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

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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.

T

“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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