Dental Implants Myth Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Common Myths About Dental Implants

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

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

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

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

Dental Implants Myths Debunked

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

Myth #1: Implants Don’t Last Awhile

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

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

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

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

Myth #3: Implants Are For Elders Only

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

Myth #4: Getting Implants Is Expensive

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

Myth #5: Implant Surgery Is Dangerous

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

Contact High Desert Dental For Dental Implants in Grand Junction

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

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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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Cosmetic Dentistry Options in Grand Junction CO

cosmetic dentistry options in grand junction co

Cosmetic Dentistry Options in Grand Junction CO

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

What Are My Cosmetic Dentistry Options?

cosmetic dentistry options in grand junction co

If you wish to improve the appearance of your smile, you have various options for cosmetic dental work.  Our Cosmetic Dentist in Grand Junction CO explains that cosmetic dentistry is becoming more popular. Thus, few reality programs have shown how a dentist can modify practically anyone’s teeth to give them the smile they want.

Below, our dentist in Grand Junction shares your cosmetic dentistry options in Grand Junction CO.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Importantly, not all of the techniques listed below will work for everyone. Thus, your Grand Junction CO dentist can advise you on which approach will work best for improving your smile.

Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Also known as “teeth bleaching,” this technique helps brighten and whiten your teeth if they are discolored or stained. As follows, it can be done either at the dentist’s office or at home. However, because not everyone’s teeth can be bleached, it’s essential to consult with your dentist beforehand.

Porcelain Veneers

Next, we have veneers. Veneers are thin shells composed of porcelain or composite material that are used in cosmetic dentistry. They are created to order and fastened to the front of the tooth. Our friends over at Gentle Dental, Bethlehem GA Dentist, shares that a veneer can be used to correct dental issues such as a slightly crooked tooth, discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or even gaps between the teeth. Contact us today for porcelain veneers in Grand Junction CO. 

Dental Implants for Cosmetic Purposes

A dental implant Grand Junction CO is a metal device used to replace lost teeth. The device is typically composed of titanium and is surgically implanted into the jawbone where the lost tooth is located. A dental implant is intended to serve as the tooth root and to hold artificial teeth such as a crown, bridge, or denture in place.

Cosmetic Dental Crowns

Crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made to fit over your whole tooth after it has been prepped by your cosmetic dentist. They are often constructed of acrylic or porcelain bonded to metal to withstand biting pressure. Dental crowns in Grand Junction are used in aesthetic dentistry to repair teeth that are poorly formed, significantly damaged, cracked, chipped, or have had big fillings, as well as to fix gaps between teeth.

“At High Desert Dental, we provide the highest standard of cosmetic dentistry in the Grand Junction, CO area. Whether you’re looking to reshape, redesign, or brighten up your smile, we have amazing options for you.” – Dr. Josh Eastham

Contact High Desert Dental For Cosmetic Dentistry Grand Junction CO

Our office is conveniently situated inside The Hillcrest Professional Offices building on Walnut Avenue and N 1st Street. We understand you have many options when it comes to selecting a Grand Junction Dentist for your family, and we appreciate your thought and confidence. Every time, we vow to provide five-star service. , and which process is most suited to your requirements. 

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Oral Health Tips For Thanksgiving

dental tips for thanksgiving

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving 2021

Oral Health Tips for thanksgiving

It’s Thanksgiving time once more! The ideal time of year to reconnect with family and friends over roasted turkey and offer thanks for all the blessings in our lives. It’s also an excellent moment to be thankful for your great smile and set of teeth. To ensure that you keep that beautiful smile during the holidays, our dentist in Grand Junction CO has created this Thanksgiving dental guide. This is so you don’t ruin your holiday  vacation with dental difficulties like toothache or a fractured filling. Below, check out our Dental Tips For Thanksgiving.

Slowly & Carefully Consume Your Food

First, we recommend keeping an eye on your turkey since there are bones. As follows, eat slowly and gently chew your meal. To avoid shattering your teeth, dentures Grand Junction CO, or fillings, avoid biting strongly when eating. Additionally, our Grand Junction dentist recommends to limit your intake of sticky or chewy foods, especially if you have recently had dental fillings or dentures replaced.

Consume More Water

Water is always the answer! As follows, our emergency dentist Grand Junction CO suggests drinking plenty of water between meals and throughout the day. This is especially if you’re going to be eating a lot of food or drinking juices or fizzy drinks. 

Brush, Floss, and Rinse

Because of all the foods and desserts you’ll be eating with family and friends throughout Thanksgiving and the holiday season, you should be especially careful and take extra care of your teeth. Carry a travel-size toiletry kit that includes toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash in pocket size. Our friends at College Hill Dental, family dentist in Easton PA, recommend that after eating, take a brief trip to the toilet to floss, brush, and rinse your mouth. Also, you can contact your general dentist near me after the holidays to schedule a teeth cleaning. 

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chew sugar-free gum after a meal to remove food particles that have been caught between your teeth and beneath the gum line. Furthermore, gums contribute in the maintenance of a healthy flow of saliva, which is believed to aid in food digestion.

“Sips of water can assist wash away the acid and food particles, as well as enhance your saliva flow, which reduces plaque formation and tooth decay. Drink tons of water this Thanksgiving!” – Grand Junction CO Dentist

Make an Appointment With Your Grand Junction CO Dentist Today

Make an appointment for a post-Thanksgiving dental cleaning with our Grand Junction office today. At High Desert Dental, we offer cleanings, check-ups, and other dental procedures such as cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and teeth whitening. This will assist you prevent dental problems and retain your attractive and bright smile for future holidays. Happy Thanksgiving!

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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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TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ grand junction

TMJ Awareness Month

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

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TMJ grand junction

Not only is it the middle of autumn and the start of the holiday season, but it’s also TMJ Awareness Month! At High Desert Dental, our Grand Junction dentist believes it is our responsibility to educate our patients about Temporomandibular Joint Disorder as their dentists and TMJ experts. Its symptoms, causes, treatment choices, and what happens if you ignore it are all covered. If you’re not familiar with TMJ, stay reading to learn more.

What is Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD)?

Your jaw opens and closes like a door. Our dentist in Grand Junction CO explains that it has a hinge on the bottom that allows it to open and close. The temporomandibular joint functions similarly to a door hinge, and when you have TMJ disease, the hinge isn’t functioning properly. This is frequently because the dysfunction is caused by an imbalance, strain, or injury. The malfunction can cause pain and discomfort, which can make daily life difficult. Unfortunately, ignoring TMJ will just exacerbate the situation.

The door (your jaw) will eventually become stuck open or closed. TMJ therapy is your only option for alleviating discomfort and restoring proper jaw function.

What is the root of the problem?

The temporomandibular joint functions similarly to a hinge, but with sliding motions as well. The cartilage-covered portions of the jawbones that interact with the temporomandibular joint are separated by a tiny disk that absorbs shock and allows for smooth movement. The disk is either eroded or out of position in a TMJ condition, the joint’s cartilage has been destroyed by arthritis, or the joint has been harmed by a physical accident.

“We strongly advise you to see a dentist for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ. A good diagnosis is necessary for a successful treatment approach.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Common Causes of TMJ

Below, Dr. Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, shares the common causes of TMJ.

  • Misalignment of the jaw
    clenching and grinding (bruxism)
  • Injury to the body
  • Stress
  • Bad posture

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of TMJ issues is the best approach to guarantee that you receive treatment as soon as possible. We worked with our friends at Shreveport Dental Solutions, dentist in Shreveport LA, to discuss the signs. The following are the most prevalent signs to look out for:

  • Pain in the jaw, face, back, or neck
  • Ear ache or a congested sensation
  • Ears ringing (tinnitus)
  • Migraines or headaches on a regular basis
  • Lockjaw is a term used to describe a situation (jaw stuck open or closed)
  • Something is wrong with this bite.
  • Finger numbness or tingling
  • Tooth wear that is excessive
  • Jaw clicking or popping
  • Teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)

What Should I Do If I Am Suspecting That I Have It?

Our dentists will also take a thorough medical history from you and check your jaw muscles and joints for areas of strain or pain. We can assess if you have TMJ and what you need for a successful therapy with all of this information.

What Happens If I Don’t Seek Treatment for TMJ?

Before you dismiss the idea of coming in for a consultation, consider what will happen if you refuse treatment. To begin with, your pain will not go away. It’s possible that things will deteriorate. You’ll have more headaches and migraines, as well as pain in your jaw, neck, and face. You may just have one symptom at first, but this can quickly escalate to many symptoms.

TMJ that isn’t treated might have a negative impact on your dental health. If you grind and clench your teeth all the time, it can wear down the enamel and possibly fracture and split the teeth.

Finally, untreated TMJ might result in serious jaw issues. It’s possible that the jaw will become permanently stuck open or closed, or that it will dislocate.

The longer you wait to get help, the more likely you are to need surgery to fix your problem. Furthermore, you will be required to pay for additional restorative dentistry procedures in order to improve the health of your teeth.

Call High Desert Dental Today for TMJ Treatment

If there’s one thing you should remember from this blog for TMJ Awareness Month, it’s to see a dentist as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. Contact our team at High Desert Dental to learn more. 

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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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