What To Expect At A Dental Check Up

What To Expect At A Dental Check Up

What To Expect At A Dental Check Up

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

A Breakdown Of A Dental Check Up

What To Expect At A Dental Check Up

Although most of us know that we should be brushing and flossing our teeth daily and visiting the dentist regularly, it can often be difficult to keep up with those things. Oral health, arguably one of the most important aspects of overall wellness, tends to be an area that is easily overlooked. This consideration is especially true in regards to regular dental check-ups. These appointments not only provide an opportunity for your dentist to catch any problems early on. It also allows you to have a professional cleaning, which helps remove any build-up of tartar and plaque that could lead to cavities or gum disease. While scheduling an appointment may seem like an inconvenience, taking care of your oral health is essential to maintaining your overall health and well-being. 

Preparing For Your Dental Check Up

It’s important to be prepared for your dental appointment in order to make the most of your time with the dentist. Make sure to brush and floss your teeth before your appointment so that the dentist can get a good look at your teeth and gums. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing that you can easily remove if necessary. Be sure to bring any x-rays or other dental records that you may have so that the best dentist in Grand Junction CO can review them. Finally, be prepared to ask questions about your oral health so that you can get the most out of your appointment. By taking these steps, you will be able to make the most of your time with the dentist and ensure that you get the best possible care for your teeth.

During Your Dental Exam 

A regular dental checkup is comprised of two parts – the cleaning and the exam. When you arrive at your dental office, you’ll check in with the receptionist and be brought into the exam room. The first part of your visit is taken care of by your dental hygienist, who will remove any plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth. They will also floss and polish your teeth, leaving them feeling clean and fresh. Next, your dentist in Grand Junction CO will come in to conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, looking for any signs of tooth decay or other problems. Your dental hygienist may also take X-rays to get a closer look at your teeth and jaws. If everything looks good, you’ll be given a clean bill of health; if not, you may need to schedule a follow-up visit for further treatment. Our friends at 4th Street Family Dentistry, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, believe that either way, regular dental checkups are an important part of maintaining good oral health. 

Contact Us Today!

High Desert Dental is committed to providing the highest quality of dental care to our patients. We offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, restorative procedures, and cosmetic treatments. Our experienced team of dentists and hygienists work hard to ensure that each patient receives the personalized care they deserve. We understand that dental appointments can be stressful, which is why we work to create a relaxed and comfortable environment. We invite you to contact us today to schedule a dental check-up. We will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums during your appointment and answer any questions you may have about your oral health. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve optimal oral health!

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TMD Treatment Grand Junction

TMD Treatment Grand Junction

TMD Treatment in Grand Junction

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

About Temporomandibular Disorder Treatment (TMD)

 

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

Does Jaw Pain Mean I Have TMD?

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

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

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

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

What Factors Contribute To TMD?

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

What Are The Signs And Symptoms of TMD?

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

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

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

TMD Is Diagnosed In What Way?

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

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

TMD Is Treated In What Way?

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

Treatment options may include:

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

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

Important Information on Temporomandibular Disorders

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

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

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

TMD Treatment Grand Junction

Contact High Desert Dental Today

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

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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Fresh Breath Tips

Fresh Breath Tips

Fresh Breath Tips

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Fresh Breath Tips From Your Dentist

Fresh Breath Tips

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

Mouthwash

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

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

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

Use Water to Rinse

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

Gum Chewing

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

Stop Smoking

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

Hydrate

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

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

Visit Your Grand Junction Dentist

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

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

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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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Your Grand Junction Dentist

your dentist in grand junction

Your Dentist in Grand Junction

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

National Dentist Day - Get to Know Your Dentist in Grand Junction

your dentist in grand junction

March 6th is National Dentist Day! We love taking this time to get to know our fantastic dentist, Dr. Joshua Eastham! Learn more about your dentist in Grand Junction below.

How Your Grand Junction Dentist Got Started

Dr. Josh, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, knew from a young age that he wanted to work in the healthcare sector because he enjoyed the idea of helping others live a healthy lifestyle and genuinely enjoy life to the fullest. Then, he discovered his affinity for dentistry while studying at the University of Iowa. This occurred after spending numerous clinical hours shadowing various healthcare professionals. In fact, Dr. Josh realized he had found his true calling in dentistry while following a family friend at his clinic. The mix of science and art, particularly the ability to heal with his hands, was a superb fit. Dr. Josh also enjoys meeting new people and building relationships while assisting others in achieving healthy smiles.

Outside of Dentistry

Dr. Josh’s interests outside of dentistry include spending time with his wife Emily, daughter Ellie, and their two dogs, Lilly and Frisbee. In addition, his interests include fly fishing, ultimate frisbee, ice hockey, running, and golfing, which he does not always do as well as he would like. Dr. Josh is thrilled to be a part of the Grand Junction community as your dentist near me.

“The mix of science and art, particularly the ability to heal with my hands, was a superb fit. That’s why I chose to become a dentist.” – Dr. Eastham

High Desert Dental Today

Trust is vital to us at High Desert Dental. We understand how nervous some patients may be about visiting the dentist. As a result, we make it our aim to actively deliver a calm and positive experience. Our entire team is committed to providing you with outstanding, personalized care and services, ensuring that each visit is a pleasant, positive experience. Dr. Eastham is personable, kind, and knowledgeable. You’re in good hands.

Contact High Desert Dental today to schedule an appointment with us! Happy Dentist Day all!

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Why Replace Missing Teeth

Why Replace Missing Teeth Grand Junction CO

Why Replace Missing Teeth

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth

Why Replace Missing Teeth

If you have just lost a tooth, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. Should you replace or leave the lost tooth alone? Are there any drawbacks to not replacing a missing tooth Our dentist Grand Junction is here to answer people’s various questions about tooth loss. But, first, consider some of the advantages of tooth replacement Grand Junction.

What If I Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth?

Missing one or more teeth may have a substantial influence on your daily life as well as your future oral health. If you do not receive a replacement, you may face the following penalties now and in the future:

You may be unable to enunciate words or chew properly.

Your teeth serve an essential purpose: they allow you to eat and speak. Our dentist Grand Junction CO missing tooth can make it difficult to pronounce words correctly or clearly, making biting difficult.

Your teeth might become misaligned due to the following factors.

As your teeth migrate toward each other to cover the space left by a lost tooth, they might become misaligned, putting strain on the jawline and making eating more difficult.
The condition of your jawbone begins to deteriorate: Because the gums and bone are no longer stimulated, your jawbone will shrink, and your gums will drawback over the missing tooth. This causes your face to slump and any neighboring teeth to deteriorate.

The Benefits of Replacing a Missing Tooth

There are various advantages to a tooth replacement that can help you restore satisfaction and confidence in your life:

You’ll appear younger.

 Replacing a missing tooth helps keep your cheeks from drooping by preserving the curves of your face structure.

You’ll have more fun with your favorite foods.

You can chew your food more easily and naturally with a tooth replacement.

You’ll improve your voice and smile.

Clear communication and a natural grin might help you appear more confident in your conversations.

You’ll notice an improvement in your overall dental health.

Replacing your lost tooth will strengthen your jawbone and guard against dental decay and gum disease in the surrounding region.

“If you want a long-lasting solution to a lost tooth that looks as natural as your natural smile, High Desert provides high-quality, inventive choices.” – Grand Junction Dental Team

What Is the Best Way to Replace a Missing Tooth?

The significance of restoring lost teeth should not be underestimated. Fortunately, you have several alternatives for replacing a missing tooth, including:

  • Dentures Grand Junction are a set of fake teeth that can replace a single lost tooth or a whole bunch of teeth. They are, however, frequently tricky to wear and can fall out while speaking or eating.
  • A dental bridge “bridges” the gap left by a missing tooth between your two normal teeth. The neighboring teeth must be chopped down to secure the bridge, inflicting irreversible damage.
  • Natural-looking dental implants Grand Junction are surgically implanted into your jawbone for teeth that last a lifetime and are considered by many specialists to be the finest replacement choice.

High Desert Dental Can Help You Learn More About Dental Implants

If you want a long-lasting solution to a lost tooth that looks as natural as your natural smile, High Desert provides high-quality, inventive choices. We use high-tech dental technology, such as intraoral cameras, to provide services. Our dental implants are engineered to give maximum comfort and longevity while adhering to the highest quality requirements.

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Gum Disease in Children

gum disease in children

Gum Disease in Children

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Gum Disease Awareness Month: Children's Gum Disease

gum disease in children

The month of February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. You may be wondering, “Can toddlers have gum disease?” The truth is that, while more severe types of gum disease are uncommon in children, persistent gingivitis is frequent in children of all ages. The good news is that parents who take an active interest in their child’s dental health routine can easily avoid significant difficulties from happening. Below, our family dentist Grand Junction shares the primary warning indicators to look for to ensure your child isn’t in the early stages of gum disease.

What Does Gum Disease Look Like?

Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, put together a list of the symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • While brushing or flossing your teeth, you may experience bleeding.
  • Puffiness or swelling of the gums, or any other sign that they are irritated or inflammatory
  • Bad breath (halitosis) that persists after regular brushing and flossing
  • Receding gum lines that expose the tooth’s root

Below, our family dentist in Grand Junction shares three forms of gum disease that children might get and tips on how to avoid these oral health issues.

Early Stages of Gum Disease: Chronic Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a minor kind of gum disease, did you know? If you see your child’s gums bleed when brushing or flossing their teeth, this indicates gingivitis in its early stages. Fortunately, this sort of gum disease is readily treatable! Brushing and flossing regularly and thoroughly are the most effective techniques to prevent gum disease. However, if neglected or untreated, chronic gingivitis can deteriorate. Our friends at College Hill, dentist Easton PA, shares that this ca then and progress to a far more dangerous type of periodontal disease, such as periodontitis.

Aggressive Periodontitis

Adolescents are more prone than adults to develop aggressive periodontitis. However, in contrast to other gum diseases, children with severe periodontitis are unlikely to build dental plaque or tartar. Aggressive periodontitis is characterized by alveolar bone loss and affects the molars or incisors. 

Periodontitis with Aggressive Behavior

Around the age of puberty, your child may develop generalized aggressive periodontitis, which can affect the entire mouth. If severe periodontitis has set, you should expect to witness gum inflammation, plaque buildup, and tartar.  This is a far more dangerous form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss early on.

Periodontal Disease Prevention

While it may be tempting for children to miss a night and go to bed without cleaning their teeth, an irregular oral health practice might lead to problems in the future. If brushing before sleep is difficult for your children, have them brush soon after dinner, as long as no snacks follow.

Your family dentist near me will be able to detect any indications of periodontal disease. This is especially true if you keep up with frequent dental examinations. Then, based on the severity of the symptoms, we can find a treatment strategy. 

“Kids can avoid gingivitis by maintaining a consistent dental health regimen at home. Parents should watch their children’s brushing habits until they reach the age of eight to practice good behaviors regularly and brush and floss correctly.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease will not go on its own. If your kid develops gingivitis early, it may be addressed with frequent dental exams and a strict oral hygiene program at home. If their gum disease has already progressed to a more critical level, they may require more regular dental exams, such as thorough cleanings every three months.

We hope this post has increased your understanding of how gum disease affects children and how you, as parents, may help avoid it.

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What is Dental Bonding?

what is dental bonding

What is Dental Bonding?

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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.

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Children’s Dental Health Month

celebrating childrens dental health month

Children's Dental Health Month

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Celebrating Children's Dental Health Month With Tips & Tricks

celebrating childrens dental health month

The American Dental Association observes National Children’s Dental Health Month in February. This month-long national health observance emphasizes the significance of oral health in children while also providing recommendations for parents to keep their child’s smile on track! Our dentist in Grand Junction loves to use this occasion to give oral health recommendations and promote awareness of the need for children’s dental care at a young age.

At the first appointment, parents/guardians will have the chance to ask their dentist in Grand Junction CO questions and address any dental concerns, and the dentist will gently swab the child’s mouth to examine their gums and any erupted teeth. Then, as your kid begins to teethe, the dentist will be able to monitor their progress and apply preventative measures if there are any issues with their teeth.

“It is never too early to begin thinking about your child’s dental health! The American Association of Pediatric Dentists suggests that parents create a dental home for their kids when they get their first teeth or turn one.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Tips for Keeping Your Child's Oral Health in Check

Our family dentistry in Grand Junction CO take satisfaction in treating patients throughout such critical early childhood years. They have undergone further training beyond dental school to work exclusively with newborns and children in monitoring early oral development as pediatric dentists. We propose the following oral health guidelines to get your children started on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

If your child hasn’t seen a dentist in more than six months, make an appointment as soon as possible.

Clean Your Baby’s Gums Daily

Until those teeth appear, gently brush a moist towel over the gums after each meal to remove dangerous germs.

Begin Brushing Right Away

When you notice your baby coming in, start cleaning their teeth with an infant toothbrush. Use water and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).

Brush For Two Minutes Twice a Week

Fluoride toothpaste should be used in a pea-sized quantity by children aged 2 to 6. Brushing children under six should always be supervised, as they are more prone to ingest toothpaste.

Start Flossing

When your child’s teeth come together, you may begin flossing between them.

Eat A Nutritious Snack

Fruit juice, sports drinks, fruit snacks, and sticky sweets are all harmful to your child’s teeth. Instead,  our friend Dr. Hobfoll, best pediatric dentist in SLC shares that if give calcium-rich snacks to your children, such as cheese or low-sugar yogurt. If you must eat candy, a chocolate bar is better than gummy or sticky sweets, which can become caught between the teeth even after cleaning.

Maintain Their Hydration

Avoid sugary beverages in favor of good old-fashioned water. Water aids in the removal of any sugar or particles that may cause cavities. In addition, many municipal water sources also include fluoride, which is suggested as an effective strategy to prevent tooth decay by the American Dental Association and the Surgeons General of the United States.

Any questions for Dr. Eastham about your child’s oral health? Contact our dentist near me today. 

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