Smile Repair Options For Aging Teeth

Smile Repair Options For Aging Teeth

Smile Repair Options For Aging Teeth

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Get Your Smile Back with These Smile Repair Options for Aging Teeth

Smile Repair Options For Aging Teeth

As we age, our teeth naturally wear down and may need repair to restore their full functionality. Dental issues like discoloration, chips, cracks, and even complete tooth loss may be something you are facing. If you’re in Grand Junction, Colorado and looking for smile repair options, you’ve come to the right place! Fortunately, there are a variety of smile repair options available to help restore your smile giving you a natural looking and more youthful smile! Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ways for seniors in Grand Junction Colorado to improve their smiles. 

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a cap-like structure that fits over an existing tooth. It is used to cover a damaged or decayed tooth in order to protect it from further harm. A crown can also be used to improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth by changing their shape, size, and color. It can also help support weakened teeth, hold a bridge in place, or cover a dental implant.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your existing teeth. They can be used to fix crooked teeth, stained or discolored teeth, chipped or cracked teeth, and gaps between your teeth. Veneers are an excellent way to make your smile look more natural and vibrant again!

Tooth Bonding

Tooth bonding is a simple procedure that involves applying a composite material directly onto your tooth’s surface. This material adheres well and can be used to fill cavities or cracks in the enamel of your teeth as well as reshape them for a more pleasing aesthetic look. It’s important to note that this procedure does not last as long as other restorative treatments such as veneers or crowns but it is still an effective option if you are looking for a quick fix!

Smile repair options such as veneers, crowns, and bonding provide seniors with non-invasive ways to restore their smiles. With these options available at High Desert Dental, you can easily get back the smile you once had – no matter how old your teeth may be! Consult with our dentist, Dr. Josh Eastham today and start on the path towards getting back the beautiful smile you deserve!

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2022 High Desert Dental Recap

2022 High Desert Dental Recap

2022 High Desert Dental Recap

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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. 

 

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Why Get an Oral Cancer Screening

why get an oral cancer screening

Why Get an Oral Cancer Screening

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Why You Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screening is crucial since it aids in the detection of mouth cancer. Early detection increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Additionally, your Grand Junction dentist or dental health professional can detect 84% of oral cancer cases early.

Where Can You Get Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can occur in a variety of locations, including the gums, hard palate, inner cheeks, lips, tongue, and mouth floor. While some dentists disagree on the best time to have an oral cancer screening, at High Desert Dental, our dentist office in Grand Junction CO believes in being proactive and cautious. That is why we constantly perform oral cancer screenings.

Who Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening?

While oral cancer screenings are important for everyone, individuals who are at a higher risk of developing the disease (such as smokers and heavy drinkers) may benefit the most. Patients who have had a past cancer diagnosis (oral or otherwise) and those who have contracted HPV (the most prevalent sexually transmitted illness) are also at a higher risk; it is recommended that they have more frequent testing.

The best approach to stay mentally and emotionally prepared is to acquire as much information as possible from your doctor rather than from outside sources (such as the internet). Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, shares that this provides an opportunity to have an open and safe discourse about any dental health concerns you may have.

why get an oral cancer screening

“Oral cancer screening is crucial since it aids in the detection of mouth cancer.” – Dr. Eastham

What Happens Following My Oral Cancer Screening?

If the High Desert Dental staff uncover anything wrong after the exam process is complete and the results have been properly tested, you may be requested to return for additional screening. This is not cause for concern; additional study may be required to determine a diagnosis for some results (which are not limited to an oral cancer diagnosis).

Our friend, Dr Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, explains that early diagnosis greatly lowers treatment-related health concerns throughout your trip. While oral cancer is undoubtedly terrifying, it is generally treatable if detected early.

Contact High Desert Dental Today For Preventative Care

If you are in need of an oral screening feel free to contact us today. Our Grand Junction team is here to help in any way possible.

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Is Chewing Gum Bad For Your Teeth?

is chewing gum bad for your teeth?

Is Chewing Gum Bad For Your Teeth?

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Chewing Gum And Your Teeth: What You Need to Know

is chewing gum bad for your teeth?

The dispute is as ancient as time or, at the very least, as dental care. People have been chewing gum for ages. Today, we have progressed from basic tree sap or gum to the rubbery stuff we know today. Each brand’s composition varies, but all gums contain a combination of gums, resins, fillers, and softeners, while flavorings and sweeteners differ significantly. So, the question is: is chewing gum bad for your teeth? Our dentist Grand Junction shares below. 

Chewing Gum’s Effects on Your Teeth

Of course, you want to create good healthy dental habits since taking care of your teeth is essential. Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, explains that chewing gum has benefits. These vary,  from stress reduction to memory enhancement. In addition, some people believe it might help you lose weight or quit smoking. On the other hand, chewing gum is a mixed bag when it comes to dental health.

Chewing Gum and Your Dental Health

Chewing gum may be both beneficial and detrimental to your teeth. It is determined by the sort of gum eaten. Regular sweet gum might be harmful to your teeth. The sugar used as a sweetener feeds microorganisms in your mouth, which can harm your teeth. On the other hand, Sugar-free gum can not only freshen your breath but may also enhance your oral health.

Advantages of Sugar-Free Gum

While any gum will provide fresh breath, sugar-free gum may assist in avoiding cavities. According to the American Dental Association, research suggests that eating sugar-free gum for twenty minutes after a meal can help prevent tooth decay. The gum stimulates saliva production in your mouth, neutralizing acid and improving enamel. Also, our dentist in Grand Junction CO explains that the same saliva production lowers sensitivity in your teeth.

However, not all sugar-free gum is the same. Dr. Kacos, the best dentist in Shreveport LA, explains that Xylitol-sweetened gums offer higher decay-fighting advantages than Sorbitol-sweetened gums. Sorbitol still forms some acidic waste byproducts, and cavity-forming bacteria can digest Sorbitol, which they cannot do with Xylitol. Even though Sorbitol is used to sweeten more gums, partly because it is less expensive, pick one enhanced with Xylitol if you want sugar-free gum.

Xylitol

You’ve probably heard of Xylitol, but what exactly is it? Xylitol is a sugar alcohol naturally present in small amounts in several fruits and vegetables. It is a “natural” product created from plant fiber or trees such as birch. It is around the same size as granulated sugar but contains 40% fewer calories. It does not elevate blood sugar or induce spikes in blood sugar since it has a low glycemic index. It works by “starving” the harmful bacteria in your mouth, lowering cavities. It prevents the formation of streptococcus, the primary bacterium responsible for plaque accumulation and gum disease.

There is sugar-free gum sweetened with Xylitol that is widely accessible. Xylitol is a plant-based byproduct present in trace amounts in the human body. Unlike previous artificial sweeteners, there are no health hazards linked with its intake. The side effects of using Xylitol are mild but may include minor stomach troubles if ingested in excess. There appear to be no detrimental side effects from long-term usage.

 

“While any gum will provide fresh breath, sugar-free gum may assist in avoiding cavities.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham, Grand Junction Dentist

Oral Health and Chewing Gum

Is it better to chew or not to chew? That is the query. The solution is straightforward. Chewing gum that is sugar-free and sweetened with Xylitol is ideal. This gum will clean your teeth and protect them from decay, therefore boosting your general oral health. So ditch the sweet gums in favor of sugar-free chewing gum. Your mouth will be grateful.

And, to get started on the path to optimum oral health, see your dentist near me regularly. So, please make an appointment High Desert Dental today. 

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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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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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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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National Tooth Fairy Day

National Tooth Fairy Day

National Tooth Fairy Day

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

How to Celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day

National Tooth Fairy Day

On August 22, National Teeth Fairy Day, you may experience all the excitement of recalling you childhood tooth fairy visits. You may remember how the Tooth Fairy exchanged your front tooth for a few coins or perhaps a dollar, which you discovered beneath your pillow in the morning. Our dentist Grand Junction Co explains that children who are terrified of losing a tooth find solace in the belief. Today on the blog, we are discussing how to celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day.

How to Celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day With Your Little Ones

If you know a child who loses a tooth on National Tooth Fairy Day, assist them in preparing for a visit from the Tooth Fairy. To start, tell them about the tale of the Tooth Fairy. Additionally, you can assist them in hiding the tooth the Tooth Fairy to “discover.” Allow yourself to be a child once more! This is a great way to get your child excited about losing their baby teeth. 

In addition, you can read a book or watch a movie about the Tooth Fairy. There’s tons of options out there, including the most recent adaption of The Tooth Fairy with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Lastly, there are numerous novels on the Tooth Fairy and other well-known fairy tales. As follows, we recommend checking out a few from your local library. Dr. Josh Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction Co, recommends reading these aloud to your child or a special child in your life. 

Promoting Great Oral Hygiene At Home

Most of us should do this every day, but we sometimes forget. Allow National Tooth Fairy Day to motivate you to pull out your floss and wash your teeth till your pearly whites sparkle! As your dentist Grand Junction, we recommend using this time to discuss how to properly brush and floss with your little ones. Once they get excited about the possibility of the Tooth Fairy coming to take their pearly whites, they’ll likely become more excited about keeping their teeth sparkling clean.

Why Do Dentists Love Tooth Fairy Day?

Children enjoy the pleasure of waking up to a gift from a fairy in exchange for a missing tooth. It’s a wonderful myth for both parents and children. It’s lovely to join in on the fun and see the pure delight that tiny kids emanate. The excitement for both parents and children is comparable to that of waiting for Santa Claus at Christmas. As your Grand Junction dental office, we can assure you – we all enjoy it! Also, folklore is a lot of fun. As such, everyone enjoys a good story, especially if it includes fairies and fairy dust. Fairy tales have captivated both children and adults around the world for generations.

Use This Holiday to Lessen The Fears

When you’re a kid, losing a tooth is terrifying. However, if it means waking up with money or a tiny present, it’s worth the pain. The Tooth Fairy concept helps children cope with what could otherwise be a frightening experience for them and a stressful one for their parents. Thank you, Tooth Fairy; we owe you one!

“Tooth Fairy Day is an amazing opportunity for parents to get kids excited about losing their teeth. We can all use this holiday to strengthen our dental habits at home with our children.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Contact Our Family Dentist Today

As your family dentist in Grand Junction CO, we want to help your kids’ smiles shine. We would love to discuss your child’s dental health with you, and get everyone in for a tooth cleaning Grand Junction CO.  Contact Dr. Joshua Eastham today to learn more about our practices and the services we provide! 

Additionally, we’d love to see how you are celebrating National Tooth Fairy Day with your little ones! Please feel free to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and let us know in the comments. 

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The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist

The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist - Dentist in Grand Junction

The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist

By Dr. Josh Eastham

What To Do In A Dental Emergency

The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist - Dentist in Grand Junction

Dental emergencies can be very inconvenient at their best and very painful at their worst. When you or a loved one requires emergency dental care in Grand Junction, it is reassuring to know that High Desert Dental is always available to assist you. When you call High Desert Dental for an emergency appointment, our team will do everything in our power to get you out of pain as soon as possible. Dr. Josh Eastham will happily see you for a quick assessment and recommend treatment. The type of treatment will depend on the severity of your dental emergency.

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

There are several kinds of dental emergencies. You may be calling our dental office in Grand Junction because of a toothache, tooth injury, knocked-out tooth, or missing crown or filling. Minor bleeding in the mouth and cuts to the lips, cheeks, or tongue are also examples of dental emergencies. If you are experiencing pain or are worried about your health, please contact High Desert Dental immediately. Our caring and compassionate dental staff will recommend the next steps.

What Do You Do If You Have a Toothache?

A toothache can be excruciatingly painful, and most people want to get help as soon as possible. One thing to do is gently flossing around the affected tooth because impacted food will sometimes slightly dislodge a tooth, causing pain. If none of this works, please contact us for an emergency dental appointment. A toothache is often caused by a serious tooth infection, explains Dr. Eastham. Tooth infections can affect the nerve, which could be causing the pain you’re feeling. 

Bacteria can affect your tooth’s roots if you lost a filling, have severe tooth decay, or a crack or chip in your tooth. Lack of treatment will eventually lead to a dead tooth. Our friend Dr. Wade, an emergency dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, says that the tooth’s nerve endings may die, but the infection still remains. Your dentist will likely recommend root canal therapy if the tooth infection hasn’t permanently damaged your tooth. 

Failure to seek tooth infection treatment will result in a dental abscess. The infection spreads beyond the tooth and has an impact on your overall health. You may feel feverish or agitated, and you may have a fever and facial swelling. This is unquestionably a dental emergency, and you must seek professional treatment immediately.

What to Do If You Get a Tooth Knocked Out?

If you have a permanent tooth that has been knocked out, please contact Dr. Josh right away. There is a limited window of opportunity where the tooth can be reinserted, but only very soon after the accident. Remove the tooth by keeping it by the crown and rinsing off any visible dirt. If possible, carefully reinsert the tooth into the empty socket, making sure it is facing the correct way. Before you can see our dentist, hold the tooth in place with a clean finger or gently bite down on a piece of tissue. Otherwise, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva. 

“I would highly recommend High Desert Dental. Dr. Eastham and the team are attentive, personal, and professional. I know I’m in good hands and trust the quality of care, service, and most importantly judgment in decisions about my dental health. I’m not normally one to write reviews but have made an exception in order to recommend this practice.” – Eli B.

Dealing with a Missing Filling or Crown

If you lose a filling or dental crown, it is important to replace it as soon as possible because the tooth could become at risk. In the meantime, you might try preserving the tooth by inserting a tiny piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity. You could also use temporary dental cement, which is available over-the-counter. If a crown has become loose, temporary dental cement may be used to reposition it. If necessary, make an appointment to have the crown correctly fitted refitted; otherwise, it can be replaced.

How to Fix a Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Chipped or broken teeth are typically restored with a dental crown. Also, a minor crack must be repaired because any time you bite down on the tooth, the crack opens, allowing disease-causing bacteria to enter.

When Do You Visit the Emergency Room?

Dr. Josh is here to help you during your dental emergency. If you’ve broken your jaw or taken a hard hit to the face, we highly recommend visiting the emergency room first. We can always see you afterward. The safety and wellbeing of our patients are always our number one priority. If you’re experiencing any of the above dental emergencies, give us a call. 

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Fresh Breath Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

fresh breath tips from grand junction dentist

Fresh Breath Tips From
Grand Junction Dentist

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Fresh Breath Tips

fresh breath tips from grand junction dentist

Fresh Breath Tips from a Grand Junction Dentist

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

Mouthwash

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

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

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

Rinse With Water

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

Chew Gum

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

Quit Smoking

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

Hydrate

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

Stick to Your Oral Hygiene

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

Tongue Scraper

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

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

Visit Your Dentist in Grand Junction

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

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