Common Dental Emergencies

Common Dental Emergencies Grand Junction CO Emergency Dentist

Common Dental Emergencies

The Most Common Dental Emergencies

Common Dental Emergencies Grand Junction CO Emergency Dentist

When you inadvertently sever your finger while chopping food, you know it’s time to head to the local emergency room. But, what if you bite onto something and chip a tooth? Many people would still seek care in an emergency department. However, any forms of dental crises can be redirected from the emergency department and into your Grand Junction CO dentist office.

While redirecting dental crises to an emergency dentist near me, people ask “what is a dental emergency requiring a dentist vs which emergencies necessitate a emergency hospital visit?” To assist you in making this decision, our Grand Junction CO dentist shares common dental emergencies.

Toothache

Toothache can be caused by a variety of dental issues, and its source should be determined so that it can be treated. Pulp infections and anything wedged between two teeth are two typical causes of toothaches. When tooth pain appears abruptly, worsens gradually, or is severe, it is critical to consult an emergency dentist. In the interim, a cold compress may help relieve some of the pain.

Soft Tissue Damage

Lips, gums, the inside of the cheeks, and the tongue are examples of soft tissues in the mouth. If one of these structures is damaged, you should contact your emergency dentist Grand Junction for advice. Some circumstances may necessitate the services of an emergency dentist, while others may necessitate a trip to the emergency hospital. Before applying pressure to stop bleeding, soft tissue injuries such as lacerations, punctures, and rips should be washed with warm water.

Dental Restorations That Are Missing or Are Loose

Both permanent and temporary restorations can become loose or fall out, however temporary restorations are significantly more prone to do so. They both require emergency dental care, regardless of the method of repair. You will need to bring in the restoration for a lasting repair. You may be able to maintain a temporary repair in place with Vaseline, chapstick, or denture glue until you visit your dentist.

“When tooth pain appears abruptly, worsens gradually, or is severe, it is critical to consult an emergency dentist. Come see us at High Desert Dental so we can relieve your pain.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Cracks or Chips

Chips and cracks in the teeth can occur as a result of biting down on hard objects, utilizing teeth for purposes other than biting and chewing, or as a result of an accident. People who grind or clench their teeth are more prone to chipping or cracking their teeth. If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, you should see an emergency dentist right once. Any tooth pieces should be washed and stored in a glass of milk or water before being brought to your emergency dental appointment.

If you believe you are experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact our team! We’d love to help you relieve your pain as quickly as possible. 

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Gum Disease treatment options grand junction co

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Your Gum Disease Treatment Options

Gum Disease treatment options grand junction co

Gum (periodontal) illnesses are treated differently based on the stage of disease, how you responded to previous therapies and your general health. Following a complete periodontal assessment, suggestions range from non-surgical treatments to surgical procedures. For example, bacterial growth can be controlled non-surgically. Thus, surgical techniques rebuild the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Below, our Grand Junction Co Dentist shares the gum disease treatment options. 

What are the non-surgical gum disease treatments?

Below, we share the non-surgical gum disease treatments.

Professional Teeth Cleanings

First, during a routine checkup, your dentist in Grand Junction CO removes plaque and tartar that have accumulated and hardened on the tooth surface. For example, plaque is the ‘film’ that forms on teeth, causing cavities and gum disease. Additionally, tartar is a complex, yellowish deep deposit that forms on teeth. As follows, when plaque and tartar have accumulated to this amount, they can only be removed by a professional cleaner. Thus, plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gum line of all your teeth during the cleaning. So, if you show indications of gum disease, your dentist may advise you to undergo a tooth cleaning in Grand Junction CO

Root Planing & Scaling

This is a non-surgical thorough cleaning treatment performed under local anesthetic. Additionally, plaque & tartar are scraped from above and below the gum line (scaling). In addition, any rough places on the tooth root are smoothed (planning). As follows, smoothing the wild areas eliminates germs and provides a clean surface for the gums to reconnect to the tooth.

What are surgical gum disease treatments?

If your gum disease is more intense, you may be in need of surgery. 

Pocket Reduction Surgery

 The gums are pulled back, and tartar is removed during this operation. In certain circumstances, the injured bone’s uneven surfaces are smoothed. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, explains that this reduces the number of places where disease-causing microorganisms may hide. The gums are then positioned so that they fit tightly around the tooth. By reducing the space between the gum and the tooth, you also limit the locations where hazardous germs may develop. The risk of significant health problems caused by periodontal disease is also minimized.

Bone Grafts

First, bone Grafts are surgical procedures that employ portions of your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone. Grafts replace – and aid in the regeneration of – bone in regions damaged by periodontal disease. Thus, this restores the teeth’ stable connection to the bone. Another method known as tissue engineering stimulates your own body to produce new bone and tissue rapidly.

Soft Tissue Grafts

First, this surgery repairs weak gums or fills gaps left by receding gums (areas where the tooth’s root is exposed). Also, grafted tissue is then sewn in place, most often from the roof of the mouth.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

 Importantly, this method accelerates bone and gum tissue renewal. This is after the bone supporting your teeth has been damaged. Thus, a thin piece of mesh-like cloth is put between the bone and gum tissue in conjunction with flap surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kacos, the best dentist in Shreveport LA, explains that this prevents the gum tissue from growing into the bone’s place, enabling bone and connective tissue to rebuild and better support the teeth.

“Gum Disease impacts the entire body, so it is essential to take care of it as soon as possible. Thus, if you suspect you may have gum disease, contact our practice immediately.” – Dr. Eastham

Gum Disease Treatment Options Continued

Bone Surgery

Lastly, bone surgery is used to smooth up shallow pits in the bone caused by moderate to severe bone loss. Thus, the bone around the tooth is modified after flap surgery to reduce craters. In conclusion, this makes it more difficult for germs to gather and flourish.

Contact High Desert Dental Today For Gum Disease Treatment

In conclusion, if you suspect you have gum disease, you must contact our dentist in Grand Junction CO immediately. We’d love to help you get your dental health back on track. Please, schedule your first appointment today!

Smile Goals For 2022

smile goals for 2022

Smile Goals for 2022

Healthy Smile Goals for 2022

smile goals for 2022

The new year is right around the corner, and if you’re like most people, you probably have a resolution or two lined up. As your Grand Junction CO dentist, we want you to start 2022 with goals to maintain optimal oral health. Today on the blog, our team shares how to improve your smile in the new year and smile goals for 2022. 

How to Improve Your Smile in the New Year with Your Grand Junction Dentist

The New Year is quickly approaching, and everyone is making resolutions. Typically, resolutions are about saving money, reducing weight, or eating healthier, but we’re here to speak about making your New Year’s resolution about improving your dental health. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, is here with some New Year’s resolutions for a healthy, happy smile!

Quit Bad Habits

This is also featured in one of the many common resolves. Quitting smoking and tobacco usage is not only good for your general health, but it is also good for your oral health. Tobacco remains in the mouth for an extended period of time, producing immediate oral and dental problems. It raises your chances of getting cavities, gum recession, gum disease, tooth loss, and certain malignancies like oral, throat, and lung cancer.

Additionally, if you have a habit to open containers with your teeth, our Grand Junction dentist office urges you to stop. 

Improve Your Nutrition

Another popular resolution is to lose weight. Gyms are generally known to be quite crowded around the New Year, with individuals trying to improve their physical fitness. However, modifying your diet is also beneficial! Including more veggies and fruits in your diet can help enhance your oral health. Dr. Wade, the best dentist in Pinellas Park FL, explains that fruits and vegetables that naturally contain water and are particularly crunchy work with your grin, stimulate your saliva, and strengthen your jaw.

Get a Smile Makeover in Grand Junction CO

Considering cosmetic dentistry? At our cosmetic dentistry in Grand Junction, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments. If you’re looking for dental crowns, dental veneers, or a simple teeth whitening treatment, we’re here for you! Glow up in 2022 with a beautiful new smile. 

“Bi-annual check-ups are key to your oral health! By regularly visiting your Grand Junction CO dentist, you will enhance your oral and dental health, and you’ll be glad to share your smile into the New Year!” – Dr. Eastham

Schedule Your Grand Junction CO Tooth Cleaning

Visiting the dentist is a common visit that many avoid because they believe their oral health is great. Unfortunately, there may be hidden difficulties that may not manifest themselves until it is too late! These bi-annual check-ups will only enhance your oral and dental health, and you’ll be glad to share your smile into the New Year!

Dentures FAQ

dentures FAQ Grand Junction CO dentist

Dentures FAQ

What is the Dentures Process Like?

dentures FAQ Grand Junction CO dentist

Dentures are an excellent option for patients who do not want to undergo a lengthy procedure but still require a replacement for missing or extracted teeth. Dentures in Grand Junction CO can be taken out and put back in your mouth whenever you want. Patients at High Desert Dental can receive full or partial dentures, depending on their specific needs. Today on the blog, our dentist in Grand Junction CO shares our Dentures FAQ. 

What is the Procedure for Getting New Dentures?

Standard dentures typically take a few weeks and four or five appointments. Below, our Grand Junction dentist shares our process.

  1. Impressions – a mold of your gums and/or teeth is taken.
  2. Bite Registration entails measuring your bite and selecting your new teeth with your Wax.
  3. Try-On –  This is when you get to see and try on your new dentures before they are finished.
  4. Take-Home – Finally, you get to take your new teeth home with you.

When Will Dentures Feel Normal? 

Dentures, like any new appliance, may feel strange at first. Even the best-fitting dentures will feel awkward at first, so new denture wearers should give themselves some time to adjust to their new “teeth.” While most patients can resume normal speech within a few hours, many patients report eating discomfort for several weeks. Start with soft, easy-to-chew foods to get used to chewing with a new denture. Denture wearers may also notice a slight change in facial appearance, increased salivary flow, or minor speech difficulty.

They may cause increased salivation or alter speech. To begin, cut food into small pieces, avoid hot foods, and avoid hard foods until the tissue on which the denture rests becomes accustomed to the new teeth. They will become more familiar to you as time passes. This will take time, and you may experience some sores at first; don’t be alarmed.

What Do I Do If My Dentures Are Slipping? 

The tissue and bone may shrink slightly over time. Your dentures will become looser as a result of this. Additionally, as you lose or gain weight, you may notice that your denture loosens. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, explains that they can be relined to fit snugly again. However, if their bases have deteriorated significantly, you may need to get a new denture.

Who is a Candidate for Dentures?

Everyone who is missing teeth in some way should wear a denture. Complete dentures are used for people who are edentulous (have no natural teeth left), while partial dentures are used for people who have some natural teeth left. A partial is necessary to keep the remaining natural teeth from shifting, which will happen if the gaps are not filled in. Additionally, our friends at College Hill Dental, Easton PA Dentist, explain that dentures improve chewing and speech while also providing facial support. Thus, this improves your appearance and smile dramatically.

Do I Brush my Dentures the Same Way I Brush my Natural Teeth?

If possible, dentures should be cleaned after each meal. The best method is to remove and rinse them. Brushing the dentures and rinsing the mouth to remove any debris is recommended if one is able. Brushing is always recommended if some natural teeth remain. Soak your dentures at night after brushing them; if desired, use a denture cleaner such as Renew. Allowing them to dry out may cause them to warp. It is also far healthier to leave your dentures out overnight to avoid putting undue strain on the soft tissue and bone. Always brush your tongue and gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush. On the dentures, special denture brushes should be used. Dentures should not be cleaned with regular toothpaste because it is too abrasive.

Do I Wear My Dentures at Night? 

Under normal circumstances, it is recommended that they be removed at night. Dr. Kim, Dentist Lexington KY, explains that removing the denture for at least eight hours during the day or night allows the gum tissue to rest while also allowing normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. This promotes better long-term gum health.

Do I Still Need Dental Appointments If I Have No Natural Teeth? 

It is critical to maintaining regular checkups so that your Denturist can examine your oral tissues as well as your dentures. Your mouth will continue to change as you age as the bone beneath your denture shrinks or recedes. It is necessary to adjust, reline, or remake your denture over time in order to maintain a proper fit. Never attempt to adjust a denture on your own, and avoid using denture adhesives for an extended period of time. 

Contact High Desert Dental for Dentures in Grand Junction CO

Ready to get started with replacing your missing teeth? Contact High Desert Dental today. Our team would love to get you fitted for dentures and restore your smile. 

Dental Tips For the Holidays

Dental Tips For Holiday Season

Dental Tips for The Holiday Season

Dental Tips For the Holidays From Your Grand Junction Dentist

Dental Tips For Holiday Season

It’s the most amazing time of the year, and we want to make sure your new year starts off equally as well. As your dentist in Grand Junction CO, we want to make sure we share dental tips for the holiday season. 

In this article, we’ll go over recommendations for keeping your mouth healthy over the holidays and beyond! While these may be aimed at your youngsters, we urge adults to follow them as well.

Brush More Frequently

Brushing in the morning and evening may be plenty, but brushing once more in the afternoon couldn’t harm! Sweets are more easily available to children at home and at school over the holiday season, so try to urge your child to clean his teeth after lunch or as soon as he comes home. The longer sugar remains on your teeth, the more damage it does! 

Brush Properly

Did you know that there’s a proper technique to wash your teeth? If you don’t, chances are your youngster doesn’t either! While this is unlikely to be taught in school, our Grand Junction CO dentist is always delighted to explain the regulations. Here’s how you and your child should clean your teeth:

  • Apply a tiny quantity of fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces of each tooth with tiny, circular strokes.
  • Then, perform this for two minutes.
  • Brush your teeth and the inside of your mouth. 

Rinse & Floss

We cannot emphasize how important flossing is. How else will the teeth’s sides be cleaned? Flossing should begin for children as soon as they have two teeth that contact. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Juncton CO, always suggests glossing in the evening, after your lat meal. .

Drink Plenty of Water

Winter necessitates festive coffee drinks, apple cider, and hot chocolate, but don’t forget to drink enough of water throughout the day! Water aids in the removal of food and debris from the teeth and stimulates saliva production, both of which are necessary for a healthy, balanced mouth.

Keep Sweets to a Minimum

Sugar is a major contributor to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Cutting back where you can with sweets will be greatly beneficial to your oral health. 

Cut Back on Starches

Another thing to limit, from our friends at Park Hills Family Dentistry, Lexington KY dentist, is starches. At Christmas, mashed potatoes, buns, and pasta dishes are frequently served. Unfortunately, they, like sugary meals, can cause cavities. We don’t expect you to keep your child totally away from these items, but adding more vegetables to her plate rather of carbs is a modest change that might have a major impact.

Upgrade Your Tooth Cleaning Instruments

Christmas is an ideal time to give your child a new toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash! He might not be thrilled to open these, but they make excellent stocking stuffers!

Make An Appointment for a Cleaning

A clean, lovely grin is one of the greatest ways to start the new year. Children should see the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears and then every six months after that.

Don’t forget to schedule your child’s dental cleaning and checkup to ensure he or she has a healthy mouth all year.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options in Grand Junction CO

cosmetic dentistry options in grand junction co

Cosmetic Dentistry Options in Grand Junction CO

What Are My Cosmetic Dentistry Options?

cosmetic dentistry options in grand junction co

If you wish to improve the appearance of your smile, you have various options for cosmetic dental work.  Our Cosmetic Dentist in Grand Junction CO explains that cosmetic dentistry is becoming more popular. Thus, few reality programs have shown how a dentist can modify practically anyone’s teeth to give them the smile they want.

Below, our dentist in Grand Junction shares your cosmetic dentistry options in Grand Junction CO.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Importantly, not all of the techniques listed below will work for everyone. Thus, your Grand Junction CO dentist can advise you on which approach will work best for improving your smile.

Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Also known as “teeth bleaching,” this technique helps brighten and whiten your teeth if they are discolored or stained. As follows, it can be done either at the dentist’s office or at home. However, because not everyone’s teeth can be bleached, it’s essential to consult with your dentist beforehand.

Porcelain Veneers

Next, we have veneers. Veneers are thin shells composed of porcelain or composite material that are used in cosmetic dentistry. They are created to order and fastened to the front of the tooth. Our friends over at Gentle Dental, Bethlehem GA Dentist, shares that a veneer can be used to correct dental issues such as a slightly crooked tooth, discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or even gaps between the teeth. Contact us today for porcelain veneers in Grand Junction CO

Dental Implants for Cosmetic Purposes

A dental implant Grand Junction CO is a metal device used to replace lost teeth. The device is typically composed of titanium and is surgically implanted into the jawbone where the lost tooth is located. A dental implant is intended to serve as the tooth root and to hold artificial teeth such as a crown, bridge, or denture in place.

Cosmetic Dental Crowns

Crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made to fit over your whole tooth after it has been prepped by your cosmetic dentist. They are often constructed of acrylic or porcelain bonded to metal to withstand biting pressure. Dental crowns in Grand Junction are used in aesthetic dentistry to repair teeth that are poorly formed, significantly damaged, cracked, chipped, or have had big fillings, as well as to fix gaps between teeth.

“At High Desert Dental, we provide the highest standard of cosmetic dentistry in the Grand Junction, CO area. Whether you’re looking to reshape, redesign, or brighten up your smile, we have amazing options for you.” – Dr. Josh Eastham

Contact High Desert Dental For Cosmetic Dentistry Grand Junction CO

Our office is conveniently situated inside The Hillcrest Professional Offices building on Walnut Avenue and N 1st Street. We understand you have many options when it comes to selecting a Grand Junction Dentist for your family, and we appreciate your thought and confidence. Every time, we vow to provide five-star service. , and which process is most suited to your requirements. 

Use Your Dental Benefits

Use Your Dental Benefits Grand Junction CO

Use Your Dental Benefits

Use Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Use Your Dental Benefits Grand Junction CO

We look forward to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and, of course, New Year’s Eve as the end of the year approaches. Typically, we are so focused with ringing in the new year that we overlook the fact that our dental insurance policies no longer give any benefits after December 31st. However, our dentist in Grand Junction explains that this means that the insurance will expire if the yearly maximum is not fulfilled. 

Today on the blog, our team dives into why it’s important to use your dental benefits before the end of the year. So, if you’ve been searching “dentist near me” and need to get seen ASAP, we’re here for you! 

Why You Should Use Your Dental Benefits Before It’s Too Late

Here are five reasons why you should see your Grand Junction CO dentist before the year is out:

Maximum Annual Exhaustion

First, every dental insurance plan has a yearly maximum value, which can range between $1,000 and $1,500 depending on the insurer and approved operations. Importantly, the vast majority of dental insurance plans are renewed on January 1st, Additionally, any unused benefits do not carry over to the next year. As a consequence, our emergency dentist in Grand Junction explains that taking advantage of the maximum coverage amount is only logical.

The Premium is Paid

You would be paying or have already paid a premium amount to the insurance plan in order to claim coverage for dental benefits. The same is true for FSAs, which allow you to make pre-tax contributions to your dental plan directly from your paycheck. Our friends over at Digital Doc, the best intraoral camera providers, explain that all of these contributions would be in vain if dental treatments were not utilized.

Dental Service Fee Increase

Fee hikes are common, as they are for the vast majority of services. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction Co explains that all dentists musts also pay for equipment and medical supplies. When the cost of such supplies climbed, they would have little choice but to raise the service charge. In most cases, the new price arrangements would go into force in the new year. Delaying your dental visit may need a higher co-pay.

The Benefits of Overlapping

Certain dental procedures may quickly exceed your yearly limit, resulting in a higher out-of-pocket expense for you. To avoid this, consult with your dentist and plan your treatment so that your expenses are spread out over the course of the year, allowing you to make the most of your dental insurance coverage.

Dental Issues Extend

Aside from the aforementioned factors, the most important element is one’s dental health. The longer you put off oral health exams and dental procedures, the worse the condition may grow. Ignoring any type of oral health issue may exacerbate the condition and lead it to spread to other parts of the body. 

Use Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire in Grand Junction CO

Dental insurance is a genuine advantage since it gives complete coverage at an affordable price. Don’t throw it away; use it as soon as possible, ideally by December 31st. If you follow these simple dental care rules, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy while enjoying the Thanksgiving turkey, pies, and cakes. Happy Thanksgiving!

Oral Health Tips For Thanksgiving

dental tips for thanksgiving

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving 2021

Oral Health Tips for thanksgiving

It’s Thanksgiving time once more! The ideal time of year to reconnect with family and friends over roasted turkey and offer thanks for all the blessings in our lives. It’s also an excellent moment to be thankful for your great smile and set of teeth. To ensure that you keep that beautiful smile during the holidays, our dentist in Grand Junction CO has created this Thanksgiving dental guide. This is so you don’t ruin your holiday  vacation with dental difficulties like toothache or a fractured filling. Below, check out our Dental Tips For Thanksgiving.

Slowly & Carefully Consume Your Food

First, we recommend keeping an eye on your turkey since there are bones. As follows, eat slowly and gently chew your meal. To avoid shattering your teeth, dentures Grand Junction CO, or fillings, avoid biting strongly when eating. Additionally, our Grand Junction dentist recommends to limit your intake of sticky or chewy foods, especially if you have recently had dental fillings or dentures replaced.

Consume More Water

Water is always the answer! As follows, our emergency dentist Grand Junction CO suggests drinking plenty of water between meals and throughout the day. This is especially if you’re going to be eating a lot of food or drinking juices or fizzy drinks. 

Brush, Floss, and Rinse

Because of all the foods and desserts you’ll be eating with family and friends throughout Thanksgiving and the holiday season, you should be especially careful and take extra care of your teeth. Carry a travel-size toiletry kit that includes toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash in pocket size. Our friends at College Hill Dental, family dentist in Easton PA, recommend that after eating, take a brief trip to the toilet to floss, brush, and rinse your mouth. Also, you can contact your general dentist near me after the holidays to schedule a teeth cleaning

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chew sugar-free gum after a meal to remove food particles that have been caught between your teeth and beneath the gum line. Furthermore, gums contribute in the maintenance of a healthy flow of saliva, which is believed to aid in food digestion.

“Sips of water can assist wash away the acid and food particles, as well as enhance your saliva flow, which reduces plaque formation and tooth decay. Drink tons of water this Thanksgiving!” – Grand Junction CO Dentist

Make an Appointment With Your Grand Junction CO Dentist Today

Make an appointment for a post-Thanksgiving dental cleaning with our Grand Junction office today. At High Desert Dental, we offer cleanings, check-ups, and other dental procedures such as cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and teeth whitening. This will assist you prevent dental problems and retain your attractive and bright smile for future holidays. Happy Thanksgiving!

Dental Implants FAQ

Dental implant faq

Dental Implant FAQ

What to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implant faq

What Exactly Are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants are a titanium alloy prosthetic tooth root that are used to replace missing teeth. As follows, this functions in place of a natural tooth root, avoiding bone loss in the jaw. Once the implant has fused with your jaw, a permanent abutment and crown are placed on top. Then, the dental implants Grand Junction will look and feel like a natural tooth. If you’ve been searching, “dental implants near me” you’ve come to the right place!

What Kinds of Dental Implants Are There?

The diameter of full-sized dental implants ranges between 3.4 and 5.8 mm. Mini dental implants, on the other hand, have a diameter of 1.8 to 3.0 mm. Our Grand Junction dentist explains that the invasiveness and recuperation duration of your surgery are affected by the size difference.

Because micro implants are smaller, they do not require as much bone density in your jaw to be placed. A ball at the end of a tiny implant allows the crown to snap into place. This crown will have a socket below it to form a secure connection with the implant.

Do you have many or all of your teeth missing? If this is the case, Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, may suggest implant-supported dentures or all-on-6 implants. A detachable implant-supported denture is possible. All-on-6 implants, on the other hand, permanently attach an arch of teeth to your jaw.

What Should I Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure?

The typical dental implant procedure takes many months to complete. However, keep in mind that small dental implants can be obtained in as little as one consultation. Your experience will be entirely determined by the type of dental implant selected.

Consultation

Dr. Eastham will assess if you are a candidate for dental implants during your appointment. In order for us to insert the implants, you must have sufficient bone density in your jaw. Keep in mind, though, that you don’t require as much bone density to be eligible for tiny dental implants.

The treatment we chose will also be determined by the number of teeth you desire to replace. Patients with few or no teeth, for example, may request implant-supported dentures.

Procedure

Additionally, we will do 3D CT scans to assess the health of your jawbone and nerve location. Our practice will also design a precise surgical guide that will be placed over your teeth during the treatment. 

The use of a surgical guide reduces the invasiveness of dental implant surgery. Our friends over at OG Dental, Denver Highlands dentist, explain that this is because the implant’s hole is so tiny. Thus, you have a considerably lesser chance of swelling, bleeding, and infection. You will also recuperate far more quickly than if you went to a dentist who did not employ a surgical guide. Dentists who do not employ guides must make a big incision along the gum line all the way down to the bone. This also lengthens and complicates the recuperation process.

Recovery

Whatever dental implants you choose, it is critical that you allow yourself adequate time to heal. While recovering after surgery, soft meals like yogurt and mashed potatoes are ideal.

Following the placement of your implants, you will have multiple visits.  As follows, your implants will bond to your jawbone over the course of many months. 

Restoration

Then, you will install the permanent abutment and crown over the implant once you have recovered and the implant is stable. As follows, this will offer you the appearance and functionality of a real tooth.

“Dental implants are well worth the investment since they restore both your smile and your dental health. No other tooth replacement solution has this capability!” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Implants Grand Junction

Ready to get started with dental implants? Contact our team at High Desert Dental today. We’d love to discuss your restorative dentistry options. 

TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ grand junction

TMJ Awareness Month

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TMJ grand junction

Not only is it the middle of autumn and the start of the holiday season, but it’s also TMJ Awareness Month! At High Desert Dental, our Grand Junction dentist believes it is our responsibility to educate our patients about Temporomandibular Joint Disorder as their dentists and TMJ experts. Its symptoms, causes, treatment choices, and what happens if you ignore it are all covered. If you’re not familiar with TMJ, stay reading to learn more.

What is Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD)?

Your jaw opens and closes like a door. Our dentist in Grand Junction CO explains that it has a hinge on the bottom that allows it to open and close. The temporomandibular joint functions similarly to a door hinge, and when you have TMJ disease, the hinge isn’t functioning properly. This is frequently because the dysfunction is caused by an imbalance, strain, or injury. The malfunction can cause pain and discomfort, which can make daily life difficult. Unfortunately, ignoring TMJ will just exacerbate the situation.

The door (your jaw) will eventually become stuck open or closed. TMJ therapy is your only option for alleviating discomfort and restoring proper jaw function.

What is the root of the problem?

The temporomandibular joint functions similarly to a hinge, but with sliding motions as well. The cartilage-covered portions of the jawbones that interact with the temporomandibular joint are separated by a tiny disk that absorbs shock and allows for smooth movement. The disk is either eroded or out of position in a TMJ condition, the joint’s cartilage has been destroyed by arthritis, or the joint has been harmed by a physical accident.

“We strongly advise you to see a dentist for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ. A good diagnosis is necessary for a successful treatment approach.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Common Causes of TMJ

Below, Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, shares the common causes of TMJ.

  • Misalignment of the jaw
    clenching and grinding (bruxism)
  • Injury to the body
  • Stress
  • Bad posture

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of TMJ issues is the best approach to guarantee that you receive treatment as soon as possible. We worked with our friends at Shreveport Dental Solutions, dentist in Shreveport LA, to discuss the signs. The following are the most prevalent signs to look out for:

  • Pain in the jaw, face, back, or neck
  • Ear ache or a congested sensation
  • Ears ringing (tinnitus)
  • Migraines or headaches on a regular basis
  • Lockjaw is a term used to describe a situation (jaw stuck open or closed)
  • Something is wrong with this bite.
  • Finger numbness or tingling
  • Tooth wear that is excessive
  • Jaw clicking or popping
  • Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)

What Should I Do If I Am Suspecting That I Have It?

Our dentists will also take a thorough medical history from you and check your jaw muscles and joints for areas of strain or pain. We can assess if you have TMJ and what you need for a successful therapy with all of this information.

What Happens If I Don’t Seek Treatment for TMJ?

Before you dismiss the idea of coming in for a consultation, consider what will happen if you refuse treatment. To begin with, your pain will not go away. It’s possible that things will deteriorate. You’ll have more headaches and migraines, as well as pain in your jaw, neck, and face. You may just have one symptom at first, but this can quickly escalate to many symptoms.

TMJ that isn’t treated might have a negative impact on your dental health. If you grind and clench your teeth all the time, it can wear down the enamel and possibly fracture and split the teeth.

Finally, untreated TMJ might result in serious jaw issues. It’s possible that the jaw will become permanently stuck open or closed, or that it will dislocate.

The longer you wait to get help, the more likely you are to need surgery to fix your problem. Furthermore, you will be required to pay for additional restorative dentistry procedures in order to improve the health of your teeth.

Call High Desert Dental Today for TMJ Treatment

If there’s one thing you should remember from this blog for TMJ Awareness Month, it’s to see a dentist as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. Contact our team at High Desert Dental to learn more.