expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Jennifer Rankin

Dentist

Dr. Jennifer Rankin is a Dentist practicing in Aurora, Colorado. Dr. Rankin specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. Jennifer Rankin
  • Aurora, Colorado
  • University of Iowa
  • Accepting new patients

What happens if you get a cavity with braces?

The short answer is, yes, you should have the cavity filled. If the cavity in on the biting surface of the teeth, it is a simple fix. If it's in between the teeth, you need to READ MORE
The short answer is, yes, you should have the cavity filled. If the cavity in on the biting surface of the teeth, it is a simple fix. If it's in between the teeth, you need to coordinate with your orthodontist to take the wire off, then go the to dentist to have the cavity filled, then go back to the orthodontist to have the wire put back on.

Hope this helps,

Dr. Rankin

Is Invisalign as good as normal braces?

It is in the right circumstances. Your dentist or orthodontist should evaluate you and together you can determine the best approach to achieve the results you want.

Should you wet your toothbrush before brushing dentures?

There is no requirement to wet the toothbrush, but generally the toothpaste will spread more easily and be less sticky.

Can mini implants be used on the upper jaw?

They can be used in the upper jaw, but are not considered a long-term solution. They are typically placed as a temporary until the primary implants heal and can be loaded. Hope READ MORE
They can be used in the upper jaw, but are not considered a long-term solution. They are typically placed as a temporary until the primary implants heal and can be loaded.
Hope this helps.

Do crowns on front teeth look natural?

When the crowns are well done, yes, they look very natural.

Do permanent crowns look better than temporary?

Typically, yes, the permanent crown is more esthetic than the temporary. There are many dentists who make crowns in their office at one appointment so that you do not need a temporary READ MORE
Typically, yes, the permanent crown is more esthetic than the temporary. There are many dentists who make crowns in their office at one appointment so that you do not need a temporary crown. You may want to look up "crowns in a day" or Cerec dentists.
Hope this helps!

Dr. Rankin

Do I need antibiotics after a deep cleaning?

Typically you do not need an antibiotic after a deep cleaning. However there may be extenuating circumstances that would necessitate that recommendation

Which is better metal partials or plastic partials?

A metal partial will be more durable in the long run.

How can I make my mouth heal faster after dental surgery?

Soft tissue and bone only heal so fast, however, doing things like warm saline rinses (once rinsing is OK) or using a molecular iodine rinse (typically a professional product that READ MORE
Soft tissue and bone only heal so fast, however, doing things like warm saline rinses (once rinsing is OK) or using a molecular iodine rinse (typically a professional product that your dentist may use in the office) can help with healing and discomfort. The biggest impact on healing is your overall health and nutrition. Be sure you are getting plenty of raw fruits and vegetables and that your vitamin D levels are optimal.

What can happen if a tooth infection is left untreated?

It can lead to a systemic infection and/or a life-threatening infection within the head/neck and brain.

How long can you have a cavity before it needs a root canal?

There is not a single answer to that question. It depends upon how rapidly the decay progresses which depends upon home care, diet, bacteria in the mouth, etc. It is always better READ MORE
There is not a single answer to that question. It depends upon how rapidly the decay progresses which depends upon home care, diet, bacteria in the mouth, etc. It is always better to take care of the cavity sooner than later.

Can you get a cavity from one night of not brushing your teeth?

You cannot get a cavity from missing one night of brushing. Cavities are a result of consistent lack of home care, diet, and systemic challenges.

How long does it take to recover from a dental implant?

Recovery depends upon what is involved in placing the implant. Was there a bone graft or tissue graft? In general, there is little to no down time. Implant placement is typically READ MORE
Recovery depends upon what is involved in placing the implant. Was there a bone graft or tissue graft? In general, there is little to no down time. Implant placement is typically much easier than having a tooth removed. Most patients do not require pain medication either.
I hope this helps.

Dr. Rankin

What do I do if my tooth root is exposed?

I would recommend you make an appointment to see a dentist so that the area can be examined and the correct treatment recommendation can be determined. Depending upon the amount READ MORE
I would recommend you make an appointment to see a dentist so that the area can be examined and the correct treatment recommendation can be determined. Depending upon the amount of root exposure, options can vary from no treatment, gingival graft, extraction, or more. Again, make a dental appointment to determine the best recommendation for you.
Hope this helps.

In Health,

Dr. Rankin

Which is better alcohol or alcohol free mouthwash for dentures?

Alcohol free is best for the mouth and for the dentures. Alcohol is very drying and unnecessary.
Hope that helps!

Dr. Rankin

Can I swallow my saliva after mouthwash?

Once you have expectorated the mouthwash, yes, you can swallow your saliva. If it concerns you, rinse with some water after expectorating the mouthwash.

How long after tooth filling can I drink?

Typically, it is fine to drink liquids immediately after the appointment. Depending on the extent of anesthesia, it can be difficult to drink, so you may want to use a straw.

Can you get a tooth pulled and an implant the same day?

Yes you can get a tooth removed and an implant the same day but there are many factors that can impact that decision. For example is the tooth infected, how much bone remains? READ MORE
Yes you can get a tooth removed and an implant the same day but there are many factors that can impact that decision. For example is the tooth infected, how much bone remains? And more. I suggest a consultation with your dentist.

Which is more expensive zirconia or porcelain?

That depends upon the dental office. Some offices may charge a different fee, others may not. You would need to ask the specific dental office you are planning to have your treatment READ MORE
That depends upon the dental office. Some offices may charge a different fee, others may not. You would need to ask the specific dental office you are planning to have your treatment completed at.

What age should you fix a crossbite?

The younger you are, the better to correct. However, it's really never too late. I would encourage you to set up an appointment with an orthodontist who can help you achieve your READ MORE
The younger you are, the better to correct. However, it's really never too late. I would encourage you to set up an appointment with an orthodontist who can help you achieve your goals.

Sincerely,

Dr. Rankin