For a complete list of Colorado’s Top Dentists—including professionals in cities like Aspen, Fruita, and Durango—at 5280.com/topdentistslist.

The Process

How we come up with the Top Dentists list.

5280 June 2015
More From The Issue

This list is pulled from the 2015 Top Dentists database, which is created using peer evaluations and includes listings for hundreds of dentists and specialists in Colorado alone. To create its list, topDentists asked dentists and specialists a personal question: “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer him or her to?” The nomination pool consisted of all active dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as with dental academies and societies. (Dentists could also nominate others who may not be on those lists.) Respondents were asked to consider experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and physical results. After responses were compiled, dentists were checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have active licenses and are in good standing. We realize there are many fine dentists who are not on this list; a dentist’s inclusion is based on the subjective judgments of fellow dentists. For more information, visit usatopdentists.com.

The Dentist Speaks

“Look for the ADA seal on toothpastes, which means the products have been approved for their gentle abrasiveness. Lots of whitening toothpastes out there are harsh to enamel and should be avoided.” — Brandon Hall, Riverfront Dental Designs

“An anti-inflammatory diet high inantioxidants—like dark, leafy greens and colorful peppers—will translate to healthier gums and teeth. Inflamed gums are a potential indicator of high levels of inflammation in other areas of the body, such as coronary arteries and the brain, as well as a sign of diabetes or kidney malfunction.” — Brett H. Kessler, TownCenter Dentistry and Orthondontics

“Patients should be wary of any shopping-mall or in-office whitening system that claims to lighten or whiten teeth in a day. They expose teeth to air and often use heat from a light source; this causes teeth to dry out, which makes them lighter for a short time. When the teeth rehydrate (approximately 48 hours later), they go back to their original color.” — David S. Bennet, Bennett Signature Dentistry

“Nothing done in the dental office should feel worse after two days. If it’s not better in 48 hours, it’s time for a phone call or office visit.” — Jeffrey L. Kaes

“The fluoride in water is most valuable for young children who have adult teeth developing.” — Chelsea Stangl, Wynkoop Dental

“Never feel guilty about getting a second opinion—especially as a new patient entering a practice and hearing that you may need a lot of treatment.” — Scott B. Pizer

“Lack of tooth pain doesn’t mean you’re problem-free and should skip your routine dentist visit. Of course, when teeth do hurt, there is usually a substantial problem.” — Jeff D. Johnston, Ascent Dental Group

“Children should visit the dentist by age one or within six months of the first tooth appearing. After that, regular checkups should occur every six months. Children should be supervised when brushing until they are seven to eight years old, and parents should begin flossing their children’s teeth when any two teeth are touching.” — Jean M. Felton, Lowry Pediatric Dental Health

Specialties

Endodontist – Treats issues related to nerves and the inner portions of the tooth, using techniques such as root canal therapy

General Dentist – Performs preventive dental care and basic upkeep, including cleanings and X-rays

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon – Removes impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth) and performs reconstructive surgeries, like rebuilding broken jaws

Oral Pathologist – Studies, identifies, and treats oral disease ranging from potentially cancerous leukoplakia to canker sores

Orthodontist – Modifies your bite or coaxes teeth into alignment using braces and other devices

Pediatric Dentist – Provides therapeutic and preventive dental care for kids

Periodontist – Specializes in the periodontium, or supporting tooth structure, and treats gum disease and receding gums

Prosthodontist – Deals with dentures, implants, and bridges, as well as complex crown work