Smile Goals For 2022

smile goals for 2022

Smile Goals for 2022

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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!

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Dentures FAQ

dentures FAQ Grand Junction CO dentist

Dentures FAQ

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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. 

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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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Dental Implants FAQ

Dental implant faq

Dental Implant FAQ

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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. 

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Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal?

wisdom teeth removal - grand junction co

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Do I Need Wisdom Teeth Removal In Grand Junction?

wisdom teeth removal - grand junction co

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

Gum Pain

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

Jaw Pain

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

Teeth and Mouth Pain

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

What Impacted Wisdom Teeth Can Do To Your Smile

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

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

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

Contact High Desert Dental

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

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Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - Grand Junction

Signs of a Dead Tooth

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Most Common Signs of a Dead Tooth

signs of a dead tooth - Grand Junction

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

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

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

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

Infection and Dead Teeth

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

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

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

Dead Tooth Causes

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

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

Symptoms 

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

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

Contact Your Grand Junction Dentist

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

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Myths About Dental Veneers

Myths About Veneers - Grand Junction

Myths About Dental Veeers

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Most Common Myths About Veneers

Myths About Veneers - Grand Junction

Porcelain veneers have become increasingly popular in recent years. Patients who undergo this cosmetic treatment can achieve a perfect smile. In fact, many celebrities have porcelain veneers for this reason. Porcelain veneers have grown highly popular in recent years as the most thorough technique to swiftly change. As more people choose to invest in their smiles, you’re likely to know someone who has undergone this procedure. Porcelain veneers have been around for a long time, which is why there are so many misconceptions. In this article, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, debunks the most common myths about veneers.

Myth 1: Porcelain Veneers Make Your Teeth Appear Large & Fake

Veneers have come a long way. The early generations of veneers were thicker than they are now, but today’s veneers are nowhere near what the size they used to be. Dr. Josh Eatham explains that veneers can be as thin as a contact lens in some cases. The veneers are so thin that no one can tell that they’re there. Also, they blend so nicely with your teeth. When your visit our dental office in Grand Junction, you’ll see that we can customize the shape, color, and fit of your new smile.

Myth 2: Veneers Are Permanent 

Veneers can be removed from your tooth. However, they do require that a small part of the tooth’s enamel be removed. Since they are so thin, it only affects a part of the tooth. As a result, if you ever need to remove your veneers for a dental operation or damage, but they are not reversible. Patients who aren’t ready to commit to wearing veneers for the remainder of their lives can consider no-preparation veneers.

Myth 3: Veneers Are Soley Cosmetic

Veneers are typically chosen for their aesthetic appeal, but they can also safeguard teeth that have been worn down by grinding and erosion. They can also help patients who have experienced serious gum disease. Porcelain veneers can, of course, still get cavities. Veneers can be thought of as a protective cover for teeth that have become fragile and broken due to aging and wear and tear. Our friend Dr. O’Grady, a dentist in Denver, CO, recommends weighing out your options before committing to any treatment. Some patients are better candidates than others. 

Myth #4: Veneers Aren’t Very Long-Lasting

Veneers can last 10-15 years with good maintenance and use. During that period, the veneers will resist staining and preserve the teeth from injury and wear and tear better than natural enamel. As we mentioned above, veneers are not reversible. However, only a small percentage of people regret getting custom porcelain veneers. When you visit our dental office for porcelain veneers, we will show you what your new smile could look like. Your veneers could require maintenance or replacement if your dentist sees that they are starting to lose their strength. 

Myth #5: Veneers Are Only Available In Entire Sets

While many patients like to have a whole arch of teeth that show when they smile transformed, it is not required. If you have a single tooth that has been stained by tetracycline or an injury, or if you have teeth that are malformed and stand out from the rest, one or two veneers may be the best option for you. Dr. Eastham does point out that the best smile transformations include a whole set, but it’s completely up to you.

Contact Us In Grand Junction, CO

Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures nowadays due to their outstanding outcomes. We can show you your predicted results before the veneers are even made, thanks to improvements in imaging technology. Finally, they allow patients to create their ideal smile and have it made a reality. At High Desert Dental, we’ll provide you with a no-obligation consultation. Contact High Desert Dental today to schedule your next visit. 

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Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - Grand Junction, CO

Dental Hygiene Month

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - Grand Junction, CO

Every October, High Desert Dental celebrates National Dental Hygiene Month! As you probably know, dental hygiene includes making sure one’s mouth, teeth, and gums are clean and healthy. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, helps bring awareness to dental hygiene practices. We hope this article inspires you to take better care of your smile! 

Dental Hygiene Tips

Good oral hygiene starts at home. Our teeth can last a lifetime, but only if we take good care of them. Your Grand Junction dentist recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush! This will help keep cavities away while avoiding irritation. Another important part of your at-home dental hygiene routine is flossing. Most dentists will recommend that you floss daily. The key to flossing your teeth is making sure you are gentle but also consistently removing any debris. Additionally, regular visits to your dentist in Grand Junction for teeth cleaning will help eliminate any tartar build-up. This can even help you save money in the long run by avoiding pricey restorative dentistry treatments.

Why Visit Your Grand Junction Dentist 

Many patients ask Dr. Eastham why it’s important to visit their dentists regularly. In short, dental hygienists are the only ones who can clean your teeth better than you can. Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) emphasizes that hygienists complete numerous additional tasks during each patient visit. Your hygeinist will examin your mouth, take your blood pressure and pulse, and analyze your overall health and wellness are some of these procedures. Dental x-rays are also taken by hygienists to look for abnormalities that aren’t apparent, such as in between or behind your teeth. They also teach patients about proper nutrition and how to maintain their mouths healthy. The cleaning procedure entails removing plaque and tartar from around your gum line, as well as brushing and flossing your teeth properly. Our friend Dr. Kristina Neda, a family dentist in Georgetown, KY, adds that tartar and plaque are only removed during these dental visits. Therefore, visiting the dentist every six months for professional dental cleaning is essential.

Make The Most Of Your Dental Coverage!

Most dental insurance plans provide free or low-cost cleanings and exams twice a year. If you have dental insurance and haven’t had your second visit for the year, now is the time to book your appointment. Don’t worry if you don’t have insurance. Give us a call to learn more about your discount possibilities. Our patients in Grand Junction, CO, also have the opportunity to use special offers. Contact High Desert today to learn more!

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Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist
 

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

Do you intend to have a wisdom tooth extracted? While complications are uncommon, patients can avoid infection and other problems by adequately caring for their teeth. At High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, Colorado, we can go over all of the details you’ll need for a successful tooth extraction. Follow these post tooth extraction tips recommended by your Dr. Josh Eastham for a speedy recovery.

Aftercare Tips for Tooth Extraction

To ensure outstanding results and that healing proceeds as expected, follow these guidelines recommended by your dentist in Grand Junction:

  • Use gauze: It’s normal for some bleeding to occur throughout the recovery process. Gauze can be used to control bleeding at the incision site. Bite down lightly after putting the gauze and try not to disrupt the area. Feel free to replace the gauze as needed.
  • Take all antibiotics as directed: Antibiotics will be recommended to the majority of patients before or after oral surgery. Do not discontinue your antibiotics without first consulting your oral surgeon. This could render your medication useless.
  • Rest: Avoid strenuous activity for at least a few days following tooth extraction. This allows you to rest and ease back into your typical activities.
  • Don’t smoke or use tobacco: Smoking impairs your body’s ability to heal. Furthermore, cigarettes may introduce dangerous microorganisms into your system. Our High Desert Dental team can advise you on when it is safe to resume smoking, but we strongly advise you to quit for good. 

Common Infection Signs

A blood clot occurs naturally after a tooth extraction. This helps to protect the extraction site and prevent bacteria from accessing the area. An infection may occur if this blood clot is weakened or dislodged in any manner. While some bleeding and swelling are common following oral surgery, there are several warning signs to be aware of. If you detect any of the following, please contact your emergency dentist in Grand Junction, CO, right away:

  • Excessive bleeding at the extraction site
  • Severe pain
  • Pus or oozing discharge
  • Fever

How to Stop Infection After Oral Surgery

There are several things you may do to avoid infection following wisdom teeth extraction. The most fundamental way is to follow all of your oral surgeon’s directions. High Desert Dental can demonstrate how to clean and care for the treatment site at home. We can also advise you on prescription drugs, what to eat and drink, and any other details we believe are important for tooth extraction recovery in Grand Junction, CO.

Our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says It is very critical that you maintain your oral health following tooth extraction. Patients should still allow the blood clot to heal naturally but still brush the surrounding teeth. Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area. Do not spit or suck on straws until you are healed. As part of your regular routine, we may also advise you to use an antiseptic solution. Do not pick or pull at the extraction site, and please contact our office if you have any questions.

Contact High Desert Dental

At High Desert Dental, we understand how frightening tooth extractions can be. Our team is committed to helping you prepare for your tooth extraction. We’re happy to answer your questions and ensure the success of your treatment. Call our Grand Junction, CO dental office for an evaluation to learn more about wisdom tooth extraction recovery.

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Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel?

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel?

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

True or False: Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel? - Grand Junction CO

More and more people want bright and beautiful smiles. Patients often try cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance their smiles. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular options. It’s both effective and affordable. But, patients often come to us with their concerns. Is teeth whitening is safe? Does teeth whitening damage your enamel? In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO answers: does teeth whitening damage your enamel?

What Is the Purpose of Tooth Enamel?

So, why is it so important to protect your enamel? Enamel is the tooth’s thin outer coating that covers the crown and is visible from the gum. The hard outer surface of the tooth is the first line of defense against physical and chemical injury. The enamel’s duty is to protect the dentin, also known as the softer and more sensitive inner tooth. Enamel is prone to deterioration since it is the primary defense against chemicals. Bacterial contamination from sugar, starches, or acidic substances endangers your enamel. The enamel on your teeth will also guard against the daily usage of your teeth, such as chewing, biting, crunching, and grinding.

What Should You Do If Your Teeth’s Enamel Is Worn Down?

Although enamel is the hardest tissue, it is not unbreakable. Because enamel lacks live cells, it is unable to repair itself if it is damaged. In other words, once it’s gone it’s gone. Here are a few ways your Grand Junction dentist recommends avoiding:

  • Sugary drinks and foods
  • Starchy foods
  • Sodas
  • Hard candies
  • Acidic drinks

Enamel Erosion Symptoms

Since your tooth’s enamel will naturally deteriorate over time, it may be difficult for you to notice the warning sings. We asked our friends Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, about signs of enamel erosion. Here are a few signs you’re damagin your enamel:

  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Discolored teeth
  • Rough, uneven, jagged teeth

Is Teeth Whitening Safe For My Enamel? 

Yellow teeth is the most obvious sign that your tooth’s enamel is damaged. So, it makes senese why patients think teeth whitening damages your enamel. The answer we’ve all been waiting for: does teeth whitening damage your enamel? No, teeth whitening does not affect your tooth’s enamel.

The dentin, or major component of the tooth, is the portion of the tooth that is responsible for the color of your teeth. The front surface of the teeth is initially covered with a whitening solution. The solution will then pass through the enamel of the tooth to reach the dentin. The inner layer’s discolored tissue will begin to fade. This procedure will take approximately one hour. High Desert Dental in Grand Junction can provide you with further information on teeth whitening.

Treatment for Enamel Loss

Bonding is the most common therapy for enamel loss. Bonding is the application of a tooth-colored substance resin to your damaged teeth. The resin will conceal the yellow discoloration while also protecting your teeth. However, if your situation is serious, your dentist may recommend dental veneers or dental crown to avoid additional decay.

Are you concerned about tooth enamel loss? High Desert Dental can help you avoid tooth enamel loss. Make an appointment right away! Contact High Desert Dental.

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