How Root Canals Work

How Root Canals Work

How Root Canals Work

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

What is a Root Canal?

How Root Canals Work

A root canal is a dental procedure that is done to remove the infected or decayed pulp from inside of a tooth. The purpose of this procedure is to save the patient’s natural teeth and avoid needing to get the tooth extracted. During a root canal, your Grand Junction Dentist will enter through the crown of the tooth and clean out any infection or decay present in the pulp. They will then fill in the space with material and seal it off so that it can be properly restored.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

During a root canal, your dentist will first take an x-ray of your mouth to get an idea of what type of treatment you need. This step is important because it helps your dentist determine if there are any signs of infection or damage that they need to address during the procedure.

Once they have taken an x-ray, they will administer local anesthesia so that you won’t feel any discomfort during the process. Once numbed, they can then work on cleaning out any infected or decayed parts of your tooth and removing them from your mouth.

To ensure that no further damage occurs, your dentist may use files to shape the inside of your tooth before filling it up with a material such as gutta percha. This material helps keep bacteria from entering back into the area and causing additional damage down the line. Afterward, they may place a temporary crown over the area so that you can continue using it without pain until it heals completely.

Root canals are one way for patients in Grand Junction Colorado to save their natural teeth instead of having them extracted due to decay or infection. During this procedure, Dr. Josh will clean out any damaged or decayed areas within a tooth before filling it back up with material and sealing off its entrance so that no further damage occurs. With proper care after receiving a root canal, patients should be able to enjoy their restored teeth for many years to come! 

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

Common Dental Emergencies

Common Dental Emergencies Grand Junction CO Emergency Dentist

Common Dental Emergencies

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

The Most Common Dental Emergencies

Common Dental Emergencies Grand Junction CO Emergency Dentist

When you inadvertently sever your finger while chopping food, you know it’s time to head to the local emergency room. But, what if you bite onto something and chip a tooth? Many people would still seek care in an emergency department. However, any forms of dental crises can be redirected from the emergency department and into your Grand Junction CO dentist office.

While redirecting dental crises to an emergency dentist near me, people ask “what is a dental emergency requiring a dentist vs which emergencies necessitate a emergency hospital visit?” To assist you in making this decision, our Grand Junction CO dentist shares common dental emergencies.

Toothache

Toothache can be caused by a variety of dental issues, and its source should be determined so that it can be treated. Pulp infections and anything wedged between two teeth are two typical causes of toothaches. When tooth pain appears abruptly, worsens gradually, or is severe, it is critical to consult an emergency dentist. In the interim, a cold compress may help relieve some of the pain.

Soft Tissue Damage

Lips, gums, the inside of the cheeks, and the tongue are examples of soft tissues in the mouth. If one of these structures is damaged, you should contact your emergency dentist Grand Junction for advice. Some circumstances may necessitate the services of an emergency dentist, while others may necessitate a trip to the emergency hospital. Before applying pressure to stop bleeding, soft tissue injuries such as lacerations, punctures, and rips should be washed with warm water.

Dental Restorations That Are Missing or Are Loose

Both permanent and temporary restorations can become loose or fall out, however temporary restorations are significantly more prone to do so. They both require emergency dental care, regardless of the method of repair. You will need to bring in the restoration for a lasting repair. You may be able to maintain a temporary repair in place with Vaseline, chapstick, or denture glue until you visit your dentist.

“When tooth pain appears abruptly, worsens gradually, or is severe, it is critical to consult an emergency dentist. Come see us at High Desert Dental so we can relieve your pain.” – Dr. Joshua Eastham

Cracks or Chips

Chips and cracks in the teeth can occur as a result of biting down on hard objects, utilizing teeth for purposes other than biting and chewing, or as a result of an accident. People who grind or clench their teeth are more prone to chipping or cracking their teeth. If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, you should see an emergency dentist right once. Any tooth pieces should be washed and stored in a glass of milk or water before being brought to your emergency dental appointment.

If you believe you are experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact our team! We’d love to help you relieve your pain as quickly as possible. 

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

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. 

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

Post Tooth Extraction Tips

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist
 

Post Tooth Extraction Tips from Grand Junction Dentist

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

Aftercare Tips for Tooth Extraction

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

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

Common Infection Signs

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

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

How to Stop Infection After Oral Surgery

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

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

Contact High Desert Dental

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

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

reasons for tooth extractions - grand junction co

Reasons for Tooth Extractions

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Five of the Most Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction

reasons for tooth extractions - grand junction co

When a problem with your tooth is beyond repair, you may be recommended a tooth extraction by your dentist in Grand Junction, CO. Most dentists will only recommend an extraction if it’s completely necessary. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham discusses some common reasons for a tooth extraction.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the most prevalent reason for tooth extraction worldwide. Patients who require tooth extraction due to decay may have resisted visiting the dentist for teeth cleanings. You know, tooth decay normally takes years to proceed to the point of tooth loss. Tooth decay damages the enamel of the tooth in its early stages. When it wears through the enamel, the dentin, the inner layer of the tooth, begins to disintegrate. 

The tooth suffers more harm when the decay reaches the center of the tooth. A root canal infection occurs when bacteria reach the tooth’s interior or pulp. The longer a patient goes without treatment, the worse the infection and destruction become. If the tooth decay has progressed to the point where it cannot be salvaged, Dr. Josh may advise extraction followed by restorative dentistry.

Our friend Dr. Kristina Neda, a dentist in Georgetown, KY, points out that cavities can be avoided if individuals get regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months, or they can be diagnosed and repaired with a simple filling.

Periodontitis

When left untreated, gum disease is equally as damaging to the teeth as tooth decay. Gum tissue and the surrounding bone that support the teeth degenerate in the advanced stages of gum disease. The teeth grow loose as the supporting components disintegrate. Gum disease will eventually cause the teeth to fall out on their own, or the teeth may require extraction in addition to gum disease and tooth replacement treatment.

Tooth Crowding

Tooth extraction may be necessary as part of a patient’s cosmetic treatment plan. If the patient’s teeth are extremely overcrowded, your Grand Junction dentist may prescribe that permanent teeth be extracted. So, this makes more room for the remaining teeth to be pushed into place so that they are all flat with one another. The majority of tooth extractions for overcrowded teeth are performed on children and teenagers.

Impacted Teeth

Additionally, an impacted tooth is one that has not erupted beyond the gum line or has erupted only partially. Overcrowding, a tooth that comes in twisted or slanted at odd angles, and a tooth that comes in misplaced are all causes of dental impaction. Because the jaw is not broad enough to accommodate these teeth, wisdom teeth are frequently impacted. Wisdom teeth removal and tooth extraction can be performed on impacted teeth for our Grand Junction, CO patients.

Contact High Desert Dental

As you can see, there are several reasons for a tooth extraction. If you need a tooth extraction, contact High Desert Dental in Grand Junction, CO. Our team is always happy to help. New patient? Check out our special offers.

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

Causes of a Toothache

causes of a toothache - Grand Junction CO

Causes of a Toothache

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Common Causes of a Toothache

causes of a toothache - Grand Junction CO

Common Causes of a Toothache

The worst type of pain is a toothache. It can’t be seen, it doesn’t go away on its own, and it has to be treated by a professional. Toothaches are a clear sign that something is wrong. Most toothaches are caused by dental decay, which means you are most likely suffering from tooth decay or advanced gum disease. The pain you feel – usually when you eat or drink anything sweet, extremely hot, or extremely cold – is an indication that your tooth’s pulp is irritated. In this article, Dr. Josh Eastham, your dentist in Grand junction, CO, discusses the causes of a toothache.

What is the Source of a Toothache?

A comprehensive oral exam is the best approach to determine the source of your toothache, but most cases fall under one of the following categories:

  • Infection
  • Periodontal disease
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Trauma to the teeth
  • An unusual bite
  • The eruption of a tooth (adolescents)

What Are the Symptoms of a Toothache?

It is critical to pay attention to minor issues with your teeth and the interior of your mouth.

For instance, you could develop an abscessed tooth, which implies pus has accumulated around the tooth root. Pus can indicate a bacterial infection, particularly if it is accompanied by tissue inflammation, bleeding gums, and bone loss surrounding the tooth. Our friends at OG Dental, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, agree that an abscessed tooth can be dangerous if left untreated. Contact your local dentist to schedule an appointment immediately. 

While an abscess necessitates a trip to the dentist, any of the following may need a trip to the emergency room:

  • Pain when biting
  • Fever
  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Breathing or swallowing difficulties
  • Swelling of the gums and teeth
  • Excruciating pain

One ignored aspect of toothaches is the existence of sepsis, which occurs when your body overreacts to an infection. If sepsis develops and is not treated, it can be fatal.  

Contact Emergency Dentist in Grand Junction, CO

When you’re feeling pain in your mouth, search for “emergency dentist near me.” You’ll find Dr. Josh Eastham among the best dentists who are well equipped to get you feeling as good as new. Contact High Desert Dental office in Grand Junction, CO, today to schedule an appointment.

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

Common Dental Problems

common-dental-problems-grand-junction-dentist

Common Dental Problems

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

The Most Common Dental Problems

common-dental-problems-grand-junction-dentist

Dental problems can seriously affect our day-to-day life. The good news is that most dental problems are avoidable. In this article, we discuss some of the most common dental problems patients face. Need dental services? Contact High Desert Dental to schedule an appointment with Dr. Josh Eastham, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO. 

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is a very commond ental problem. It is an infection of the gums that surround your teeth. There are actually several stages of gum disease. You’ve probably heard of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene and tobacco use, can increase your chances of developing this common dental problem. Periodontal disease is a very serious dental problem, and we recommend seeing a professional for treatment. To learn more about it, please read our blog post about the Stages of Gum Disease. 

Dental Caries

Tooth decay, which leads to cavities, occurs when plaque on your teeth interacts with sticky, starchy foods you eat. This combination produces acids that erode away at tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is to take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing everyday and having your teeth checked twice a year. Fillings, crowns, and root canals can all be used to treat tooth decay.

Bad Breath

Bad breath happens to many people. Gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, and germs in your mouth can all contribute to it. While using mouthwash and drinking enough water may provide a temporary solution. However, our friend Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, says that fixing the underlying problem may be the best option.

Tooth Sensitivity 

When teeth are exposed to hot/cold food or beverages, this frequent dental issue produces pain or discomfort. Brushing and flossing can also be painful. A dental abscess or a broken tooth are two possible causes. Bonding, a root canal, or desensitizing toothpaste may be used to address dental sensitivity.

“I went to High Desert Dental to have some necessary dental work done yesterday. I was a bit anxious, but Nicole and Dr. Josh made me very comfortable, and I was very happy with the experience. He took utmost care to be gentle and calm my nerves. I will have absolutely no problem in the future. I highly recommend them!” – Kathy K.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

There are various solutions for addressing this frequent dental ailment, whether you bit into a piece of hard candy or sustained trauma to your teeth. Depending on the severity, your Grand Junction dentist may repair your tooth with a tooth-colored filling, crown, or veneer.

Stained Teeth 

Food, cigarettes, drugs, and trauma are just a few of the things that can darken our teeth. Most tooth stains can be eliminated or lightened with teeth whitening treatments, which can be done at your dentist’s office or at home. Contact High Desert Dental about our in-office teeth whitening in Grand Junction, CO! 

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be caused by stress, a misaligned bite, or sleep disorders. In turn, this leads to headaches, a sore mouth, and even cracked teeth. Ask Dr. Josh Eastham the best remedy for your teeth grinding problems. 

Contact High Desert Dental

The common dental problems above can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits. The best dentists in Grand Junction recommend visiting your dentist twice a year for routine dental cleaning and exam, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and beverages. Most importantly, if a dental problem arises, you should see your dentist right away. Need an emergency dentist in Grand Junction, CO? Contact High Desert Dental Today! 

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off - Grand Junction CO

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off

By Dr. Josh Eastham

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off Unexpectandently

What to Do When a Crown Falls Off - Grand Junction CO

Did your dental crown fall off? Contact your dentist in Grand Junction immediately. Our High Desert Dental team will gladly schedule an emergency dental appointment for you. You may be surprised that your crown fell out, but try to avoid swallowing your crown. If it’s fully intact, then Dr. Josh Eastham may be able to place it back on. In this article, Dr. Eastham explains what to do when a crown falls off.

Crown Falls Off & Isn’t Damaged

If your dental crown didn’t break, you might be able to get it placed back on without having to wait for a new one. Try the following steps if your crown fell off and it’s not broken. These are not permanent solutions, so please contact High Desert Dental.

  • A dab of toothpaste may be enough to keep the crown in place until the appointment.
  • Because the exposed tooth surface may be fragile and prone to harm in its fragile state, clean it carefully with toothpaste.
  • Clean the crown from the inside out, being gentle with it. Remove any debris, old cement, or other materials from the inside of the crown. Take care of it and try not to harm it.
  • Before attempting to repair the crown on the tooth, be sure you understand how it fits in your mouth. If it is not inserted correctly, you could cause further damage.
  • To produce a light suction, apply a tiny dab of toothpaste or temporary crown cement (available in drugstores). Temporary dental cement is packaged with detailed instructions.

Crown Falls Off & Is Damaged

Most of the time, you’ll break your crown if it randomly falls off. This is usually caused by chewing on hard foods such as candy or ice. Excessive flossing, grinding your teeth, or an injury can all cause the crown to fall out. However, if there is additional damage to the crown, the underlying tooth or gum, or both, a more invasive dental operation will be required. If your dental crown is cracked, you will have to get it replaced. Don’t forget to contact High Desert Dental for emergency dentistry in Grand Junction. Here’s what you can do if your crown falls off and is damaged:

 

“I’ve been a patient here for close to a year now and have had only pleasant experiences. Would highly recommend” – Drew K.

What Procedure Does a Dentist Use to Replace a Crown?

In many circumstances, you will not require a new crown to replace the old one, says our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY. Your old crown should be reusable if it is not broken and the uncovered tooth is in the same condition it was when you received it. Before deciding whether a new crown should be constructed, your dentist will evaluate the old one and your tooth. However, seeing your dentist in Grand Junction as soon as possible after a dental crown falls off enhances the likelihood that you won’t have to wait — or pay — for a replacement crown.

Contact Emergency Dentist Grand Junction

Anyone who experiences a broken dental crown should make an appointment with their dentist right away. After a temporary tooth replacement, avoid eating hard or chewy foods. In any event, avoid chewing on the affected side. Our High Desert Dental team will make sure your dental crown is working as good as new. Give our dental office in Grand Junction a call today!

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist

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

The Importance of Having an Emergency Dentist

By Dr. Josh Eastham

What To Do In A Dental Emergency

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

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

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

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

What Do You Do If You Have a Toothache?

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

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

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

What to Do If You Get a Tooth Knocked Out?

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

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

Dealing with a Missing Filling or Crown

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

How to Fix a Chipped or Cracked Tooth

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

When Do You Visit the Emergency Room?

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

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube

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. 

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube