Gum Disease in Children

gum disease in children

Gum Disease in Children

Gum Disease Awareness Month: Children's Gum Disease

gum disease in children

The month of February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. You may be wondering, “Can toddlers have gum disease?” The truth is that, while more severe types of gum disease are uncommon in children, persistent gingivitis is frequent in children of all ages. The good news is that parents who take an active interest in their child’s dental health routine can easily avoid significant difficulties from happening. Below, our family dentist Grand Junction shares the primary warning indicators to look for to ensure your child isn’t in the early stages of gum disease.

What Does Gum Disease Look Like?

Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, put together a list of the symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • While brushing or flossing your teeth, you may experience bleeding.
  • Puffiness or swelling of the gums, or any other sign that they are irritated or inflammatory
  • Bad breath (halitosis) that persists after regular brushing and flossing
  • Receding gum lines that expose the tooth’s root

Below, our family dentist in Grand Junction shares three forms of gum disease that children might get and tips on how to avoid these oral health issues.

Early Stages of Gum Disease: Chronic Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a minor kind of gum disease, did you know? If you see your child’s gums bleed when brushing or flossing their teeth, this indicates gingivitis in its early stages. Fortunately, this sort of gum disease is readily treatable! Brushing and flossing regularly and thoroughly are the most effective techniques to prevent gum disease. However, if neglected or untreated, chronic gingivitis can deteriorate. Our friends at College Hill, dentist Easton PA, shares that this ca then and progress to a far more dangerous type of periodontal disease, such as periodontitis.

Aggressive Periodontitis

Adolescents are more prone than adults to develop aggressive periodontitis. However, in contrast to other gum diseases, children with severe periodontitis are unlikely to build dental plaque or tartar. Aggressive periodontitis is characterized by alveolar bone loss and affects the molars or incisors. 

Periodontitis with Aggressive Behavior

Around the age of puberty, your child may develop generalized aggressive periodontitis, which can affect the entire mouth. If severe periodontitis has set, you should expect to witness gum inflammation, plaque buildup, and tartar.  This is a far more dangerous form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss early on.

Periodontal Disease Prevention

While it may be tempting for children to miss a night and go to bed without cleaning their teeth, an irregular oral health practice might lead to problems in the future. If brushing before sleep is difficult for your children, have them brush soon after dinner, as long as no snacks follow.

Your family dentist near me will be able to detect any indications of periodontal disease. This is especially true if you keep up with frequent dental examinations. Then, based on the severity of the symptoms, we can find a treatment strategy. 

“Kids can avoid gingivitis by maintaining a consistent dental health regimen at home. Parents should watch their children’s brushing habits until they reach the age of eight to practice good behaviors regularly and brush and floss correctly.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease will not go on its own. If your kid develops gingivitis early, it may be addressed with frequent dental exams and a strict oral hygiene program at home. If their gum disease has already progressed to a more critical level, they may require more regular dental exams, such as thorough cleanings every three months.

We hope this post has increased your understanding of how gum disease affects children and how you, as parents, may help avoid it.

What is Dental Bonding?

what is dental bonding

What is Dental Bonding?

What to Know About Dental Bonding in Grand Junction CO

what is dental bonding

Dental bonding is a process that is frequently used to replace decayed teeth, repair chipped or broken teeth. Additionally, our dentist in Grand Junction explains that it is used to conceal various dental flaws such as stains, discolorations, gaps, malformed, or undersized teeth.
Dental bonding in Grand Junction is a common approach for repairing and enhancing the appearance of a person’s smile. It qualifies as a cosmetic operation since the composite resins used in the process are tooth-colored and come in various hues that merge flawlessly with natural tooth structure.

How Does Dental Bonding Work? 

First, it’s important to know that a “direct composite restoration” is a dental bonding operation used to fill a cavity or aesthetically fix a tooth. For example, a chip, fracture, enamel flaw, or gap between teeth. Additionally, our dentist office in Grand Junction direct composite restoration requires both creativity and accuracy. This is so because your dentist sculpts the appropriate shade of composite resin to repair or improve the look of a tooth.

Is It Expensive?

A dental bonding process is regarded as the cheapest and fastest way of care for the aesthetic repair of dental flaws. This is because it masks the discolorations, or the closing of gaps between teeth.
Dental bonding, as opposed to porcelain veneers or ceramic crowns, is a less invasive, one-visit aesthetic surgery.
Furthermore, unless a cavity is cleansed and prepped before a dental bonding operation, no tooth structure is drilled. Therefore, no anesthetic is necessary.

What is the  Process Like?

It is critical to allow the composite resin to securely bond to the underlying tooth structure while executing a bonding operation.
To do this, the tooth’s surface is etched and then coated with a liquid bonding agent shortly prior to the implantation of the filling or cosmetic bonding. When the dentist applies the composite resin, it is molded to obtain the desired form. Then it is cured with a special light or let to set. The freshly bonded repair is sanded and rubbed for a flawless surface once solidified.

Taking Care of Bonded Teeth

While a bonding technique is a fantastic and cost-effective means of treating minor, aesthetic dental concerns, this has drawbacks. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, explains that teeth that have been healed or aesthetically improved with a dental bonding operation are more prone to discoloration. Additionally, they are more prone to chipping than teeth that have had other forms of cosmetic procedures. As a result, intensely colored meals and beverages and tobacco products should be avoided. Because dental bonding is readily chipped and broken, it is also necessary not to bite into complex objects or meals and prevent oral habits like biting one’s nails or chewing on pens.
On the other hand, our friend Dr. Kim, Dentist in Lexington KY, explains that a bonded restoration can survive for many years with adequate cleaning and maintenance.

“Bonding can be used to repair fractures or gaps in teeth, as a filling after a cavity has been removed, or to conceal stains or discolored teeth.” – Dr. Eastham

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Bonding in Grand Junction

 To book a dental bonding consultation, please contact our Grand Junction dentist office. This is an excellent alternative if you want to improve the overall appearance of your smile.

Children’s Dental Health Month

celebrating childrens dental health month

Children's Dental Health Month

Celebrating Children's Dental Health Month With Tips & Tricks

celebrating childrens dental health month

The American Dental Association observes National Children’s Dental Health Month in February. This month-long national health observance emphasizes the significance of oral health in children while also providing recommendations for parents to keep their child’s smile on track! Our dentist in Grand Junction loves to use this occasion to give oral health recommendations and promote awareness of the need for children’s dental care at a young age.

At the first appointment, parents/guardians will have the chance to ask their dentist in Grand Junction CO questions and address any dental concerns, and the dentist will gently swab the child’s mouth to examine their gums and any erupted teeth. Then, as your kid begins to teethe, the dentist will be able to monitor their progress and apply preventative measures if there are any issues with their teeth.

“It is never too early to begin thinking about your child’s dental health! The American Association of Pediatric Dentists suggests that parents create a dental home for their kids when they get their first teeth or turn one.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Tips for Keeping Your Child's Oral Health in Check

Our family dentistry in Grand Junction CO take satisfaction in treating patients throughout such critical early childhood years. They have undergone further training beyond dental school to work exclusively with newborns and children in monitoring early oral development as pediatric dentists. We propose the following oral health guidelines to get your children started on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

If your child hasn’t seen a dentist in more than six months, make an appointment as soon as possible.

Clean Your Baby’s Gums Daily

Until those teeth appear, gently brush a moist towel over the gums after each meal to remove dangerous germs.

Begin Brushing Right Away

When you notice your baby coming in, start cleaning their teeth with an infant toothbrush. Use water and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

Brush For Two Minutes Twice a Week

Fluoride toothpaste should be used in a pea-sized quantity by children aged 2 to 6. Brushing children under six should always be supervised, as they are more prone to ingest toothpaste.

Start Flossing

When your child’s teeth come together, you may begin flossing between them.

Eat A Nutritious Snack

Fruit juice, sports drinks, fruit snacks, and sticky sweets are all harmful to your child’s teeth. Instead,  our friend Dr. Hobfoll, best pediatric dentist in SLC shares that if give calcium-rich snacks to your children, such as cheese or low-sugar yogurt. If you must eat candy, a chocolate bar is better than gummy or sticky sweets, which can become caught between the teeth even after cleaning.

Maintain Their Hydration

Avoid sugary beverages in favor of good old-fashioned water. Water aids in the removal of any sugar or particles that may cause cavities. In addition, many municipal water sources also include fluoride, which is suggested as an effective strategy to prevent tooth decay by the American Dental Association and the Surgeons General of the United States.

Any questions for Dr. Eastham about your child’s oral health? Contact our dentist near me today. 

Benefits of Seeing a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

The Benefits of Seeing a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

Family and general dentistry share many similarities in that they give high-quality dental care to patients. In addition, they can use the same equipment and follow the same standards. Also, they provide patients with information about their oral health. Unlike general dentistry, however, family dentistry treats patients of all ages and can provide dental care for multiple family members in the same office. Family dentists make life much easier for families looking for dentists because they can treat all members regardless of age. In addition, family dentists do not discriminate and strive to deliver the most comprehensive services in their communities, providing families with the security they require. Today on the blog, our dentist in Grand Junction CO shares why see a family dentist.

Convenient Dental Appointments

To start, a family dentist often allows families to schedule appointments for all family members on the same day. Thus, scheduling is easier. Our family dentist in Grand Junction explains that from tiny toddlers to elderly, we’re able to see every member of your family. 

Enhanced Access to Dental Services

Unlike regular dentists, family dentists provide several dental treatments and procedures within the exact location. Then you and your family won’t have to travel far for dental care. As follows, cleaning, child braces, dentures, vital operations and more are all available at a family dentist near me.

Tracking Dental History Takes Less Time

Importantly, having a dentist for the complete family means that all of your family’s dental records will be kept in one location. In addition, a family dentist will be able to track your family’s medical history over time. Our Grand Junction dentist explains that they can chat with you about any hereditary disorders they may find. Additionally, Dr. Hobfoll, pediatric dentist in SLC, shares that understanding a family’s genetics is especially crucial. For example, when dealing with dental health for families with children. Then, a family dentist will provide the insight needed to maintain excellent dental hygiene.

Make the Experience Easy For Your Child

Children who visit pediatric and family dentists will be able to form strong relationships with them. Additionally, kids who have good encounters with their dentists are more likely to maintain their dental health. So, because of the trust that has been established, those children are likely to visit the dentist forever.

Develop a Long-Term Relationship with Your Dentist

Overall, dealing with a family dentist entails developing trust. Additionally, family dentists are more likely to alleviate their patients’ anxiety. Also, this allows them to speak about their problems more efficiently than conventional dentists. Of course, kids and the elderly will know that they are in excellent hands.

Contact Our Family Dentist in Grand Junction CO Today

Lastly, our team of family dentistry professionals at High Desert Dental is here for you. Dr. Eastham works tirelessly to educate his patients about their oral health. Additionally, he helps children find comfort at the dentist. In conclusion, lease make an appointment with High Desert Dental today to learn more about our services.

Dental Implants Myth Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Common Myths About Dental Implants

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

You have most likely heard about dental implants if you are missing teeth. As follows, dental implants, often known as tooth implants, are metal screws or posts that a restorative dentist surgically inserts into the jawbone behind the gums. They are strong, stable, and permanent. Additionally, once in place, the replacement teeth are screwed into the screws.

Our Grand Junction Dentist explains that implants are the most effective way to improve your smile. Thus, they can replace a single tooth or a complete set of teeth. They have the appearance, feel, and function of natural teeth. 

“Dental Implants have an incredible success rate. In fact, few surgeries in life have such an incredible rate, making them a safe, effective procedure.” – Dr. Josh Eastham, Dentist in Grand Junction CO

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Nonetheless, misunderstandings regarding dental implants in Grand Junction continue, preventing some qualified candidates from receiving the dental care they require. Below, Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, shares common dental implants myths debunked.

Myth #1: Implants Don’t Last Awhile

First off, this is not correct! However, every patient is unique, and there are no guarantees, but implants can last a lifetime if properly cared for. As follows, this entails cleaning, flossing, and visiting a dentist regularly, just as you would with real teeth. Because implants are sealed beneath a crown, they last a long period.

Myth #2: In a Day, You’ll Have New Teeth

This misconception stems from aggressive promotion, which leads some people to believe they can obtain their implants in a day. However, the full implant process includes:

  • First, an initial consultation.
  • Next, X-rays or scans.
  • Then, Implant preparation.
  • Maybe follow-up sessions.
  • This procedure guarantees that a patient is a good candidate for implants and that the implants are placed correctly.

Myth #3: Implants Are For Elders Only

A restorative dentist will assess a patient’s overall health, jaw bone strength, and gum tissue health. These are what matter, not a person’s age. Implants can benefit people of all ages.

Myth #4: Getting Implants Is Expensive

This is a rather popular myth. Implant surgery is done under general anesthesia, with nitrous oxide (“laughing gas,” or sedation). This ensures that the patient is not in any discomfort during the treatment.  Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Dentist in Colorado Springs CO, shares that there may be some tenderness following the procedure, but this is normally readily treated with over-the-counter pain medication. If necessary, stronger pain relievers can be administered.

Myth #5: Implant Surgery Is Dangerous

Dental implant surgery has a 95% to 98 percent success rate. Additionally, implants do not fall out and cannot be lost, save in exceptional situations. Thus, few things in life have such a high success rate, and most patients are delighted with their new teeth.

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Implants in Grand Junction

Ready to discuss your treatment plan? We’re here to help. Contact our dentist in Grand Junction today to learn more about dental implants. 

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.