In-Office vs. Take-Home Teeth Whitening

In-Office vs.Take-Home Teeth Whitening

By Dr. Josh Eastham

The Difference Between Professional Teeth Whitening and Over The Counter Products

Having a whiter smile is a personal preference for many people. Whiter teeth can help you make a good first impression at work and in your social life, as well as boost your confidence. Most people’s teeth discoloration occurs naturally with age and time, but it can also be accelerated if you drink or consume substances that stain your teeth. Smoking is also a major cause of yellow teeth. If you’re in need of professional teeth whitening in Grand Junction, CO, contact High Desert Dental! Read below to learn the difference between in-office vs. take-home teeth whitening treatments.

Teeth Whitening Treatment Differences

There are numerous at-home whitening kits available, which might include trays, strips, gels, and bleaches. Most are one-size-fits-all treatments that can help you gradually whiten your teeth over the course of weeks or months. In fact, if an over-the-counter whitening solution promises you instant results. However, it’s usually too good to be true.

At-home teeth whitening kits often need you to wear trays or strips for a certain amount of time each day. Tray-type goods require a few hours of wear per day, whereas strips can sometimes be worn for only a few minutes per day. According to the American Dental Association, many people have increased tooth sensitivity thanks to these take-home teeth whitening treatments.

Our dental office’s whitening method is also not immediate, but a course of whitening treatment normally takes only two weeks to complete. Our office use whitening trays that are custom-fit to your teeth, allowing us to get considerably better outcomes than at-home kits. Also, we carefully tailor the amount of bleaching agent for your teeth. Sensitivity or pain should not be an issue. If you do suffer any side effects, we can safely and efficiently address them in-office.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

When you come to our dental office in Grand Junction for professional whitening, the first thing we do is take impressions of your teeth. These are used to make custom trays for your treatment. A flawless fit to your teeth aids in achieving the greatest possible result. We can achieve up to ten shades brighter with in-office whitening. Plus, your results are instant. The process takes about an hour or more, depending on how badly stained your teeth are. Our teeth whitening treatment is non-invasive and super simple!

Most of our patients prefer our in-office teeth whitening because of how fast the results are. Our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, says that most dentists will have you come in for a consultation before recommending treatment. This is true! Dr. Josh Eastham will likely recommend a consult only so that we can see if your smile goals are feasible.

Teeth Whitening Costs

One of the deciding factors for in-office vs. take-home teeth whitening treatments is cost. Professional dental whitening is frequently more expensive than at-home procedures, particularly when compared to the low end of at-home whitening kits. Typical store-bought whitening kits range in price from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the type of treatment, brand, and quality.

In-office whitening procedures typically cost between $300 and $600. Note that most dental insurance policies do not cover the service because it is considered a cosmetic operation. However, if you are paying fully out of cash, some dental offices provide special offers.

The Dangers of At-Home Whitening

Certain at-home whitening treatments, particularly those of lesser quality, can hurt your gums and teeth in the long run. In response to severe bleaches, gums may shrink and dry, making you more susceptible to infection and eventual tooth decay. Dr. Josh Eastham advises patients with large cavities or untreated dental problems to avoid at-home whitening kits since the bleach can extend into cavities and irreversibly destroy the tooth structure. It can also cause nerve damage, toothaches, and gastric difficulties.

Patchy or spotty teeth are also a common side effect of over-the-counter whitening because the bleaching trays aren’t custom-made to match your specific teeth. As a result, any abnormalities, varied angles, or forms can cause the bleach to stick just in specific locations, which is not the case with professional whitening.

“I have been a patient at High Desert Dental before it had this name. There have been some changes but the quality of service and care are still great. I will continue to be a patient and appreciate the high quality.” – Sarah D.

Contact Your Dentist in Grand Junction, CO

If you want to use at-home whiteners but aren’t sure which ones to use, consult with one of our dentists during your next appointment. Our High Desert Dental team can assist you in understanding the best products and teeth whitening processes, as well as instruct you on the proper use of over-the-counter whitening kits. We believe it is critical to maintaining a healthy smile, whether you pick our professional teeth whitening treatment or an at-home solution.

Quality Dentures Grand Junction

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Quality Dentures Grand Junction, CO

Are you interested in finding quality dentures in Grand Junction, CO? Look no further. Our High Desert Dental Office provides some of the best restorative dentistry services in town. If you’re on the fence about getting dentures, read the article below. Dr. Josh Eastahm, a dentist in Grand Junction, answers some common questions about dentures. We hope this helps you find the right treatment for your missing teeth!

What Exactly Are Dentures?

Dentures are prosthetic or fake teeth that are custom-made to replace your missing or extracted teeth. Dentures can be full or partial. This just means they can replace all teeth on either the top or bottom gum line or only a few missing teeth. Whatever type of dentures you choose, they will be specifically created to fit your mouth and visually resemble your existing teeth.

What Material Are They Made Of?

Previously, dentures were composed of porcelain or plastic, while more modern dentures are typically constructed of a strong resin. Dentures are considered to be more brittle than real teeth and can readily fracture or shatter if dropped or improperly neglected. This material also wears out far faster than actual teeth, necessitating the replacement of a new set of dentures every five years or more.

The denture’s supporting framework is frequently made of the same resin used for the teeth or a more flexible polymer material that fits snuggly on the natural gum line.

Why Should You Wear Dentures?

Dentures not only improve the appearance of your smile but also help keep the mouth structure intact. Dentures also allow you to eat meals that require chewing, allowing you to maintain your diet and ensure that you are properly nourished. Finally, dentures can be used to replace teeth that are causing severe pain and oral health problems, such as those with rotting roots or extensive damage. When dentures are fitted, problematic teeth are removed and replaced with a sturdy and attractive substitute. Dentures are also a more affordable option than treatments like dental implants.

Partial Dentures

When the surrounding teeth are not strong enough to support dental bridges, or when more than one or two teeth are lost, partial dentures are sometimes utilized instead of other tooth replacement treatments. The partial dentures are fitted to the area of the gum line where they will sit and secured to neighboring natural teeth to prevent them from falling out of position. They are not, however, permanently fastened and can be simply removed at any moment for cleaning or sleeping.

Complete Dentures

Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are dentures that replace all of the natural teeth in your mouth. They are custom-fit for your top or bottom gum line and are maintained in place by suction and/or oral glue. Complete dentures are just as easily removable as partial dentures. The only real difference is how many fake teeth are on the structure. Our friend, Dr. O’Grady, who offers dentures in Denver, CO, recommends complete dentures for patients with periodontal disease.

“I’ve been going to this office since I was a little kid. Now I am 30! The staff and the care they provide are amazing.” – Logan D.

Contact Dentist Grand Junction

Dentures are an excellent option for those looking for an affordable tooth replacement option. However, dentures are not for everyone. Please contact High Desert Dental for a denture consultation with Dr. Josh Eastham. The team will find the best treatment options for your unique smile. We look forward to seeing you!

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What to Do When a Crown Falls Off

By Dr. Josh Eastham

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off Unexpectandently

Did your dental crown fall off? Contact your dentist in Grand Junction immediately. Our High Desert Dental team will gladly schedule an emergency dental appointment for you. You may be surprised that your crown fell out, but try to avoid swallowing your crown. If it’s fully intact, then Dr. Josh Eastham may be able to place it back on. In this article, Dr. Eastham explains what to do when a crown falls off.

Crown Falls Off & Isn’t Damaged

If your dental crown didn’t break, you might be able to get it placed back on without having to wait for a new one. Try the following steps if your crown fell off and it’s not broken. These are not permanent solutions, so please contact High Desert Dental.

A dab of toothpaste may be enough to keep the crown in place until the appointment.
Because the exposed tooth surface may be fragile and prone to harm in its fragile state, clean it carefully with toothpaste.
Clean the crown from the inside out, being gentle with it. Remove any debris, old cement, or other materials from the inside of the crown. Take care of it and try not to harm it.
Before attempting to repair the crown on the tooth, be sure you understand how it fits in your mouth. If it is not inserted correctly, you could cause further damage.
To produce a light suction, apply a tiny dab of toothpaste or temporary crown cement (available in drugstores). Temporary dental cement is packaged with detailed instructions.

Crown Falls Off & Is Damaged

Most of the time, you’ll break your crown if it randomly falls off. This is usually caused by chewing on hard foods such as candy or ice. Excessive flossing, grinding your teeth, or an injury can all cause the crown to fall out. However, if there is additional damage to the crown, the underlying tooth or gum, or both, a more invasive dental operation will be required. If your dental crown is cracked, you will have to get it replaced. Don’t forget to contact High Desert Dental for emergency dentistry in Grand Junction. Here’s what you can do if your crown falls off and is damaged:

“I’ve been a patient here for close to a year now and have had only pleasant experiences. Would highly recommend” – Drew K.

What Procedure Does a Dentist Use to Replace a Crown?

In many circumstances, you will not require a new crown to replace the old one, says our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY. Your old crown should be reusable if it is not broken and the uncovered tooth is in the same condition it was when you received it. Before deciding whether a new crown should be constructed, your dentist will evaluate the old one and your tooth. However, seeing your dentist in Grand Junction as soon as possible after a dental crown falls off enhances the likelihood that you won’t have to wait — or pay — for a replacement crown.

Contact Emergency Dentist Grand Junction

Anyone who experiences a broken dental crown should make an appointment with their dentist right away. After a temporary tooth replacement, avoid eating hard or chewy foods. In any event, avoid chewing on the affected side. Our High Desert Dental team will make sure your dental crown is working as good as new. Give our dental office in Grand Junction a call today!

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Am I a Candidate For Dental Implants?

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a standard solution for patients with missing teeth. Despite its many advantages, this restorative dentistry treatment may not be appropriate for all. In this article. Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, answers, “Am I a candidate for dental implants?”

Why You Should Get Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that look and work identically to a patient’s natural tooth. A dental implant, when combined with a crown, allows us to replace your missing tooth since a missing tooth will cause your teeth to shift if left untreated.

Dental implants have a success rate of almost 100%, and with proper treatment, the implants can last a lifetime. A patient may be recommended for dental implant care for a variety of reasons, including:

You have a collection of loose dentures.
Adhesives are not something you want to use.
You have trouble chewing and are concerned that denture treatment would be too difficult.
The patient does not want a tooth replacement alternative that is reversible.
You are self-conscious because you have a missing tooth or your teeth are misaligned.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants, unlike dentures, not only give the appearance that your teeth are normal. Since they are permanently part of your mouth, they can also look and feel natural. Dental implants, in addition to enhancing the quality of your smile for the rest of your life, may provide a variety of other health benefits, including:

Improving Your Public Speaking
Discomfort relief
Preventing the deterioration of jaw bone
Denture treatment is no longer needed on a regular basis.
Improving your eating habits
Boosting your oral hygiene

“Doctor Josh was professional and efficient. Josh did an excellent job explaining each procedure prior to performing the task. I was also impressed with his assistant, Dove. She has a very calming personality that made my visit less stressful. Overall, I was impressed and more than satisfied with my procedure this morning.”

– Ron E.

What Is The Dental Implant Process?

Dr. Josh Eastham will always match your new dental implant to your natural teeth. A post will be inserted into the bone socket where the natural tooth is missing or has been extracted during the procedure. Your jaw bone will then naturally expand around this post, locking it in place.

After 6-12 weeks, you will usually return and have a connector post-installed, after which your dentist in Grand Junction will attach your new tooth.

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants will enhance your smile and preserve your bone health, but not every patient is a good candidate for this procedure. If you can tolerate a standard tooth extraction, you are likely a successful candidate for dental implants.

The following are indications that you might be a successful applicant for dental implants:

A good foundation in your jaw bone.
No gum recession
You avoid activities like heavy smoking and not flossing, which might jeopardize the effectiveness of your implants.

Our friend, Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence, says that patients considering dental implants should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and be able to see their dentist on a regular basis. If you are uncertain if you qualify for dental implants, scheduling a consultation at our dental office in Grand Junction, CO.

Dental Implants in Grand Junction

Now you can probably answer, “Am I a candidate for dental implants?” Dental implants are an amazing solution for replacing missing teeth if you want to make your smile vibrant and normal. Dr. Josh Eastham and our team at High Desert Dental work hard to ensure that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible so that you can resume eating, laughing, and smiling with ease. Contact High Desert Dental today. We can’t wait to see you and your family!

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Month: June 2021