TMD Treatment Grand Junction

TMD Treatment Grand Junction

TMD Treatment in Grand Junction

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

About Temporomandibular Disorder Treatment (TMD)

 

TMD stands for temporomandibular disorders. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are conditions that affect the jaw muscles, the temporomandibular joints, and the nerves that cause persistent face discomfort. Temporomandibular dysfunction may be caused by any issue that hinders the complex system of muscles, bones, and joints from operating in unison. There are TMD Treatment in Grand Junction that may be able to help.

Does Jaw Pain Mean I Have TMD?

TMD needs to be properly diagnosed by your dentist or Doctor. Essentially the two joints that link your lower jaw to your skull are known as the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). They are the joints that move and spin in front of each ear. They include the mandible (lower jaw) and the temporal bone (the side and base of the skull). TMJ is among one of the most complicated joints in the body. The mandible may move up and down, side to side, and forward and back thanks to these joints and many muscles. Smooth muscular motions are possible when the mandible and the joints are properly positioned. Chewing, talking, yawning, and swallowing are examples of these. These structures (muscles, ligaments, disk, jaw bone, and temporal bone) do not move smoothly together when they are not aligned. Several issues may arise as a result of this. You should find a dentist near you to help resolve this.

TMD is classified as follows by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR):

  • Myofascial pain TMD in this kind is the most frequent. It causes discomfort or soreness in the fascia (the connective tissue that covers the muscles) and the muscles that govern jaw, neck, and shoulder function.

  • Joint derangement on the inside. This might be due to a dislocated jaw or a misplaced disk. A disk is the cartilage cushion that sits between the jaw bone’s head and the skull. It might also indicate a condyle injury. This is the rounded tip of the jaw bone that connects to the temporal skull bone.
  • Arthritis of the joints. This includes jaw joint osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
    You may have one or more of these disorders concurrently.

What Factors Contribute To TMD?

In many situations, the exact source of this illness is unknown. Too much tension on the jaw joints and the muscle group that regulates eating, swallowing, and speaking is sometimes the root problem. This tension might be caused by bruxism. This is the involuntary, habitual clenching or grinding of the teeth. TMD may also be caused by an injury to the jaw, head, or neck. TMD discomfort may also be caused by arthritis and disk displacement in the jaw joint. Other unpleasant health conditions, such as fibromyalgia or irritable bowel syndrome, may overlap with or increase TMD discomfort in certain situations. Recent NIDCR research revealed clinical, psychosocial, sensory, genetic, and neurological system characteristics that may predispose a person to develop chronic TMD.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms of TMD?

Our friends over at Shreveport Dental Solutions the best dentist in Shreveport LA tell us how the following are the most prevalent TMD symptoms:

  • Discomfort or soreness in the jaw (often most common in the morning or late afternoon)
  • Headaches
  •  Pain in the eyes, face, shoulder, neck, or back
  •  Earaches or ringing in the ears (not caused by an infection of the inner ear canal)
  • A clicking or snapping sound in the jaw
  • Jaw clenching
  • Restricted mouth movements
  • Teeth clenching or grinding
  •  Dizziness
  • Teeth sensitivity in the absence of an oral health problem
  • Finger numbness or tingling – A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together

TMD symptoms might mimic those of other diseases or health issues. For a diagnosis, see your grand junction dentist or your healthcare practitioner.

TMD Is Diagnosed In What Way?

TMD is diagnosed using a number of ways. These are some examples:

  • Medical history. When you chew, bite, or open your mouth, your healthcare professional will inquire whether you have a history of face or jaw discomfort. If you have experienced cracking, popping, or noise while opening or shutting your mouth, your physician will inquire.
  • Physical examination. If you suffer face or jaw discomfort while moving your jaw, or if you can’t open your mouth wide, your physician will examine you. When you open or shut your mouth, they will listen for TMJ sounds.
  • Imaging studies. X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may be utilized to help a doctor make a decision.

TMD Is Treated In What Way?

The treatment you get will be determined by your symptoms, age, and overall health. It will also be determined by the severity of the ailment.

Treatment options may include:

  • Temporomandibular joint rest (TMJ)
  • Medication or analgesics
  • Stress management and relaxation techniques
  • Modifications in behavior (to reduce or stop teeth clenching)
  • Physical therapy – A mouthguard or orthopedic device worn in the mouth (to reduce teeth grinding)
  • Posture training – Dietary modifications such as eating soft foods (to rest the jaw muscles)
  • Use of ice and heat packs
  • Surgical procedure

TMD symptoms might reappear under stressful situations. It is beneficial to be aware of what causes your symptoms so that you may take steps to avoid a recurrence. See your dentist in grand junction CO on a regular basis to get your TMD checked.

Important Information on Temporomandibular Disorders

  • Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are persistent face discomfort caused by abnormalities of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and nerves.
  • Too much tension on the jaw joints and the muscle group that regulates eating, swallowing, and speaking might be the reason. This might be related to teeth grinding, a jaw, head, or neck injury, or arthritis.
  • Jaw discomfort, headaches, earaches, restricted mouth movements, and jaw clicking, popping, or locking are all possible symptoms. Pain in the face, shoulder, neck, or back is also possible.
  • Resting the temporomandibular joint, physical therapy, drugs, behavioral adjustments, or an orthopedic device or mouthguard may be used to treat the condition.
  • TMD symptoms might reappear under stressful situations. It is beneficial to be informed of what causes your symptoms so that you can avoid a recurrence.

Next actions Here are some pointers to help you get the most out of a visit to your healthcare provider:

  • Know why you’re visiting and what you want to accomplish.
  • Before your appointment, make a list of the questions you’d want to be addressed.
  • Bring someone with you to assist you in asking questions and remembering what your physician says.
  • During the appointment, note down the name of any new diagnoses as well as any new medications, therapies, or tests. Make a note of any new instructions you get from your provider.
  • Understand why a new drug or therapy is being given and how it will benefit you. Also, be aware of the potential adverse effects.
  • Inquire whether your problem can be addressed in any other manner.
  • Understand why a test or treatment is advised and what the findings may imply.
  • Understand what will happen if you do not take the medication or undergo the test or treatment.
  • If you have a follow-up appointment, make a note of the date, time, and reason for the visit.
  • Know how to get out to your provider if you have any questions.

TMD Treatment Grand Junction

Contact High Desert Dental Today

High Desert Dental is here to help in any way possible. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment to sit down with a member of staff to help better assist you in any way possible. 

Dental Tips From Our Hygienists

Dental Tips From Our Hygienists

Oral Hygiene Tips

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Oral Hygiene Advice from a Dental Hygienist

Dental Tips From Our Hygienists

Do particular brushing practices harm my teeth? What advice would you provide when it comes to brushing?

Brushing can impact your teeth and gums in a negative way if done incorrectly. Some common reasons we see things like gum damage are due to brushing too hard, and missing the gumline.

Place the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle against the teeth. Many of us forget to wash our gums when we brush our teeth, yet this is important since plaque forms here. Gum disease can result from improper brushing.

If you ask our team, we prefer an electric toothbrush over a manual or battery-powered brush for better cleaning power.

Gently hold the handle and apply mild pressure. Gently glide the brush over your teeth and gums, letting the brush do most of the job – do not scrape as this can cause irreparable and permanent gum recession. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three months. It may seem silly but daily brushing without the proper technique can do harm to your gums over time.  

Use an electric toothbrush for two minutes in the morning and evening, and replace the brush head every three months. Apply a pea-sized quantity of toothpaste to your toothbrush before brushing.

Should I brush right away after eating or wait?

To avoid weakening the enamel, wait 30 minutes to an hour after eating or drinking something acidic or sweet.

Try not to eat sugary or acidic foods more than three or four times a day, and limit them to mealtimes only. For example, if you drink orange juice in the morning and then nothing for a few hours, your mouth will neutralize. The saliva will neutralize the pH and the fluoride from brushing in the morning. The damage is shown when our teeth are constantly attacked.

Why is flossing important, and do you advocate water flossers?

Toothbrushes cannot reach between teeth to remove debris. As a result, brushing only cleans roughly 60% of our teeth. However, cleaning between teeth with floss or brushes helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

If you have interdental space, utilize interdental brushes of the largest size feasible (you may need more than one brush size). Dental floss is advised if your teeth are close together. Do this once a day, ideally before a mirror.

If you can’t floss, Dr. Josh the best dentist in Grand Junction CO says to consider an electric flosser like the Philips Airfloss or WaterPik. These should be used in conjunction with regular flossing or interdental brushing.

What foods and drinks are bad for your teeth?

Our friends over at Park Hills Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington KY tell us about how nutritional deficits might show up in the mouth. For example, a mineral deficiency affects the hard structures (teeth and bones), but a vitamin deficiency effect mouth ulcers of various sizes and durations are a typical early symptom of vitamin insufficiency.

As part of a healthy balanced diet, including foods from all major food categories is vital. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks (including lemon water) is advised. To reduce the impact of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, aim to limit them to mealtimes only. Sugar or acid assaults should be limited to three or four times each day.

Avoiding sugary snacks and drinks between meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels, increase energy levels, and regulate appetite.

Use a straw for drinks and rinse your mouth with water after ingesting dark-colored meals and beverages.

Eat lots of vegetables, lean protein, nuts, and healthy fats, while avoiding processed meals and refined carbs like white bread, spaghetti, and processed meats.

Limit alcohol and coffee if you can. Your body and teeth will thank you.

How would you advise someone wanting whiter teeth? Is it wise to whiten teeth?

First, determine what is causing the discoloration, bearing in mind that teeth naturally vary in tint owing to genetics. Consult your dentist or dental hygienist first; they can assess your appropriateness for whitening and explain your alternatives.

Have you not been to the dentist in a while? You could just need professional teeth cleaning. In addition, it can make teeth whiter by removing deposits and stains.

If you choose professional teeth whitening in Grand Junction CO, alternatives include one-hour in-surgery treatments or two-week home whitening kits. You maintain your custom-made trays and may ‘top-up’ your whitening a few times a year using professionally designed gels.

Do not get your teeth whitened by anybody other than a dentist. Professional-grade teeth whitening is a longer-lasting solution than over-the-counter solutions. Contact me today to schedule a whitening.

When should I see the dentist?

To keep your smile bright, you should see your Grand Junction CO dentist and hygienist at least twice a year. Observe regular dental and hygienist visits. Regular check-ups ensure we can catch any small issues before they become larger issues. 

 

Contact High Desert Dental Today

If you are having questions about oral health and what you can do to better yours contact our team today. We are here to help make sure that we can provide our expertise to help you understand how to better your or health. Call us today to schedule an appointment right here in Grand Junction, CO.

Fresh Breath Tips

Fresh Breath Tips

Fresh Breath Tips

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Fresh Breath Tips From Your Dentist

Fresh Breath Tips

Nothing beats the sensation of taking a deep breath. It not only helps you make an excellent first impression, but it also keeps your teeth bright and healthy. Some people, however, find it challenging to achieve fresh breath. Consider following these Grand Junction dentist fresh breath guidelines. High Desert Dental is the place to go for dental care in Grand Junction, CO.

Mouthwash

This may seem apparent, but in case you didn’t know, mouthwash is effective in combating bad breath. Bacteria in your mouth cause morning breath. Bacteria are reduced by mouthwash. Because of its liquid form, mouthwash may easily reach all of your mouth’s cracks and crevices.

Many antimicrobial types of mouthwash contain chlorhexidine as an active component. Alcohol, on the other hand, is employed as an antimicrobial agent in some antibacterial rinses. Alcohol-based mouthwashes are frequently avoided because they can dry up the mouth’s tissues. In addition, if you don’t have enough saliva to flush away oral germs during the day, odors in your mouth might quickly return. As a result, alcohol-free antimicrobial rinses are usually preferable.

Simply add the mouthwash to the end of your morning and nightly brushing and flossing procedures to ensure daily use. Dr. Josh, the best dentist in Grand Junction, suggests using FDA-approved mouthwash.

Use Water to Rinse

If you’re a snacker or eat more than six meals per day, we recommend rinsing with water. Because most of us don’t have an extra toothbrush on hand, if you can’t brush your teeth, rinse! This will aid in the removal of any surplus food that may be creating bad breath. This will also aid in the improvement of dental health.

Gum Chewing

Gum is a popular remedy for many people who suffer from foul breath. In the meanwhile, chewing sugar-free gum will help keep your breath fresh. Cinnamon and xylitol are two of our favorite gums. Why? Cinnamaldehydes, which can be found in cinnamon, are antimicrobial. Xylitol, a natural sweetener with antimicrobial qualities, is frequently used to enhance the flavor of sugarless gum. Xylitol gum, when chewed, can help lower the number of odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. Additionally, chewing gum promotes fresh breath, increases saliva production, and aids in the removal of the extra debris.

Stop Smoking

Those who have foul breath and need help determining the source may consider their everyday behaviors. Smoking is a bad habit that can harm your dental health. Tobacco contains nicotine, which can constrict blood vessels in your mouth and lower the amount of saliva produced. Dr. Moghadam, an Easton PA dentist, explains that these side effects can cause the terrible breath that smokers are infamous for. Furthermore, after a person quits smoking, their blood flow and saliva production should return to normal.

Hydrate

A lack of saliva can also cause bad breath. Consider drinking more water if your mouth does not naturally create enough saliva. This will aid in more efficient saliva production, not to mention the fact that your body requires water to function. Anyone suffering from oral health issues should drink more water.

Maintain Your Oral Hygiene
Bad breath is caused by poor dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss once a day to keep your mouth happy and clean. Bacteria will thrive in the presence of plaque buildup. It will also cause tooth decay, gum disease, and possibly tooth loss. So don’t put off taking care of your teeth any longer!

Visit Your Grand Junction Dentist

At High Desert Dental, we think that prevention is essential. Seeing a dentist is one of the best methods to avoid dental problems. Your Grand Junction, CO dentist, will gladly assist you. It’s critical to schedule a professional teeth cleaning and check-up every six months to stay on track. Otherwise, plaque and oral bacteria will form.

Furthermore, tartar may only be eradicated by a professional cleaning. Tell us about your foul breath during your visit, and we’ll work with you to find a solution. Please get in touch with us if you require dentistry in Grand Junction, CO.

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Dental Tips For the Holidays

Dental Tips For Holiday Season

Dental Tips for The Holiday Season

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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.

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Gum Care Month

gum care month - grand Junction Co

Gum Care Month

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Celebrate Gum Care Month with Grand Junction Dentist

gum care month - grand Junction Co

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

What is Gum Disease?

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

Effects Overall Wellness

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

How Do Healthy Gums Appear?

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

Daily Gum Health Tips & Tricks:

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

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

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

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Common Dental Problems

common-dental-problems-grand-junction-dentist

Common Dental Problems

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

The Most Common Dental Problems

common-dental-problems-grand-junction-dentist

Dental problems can seriously affect our day-to-day life. The good news is that most dental problems are avoidable. In this article, we discuss some of the most common dental problems patients face. Need dental services? Contact High Desert Dental to schedule an appointment with Dr. Josh Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO. 

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is a very commond ental problem. It is an infection of the gums that surround your teeth. There are actually several stages of gum disease. You’ve probably heard of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene and tobacco use, can increase your chances of developing this common dental problem. Periodontal disease is a very serious dental problem, and we recommend seeing a professional for treatment. To learn more about it, please read our blog post about the Stages of Gum Disease. 

Dental Caries

Tooth decay, which leads to cavities, occurs when plaque on your teeth interacts with sticky, starchy foods you eat. This combination produces acids that erode away at tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is to take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing everyday and having your teeth checked twice a year. Fillings, crowns, and root canals can all be used to treat tooth decay.

Bad Breath

Bad breath happens to many people. Gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, and germs in your mouth can all contribute to it. While using mouthwash and drinking enough water may provide a temporary solution. However, our friend Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, says that fixing the underlying problem may be the best option.

Tooth Sensitivity 

When teeth are exposed to hot/cold food or beverages, this frequent dental issue produces pain or discomfort. Brushing and flossing can also be painful. A dental abscess or a broken tooth are two possible causes. Bonding, a root canal, or desensitizing toothpaste may be used to address dental sensitivity.

“I went to High Desert Dental to have some necessary dental work done yesterday. I was a bit anxious, but Nicole and Dr. Josh made me very comfortable, and I was very happy with the experience. He took utmost care to be gentle and calm my nerves. I will have absolutely no problem in the future. I highly recommend them!” – Kathy K.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

There are various solutions for addressing this frequent dental ailment, whether you bit into a piece of hard candy or sustained trauma to your teeth. Depending on the severity, your Grand Junction dentist may repair your tooth with a tooth-colored filling, crown, or veneer.

Stained Teeth 

Food, cigarettes, drugs, and trauma are just a few of the things that can darken our teeth. Most tooth stains can be eliminated or lightened with teeth whitening treatments, which can be done at your dentist’s office or at home. Contact High Desert Dental about our in-office teeth whitening in Grand Junction, CO! 

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be caused by stress, a misaligned bite, or sleep disorders. In turn, this leads to headaches, a sore mouth, and even cracked teeth. Ask Dr. Josh Eastham the best remedy for your teeth grinding problems. 

Contact High Desert Dental

The common dental problems above can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits. The best dentists in Grand Junction recommend visiting your dentist twice a year for routine dental cleaning and exam, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and beverages. Most importantly, if a dental problem arises, you should see your dentist right away. Need an emergency dentist in Grand Junction, CO? Contact High Desert Dental Today! 

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Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - dentist in grand junction co

Stages of Gum Disease

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Four Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - dentist in grand junction co

Did you know that over half of Americans have periodontal disease? It’s not unusual for patients to experience gum disease at one point in their life. Fortunately, gum disease is preventable. There are several stages of gum disease. In order from bad to worst, gum disease starts with gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Below, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, explores the stages of gum disease. 

What is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and periodontal tissues. If left untreated, the infection can destroy enough tissue and spread to the underlying bone.

This infection is typically caused by improper brushing and flossing routines. After all, there are around 700 strains and types of oral bacteria inside the mouth. Some of them are infections that contribute to plaque development.

The main cause of gum disease is dental plaque, which is a sticky, “yucky” film that accumulates on the surface of the teeth. If you don’t remove all of the plaque on your teeth, it can spread to the gums. Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which can irritate and infect the gums.

Gum disease can also be caused by viruses, oral trauma, and other autoimmune illnesses. A lack of vitamin C raises the chance of getting periodontal disease.

Gum Disease Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of periodontal disease usually vary depending on the stage or severity of the illness. For example, during the early stages of gingivitis, you may just have swollen gums or bleeding. This is especially apparent when you floss or clean your teeth.

If the condition is allowed to grow, it might cause more severe symptoms such as:

  • Bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Plaque
  • Loose teeth
  • Foul taste

Note: If gum disease is left untreated, you will eventually lose your natural teeth. Are you experiencing the above symptoms of gum disease? Contact your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, for a consultation. Dr. Josh and the High Desert team will get your oral health back on track. 

Gum Disease’s Four Stages

As mentioned above, periodontal disease is classified into four stages. 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the easiest stage of gum disease to treat because it is still non-destructive. It exclusively affects the gingiva in the early stages. The gingiva is the gum tissue that surrounds the base of the upper and lower teeth.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gingiva. It creates swollen, sensitive, and aching gums at this phase. It might also cause the gums to bleed more easily. 

Mild Periodontitis 

Gum inflammation can occur in as little as five days during the early stages of gingivitis. The symptoms of widespread gingivitis become more visible after two to three weeks. If you continue to ignore this, it will progress to mild periodontal disease.

At this point, your gums will begin to peel away from your teeth or “recede.” As a result, small pockets will form between your teeth and the affected gums. More dangerous bacteria can subsequently infiltrate these “spaces,” resulting in even more bleeding. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says that treating your gum disease is crucial at this point. In fact, if the gum disease progresses any further, you may experience permanent damage.

 

“Dr. Joshua was caring, made me feel comfortable, and was extremely thorough. I would recommend him. Both the dental assistants are good as well.” – Nancy W.

Moderate Periodontitis

During the third stage of gum disease, there will be more bleeding and gum recession, says Dr. Josh. Your teeth will lose support as more tissues die, and they will become moveable. The tooth infection can also cause a generalized inflammatory reaction. At this point, you should have already visited your dentist in Grand Junction for periodontics treatment. 

Advanced Periodontitis 

This is the most severe of the four phases of gum disease, inflicting the most damage to your gums and bones. The tissues that hold your teeth in place and connect them to the bone are already deteriorating. You’re likely to be in a lot of pain and have terrible breath. This stage out of the stages of gum disease is where you’ll most likely lose your teeth. 

Contact Dentist in Grand Junction

As you can see, gum disease is a serious dental problem. If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease, contact High Desert Dental immediately. Our staff will do everything we can to restore your oral health. High Desert Dental also offers emergency dentistry services.

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Fresh Breath Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

fresh breath tips from grand junction dentist

Fresh Breath Tips From
Grand Junction Dentist

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Fresh Breath Tips

fresh breath tips from grand junction dentist

Fresh Breath Tips from a Grand Junction Dentist

There’s nothing like the feeling of fresh breath. Not only will it help you make a good first impression, but it also helps your smile stay bright and healthy. However, achieving fresh breath is not easy for some. Consider following these fresh breath tips from a Grand Junction dentist. For dental care in Grand Junction, CO, contact High Desert Dental. 

Mouthwash

This may seem like an obvious one, but just in case you didn’t know, mouthwash is super helpful in containing bad breath. Morning breath is caused by bacteria in your mouth. With mouthwash, the bacteria decreases. Thanks to its liquid form, the mouthwash can easily get into all the cracks and crevices of your mouth. 

Chlorhexidine is an active ingredient in many antibacterial mouthwashes. However, alcohol is used as an antimicrobial agent in some antibacterial rinses. Alcohol-based mouthwashes are often avoided because they can dry out the mouth’s tissues. The odors of your mouth can quickly resurface if you don’t have enough saliva to rinse away oral bacteria during the day. As a result, it’s usually best to use alcohol-free antibacterial rinses.

Simply add the mouthwash to the end of your morning and evening brushing and flossing routines to ensure daily use. Dr. Josh recommends using a mouthwash that is FDA approved.

Rinse With Water

If you’re a snacker or tend to eat more than six meals a day, we suggest rinsing with water. Most of us do not carry a spare toothbrush around, so if you can’t brush your teeth, rinse! This will help get any excess food that might be causing bad breath. This will also help improve oral health.

Chew Gum

A go-to for many people suffering from bad breath is gum. Chewing sugar-free gum will help freshen your breath in the meantime. Our favorite gums include cinnamon or xylitol. Why? Cinnamaldehydes, which are found in cinnamon, have antibacterial properties. Xylitol, a natural sweetener noted for its antibacterial properties, is often used to improve the flavor of sugarless gum. When you chew, xylitol gum can help reduce the amount of odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. Additionally, chewing gum will help with fresh breath, produce more saliva, and get rid of excess debris.

Quit Smoking

Those who suffer from bad breath and need help finding the source should reflect on their daily habits. Smoking is a habit that can be detrimental to your oral health. Tobacco contains nicotine, which can constrict your mouth’s blood vessels and reduce the amount of saliva generated. Our friend, Dr. Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, explains that these side effects can trigger the bad breath that smokers are notorious for. Furthermore, when a person stops smoking, blood flow and saliva production should return to normal. 

Hydrate

Bad breath can also be triggered due to a lack of saliva. If your mouth doesn’t naturally produce enough saliva, consider drinking more water. This will help with providing more efficient saliva production, not to mention that your body needs water to function. Anyone dealing with oral health problems should drink more water.

Stick to Your Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene will result in bad breath. To ensure that your mouth is happy and clean, brush at least twice a day for two minutes and floss daily. Plaque buildup will allow bacteria to flourish. Furthermore, it will lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Don’t put off your oral health any longer! 

Tongue Scraper

Oral bacteria that are anaerobic are commonly found on the tongue. Since these bacteria are major causes of bad breath, regularly scraping the tongue can be a key step in preventing bad breath. A tongue scraper extracts bacteria, their byproducts, and plaque as it glides over the surface of your tongue.

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“This dental office is great. Really make sure to accommodate your schedules and make your visit comfortable. Highly recommend!” – Tyra M.

Visit Your Dentist in Grand Junction

At High Desert Dental, we believe prevention is key. One of the best ways to prevent dental problems is seeing a professional. Your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, will be happy to help. It’s important to schedule a professional teeth cleaning and check-up every six months to ensure you’re right on track. Plaque and oral bacteria will develop otherwise. Additionally, tartar can only be removed during a professional cleaning. During your visit, let us know that you’re dealing with bad breath, and we will work with you to find a solution. Give us a call if you need pediatric dentistry in Grand Junction, CO. 

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