Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist
 

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

Do you intend to have a wisdom tooth extracted? While complications are uncommon, patients can avoid infection and other problems by adequately caring for their teeth. At High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, Colorado, we can go over all of the details you’ll need for a successful tooth extraction. Follow these post tooth extraction tips recommended by your Dr. Josh Eastham for a speedy recovery.

Aftercare Tips for Tooth Extraction

To ensure outstanding results and that healing proceeds as expected, follow these guidelines recommended by your dentist in Grand Junction:

  • Use gauze: It’s normal for some bleeding to occur throughout the recovery process. Gauze can be used to control bleeding at the incision site. Bite down lightly after putting the gauze and try not to disrupt the area. Feel free to replace the gauze as needed.
  • Take all antibiotics as directed: Antibiotics will be recommended to the majority of patients before or after oral surgery. Do not discontinue your antibiotics without first consulting your oral surgeon. This could render your medication useless.
  • Rest: Avoid strenuous activity for at least a few days following tooth extraction. This allows you to rest and ease back into your typical activities.
  • Don’t smoke or use tobacco: Smoking impairs your body’s ability to heal. Furthermore, cigarettes may introduce dangerous microorganisms into your system. Our High Desert Dental team can advise you on when it is safe to resume smoking, but we strongly advise you to quit for good. 

Common Infection Signs

A blood clot occurs naturally after a tooth extraction. This helps to protect the extraction site and prevent bacteria from accessing the area. An infection may occur if this blood clot is weakened or dislodged in any manner. While some bleeding and swelling are common following oral surgery, there are several warning signs to be aware of. If you detect any of the following, please contact your emergency dentist in Grand Junction, CO, right away:

  • Excessive bleeding at the extraction site
  • Severe pain
  • Pus or oozing discharge
  • Fever

How to Stop Infection After Oral Surgery

There are several things you may do to avoid infection following wisdom teeth extraction. The most fundamental way is to follow all of your oral surgeon’s directions. High Desert Dental can demonstrate how to clean and care for the treatment site at home. We can also advise you on prescription drugs, what to eat and drink, and any other details we believe are important for tooth extraction recovery in Grand Junction, CO.

Our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says It is very critical that you maintain your oral health following tooth extraction. Patients should still allow the blood clot to heal naturally but still brush the surrounding teeth. Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area. Do not spit or suck on straws until you are healed. As part of your regular routine, we may also advise you to use an antiseptic solution. Do not pick or pull at the extraction site, and please contact our office if you have any questions.

Contact High Desert Dental

At High Desert Dental, we understand how frightening tooth extractions can be. Our team is committed to helping you prepare for your tooth extraction. We’re happy to answer your questions and ensure the success of your treatment. Call our Grand Junction, CO dental office for an evaluation to learn more about wisdom tooth extraction recovery.

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel?

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel?

True or False: Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel? - Grand Junction CO

More and more people want bright and beautiful smiles. Patients often try cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance their smiles. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular options. It’s both effective and affordable. But, patients often come to us with their concerns. Is teeth whitening is safe? Does teeth whitening damage your enamel? In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO answers: does teeth whitening damage your enamel?

What Is the Purpose of Tooth Enamel?

So, why is it so important to protect your enamel? Enamel is the tooth’s thin outer coating that covers the crown and is visible from the gum. The hard outer surface of the tooth is the first line of defense against physical and chemical injury. The enamel’s duty is to protect the dentin, also known as the softer and more sensitive inner tooth. Enamel is prone to deterioration since it is the primary defense against chemicals. Bacterial contamination from sugar, starches, or acidic substances endangers your enamel. The enamel on your teeth will also guard against the daily usage of your teeth, such as chewing, biting, crunching, and grinding.

What Should You Do If Your Teeth’s Enamel Is Worn Down?

Although enamel is the hardest tissue, it is not unbreakable. Because enamel lacks live cells, it is unable to repair itself if it is damaged. In other words, once it’s gone it’s gone. Here are a few ways your Grand Junction dentist recommends avoiding:

  • Sugary drinks and foods
  • Starchy foods
  • Sodas
  • Hard candies
  • Acidic drinks

Enamel Erosion Symptoms

Since your tooth’s enamel will naturally deteriorate over time, it may be difficult for you to notice the warning sings. We asked our friends Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, about signs of enamel erosion. Here are a few signs you’re damagin your enamel:

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Discolored teeth
  • Rough, uneven, jagged teeth

Is Teeth Whitening Safe For My Enamel? 

Yellow teeth is the most obvious sign that your tooth’s enamel is damaged. So, it makes senese why patients think teeth whitening damages your enamel. The answer we’ve all been waiting for: does teeth whitening damage your enamel? No, teeth whitening does not affect your tooth’s enamel.

The dentin, or major component of the tooth, is the portion of the tooth that is responsible for the color of your teeth. The front surface of the teeth is initially covered with a whitening solution. The solution will then pass through the enamel of the tooth to reach the dentin. The inner layer’s discolored tissue will begin to fade. This procedure will take approximately one hour. High Desert Dental in Grand Junction can provide you with further information on teeth whitening.

Treatment for Enamel Loss

Bonding is the most common therapy for enamel loss. Bonding is the application of a tooth-colored substance resin to your damaged teeth. The resin will conceal the yellow discoloration while also protecting your teeth. However, if your situation is serious, your dentist may recommend dental veneers or dental crown to avoid additional decay.

Are you concerned about tooth enamel loss? High Desert Dental can help you avoid tooth enamel loss. Make an appointment right away! Contact High Desert Dental.

Why Choose a Modern Dental Office

why choose a modern dental office grand junction

Why Choose a Modern Dentistry

Why Modern Dental Office in Grand Junction

why choose a modern dental office grand junction

A modern approach to dental treatment has been shown to provide patients with the best experience. But why choose a modern dental office? The best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, shares some of the perks of going to a new dental office. 

Boutique-Styled Service

Smaller or more specialized dentistry services can provide a more boutique experience. This implies that one team is dedicated to your needs and can service them without difficulty or confusion. The last thing we want you to do is to have to wait on us. 

A Fresh, Refreshing Atmosphere

Modern dentistry is frequently associated with a modern office! These types of dental offices offer a stress-free environment. High Desert Dental has the confidence to provide the best dental services in Grand Junction. Additionally, our top priorities are always patient safety and comfort. We offer several amenities to make you feel comfortable during your visit. 

Custom Treatment

A modern approach to dentistry is based on long-term, tailored solutions. With any therapy, you can expect a comprehensive, end-to-end service tailored to your specific oral health needs. Additionally, Dr. Josh Eastham and his team will always provide you with a custom treatment plan. 

Transparency

Furthermore, regardless of your requirements, your Grand Junction dentist completes each service with complete transparency—so you know exactly what to expect at every step. Modern dental practices can assist you in preparing for visits by providing pricing transparency, allowing you to create a plan that fits you and your lifestyle.

Technology on the Cutting Edge

Modern cosmetic dentistry also entails using the best tools and technologies available. As a result, treatments such as teeth whitening, gum contouring, and veneers can be completed more quickly and at a lower cost. Also, higher-tech equipment means fewer appointments, ensuring that no amount of therapy disrupts your regular life.

Contact High Desert Dental

Modern dentistry attempts to meet every dental care requirement. So, that is why modern dentists, such as those at High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, are highly trained and certified to recognize, address, and correct practically all oral health issues. Contact High Desert Dental to learn more about our dental services. Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on our latest announcements. 

 

Gum Care Month

gum care month - grand Junction Co

Gum Care Month

Celebrate Gum Care Month with Grand Junction Dentist

gum care month - grand Junction Co

September is one of our favorite months at High Desert Dental because it’s National Gum Care Month! Our team loves helping our patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Preventative dentistry is key to avoiding any dental problem, especially gum disease. To help you celebrate National Gum Care Month, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, shares the importance of gum care.

What is Gum Disease?

Lack of good oral health will develop into one of the four stages of gum disease. This includes gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Eventually, the harmful bacteria form into plaque on your teeth. As tartar accumulates around the gum line, your gums get progressively red, swollen, and irritated, and they finally tear away from the tooth, leaving a loose pocket.  Furthermore, gum disease damages your gums, facial structure, and teeth. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss because the gums can no longer support your teeth in place. Luckily, gum disease is preventable.

Effects Overall Wellness

Gum disease is a systemic condition caused by the body’s reaction to microorganisms, and it can have a significant effect on your general health. Our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, says that by avoiding or treating periodontal disease, you are helping to protect your body against other systemic inflammatory illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. In addition to osteoporosis, pulmonary disease, and cancer.

How Do Healthy Gums Appear?

Gums that are healthy are pink, firm, and do not bleed. Some signs of gum disease include red, sensitive, and swollen gums, bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. Additionally, you can achieve healthy gums by following a good oral health routine at home and at our dental office.

Daily Gum Health Tips & Tricks:

Getting your oral health under control is not as tough as you think. By consistently following good oral health regimen, you can have a healthy smile. To avoid gum disease, try the following gum health tips:

  • Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Should take between 2 to 3 minutes each time. 
  • Floss daily
  • To minimize bacteria in the mouth, rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
  • Stay hydrated
  • Schedule professional teeth cleaning every six months 
  • Stop using tobacco products.
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.

Contact High Desert Dental for all of your oral health needs. Our team is happy to help in any way we can.