Category Archives: Family Dentistry

Dental technology has expanded in Boise and across the United States in recent years. There are options now that were undreamed of, just a few decades ago.

One of the most significant advances is dental implants. Implants consist of an artificial tooth attached to a titanium post that is implanted into the patient’s jaw . It’s the post that is the implant, and it replaces the root of a missing tooth.

The idea of dental implants is not all that new. Anthropologists have discovered evidence of implants being performed by ancient Mayans. By modern standards, they were very crude. And we don’t even want to think about how those implants were inserted into the patients’ jaws.

A modern dental implant provides many important advantages over a dental bridge or dentures:

• Longevity – Dental implants are tough and permanent, meaning with proper care they can last ten years or more.
• Seamless – Fabricated to have the same shape, size and color of the original tooth, the implant will blend seamlessly with all the other teeth. If the original tooth had aesthetic issues, these can frequently be fixed with the implant crown.
• Function – A dental implant functions like a natural tooth allowing for normal eating and speaking.
• Convenience – Unlike dentures, no adhesives, rinsing, or removal is necessary.
• Independent – Like the missing tooth, the dental implant is treated individually. No damaging of adjacent teeth is required, as with dental bridges. This independence allows nearby teeth to remain intact. Cleaning is easier than with most dental bridges which can require the threading of floss under and around the artificial tooth.

If you are interested in a dental implant, call Blaisdell Family Dentistry in Boise to schedule a  consultation. If you are a good candidate for the procedure, the process can begin. We also provide family and general dentistry, and look forward to meeting you!

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Teeth whitening has become one of the easiest ways to upgrade your smile. And with cosmetic dentistry from Blaisdell Family Dentistry in Boise, there is little effort and no pain.

Blaisdell Family Dentistry can help you understand your options for teeth whitening and the results you can expect from the procedures we offer.

Over-the-counter whitening systems can give pretty good results, but many users aren’t satisfied with what they get. The simple truth is that the results you get from professional whitening far surpasses anything that comes from a tube.

Blaisdell Family Dentistry can help you whiten your teeth effectively and get spectacular results. We provide Zoom! teeth whitening, which can transform your teeth in a single visit to our office.

Zoom! whitening incorporates dental-grade hydrogen peroxide activated LED lamps. The treatments penetrate deep into the enamel of your teeth to bleach away deep stains and other discolorations.

Our friendly staff would love to answer any questions you have about Zoom! teeth whitening. Blaisdell Family Dentistry also offers Boise residents porcelain veneers, and general and family dentistry. Visit our smile gallery to see the possibilities. And then give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Do you get sweaty palms when you go to the dentist? A pounding heart, at the mere thought of having a cavity filled? Dental anxiety is brutal – but with sedation dentistry in Boise, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Many people who fret about the dentist over issues large and small have chosen sedation dentistry. Though the terms ‘sleep dentistry’ and ‘oral conscious sedation’ are frequently used interchangeably, they are not identical. Let’s consider the main types of sedation.

Nitrous Oxide
The first level uses nitrous oxide, or ‘laughing gas’ as it is commonly called. Nitrous oxide is safe and effective, and has been used in dentistry for many years. It goes to work at the first inhalation, relaxes the patient during the treatment, and wears off quickly. If you need a little help to get through dental services, but don’t want to be knocked out cold, nitrous may be a good option.

Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation doesn’t work as rapidly as nitrous oxide, but it helps most patients achieve a deeper level of tranquility. These medications, however, do not usually lead to complete unconsciousness. Thus, oral sedatives and nitrous oxide are considered ‘conscious’ sedation.

IV Sedation
IV sedation uses medications similar to those used in surgery and results in a state of deep relaxation. Most patients are unaware to what is going on in their mouths. IV sedation is often used for root canals, wisdom teeth extractions, and multi-procedure smile redesigns. Patients will require a ride home afterward.

General Anesthesia
With general anesthesia, we use a licensed anesthesiologist. General anesthesia makes the patient fully asleep. It is used for complex dental treatment, and sometimes for children and adults with extreme dental anxiety.

For more information about sedation dentistry, and procedures like dental implants, call us at Blaisdell Family Dentistry. We also provide general and family dentistry.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

New Boise parents may be surprised by the latest in family dentistry and infant oral care. Parents are advised to begin brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as the first teeth emerge.

Brand-new teeth, the American Dental Association reminds us all, are just as vulnerable to cavities as older teeth. ADA guidelines are to use a cloth and a smidgen of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) to wipe each tooth. As more teeth come in, it becomes more important for them to be brushed at least twice a day.

As your baby grows into toddler-hood, it is vital to select the proper toothbrush. A soft-bristled brush, using a small amount of toothpaste, is best. Infant and toddler-sized toothbrushes with a small head of bristles are ideal. Some brushes are circle and triangular-shaped, reducing the chance of injury in case of a fall.

If the toothpaste is causing an unpleasant struggle, brush without it. The goal is to remove food bits that will create bacteria, followed by plaque and then cavities.

When two teeth touch, it’s time to begin flossing. It’s important to make sure no food is lodged between the teeth. Proper flossing requires fine motor skills, which most toddlers don’t have yet. Parents need to assist with flossing until they are sure their child can do it effectively.

Until the child is old enough to properly brush, they should receive adult supervision and guidance. Instilling the proper brushing and flossing procedures will reap lifelong benefits. While it may seem that supervising them is time-consuming, remember that it’s forming a daily habit that will protect their health.

Your child’s first dental visit should be within six months of the first tooth appearing and no later than their first birthday. It may seem early, but most parents bring their child to the pediatrician early. You can trust your dentist to look out for potential troubles and advise you about how to help your child keep a healthy smile.

Ask about sealants, x-ray safety, and fluoride supplements. A dentist can also advise parents with older children about teeth protection for athletics, and orthodontics.

If you live in the Boise area and don’t yet have a trusted family dentist, call Blaisdell Family Dentistry to schedule your child’s dental appointment. By starting young, your child will become familiar with our dental practice and our friendly staff, ensuring that he or she never develops a fear of the dentist.

We provide complete dental services, including cosmetic dentistry and dental implants.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

When is the last time you had a dental check-up? Most individuals need a dental check-up every six months. If you have a higher risk for oral diseases, we advise you to receive an examination every four months.

Welcome to Blaisdell Family Dentistry

Lynn R. Blaisdell, DDS, of Blaisdell Family Dentistry in Boise is accepting new patients. If you do not currently have a dentist or are not happy with your provider, we invite you to learn about our practice and meet our team. We are sure that you will like what you find. Many patients entrust us with their dental health and we appreciate the relationships we have with them.

Give us a call at 208-922-6902 to make an appointment. You can also visit our website at http://www.blaisdellfamilydentistry.com/ for more information about our services.

Know The Risk Factors For Oral Problems

Most people are in a medium to low risk category for dental problems. However, if you use tobacco or alcohol, eat a lot of sugar, have an eating disorder, have poor oral hygiene habits, or are plagued with medical conditions that affect your mouth, you are likely in a higher risk category. It is important to your dental and physical health to have your teeth checked soon.

I analyze many factors to determine the quality of your oral health. I want you to have the healthiest teeth possible so that you can enjoy a beautiful smile for life. The philosophy ‘”Ignore it and it will go away,” does not apply to a tooth or gum problem. 

Call 208-922-6902 to schedule a check-up. We hope to hear from you soon.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Today’s dental blog focuses on a preventative treatment often used to help impede the development of cavities in children.

Dental sealants are a thin coat of clear resin that is applied to the biting surfaces of teeth, usually the rear molars. The back teeth are more prone to cavities because is difficult to reach them with a tooth brush and the surfaces contain pits and grooves that easily trap bacteria. It is hard for many adults to clean their back molars and almost impossible for our young children.

Dental sealants fill in the pits and grooves on the rear molars to create a smooth surface. Family dentists most often recommend sealants for children’s permanent back teeth, though sometimes they are used for adults, too.

Parents may not realize how quickly a cavity can form in a young child’s mouth. Many kids develop cavities even before they start kindergarten!

It is vital that our local parents start regular dental visits early for their toddlers and young children. The American Dental Association advises that a child’s initial dental exam take place soon after the first tooth erupts, but no later than the toddler’s first birthday.

Dental sealants protect teeth without decay (primary prevention) and also prevent tooth decay from getting worse (secondary prevention).

At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we take special care of our young dental patients. We want each child’s dental visits to be pleasant and painless so they will never develop a fear of the dentist. We advise parents on the specific dental issues associated with each stage of childhood. Ask us about fluoride, sports mouthguards, and orthodontic treatment.

I am Lynn R. Blaisdell of Blaisdell Family Dentistry. I don’t believe that childhood cavities are unavoidable. Call my office at 208-922-6902 to schedule a dental exam.

I provide comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry for people of all ages. My office is located at 8877 W Hackamore Dr in Boise. You can learn more about my practice at https://www.blaisdellfamilydentistry.com/about-blaisdell-family-dentistry/

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Many adults want to look younger by straightening their teeth but having a mouthful of obtrusive teenager-style metal braces is not exactly what they had in mind.

If you are not pleased with your misaligned teeth, you may be interested to hear about the new, discrete straightening techniques now available for people of all ages. Custom invisible braces that are worn over teeth are now available in Boise.

Your busy lifestyle will not be hampered because invisible braces are so straightforward and convenient. The comfortable aligners allow you to eat anything you want and caring for your teeth will not become cumbersome. When you smile, nobody will know that your teeth are gently being straightened.

Another improvement in orthodontia is the tieless braces system. Known by the brand names of Damon Braces and Damon Clear, this proprietary system features a sliding mechanism instead of bands or clips. If your dentist or orthodontist doesn’t believe you are a good candidate for invisible aligners, you can still be discrete with this type of system.

Modern orthodontia and cosmetic dentistry truly works miracles to create younger, more vibrant smiles. If you have delayed orthodontic treatment because of the perceived inconvenience and obtruseviness of traditional metal braces, we hope today’s post has provided vital details that will help you make an informed decision.

At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, our friendly team has been providing and stunning smiles since 1981. If your teeth have problems in addition to misalignment, schedule a consultation to learn about veneers, dental implants, white fillings and gum contouring
Some of the most popular treatments at Blaisdell Family Dentistry include porcelain veneers, prepless veneers, and teeth whitening. Whatever your dental needs are, we will create a personalized, custom treatment outline for you.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Hello, Idaho! Today’s Blaisdell Family Dentistry blog is for new parents. We know that your child’s health and safety is your top priority. That’s why you baby-proof your home, serve healthy foods, and buckle them tightly in their car seat before you pull out of your driveway.

I’m Dr. Lynn R. Blaisdell. I want to remind parents that oral health is an intrinsic component of overall health. Teeth and gum condition can affect speech development, nutrition, and self-confidence. I recommend that parents promote healthy teeth from birth–even before your son’s or daughter’s first tooth erupts.

At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we maintain a kid-friendly environment so our youngest patients look forward to dental check-ups and never develop the fear of dentists that was more common in generations past. I love working with you and your child to ensure a healthy smile for life and I can assure you that my friendly staff will help your child have a positive experience.

We recommend bringing your child in for a first exam before age one, or when their first tooth erupts. During the visit, we can discuss pediatric dental issues such as fluoride treatments, brushing and flossing techniques, orthodontia, and dental sealants. Dental sealants are composed of a plastic material that is applied to children’s teeth. The sealants bond to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, mainly in the pits and fissures and protects the enamel against acids and plaque.

Boise children’s dentists also advise Idaho parents about pacifier use, thumb-sucking and other habits that can affect your child’s tooth development and oral health. Remember to call us immediately at 208-922-6902 if your child (or any member of your family) experiences a tooth injury.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Blaisdell Family Dentistry in Boise serves patients of all ages and provides general dentistry for children. Our friendly staff takes special care of our youngest patients to make sure they are comfortable and safe.

A little extra patience with our child patients is vital. We understand that going to the dentist can be a bit frightening for a child, so we make sure they are comfortable with their surroundings, and always invite mom or dad to join them in the room. We make sure they understand the necessary procedures and answer their questions.

Children’s dentistry requires more than just comfort, however. We understand how children’s dentistry differs from the treatment for older patients. If you have questions about cleaning your baby’s teeth, talk to us about thumb sucking, dental sealants, fluoride supplements, tooth protection for kids’ sports, and orthodontia, call 208-922-6902 today to schedule a consultation.

The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist when their first tooth erupts or around one year of age. By starting regular dental visits at the toddler age and teaching proper hygiene, we can help you reinforce vital oral care habits and lifestyle choices that will produce strong and healthy teeth.

In addition to children’s dentistry, Blaisdell Family Dentistry offers:

• teeth whitening
• family dentistry
• porcelain veneers
• dentures

We are currently accepting new patients of all ages. We look forward to meeting you and your child.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry: 208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709

Your child’s primary teeth, or baby teeth, are just as essential to their health, speech development, and self-esteem as their permanent teeth. Some Boise parents we meet at Blaisdell Family Dentistry hold the misconception that the care of primary teeth is secondary to adult teeth, since they will eventually fall out.

The truth is that the twenty primary teeth lay the foundation for the health of adult teeth and a beautiful smile. Taking care of these teeth is very important!

A dislike for brushing is understandable. A parent takes a pokey bristly thing, smears some minty paste on it, puts it in their mouth and scrubs their teeth with it. No wonder it doesn’t appeal to some toddlers and children. Sometimes the battle grows to the point that parents want to give up the struggle until their child is older. Don’t!

If it is difficult to get your child to brush willingly, Dr. Blaisdell has several suggestions.

If the toothpaste is the issue, brush with a smaller amount or even without it, at first. The goal is to remove food particles that will lead to plaque and bacteria, eventually causing tooth decay. Toothpaste is not required for removing food particles. Fluoride is important, however. If your water is not fluoridated, talk to Dr. Blaisdell about fluoride supplements.

Take your child to the store and have him or her pick a new, soft-bristled toothbrush. Maybe buy two, so your child has some control in picking which toothbrush to use each time he or she brushes.

Let your child do the brushing, then review and brush the areas that might have been missed. Have your child with you when you are brushing your teeth. Let your son or daughter know that everyone needs to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day. Invite your child to look in the mirror and brush at the same time.

To develop the habit, keep the time short and slowly lengthen the sessions. Brush heads are hard with bristles that poke. Toothpaste may seem “hot” to some children. Teaching your child that brushing is non-negotiable is the critical first step. After it has become part of the routine, add time by singing songs or brushing your teeth at the same time. Some Idaho parents have had success with setting a timer.

Compliment your child on their outstanding effort in taking care of themselves. Be sure to preserve a positive attitude. Let your child know that you love their beautiful smile and want it to always be shiny white. Positive reinforcement and establishing a routine are vital parts of childhood dental brushing. We want children to be passionate about a habit that will influence their health throughout their life.

If your child continues to struggle with brushing, you may think about sealants. Sealants are beneficial protective barriers applied to the biting surfaces of teeth. A sealant aids in preventing food particles from lodging in difficult places to brush – ordinarily in the pits and grooves in the molars in the back of the mouth.

Call 208-922-6902 to schedule an appointment to talk to Dr.Lynn R. Blaisdell about your child’s oral hygiene or any other concern.

Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:

208-922-6902

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709