can do is visit a dentist, get a diagnosis of the problem and the dentist will provide a good solution. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Do I really need a deep gum cleaning?

There are a lot of variables that can lead to a deep gum cleaning, what dentists call scaling and root planing. There is an area between your teeth and gums that dentists measure READ MORE
There are a lot of variables that can lead to a deep gum cleaning, what dentists call scaling and root planing. There is an area between your teeth and gums that dentists measure for "pockets". Generally, 1-3 mm is normal and healthy. If the pockets are deeper, let's say 6-10 mm then a deep cleaning is usually the best way to go. There are medical conditions, oral hygiene issues, family history issues, medications, history of dental work and tobacco use which can make a deep cleaning more necessary. The argument against the deep cleaning is that you are young and that dentists make a lot more money billing scaling and root planing than they can for a normal cleaning. If you have any doubts, you can always seek out reviews and get a second opinion to see if it is necessary for you. If you hear it from more than one dentist, the deep cleaning might be the best for the long term health of your gums and teeth. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How can I remove tooth decay myself?

I would strongly recommend not attempting to remove tooth decay by yourself. Any kind of attempted dental DIY will likely result in pain, infection, or a broken tooth and a more READ MORE
I would strongly recommend not attempting to remove tooth decay by yourself. Any kind of attempted dental DIY will likely result in pain, infection, or a broken tooth and a more expensive repair for you. The best thing to do at home is focus on preventing dental decay, but not treating it. Please find yourself a dentist. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Does Invisalign cause bad breath?

Usually not. Invisalign involves a series of plastic trays that straighten our teeth. What I recommend to my patients is to brush the inside and outside of the trays when they READ MORE
Usually not. Invisalign involves a series of plastic trays that straighten our teeth. What I recommend to my patients is to brush the inside and outside of the trays when they brush their teeth and that is enough to make sure the breath smells good.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Can flossing loosen metal braces?

Generally, orthodontic brackets and wires are attached well and very stable. With careful flossing it would be unlikely to loosen your braces. Sometimes brackets can pop off and READ MORE
Generally, orthodontic brackets and wires are attached well and very stable. With careful flossing it would be unlikely to loosen your braces. Sometimes brackets can pop off and if that happens it is always good to call your orthodontist. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

Can teeth be straightened with a retainer?

Retainers are a good option for minor tooth movements. Orthodontic treatment is better for more controlled tooth movements and improvements in your bite. I would recommend having READ MORE
Retainers are a good option for minor tooth movements. Orthodontic treatment is better for more controlled tooth movements and improvements in your bite. I would recommend having a consultation with an orthodontist, which is usually free, to have a detailed evaluation. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How to ease pain from a loose bracket?

There are two easy things you can do to help. One would be to take Ibuprofen. This can help reduce the inflammation and help the area feel better. The second thing would be to READ MORE
There are two easy things you can do to help. One would be to take Ibuprofen. This can help reduce the inflammation and help the area feel better. The second thing would be to place Orajel on the area. This can temporarily numb the sore gums and give you some relief. The best thing to do would be to return to see your orthodontist as soon as you are able.

Marc D. Thomas, DDS

How do I know if my braces are working?

There are several ways to monitor the progress of orthodontic treatment. The first is cosmetically. If your teeth are looking more aligned that is a good sign that things are progressing READ MORE
There are several ways to monitor the progress of orthodontic treatment. The first is cosmetically. If your teeth are looking more aligned that is a good sign that things are progressing well. Second, orthodontists take photographs of their work, especially before and after treatment. You can ask your orthodontist to see your starting photos and compare them to where you are at now. Finally, orthodontics can make your bite feel different, usually better. If you feel that your teeth are hitting better it would be a good sign that your treatment is progressing well. 

Marc D. Thomas, DDS