Am I a Candidate For Dental Implants?

Am I a candidate for dental implants - Grand Junction CO

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Am I a candidate for dental implants - Grand Junction CO

Dental implants are a standard solution for patients with missing teeth. Despite its many advantages, this restorative dentistry treatment may not be appropriate for all. In this article. Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, answers, “Am I a candidate for dental implants?”

Why You Should Get Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that look and work identically to a patient’s natural tooth. A dental implant, when combined with a crown, allows us to replace your missing tooth since a missing tooth will cause your teeth to shift if left untreated.

Dental implants have a success rate of almost 100%, and with proper treatment, the implants can last a lifetime. A patient may be recommended for dental implant care for a variety of reasons, including:

  • You have a collection of loose dentures.
  • Adhesives are not something you want to use.
  • You have trouble chewing and are concerned that denture treatment would be too difficult.
  • The patient does not want a tooth replacement alternative that is reversible.
  • You are self-conscious because you have a missing tooth or your teeth are misaligned.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants, unlike dentures, not only give the appearance that your teeth are normal. Since they are permanently part of your mouth, they can also look and feel natural. Dental implants, in addition to enhancing the quality of your smile for the rest of your life, may provide a variety of other health benefits, including:

  • Improving Your Public Speaking
  • Discomfort relief
  • Preventing the deterioration of jaw bone
  • Denture treatment is no longer needed on a regular basis.
  • Improving your eating habits
  • Boosting your oral hygiene

“Doctor Josh was professional and efficient. Josh did an excellent job explaining each procedure prior to performing the task. I was also impressed with his assistant, Dove. She has a very calming personality that made my visit less stressful. Overall, I was impressed and more than satisfied with my procedure this morning.”

– Ron E.

What Is The Dental Implant Process?

Dr. Josh Eastham will always match your new dental implant to your natural teeth. A post will be inserted into the bone socket where the natural tooth is missing or has been extracted during the procedure. Your jaw bone will then naturally expand around this post, locking it in place.

After 6-12 weeks, you will usually return and have a connector post-installed, after which your dentist in Grand Junction will attach your new tooth.

Am I A Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants will enhance your smile and preserve your bone health, but not every patient is a good candidate for this procedure. If you can tolerate a standard tooth extraction, you are likely a successful candidate for dental implants.

The following are indications that you might be a successful applicant for dental implants:

  • A good foundation in your jaw bone.
  • No gum recession
  • You avoid activities like heavy smoking and not flossing, which might jeopardize the effectiveness of your implants.

Our friend, Dr. Beth Herko, a dentist in New Providence, says that patients considering dental implants should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and be able to see their dentist on a regular basis. If you are uncertain if you qualify for dental implants, scheduling a consultation at our dental office in Grand Junction, CO.

Dental Implants in Grand Junction

Now you can probably answer, “Am I a candidate for dental implants?” Dental implants are an amazing solution for replacing missing teeth if you want to make your smile vibrant and normal. Dr. Josh Eastham and our team at High Desert Dental work hard to ensure that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible so that you can resume eating, laughing, and smiling with ease. Contact High Desert Dental today. We can’t wait to see you and your family!

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The Significance of Dental Crowns

significance of dental crowns - Grand Junction CO

The Significance of Dental Crowns

By Dr. Josh Eastham

How Do Dental Crowns Work?

significance of dental crowns - Grand Junction CO

Dental emergencies happen all the time. Whether it’s a broken tooth, chipped tooth, or knocked-out tooth, when these dental problems arise, call High Desert Dental. Our team will work with you to discuss your restorative dentistry solutions. It is likely that Dr. Josh Eastham will recommend dental crowns. If you’re unfamiliar with dental crowns, read the article below to better understand the significance of dental crowns. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns and bridges are restorative procedures that are used to repair damaged or missing teeth. Think of this treatment as a cap or shoe that goes over your tooth. They can hide damaged teeth and save the tooth from further damage. Dental crowns come in different sizes and shades, giving patients a completely natural look. They are customized to fit perfectly over your tooth surface and are made of long-lasting porcelain material.

The Value of Dental Crowns

Crowns are used in our dental office in Grand Junction, CO, to correct a variety of dental flaws. If you want to improve the physical appearance of your tooth, you should think about getting a dental crown. The following are some of the advantages of dental crowns:

  • Crowns help to regain the strength of the teeth after root canal treatment.
  • They are used in cosmetic procedures to reshape misshapen teeth and close holes in the teeth for better alignment.
  • It can be used to protect the dental implant.
  • Restore worn down teeth.
  • Replace missing teeth.
  • Keep dental bridges in the proper place.
  • Replace broken fillings.
  • Prevent further decay and damage.
  • Provide a better-looking smile

What is a Dental Crown Procedure?

When you choose a dental crown in Grand Junction, CO, Dr. Josh will explain what to expect during the treatment. We will examine your teeth prior to the dental crown placement. You can also expect to take dental x-rays. Dental impressions are next. Depending on the dental office, your dentist in Grand Junction will either make your dental crown in-house or send it to a dental lab. If your dental crown is sent to a dental lab to be custom made, you’ll need to come back to the office a second time for the dental crown placement. If your teeth are badly decayed, you’ll likely need a root canal, say our friends at Dr. Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY.

“Great dental experience. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Great dental cleaning and feels good to have teeth kept in best condition. First visit Dr. Josh Eastham was a positive experience. Looking forward to new digital technology.” – Beth B.

How to Care for Your Crowns

Crowns, like natural teeth, are susceptible to damage and decay. The following are some precautions Dr. Josh says you should take to keep your dental crowns in good condition:

  1. Use the fluoride medication for oral care that has been prescribed.
  2. Brush your teeth on a regular basis.
  3. Visit your Grand Junction Dentist on a regular basis for dental examinations and cleanings.
  4. Avoid eating hard foods that can damage your crowns.
  5. Tobacco use and other bad oral habits may cause stains to form on your cosmetic crowns. They will last for around fifteen years, depending on the amount of wear and tear they are subjected to. They will last a long time if you practice good oral hygiene. Crowns can be damaged if they are ground or clenched. 

High Desert Dental is happy to help you achieve your oral health goals. As you can see, dental crowns can be used for several reasons. Our team can provide you with quality dental crowns. Contact us for a dental crown consultation. We will make sure that you will have the best treatment possible. We look forward to meeting with you soon!

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Why You Need a Root Canal

why you need a root canal - Grand Junction Dentist

Why You Need a Root Canal

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Do You Need a Root Canal?

why you need a root canal - Grand Junction Dentist

It’s not always easy to tell whether a tooth needs to be treated with a root canal. Patients who need a root canal will often experience some symptoms. However, it can be difficult to know you need a root canal just by looking at the tooth. In honor of Root Canal Awareness Week, Dr. Josh Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, shares exactly why you need a root canal.

Root Canal 

To give you a brief rundown, your dental pulp is the innermost layer of your tooth. Your tooth includes nerve endings, connective tissue, and blood capillaries. The nerve endings provide the sensation of hot or cold, but they aren’t necessary for the tooth’s health or regular day-to-day functioning. As a result, they can be removed without disrupting the tooth’s normal function.

Root canal therapy entails the removal of the contaminated or damaged dental pulp, as well as the cleaning and sealing of the affected tooth. Root canal treatment will help you avoid more serious issues like tooth loss.

Causes of Root Canal

Damage to the pulp of the tooth may be caused by a variety of causes. Among the most popular are:

  • Inflammation and irritation
  • Severe tooth decay
  • Recurring dental procedures
  • Large fillings 
  • Chipped or broken tooth 
  • Trauma/Injury

Once a tooth infection begins, it can start to spread throughout the body, says Dr. Josh Eastham. Additionally, patients who do not treat their infection will experience swelling in the ears, head, neck, and so on. Your tooth will develop a hole inside. 

“Dr. Josh is great! The first time I came to the office, everyone was so nice and didn’t make me feel uncomfortable. Dr. Josh is very knowledgeable and shares what he would do if it was his mouth he was working on! I definitely trust him to do my dental treatment!” – Callie T.

Signs You Need a Root Canal Treatment

If you have any of the following signs, you might need a root canal in the near future:

Toothache

Pain or discomfort is usually a sign that something is wrong. If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s important to reach out to an emergency dentist near me. Your toothache will not go away on its own. In fact, our friend, Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, points out that patients who avoid toothache treatment will likely have to come in for a more costly treatment, such as tooth extraction.

Sensitivity

Although some people’s teeth are naturally sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages, persistent sensitivity could indicate pulp damage. Your tooth is extremely vulnerable to extreme temperatures due to nerve damage in the pulp cavity.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess occurs when bacteria build-up, causing an infection. You’ll notice you have a dental abscess when a bubble starts to form on your gums. Inside, this bump is built-up pus. The abscess could be followed by a fever, and it could disappear on its own before reappearing at a later time. Ask your dentist in Grand Junction for a consultation so that you can stop the infection before it gets any worse. 

Tooth Discoloration

Tooth discoloration is a common occurrence, especially among tobacco users and coffee drinkers. Having one badly discolored tooth may suggest that your tooth is dying. If Dr. Josh Eastham is able to save your tooth, they will recommend root canal therapy. Otherwise, a tooth extraction might be the only option.

Swollen Gums

Gum inflammation could indicate that tooth decay has spread from the root of the tooth to the gums. The swelling will usually not go down until treatment has started. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the most common dental problems patients experience. It’s important to treat gum disease before it’s moved into the advanced stages. 

Root canals are generally recommended if the tooth is salvageable. At High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, Colorado, we do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth. We may be able to save your tooth by performing a routine root canal. If your natural tooth cannot be saved, we will work with you to figure out the next steps. Please contact our dental office in Grand Junction if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. 

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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.

T

“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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Dental Crown FAQ

dental crown FAQ - Grand Junction CO

Dental Crown FAQ

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Facts About Dental Crowns

dental crown FAQ - Grand Junction CO

Dental crowns are a common topic of discussion in dentistry, and they may be among the most common restorative dentistry options for patients. Before beginning any major dental work, it’s important to grasp the “what” and “why.” The following are the most frequently asked questions about dental crowns by Dr. Josh Eastham, your favorite dentist in Grand Junction, CO.

What is a Cosmetic Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a false tooth that covers one of your natural teeth or a screw for an implant. They are mostly made of ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, or an alloy (including gold). For those that prefer a natural smile, porcelain dental crowns are recommended. Some crowns are created in a dental lab using a mold taken by your Grand Junction dentist after the region has been prepared. You will be given a temporary crown while it is being made.

Why Should I Get a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns can help a number of dental problems. Dr. Josh may recommend getting a dental crown because they:

  • Strengthen Weak Teeth
  • Protect a tooth after a root canal
  • Complete a dental implant
  • Replace a dental filling
  • Hides imperfections or impurities 

Do Dental Crowns Hurt?

At High Desert Dental, we make our patient’s experience and well-being our number one priority. That being said, dental crowns do not hurt. We will numb the area, depending on the procedure. Our friend, Dr. Herko, a dentist in New Providence, NJ, agrees that it’s normal to feel a little achiness after a dental crown placement, but it will go away after just a few days. 

Crown placement is normally not harmful. When air enters the exposed nerves, when a temporary crown is removed, and a permanent crown is added, it can feel a little uncomfortable. This lasts about a minute and does not need any numbing. If you’ve had a root canal, this isn’t even a problem because you won’t have feeling in those nerves.  

“Dr. Josh and the team are fantastic! I had two crowns done earlier today, and they took amazing care of me before, during, and after the procedure. Their communication is outstanding. My sons also go to High Desert Dental. We highly recommend this practice!” – Jen T.

Do Dental Crowns Require Maintenance?

Dental crowns are an excellent way to restore your smile, but unfortunately, they won’t last forever. Dr. Josh recommends staying on top of a regular oral hygiene routine as well as visiting your dentist for a professional dental cleaning and check-up at least twice a year. Over time, your dental crown will deteriorate and will need to be replaced. They can last up to 15 years with good love and care. Long story short, dental crowns don’t require any special treatment. 

Contact Your Dentist in Grand Junction

Interested in how dental crowns can help your smile? Contact High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, CO, for a cosmetic crown consultation. Dr. Josh and his team are happy to weigh out the different cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry options available. We look forward to meeting you soon! 

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Finding the Right Grand Junction CO Dentist

Finding a dentist in grand junction CO

Finding the Right Grand Junction, CO Dentist 

By Dr. Josh Eastham

Lookig For A New Grand Junction, CO Dentist?

Finding a dentist in grand junction CO

If you’ve recently switched dental benefits or are about to get dental cleaning for the first time in a while, the first move is to find the best dentist. While searching through the list of dentists in your area can seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be that way. In this article, we share tips for finding the right Grand Junction, CO dentist. Learn how to find the best dentist for your family.

Finding the Best Dentist

One of the first places you’ll look for a new dentist is online. Start by putting together a list of dental offices in your city. Google search “Dentist in Grand Junction, CO,” and plenty of dental offices will show up. From there, you can narrow your search based on experience, reviews, and reputation. Take a look at their website before scheduling your appointment.

When Searching for a Dentist Near Me

If you have an initial list, you can narrow down the applicants by consulting online reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. This will help you answer any questions you might have about your new dentist:

  • The dental services offered 
  • Appointment flexibility
  • Office culture
  • Cleanliness 
  • Billing
  • New patient specials
  • Dental insurance

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dentist

Dental Insurance 

There are so many dental offices to choose from, but how can you narrow it down? Well, to start, not every office accepts the same dental insurance. Dental insurance can be confusing, so make sure you find a dental office that works with your dental insurance. Otherwise, you’ll end up paying out of pocket, says Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY. Find a dental office that is in-network with your dental insurance provider. You can simply call the office or visit their website to learn more about their in-network partners.

Office Hours 

Many people put off visiting the dentist for long periods of time because of the limited hours of operation. A lot of people don’t want to miss work to have a professional dental cleaning. Find a dental office that has flexible hours. If you work a 9-5 job, getting in to see a dentist may be difficult. At High Desert Dental, we have flexible hours to help our patients with busy schedules. 

Special Dental Services

“The best dental practice in the valley! Dr. Josh is always very thorough and really shows that he cares. I trust him with dental care for my whole family, even down to my two-year-old!” – Mary S.

Special Dental Services

Some dentists provide a range of services that are more complex. For instance, there are endodontists, emergency dentists, modern dental offices, and more! When searching for a new dentist, you’ll want to make sure that they are capable of providing a wide range of dental treatments. Otherwise, you may be recommended to other dental offices for treatments like dental implants, dental crowns, or extractions. Our dental office in Grand Junction, CO, offers cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and more. If you’re searching for an emergency dentist in Grand Junction, call High Desert Dental! We’re always welcoming new patients to the family.

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