Affordable Family Dentistry

Comprehensive Exam (CEX)

Dental Cleaning

Sealants

Oral Cancer Screening

Endodontics (Root Canal)

Dental Implants

Crowns and Bridges

Dentures

Periodontal Disease

Cosmetic Dentistry

Preventative Dentistry:

Comprehensive Exam (CEX) All new patients will receive a Comprehensive Oral Examination by Dr. Ligon on their first visit. The CEX includes a thorough overview of the patient’s complete medical health history and an oral exam. The oral exam is comprised of a documentation of blood pressure, evaluation of the patient's periodontal health (including a measure of surface deposits, a measure of soft tissue pocket depths, and a panoramic x-ray to determine bone levels), charting of existing restorations, a charting of areas of decay, four x-rays to look for decay between the teeth, an oral cancer exam, an exam of the jaw joints and the bite relationship of the teeth, and photographs. The patient will be shown a video that explains periodontal disease and its prevention. Following the exam, the patient will be presented with the results of their examination and treatment options will be discussed.

Dental Cleaning The biannual Hygiene Appointment includes an Oral Exam, a dental prophylaxis (cleaning), and yearly x-rays. During the Oral Exam, the patient will receive a periodontal analysis, an assessment of plaque build-up, ultrasonic plaque removal treatment, and an assessment of decay or areas to watch.

Greeley, Colorado Dentist - Richard S. Ligon, DDS

Sealants Decay is caused by dental plaque, and sealants can help reduce or prevent decay. A sealant is a clear plastic material, applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth, which protects decay-prone areas from plaque and acid. Sealants will be checked during regular dental visits, and can be reapplied if necessary.

Oral Cancer Screening Oral cancer is one of the most curable diseases if caught early. Dr. Ligon performs the ViziLite Plus exam, along with a visual examination, to identify precancerous and cancerous abnormalities. Persons at risk for oral cancer include those that are sexually active, tobacco users, or patients with a history of oral cancer.

Northern Colorado Dentistry - Dr. R.S. Ligon, DDS

Restorative Dentistry:

Endodontics (Root Canal) Endodontic, or Root Canal, dentistry addresses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the tooth’s soft core. When the soft core of the tooth is diseased or damaged, the pulp can die, potentially causing an abscess that can destroy the bone that supports the tooth. Years ago, the only option for teeth in this condition was to extract them. Today, Root Canals can preserve the diseased tooth, and once treated and restored it can last a lifetime.

Dental Implants Implants are an excellent alternative to partial dentures and bridges. and provide a long-term solution for those patients who are missing a tooth. Implants help prevent bone loss and gum recession associated with tooth loss, they restore proper chewing, improve speech and comfort, and help promote long-term facial integrity. There are benefits of using implants over bridges. The teeth on either side of the missing tooth have to be restored in order to support the bridge, but with Dental Implants these teeth can remain intact.

Crowns and Bridges Sometimes crowns, bridges, and veneers are necessary. Dr. Ligon offers a few options for these types of restorations. In addition to traditional crown and bridgework, he is trained in CEREC (or Ceramic Reconstruction) Restoration, which is a faster and more accurate method of implementing these dental solutions. Crowns, inlays and veneers are made on-site, which means less time and fewer visits for the patient. The CEREC machine assists Dr. Ligon in making these ceramic materials with perfectly bonded porcelain and accurate color matches. Since the CEREC machine eliminates the need for crown construction in the lab, patients are benefited by not having to go through periods with temporary crowns and multiple visits to set the permanent crowns. CEREC Restoration has revolutionized restorative dentistry, and Dr. Ligon is proud to be trained in this new and exciting technique.

CEREC Restoration, Northern Colorado Dentistry

Dentures Dr. Ligon uses traditional denture techniques and materials, as well as the newest technology in dental implant denture systems. Both the “Mini-Implant System” and traditional implants allow denture wearers to eat and smile with confidence, without the use of messy adhesives. Ask Dr. Ligon if you are a candidate for denture implants today!

Periodontal Disease Periodontal diseases can affect tissue and bone supporting the teeth, and if left alone, can eventually lead to tooth loss. If you experience gums that bleed easily; red, tender, swollen gums; receding gum lines; chronic bad breath; or loose teeth, you may be at risk for periodontal disease. The methods for treatment of periodontal disease vary dependant on the type and severity of the disease. If caught early, treatment may simply require a change in your oral health care. However, if the disease is in the more severe stages, intensive therapy may be required to prevent further damage.

Cosmetic Dentistry:

Cosmetic Dentistry Sometimes dentistry can be used for cosmetic purposes, rather than as a restorative technique. Dr. Ligon offers the latest technology in Veneers, Tooth Bleaching, and replacement of metal fillings and crowns with ceramic alternatives to make your smile more beautiful.