2022 High Desert Dental Recap

2022 High Desert Dental Recap

2022 High Desert Dental Recap

A Look At 2020 With Grattitude

2022 High Desert Dental Recap

As 2023 begins we wanted to reflect on the blessings of this past year. We are eternally thankful for the Grand Junction Community. Your incredible online reviews, referrals to your friends and family, and just being a joy to work with on a daily basis are the reasons we love what we do.

“This was my first visit to High Desert Dental, and I was very impressed. The staff were very knowledgeable and Dr. Josh had a wonderful bedside manner and immediately made me feel comfortable. Very happy to have found a new dentist!

dentist in grand junction

High Desert Dental In The Community

Our team has done some incredible work this year. We want to thank our selfless team and local businesses for their partnership and community engagement. We chose 4 local charities in 2022 to donate a portion of our proceeds to. We attended local charity events, and developed relationships with so many local business owners who have been a pleasure to work with. 

chipped tooth grand junction

Cosmetic & Restorative Cases

We have has the pleasure of fixing some amazing smiles this year. From dental emergencies to restorative dental cases where we were able to use techniques like dental implants, veneers, and bonding to restore some beautiful smiles. 

Dr. Josh Eastham is passionate about taking the time and effort to ensure that all his patients get the very best care when it comes to restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Eastham is proud to have developed an impressive portfolio of specialized treatments that can help you improve, restore, or even significantly enhance their smiles. Dr. Eastham isn’t just focused on aesthetics but also works with his clients to provide them with long-lasting results from treatments that are tailored to their unique needs and goals. With Dr. Josh Eastham as your go-to for restorative and cosmetic dentistry, you can be sure of receiving the highest level of care available.

Dr. Josh Eastham

Running Through 2020

As many of you know Dr. Eastham is an avid runner. He has completed everything from the Grand Junction Turkey Trott benefiting the Grand Junction Fire Department to completing the Rim Rock Half Marathon. Dr. Eastham’s favorite race and a new personal record for him was a trip to Seattle where he completed the Tunel Marathon.

best dentist grand junction

Family First

Dr. Josh and his beautiful family welcomed a new baby this year. Annie has been the perfect addition to the Eastham family and Ellie is the best big sister! We are so thankful for all the well wishes. 

 

What is Dental Bonding?

what is dental bonding

What is Dental Bonding?

What to Know About Dental Bonding in Grand Junction CO

what is dental bonding

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

How Does Dental Bonding Work? 

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

Is It Expensive?

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

What is the  Process Like?

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

Taking Care of Bonded Teeth

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

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

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Bonding in Grand Junction

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

Benefits of Seeing a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

The Benefits of Seeing a Family Dentist

Why See a Family Dentist

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

Convenient Dental Appointments

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

Enhanced Access to Dental Services

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

Tracking Dental History Takes Less Time

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

Make the Experience Easy For Your Child

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

Develop a Long-Term Relationship with Your Dentist

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

Contact Our Family Dentist in Grand Junction CO Today

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

Dental Implants Myth Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Common Myths About Dental Implants

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

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

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

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

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

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

Myth #1: Implants Don’t Last Awhile

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

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

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

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

Myth #3: Implants Are For Elders Only

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

Myth #4: Getting Implants Is Expensive

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

Myth #5: Implant Surgery Is Dangerous

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

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Implants in Grand Junction

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

Smile Goals For 2022

smile goals for 2022

Smile Goals for 2022

Healthy Smile Goals for 2022

smile goals for 2022

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

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

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

Quit Bad Habits

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

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

Improve Your Nutrition

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

Get a Smile Makeover in Grand Junction CO

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

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

Schedule Your Grand Junction CO Tooth Cleaning

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

Dentures FAQ

dentures FAQ Grand Junction CO dentist

Dentures FAQ

What is the Dentures Process Like?

dentures FAQ Grand Junction CO dentist

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

What is the Procedure for Getting New Dentures?

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

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

When Will Dentures Feel Normal? 

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

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

What Do I Do If My Dentures Are Slipping? 

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

Who is a Candidate for Dentures?

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

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

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

Do I Wear My Dentures at Night? 

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

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

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

Contact High Desert Dental for Dentures in Grand Junction CO

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

Dental Tips For the Holidays

Dental Tips For Holiday Season

Dental Tips for The Holiday Season

Dental Tips For the Holidays From Your Grand Junction Dentist

Dental Tips For Holiday Season

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

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

Brush More Frequently

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

Brush Properly

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

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

Rinse & Floss

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

Drink Plenty of Water

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

Keep Sweets to a Minimum

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

Cut Back on Starches

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

Upgrade Your Tooth Cleaning Instruments

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

Make An Appointment for a Cleaning

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

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

Dental Implants FAQ

Dental implant faq

Dental Implant FAQ

What to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implant faq

What Exactly Are Dental Implants?

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

What Kinds of Dental Implants Are There?

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

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

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

What Should I Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure?

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

Consultation

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

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

Procedure

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

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

Recovery

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

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

Restoration

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

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

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Implants Grand Junction

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

Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?

wisdom teeth removal - grand junction co

Wisdom Teeth Removal

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.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - Grand Junction

Signs of a Dead Tooth

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.