Common Signs of Gum Disease

Common Signs of Gum Disease

Common Signs of Gum Disease

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Spotting the Red Flags: Recognizing Common Signs of Gum Disease at High Desert Dental

Common Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent condition that affects many adults. It begins with inflammation of the gums and can lead to more serious dental issues if not addressed. At High Desert Dental, recognized as the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, we aim to educate our patients about the signs and symptoms of gum disease to encourage early detection and treatment. We will explore the common signs of gum disease, its causes, and the importance of seeking timely dental care.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease occurs when bacteria in plaque accumulate on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and infection. It can be classified into two main stages:

  1. Gingivitis: This is the early stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is often reversible with proper dental care and improved oral hygiene.

  2. Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation affects deeper tissues and bone supporting the teeth. This stage can lead to tooth mobility, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

Common Signs of Gum Disease

1. Bleeding Gums: One of the most noticeable signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing. If you notice blood in the sink or on your toothbrush, it may indicate inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Healthy gums should not bleed, so this symptom should not be ignored.

2. Swollen or Red Gums: Healthy gums should appear firm and pink. If your gums look swollen, red, or puffy, it may be a sign of gum disease. Inflammation is a response to infection, and swollen gums indicate that your body is trying to fight off bacteria.

3. Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be a sign of gum disease. The buildup of bacteria and plaque in the mouth can produce foul-smelling compounds, leading to persistent bad breath that does not improve with regular brushing or mouthwash.

4. Receding Gums: Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s surface or the tooth root. This can lead to increased sensitivity and a longer appearance of your teeth. If you notice that your teeth appear longer or gaps between your teeth are becoming more pronounced, you may be experiencing gum recession.

5. Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can lead to the loss of supporting bone around the teeth, resulting in looseness. If you notice that one or more of your teeth feel loose or shift position, it’s crucial to seek dental attention immediately.

6. Changes in Bite or Fit of Dentures: If you wear dentures and notice changes in how they fit or feel, this could indicate underlying gum disease. Shifting gums and bone loss can affect the way your dentures sit, leading to discomfort and potential sores in the mouth.

7. Pus Between Gums and Teeth: The presence of pus or a foul taste in the mouth can be a clear indicator of gum disease. Pus is a sign of infection, and if you notice this symptom, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible.

8. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can indicate gum disease. As gums recede and expose tooth roots, you may experience discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is primarily caused by poor oral hygiene, which leads to plaque buildup. Other contributing factors include:

  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can weaken the gums and make them more susceptible to infection.
  • Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormones, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect gum health.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune diseases, can increase the risk of gum disease.
  • Medications: Some medications can reduce saliva flow, leading to dry mouth and increased risk of gum disease.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet lacking in essential nutrients, particularly vitamin C, can weaken the immune system and gum health.

The Importance of Seeking Dental Care

Recognizing the signs of gum disease early is crucial for effective treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO. We offer comprehensive periodontal assessments and personalized treatment options to address gum disease effectively.

Treatment Options for Gum Disease

Treatment for gum disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. Early-stage gingivitis may be treated with improved oral hygiene practices and professional dental cleanings. For more advanced periodontitis, treatment may include:

  • Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
  • Antibiotic Therapy: Prescription medications to help control infection.
  • Surgical Treatments: In severe cases, surgical options may be necessary to restore gum health and prevent further tooth loss.

Contact Us

Gum disease is a common but preventable condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. By recognizing the common signs of gum disease and seeking timely dental care at High Desert Dental, you can protect your oral health and preserve your smile. If you have concerns about your gum health or haven’t had a dental check-up in a while, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let us help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health!

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What To Do in a Dental Emergency

What To Do in a Dental Emergency

What To Do in a Dental Emergency

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Dental Emergency Preparedness: Knowing What to Do in Urgent Oral Situations with High Desert Dental

What To Do in a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, causing pain, discomfort, and panic. Knowing how to handle these situations can make a significant difference in the outcome. At High Desert Dental, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies and are here to provide immediate and effective care. As the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, we offer expert advice on what to do during a dental emergency to protect your oral health and minimize discomfort.

Understanding Dental Emergencies

A dental emergency involves any situation that requires immediate attention to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or alleviate severe pain. Common dental emergencies include:

  1. Knocked-Out Tooth
  2. Chipped or Broken Tooth
  3. Severe Toothache
  4. Lost Filling or Crown
  5. Abscess or Infection
  6. Soft Tissue Injury

Recognizing these emergencies and knowing how to respond can help you act quickly and effectively.

Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you act quickly, there’s a chance the tooth can be reinserted and saved.

  1. Handle with Care: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), avoiding the root.
  2. Rinse Gently: Rinse the tooth with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
  3. Reinsert if Possible: Try to place the tooth back in its socket gently. If that’s not possible, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or a saline solution.
  4. Seek Immediate Care: Contact High Desert Dental immediately. Time is critical, and the sooner you receive professional care, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Chipped or Broken Tooth

A chipped or broken tooth can be painful and unsightly. Depending on the severity, it may also affect the tooth’s structure.

  1. Save the Pieces: If possible, save any pieces of the tooth.
  2. Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
  3. Apply Pressure: If there’s bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
  4. Cold Compress: Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth, cheek, or lip near the broken tooth to keep swelling down and relieve pain.
  5. Visit the Dentist: Schedule an appointment with High Desert Dental as soon as possible. We’ll assess the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Severe Toothache

Toothaches can be caused by various issues, such as cavities, infections, or gum disease.

  1. Rinse with Warm Water: Clean your mouth with warm water.
  2. Floss Gently: Remove any lodged food particles between your teeth.
  3. Avoid Painkillers Directly on Gums: Do not apply aspirin or other painkillers directly to the gums, as this can burn the tissue.
  4. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and pain.
  5. See a Dentist: Contact High Desert Dental to identify the cause of the toothache and receive appropriate treatment.
Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can expose the tooth and cause discomfort or sensitivity.

  1. Keep the Crown: If a crown falls off, save it and keep it safe.
  2. Temporary Fix: Use over-the-counter dental cement or even sugarless gum to temporarily fill the gap.
  3. Visit the Dentist: Schedule an appointment with High Desert Dental to replace the filling or crown.
Abscess or Infection

An abscess is a serious condition that can lead to severe pain and complications if not treated promptly.

  1. Rinse with Salt Water: Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution several times a day to reduce pain and draw the pus to the surface.
  2. Seek Immediate Care: Contact High Desert Dental immediately. An abscess can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Soft Tissue Injury

Injuries to the tongue, cheeks, gums, or lips can cause bleeding and require immediate attention.

  1. Clean the Area: Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution.
  2. Apply Pressure: Use a moistened piece of gauze or a tea bag to apply pressure to the bleeding site.
  3. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce swelling.
  4. Visit the Dentist: If the bleeding doesn’t stop, seek emergency care from High Desert Dental.

Why Choose High Desert Dental for Emergencies?

At High Desert Dental, we are equipped to handle dental emergencies with promptness and professionalism. Here’s why we are the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO:

  1. Experienced Team: Our skilled dentists and staff have extensive experience in managing dental emergencies.
  2. State-of-the-Art Facility: We use advanced technology and techniques to provide the best possible care.
  3. Compassionate Care: We prioritize patient comfort and care, ensuring a stress-free experience during emergencies.
  4. Availability: We offer flexible scheduling and emergency appointments to address your urgent needs.

Contact Us

Dental emergencies require swift and knowledgeable action to prevent further damage and alleviate pain. At High Desert Dental, we are committed to providing top-notch emergency dental care to the Grand Junction community. Remember, if you face a dental emergency, contact us immediately. As the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, High Desert Dental is here to ensure your oral health and safety.

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When to See an Emergency Dentist

When to See an Emergency Dentist July 8

When to See an Emergency Dentist

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Urgent Care for Your Smile: Recognizing When to Seek an Emergency Dentist in Grand Junction, CO

When to See an Emergency Dentist July 8

Dental emergencies can be unsettling, striking at the most unexpected times and causing significant discomfort. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown, knowing when to seek emergency dental care is crucial for preserving your oral health and well-being. In Grand Junction, CO, High Desert Dental offers urgent smile care when every moment counts. Let’s explore the signs of a dental emergency, why prompt action is essential, and why High Desert Dental is hailed as the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO for handling urgent dental needs.

Recognizing a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies encompass a range of issues that require immediate attention from a dentist. While some situations may seem minor at first, they can escalate quickly without proper treatment. Here are some common signs of a dental emergency:

  1. Severe Toothache: Persistent tooth pain with swelling or fever may indicate an infection requiring immediate treatment.

  2. Knocked-Out Tooth: If a tooth is knocked out due to trauma or injury, time is of the essence. Quickly seeking emergency dental care after keeping the tooth moist can improve re-implantation success.

  3. Broken or Cracked Tooth: A chipped tooth can lead to pain and infection by exposing inner layers. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage and preserve the tooth.

  4. Lost Dental Restoration: Promptly see a dentist if a filling, crown, or implant becomes loose to prevent complications and restore functionality.

  5. Severe Bleeding or Trauma: Seek urgent dental care for excessive bleeding or facial trauma to address the cause and prevent complications.

Why Prompt Action Is Essential

In dental emergencies, time is of the essence. Delaying treatment can worsen pain, raise infection risk, and cause irreversible damage to teeth and tissues. Urgent care from an emergency dentist is vital for preserving oral health, relieving discomfort, and reducing the need for extensive future treatments.

High Desert Dental: Your Trusted Emergency Dentist in Grand Junction, CO

High Desert Dental is committed to providing prompt and compassionate care for dental emergencies in Grand Junction, CO. Here’s why they are the best dentist in the area for urgent dental needs:

  1. Experienced Emergency Team: High Desert Dental’s team is prepared to handle various dental emergencies, from toothaches to traumatic injuries. With years of experience and expertise, they deliver efficient and effective treatment to alleviate pain and restore oral health.

  2. State-of-the-Art Facilities: High Desert Dental offers advanced emergency dental care in a comfortable setting with state-of-the-art facilities and technology.

  3. Compassionate Care: At High Desert Dental, patients are treated with compassion, respect, and understanding. The team listens to patients’ concerns, addresses their needs, and ensures comfort during emergency dental visits.

Contact Us

When a dental emergency strikes, every moment counts. For urgent dental issues like severe tooth pain or a knocked-out tooth, trust High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, CO for prompt, expert care. High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, CO is the top choice for dental emergencies, with an experienced team, advanced facilities, and compassionate patient care. Don’t hesitate to contact High Desert Dental whenever you need urgent dental care—your smile deserves nothing less than the best.

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How Root Canals Work

How Root Canals Work

How Root Canals Work

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

What is a Root Canal?

How Root Canals Work

A root canal is a dental procedure that is done to remove the infected or decayed pulp from inside of a tooth. The purpose of this procedure is to save the patient’s natural teeth and avoid needing to get the tooth extracted. During a root canal, your Grand Junction Dentist will enter through the crown of the tooth and clean out any infection or decay present in the pulp. They will then fill in the space with material and seal it off so that it can be properly restored.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

During a root canal, your dentist will first take an x-ray of your mouth to get an idea of what type of treatment you need. This step is important because it helps your dentist determine if there are any signs of infection or damage that they need to address during the procedure.

Once they have taken an x-ray, they will administer local anesthesia so that you won’t feel any discomfort during the process. Once numbed, they can then work on cleaning out any infected or decayed parts of your tooth and removing them from your mouth.

To ensure that no further damage occurs, your dentist may use files to shape the inside of your tooth before filling it up with a material such as gutta percha. This material helps keep bacteria from entering back into the area and causing additional damage down the line. Afterward, they may place a temporary crown over the area so that you can continue using it without pain until it heals completely.

Root canals are one way for patients in Grand Junction Colorado to save their natural teeth instead of having them extracted due to decay or infection. During this procedure, Dr. Josh will clean out any damaged or decayed areas within a tooth before filling it back up with material and sealing off its entrance so that no further damage occurs. With proper care after receiving a root canal, patients should be able to enjoy their restored teeth for many years to come! 

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Common Dental Emergencies During The Holiday

Emergency Dental Near Me

Common Dental Emergencies During The Holiday

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Five Common Dental Emergencies During The Holiday

Emergency Dental Near Me

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and celebrating. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when dental emergencies seem to happen more often. From eating sticky sweets to playing with hard candy canes, there are plenty of ways to damage your teeth during the holiday season. At High Desert Dental, we want you to be prepared for anything. Here are five common dental emergencies and what you can do to prevent them.

Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, and they can happen at any time—not just during the holidays. To prevent cavities, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. You should also avoid sugary drinks and snacks as much as possible and eat a balanced diet. If you do get a cavity, don’t worry! Cavities can be easily treated with fillings.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

Playing sports, eating hard candy, or even biting your nails can put you at risk for chipping or breaking a tooth. To prevent this, always wear a mouthguard when participating in any contact sports and avoid crunching on hard candy or ice cubes. If you do chip or break a tooth, save any pieces of the tooth that you find and rinse your mouth with warm water. Then, call your Grand Junction CO dentist right away. Depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist near you may be able to repair the tooth with bonding or veneers. In more serious cases, you may need a crown or even dental implants.

“We never expect dental emergencies to happen but when they do happen, make sure that you always have your dentist on speed dial”

Knocked-Out Tooth

In some cases, chipped or broken teeth can’t be saved—especially if they’ve been knocked out entirely. Again, this is something that can happen at any time, but it seems to happen more often during the winter months when people are participating in outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding. If you do find yourself in this situation, try to find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part that you see in your mouth), not the root (the part that goes into your gums). If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket and hold it there with your fingers until you can get to a dentist in Grand Junction CO—don’t save this one for after the holidays! If you can’t put the tooth back in its socket, place it in milk or saliva until you can get to a dentist—again, time is of the essence here. A knocked-out tooth must be re-implanted within an hour for there to be a chance of saving it.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is an infection that has reached the pulp (the center) of the tooth all the way down to the roots. This is usually caused by decay that has gone untreated for too long but can also be caused by trauma to the tooth such as a blow to the mouth or grinding your teeth excessively (a problem we often see during stress-filled times like Christmas!). 


Even if you don’t have an abscessed tooth but are experiencing symptoms like severe pain when chewing or drinking hot/cold liquids, sensitivity to temperature changes, swelling in your face or lymph nodes, bad breath that won’t go away no matter how much gum you chew or mints you eat—don’t wait! These could all be signs of an abscessed tooth so call your dentist right away!

Contact High Desert Dental For Emergency Dentistry

The holiday season is upon us which means plenty of good food and family fun. While we all enjoy this time of year, it’s important to be aware of some common dental emergencies that seem to happen more frequently during this festive period. From Cavities to Knocked-Out teeth, being informed and prepared can help minimize any damage done and ensure that you have a happy and healthy holiday season!

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Common Dental Emergencies

Common Dental Emergencies Grand Junction CO Emergency Dentist

Common Dental Emergencies

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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. 

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Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?

wisdom teeth removal - grand junction co

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal In Grand Junction?

wisdom teeth removal - grand junction co

A rite of passage nowadays is to have your wisdom teeth removed. A friend or relative has had their wisdom teeth extracted, or they may have even had their own teeth pulled. If you don’t mind missing a few days of school or work in exchange for having your wisdom teeth removed, as well as the guilt-free ice cream binge, here are some other reasons to have your wisdom teeth removed. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, answers, “Do I need wisdom teeth removal?”

Gum Pain

“Third molars” or wisdom teeth push through the gum line, causing a burning and uncomfortable sensation. In the gums closest to the jaw bone, you may feel pressure or a slow throbbing. Puffiness and swelling of the gums, as well as some unwanted drainage, are all symptoms of infection.

Jaw Pain

Sore throat and swollen lymph glands under the jaw can be symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection. These symptoms can cause pain in the jaw area and make it difficult to chew and eat. If you have an impacted wisdom tooth, you may experience jaw and ear pain. Our friend Dr. Cody Boals, a sedation dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, says that this type of pain can affect your everyday life. It’s important to see a specialist if you ever experience dental pain or discomfort.

Teeth and Mouth Pain

An impacted wisdom tooth that is growing in at an angle can put pressure on the teeth around it, causing pain and discomfort. As a result, the surrounding teeth may become crowded, increasing the pressure on the tooth nerves and bone. Swelling, tenderness, and pain are some of the signs and symptoms.

What Impacted Wisdom Teeth Can Do To Your Smile

An impacted wisdom tooth is one that has formed but has not yet emerged. Partially impacted wisdom teeth are those that have only partially erupted. Because of the limited amount of room, a tooth that is developing due to impaction is likely to develop at an angle. Impaction can lead to a wide range of problems. Wisdom tooth extraction is usually recommended if the teeth are impacted in order to avoid the following problems:

  • Tooth pain at the site
  • Trapped food that can cause decay
  • Damage to nearby teeth and gums
  • Jawbone damage
  • Irritated and swollen gums
  • Cyst or tumor near the tooth
  • Tooth Infection
  • Shifting of permanent teeth
  • Jaw and gum disease

Your Grand Junction dentist will recommend extraction if an impacted wisdom tooth is causing your child any discomfort or damage. Regular dental exams are critical because only a dentist can tell if your child needs a wisdom tooth extraction.

Contact High Desert Dental

However, if your wisdom teeth are growing properly and you don’t experience any of these symptoms, getting them removed early will ensure that you get to enjoy the benefits of wisdom teeth extraction without any of the pain! Contact our dental office for emergency dentistry in Grand Junction.

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Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - Grand Junction

Signs of a Dead Tooth

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Most Common Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - Grand Junction

Your teeth are incredibly sturdy, especially when it comes to biting down. Tooth enamel is the most abrasion-resistant substance in the human body, followed by bone. Your teeth are powerful, but they don’t grant you superhuman abilities. Teeth, like all living things, are subject to death. It’s not funny if you end up with a dead tooth. A dead tooth is not only unsightly and painful, but it also puts you at risk of developing an infection, developing an abscess, and eventually losing your tooth. As a result, understanding the signs of a dead tooth and when to seek treatment is critical. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, your emergency dentist in Grand Junction, explains what you need to know about a dead tooth.

What Does It Mean When You Say You Have a Dead Tooth?

It’s odd to consider a tooth to be defunct. Isn’t your tooth just a piece of enamel that’s attached to your jaw anyway? No, that’s not true. Enamel, dentin, and cementum are the hard outer layers of your tooth. There is, however, a soft, sensitive pulp chamber hidden beneath the armor, alive with nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. This chamber is the heart of the human body.

When the blood supply to your tooth pulp is cut off, it dies just like any other organ in your body. Dental professionals call a non-vital or necrotic tooth when the pulp inside it has died. A dead tooth is any tooth that is no longer vital to your oral health, explains Dr. Chris Green, an emergency dentist in Parker, CO. If you’re experiencing a dead tooth, you’ll need to get treatment right away, so other dental problems don’t arise.

Infection and Dead Teeth

The worst part of a dead tooth isn’t the pulp. The American Association of Endodontists says that as your teeth develop, they require the pulp in order to function properly. Even without the pulp, a tooth can function properly because the surrounding tissues continue to nourish it as it gets older.

However, this does not imply that you should ignore a dead tooth. Dr. Boals, Colorado Springs dentist, adds that living tissues transport white blood cells and other immune cells to the tooth pulp, which helps to keep it healthy on the inside. This pathway is closed off when a tooth falls out. The pulp chamber can become a breeding ground for infection if it lacks these immune cells.

You don’t need me to tell you that having an infection in your mouth is not good. A dead tooth infection, on the other hand, can be particularly problematic. It is possible for the infection to spread to the surrounding bone and gum tissue if it is located deep within your tooth(s). This infection, if left untreated, can lead to an abscess, which is a collection of pus that causes significant discomfort and swelling. A dead tooth, on the other hand, is no laughing matter. But why does a tooth die in the first place?

Dead Tooth Causes

Tooth decay and trauma are the two most common causes of a dead tooth. A cavity or crack in your tooth that is left untreated can allow decay to enter the pulp chamber, causing an infection. The pulp’s blood vessels constrict as a defense mechanism. However, the pulp eventually dies due to a lack of sufficient blood supply.

A sports injury or trauma to the tooth can also cause it to die. The nerves can be pinched, cut off, or damaged if your tooth pushes upward into the bone or is knocked out. As with untreated decay, the pulp dies from lack of blood flow when the tooth’s root’s blood supply is cut off.

Symptoms 

A dead tooth may be obvious once it has died, but it doesn’t all happen in one day. Watch out for these warning signs of a dead tooth: 

  • If you look closely, you may notice a discoloration similar to that of a dead tooth.
  • Smell. A dead tooth can leave you with a bad taste in your mouth or an unpleasant odor. Tooth decay or another infection is to blame.
  • Inflammation and infection in the pulp cavity or nearby bone are the sources of this pain.
  • The presence of a pimple at the gum line indicates the presence of a bone-piercing chronic tooth abscess.

Contact Your Grand Junction Dentist

If you’ve had a tooth injury or think your tooth may be decaying, call your dentist right away. An endodontist or dentist uses a drill to make a hole in the crown of your tooth and remove the dead pulp and root. If there is still a gap, a dental implant, partial denture, or bridge can be used to fill it. To keep a filling in place, your dentist may use a metal or plastic post inside your tooth. Contact High Desert Dental for emergency dental care in Grand Junction, CO. 

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Signs of a Tooth Abscess

signs of a tooth abscess - grand junction co

Signs of a Tooth Abscess

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Signs of a Tooth Infection Turned Abscessed

signs of a tooth abscess - grand junction co

When a tooth infection is left untreated, it can develop into a dental abscess. An abscess is a bacterial infection that forms a pocket of pus. Swelling and inflammation are almost always present. The abscess can occur for a variety of reasons and in various areas of the tooth. We recommend contacting your emergency dentist in Grand Junction, CO, to treat your abscess immediately before the problem worsens. So, not sure if you have an abscess? Continue reading below, where Dr. Josh Eastham discusses the signs of a tooth abscess.

Common Causes of an Abscessed Tooth

The inside of your tooth is filled with blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves, which can all become infected. A fractured tooth, periodontal disease, or tooth decay may be the source of the tooth infection. Furthermore, there are two types of abscesses. 

A periodontal abscess is primarily caused by gum disease, although this form of abscess can also be caused by accident. A periapical abscess is caused by bacteria entering your teeth through a cavity. A gingival abscess occurs when a foreign body, such as a toothbrush bristle or popcorn hull, gets into your gums.

Dr. Josh Eastham says you’re more likely to develop a tooth abscess if you have the following:

  • Dry Mouth 
  • A high sugar diet 
  • Inadequate dental hygiene 

Symptoms of an Abscessed Tooth

The major sign of an abscessed tooth is excruciating tooth pain. Other symptoms of an abscessed tooth include difficulty swallowing or breathing, swollen lymph nodes, discomfort when chewing, gum redness, foul taste, dental sensitivity, loose or discolored teeth, jaw pain, swelling, or overall soreness.

You may notice an abscess as a pimple-like bump on your gum. If a liquid pours out when you press it and you experience immediate pain-alleviation, you have an abscessed tooth. The liquid is pus.

Diagnosis

A tooth abscess can be identified using dental x-rays, tests, and exams conducted by your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, or by symptoms and signs given by the patient. Even though swelling and pain are common symptoms, you may not have any at all. In that scenario, your dentist can identify an abscess simply by tapping on the tooth. 

Treatment of Tooth Abscess

A dental abscess is treated by removing the source of the infection and draining the pus. Among the possible treatments are:

  • Draining the abscess – making a small cut in the gums to drain the abscess
  • Root canal therapy – Before filling and sealing the afflicted tooth, the abscess from the root is removed.
  • Tooth extraction — If a root canal treatment is not possible, the tooth may have to be extracted.

Preventing Tooth Abscess

To lower the risk of getting a tooth abscess, keep your gums and teeth healthy. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and using an interdental brush or floss to clean the gaps between your teeth.

Our friend Dr. O’Grady, a dentist in Denver, CO, recommends reducing your intake of starchy and sugary foods and beverages to reduce your risk of developing a cavity. Additionally, don’t be a stranger and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

When Should You Go to the Dentist?

Your dentist in Grand Junction should be contacted if you have an abscessed tooth. Even if the abscess has already popped, you should have the area cleaned and inspected by your dentist to ensure that the infection does not spread. So, contact High Desert Dental for more information on our dental services! 

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Causes of a Toothache

causes of a toothache - Grand Junction CO

Causes of a Toothache

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Common Causes of a Toothache

causes of a toothache - Grand Junction CO

Common Causes of a Toothache

The worst type of pain is a toothache. It can’t be seen, it doesn’t go away on its own, and it has to be treated by a professional. Toothaches are a clear sign that something is wrong. Most toothaches are caused by dental decay, which means you are most likely suffering from tooth decay or advanced gum disease. The pain you feel – usually when you eat or drink anything sweet, extremely hot, or extremely cold – is an indication that your tooth’s pulp is irritated. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, your dentist in Grand junction, CO, discusses the causes of a toothache.

What is the Source of a Toothache?

A comprehensive oral exam is the best approach to determine the source of your toothache, but most cases fall under one of the following categories:

  • Infection
  • Periodontal disease
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Trauma to the teeth
  • An unusual bite
  • The eruption of a tooth (adolescents)

What Are the Symptoms of a Toothache?

It is critical to pay attention to minor issues with your teeth and the interior of your mouth.

For instance, you could develop an abscessed tooth, which implies pus has accumulated around the tooth root. Pus can indicate a bacterial infection, particularly if it is accompanied by tissue inflammation, bleeding gums, and bone loss surrounding the tooth. Our friends at OG Dental, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, agree that an abscessed tooth can be dangerous if left untreated. Contact your local dentist to schedule an appointment immediately. 

While an abscess necessitates a trip to the dentist, any of the following may need a trip to the emergency room:

  • Pain when biting
  • Fever
  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Breathing or swallowing difficulties
  • Swelling of the gums and teeth
  • Excruciating pain

One ignored aspect of toothaches is the existence of sepsis, which occurs when your body overreacts to an infection. If sepsis develops and is not treated, it can be fatal.  

Contact Emergency Dentist in Grand Junction, CO

When you’re feeling pain in your mouth, search for “emergency dentist near me.” You’ll find Dr. Josh Eastham among the best dentists who are well equipped to get you feeling as good as new. Contact High Desert Dental office in Grand Junction, CO, today to schedule an appointment.

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