Best Practices for Brushing and Flossing

How to Prevent Cavities: Tips from Your Grand Junction Dentist

Best Practices for Brushing and Flossing

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

How to Prevent Cavities: Tips from Your Grand Junction Dentist

How to Prevent Cavities: Tips from Your Grand Junction Dentist

Maintaining a healthy smile starts with consistent at-home oral hygiene. While regular dental visits are essential, the foundation of good oral health lies in daily brushing and flossing. Practicing proper techniques ensures your teeth stay clean, your gums remain healthy, and you avoid common dental issues like cavities and gum disease.

At High Desert Dental, we’re proud to be recognized for having the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, and we’re here to share our expert guidance to help you optimize your oral care routine.

Why Brushing and Flossing Matter

Plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on your teeth every day. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing are your first line of defense against these issues.

While brushing helps remove food particles and bacteria from the surface of your teeth, flossing reaches the spaces between them, where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Together, they create a powerful routine that keeps your mouth clean and your smile bright.

Best Brushing Practices

1. Choose the Right Toothbrush
Select a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head size that comfortably fits in your mouth. Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, the key is to use it effectively and gently.

2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Always use a toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

3. Brush for Two Full Minutes
Brush your teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed—for two minutes each time. Set a timer or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer to stay on track.

4. Follow Proper Technique
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it can damage your enamel and irritate your gums.

5. Don’t Forget Your Tongue
Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, leading to bad breath and oral health issues. Gently brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper every day.

Best Flossing Practices

1. Floss at Least Once a Day
Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth. The best time to floss is before brushing at night, but any time of day is better than not at all.

2. Use the Right Amount of Floss
Break off about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers. Leave about 1–2 inches to work with between your fingers.

3. Be Gentle and Thorough
Slide the floss between your teeth using a gentle back-and-forth motion. Curve it into a “C” shape against the side of each tooth and slide it up and down under the gumline. Avoid snapping the floss, which can hurt your gums.

4. Consider Alternatives if Needed
If you struggle with traditional floss, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser. These tools can make flossing easier and more effective for people with braces, arthritis, or tight spaces between teeth.

How Our Experts Can Help

Even with the best brushing and flossing habits, professional dental care is still essential. The best dentist in Grand Junction, CO at High Desert Dental offer thorough cleanings and personalized advice to ensure you’re taking the best possible care of your smile.

At your regular checkups, we’ll:

  • Remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t reach

  • Check for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns

  • Provide tips tailored to your oral health needs

  • Recommend dental products or tools based on your unique smile

Small Changes, Big Results

Adopting a consistent and proper brushing and flossing routine can significantly reduce your risk of dental issues. It’s one of the simplest ways to invest in your long-term oral and overall health.

If you haven’t seen a dentist recently or have questions about your oral care routine, the team at High Desert Dental is here to help. With the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Ready to take your oral hygiene to the next level? Contact High Desert Dental to book your next cleaning and consultation. We’ll help you keep your smile in top shape with expert care and personalized attention.

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Gum Disease Treatment: How to Protect Your Oral Health

Gum Disease Treatment: How to Protect Your Oral Health

Gum Disease Treatment: How to Protect Your Oral Health

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Early Signs of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore How Scaling and Root Planing Can Help

Gum Disease Treatment: How to Protect Your Oral Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common yet serious condition that can significantly affect your oral health and overall well-being if left untreated. It begins with mild gum inflammation, known as gingivitis, and can progress to more severe stages that lead to tooth loss and even bone deterioration. At High Desert Dental, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and care they need to protect their smiles. Here’s what you need to know about gum disease treatment and how you can safeguard your oral health.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on your teeth and gums. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection in the gums. The two main stages of gum disease are:

  • Gingivitis – The early stage, where gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily.

  • Periodontitis – A more advanced stage where the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria and debris, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Signs You May Have Gum Disease

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease is key to preventing its progression. Contact the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO if you experience:

  • Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing

  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Receding gums or longer-appearing teeth

  • Loose or shifting teeth

  • Pain while chewing

Early detection can lead to simpler, less invasive treatments and a better prognosis for your oral health.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

At High Desert Dental, we tailor gum disease treatment plans based on the severity of your condition. Common treatment options include:

1. Professional Dental Cleanings

Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. For mild gingivitis, this is often enough to reverse the condition and restore gum health.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

Also known as deep cleaning, this non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots. This helps gums reattach to the teeth and reduces pocket depth.

3. Antibiotic Therapy

Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to help eliminate bacteria and control infection in more moderate cases of gum disease.

4. Surgical Treatments

In advanced cases, procedures like flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be necessary to restore lost structures and support oral health.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease starts with daily oral care and regular visits to your dental provider. Here are key ways to keep your gums healthy:

  • Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste

  • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and under the gumline

  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria

  • Avoid smoking, which increases your risk of gum disease

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support gum health

  • Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups

Preventive care is the best way to avoid gum disease and the complications that come with it.

Why Choose High Desert Dental?

As the best dental team in Grand Junction, CO, we’re committed to providing personalized, compassionate care using the latest techniques in periodontal treatment. Our experienced team will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether you need a routine cleaning or advanced gum therapy, we’re here to help you restore and maintain a healthy, confident smile.

Take Action Today

Gum disease is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. Don’t wait until it progresses—schedule a dental exam with High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO. Our team is here to provide the expert care you need to protect your oral health for years to come.

Contact High Desert Dental today to book your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile!

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Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Missing Teeth? Here’s Why Dental Implants Might Be the Best Option

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become one of the most popular and effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. They offer a permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures or bridges. If you’re considering dental implants, you may be wondering if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. We’ll discuss the factors that determine whether dental implants are right for you and what you can expect from the process.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant is securely placed and has fused with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to create a fully functional replacement tooth. Implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, offering a long-term solution to tooth loss.

Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including durability, improved oral health, and enhanced appearance. However, not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. Several factors must be considered when evaluating whether dental implants are the right solution for you.

1. Healthy Gums and Teeth

One of the primary requirements for dental implants is having healthy gums. Gum disease or infections can compromise the success of the implant procedure and may prevent your gums from properly healing. If you have active gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend treating the condition before moving forward with dental implants.

It’s also important to have enough healthy teeth around the implant area. Your dentist will assess your mouth to ensure the neighboring teeth are strong enough to support the implant.

2. Adequate Jawbone Density

For dental implants to be successful, you need sufficient bone density in your jaw to support the implant. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area can begin to deteriorate over time. If you don’t have enough bone, the implant may not fuse properly with the bone, leading to failure.

If you don’t have enough jawbone, there are options to restore the area. Bone grafting is a procedure where bone material is added to the area to encourage bone growth and restore density. After the bone has healed, the implant procedure can move forward.

3. Overall Health

While dental implants are a safe procedure for most people, certain medical conditions may affect the healing process. If you have conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, or autoimmune disorders, it may affect your ability to heal after surgery.

Your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation of your medical history and may work with your physician to ensure you are healthy enough for the procedure. If you are a smoker, you may need to quit smoking for a period before and after the procedure, as smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

4. Age Considerations

While there’s no age limit for dental implants, younger patients should have fully developed jawbones for the procedure to be successful. Typically, this occurs around the age of 18-20. On the other hand, older patients with no major health concerns can successfully undergo dental implant procedures as well.

5. Commitment to Oral Hygiene

Dental implants require the same care and attention as natural teeth. After the procedure, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection and ensure the longevity of your implants. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups are all crucial aspects of caring for dental implants.

6. The Consultation Process

The best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants is to schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist. At High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, we provide thorough evaluations of your oral health and your overall medical condition to determine if dental implants are right for you.

During the consultation, your dentist will:

  • Review your dental and medical history

  • Take X-rays or 3D images to assess your jawbone and teeth

  • Evaluate your gum health

  • Discuss your treatment options

After this assessment, your dentist will discuss the steps involved in the dental implant procedure, including any necessary preparations like bone grafting or gum treatments.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like bridges and dentures. Some of the benefits include:

  • Durability: Dental implants are designed to last for many years, often a lifetime with proper care.

  • Improved Function: Implants function just like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

  • Better Oral Health: Unlike dentures or bridges, implants don’t require altering adjacent teeth, which helps preserve the health of surrounding teeth.

  • Enhanced Appearance: Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Contact Us

Dental implants can be a life-changing solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. If you’re considering dental implants, it’s essential to work with a skilled and experienced dentist. At High Desert Dental, we are proud to be the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO, helping our patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles with dental implants.

If you’re wondering whether dental implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with our team. We’ll evaluate your oral health and guide you through the process, ensuring the best outcome for your smile.

Call us today to schedule your consultation at High Desert Dental – the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO!

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What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?

What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?

What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Understanding the Cosmetic Benefits of Dental Veneers

What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your smile, veneers could be the perfect solution. As one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, veneers can dramatically enhance the look of your teeth. But what exactly are veneers, and how do they work? High Desert Dental delivers high-quality dental care and helps you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. We’ll explain what veneers are, how they work, and how they can benefit your smile.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed on the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. Porcelain or composite resin veneers cover imperfections like stains, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth. Veneers are an excellent solution for patients who want to achieve a bright, natural-looking smile without the need for more invasive procedures like crowns or braces.

Porcelain veneers are the most common type and offer a durable, stain-resistant option that mimics the natural translucency of tooth enamel. Composite veneers offer a more affordable option, applied directly to the teeth in a single visit, though they may not last as long as porcelain veneers.

How Do Veneers Work?

The process of getting veneers is relatively simple and typically involves two to three visits to the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO. Here’s a breakdown of how veneers work:

  1. Consultation and Planning
    During your first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your aesthetic goals. They will determine if veneers are the right option for you based on the condition of your teeth and your desired outcome. If veneers are the appropriate solution, your dentist will take impressions and digital scans of your teeth to create custom veneers that fit perfectly with your smile.

  2. Preparation of the Teeth
    Your dentist usually removes a small amount of enamel from the front of your teeth to make room for the veneers. This step is important because it ensures that the veneers fit properly and don’t make your teeth look bulky. The amount of enamel removed is minimal, usually just about the thickness of the veneer itself.

  3. Temporary Veneers
    After preparing your teeth, your dentist places temporary veneers while crafting your custom veneers. These temporary veneers will protect your teeth and allow you to get a feel for how the final veneers will look and feel.

  4. Final Placement
    Once your permanent veneers are ready, you’ll return to the office for a second visit. Your dentist will check the fit and appearance of the veneers before permanently bonding them to your teeth. If everything checks out, your dentist bonds the veneers to the front of your teeth with a strong adhesive. After the veneers are securely in place, your dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure your bite is comfortable and the veneers look natural.

Benefits of Veneers

Veneers offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for many patients. Some of the key advantages include:

  1. Improved Aesthetics
    Veneers can correct a wide range of dental imperfections, including chips, cracks, discoloration, and gaps. They can help create a more symmetrical, uniform smile that enhances your facial appearance. Whether you have discolored teeth due to age, genetics, or coffee stains, veneers can give you a brighter, more youthful smile.

  2. Durability and Longevity
    Porcelain veneers, in particular, are highly durable and resistant to staining. With proper care, they can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. This makes them a long-term solution for improving the appearance of your smile. Composite veneers typically last 5 to 7 years but are also a viable option for patients looking for a more affordable solution.

  3. Minimally Invasive
    Unlike other cosmetic dental treatments that may require significant tooth reduction or surgery, veneers are minimally invasive. The dentist removes only a small amount of enamel during preparation, completing the process quickly compared to other procedures. This means less discomfort and a faster recovery time.

  4. Customizable
    Veneers stand out because dentists customize them to fit your smile perfectly. Your dentist will work with you to choose the ideal color, shape, and size of the veneers to complement your facial features and create a natural look. You can tailor veneers to achieve either a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, based on your preferences.

  5. Low Maintenance
    Caring for veneers is easy. Simply maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing, and visit your dentist for routine checkups. Veneers are stain-resistant, but it’s still a good idea to avoid habits like smoking or excessive consumption of staining foods and drinks to prolong their lifespan.

Are Veneers Right for You?

Veneers are an excellent option for many patients who want to improve the appearance of their smile. However, not everyone is a good candidate for veneers. If you have significant dental decay, gum disease, or a history of tooth grinding (bruxism), your dentist may recommend other treatments before veneers. During your consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your options with you.

At High Desert Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve your best smile. If you’re interested in learning more about veneers and how they can improve your smile, schedule a consultation with the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO today.

Contact Us

Veneers are a versatile and effective cosmetic dental treatment that can address a variety of dental imperfections. Whether you’re looking to fix a chipped tooth, close gaps, or brighten your smile, veneers offer a long-lasting, natural-looking solution. If you’re considering veneers, consult with the best dentist in Grand Junction, CO at High Desert Dental to learn more about how they can enhance your smile and boost your confidence.

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Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - dentist in grand junction co

Stages of Gum Disease

Grand Junction Denitst, Dr. Josh Eastham

Four Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - dentist in grand junction co

Did you know that over half of Americans have periodontal disease? It’s not unusual for patients to experience gum disease at one point in their life. Fortunately, gum disease is preventable. There are several stages of gum disease. In order from bad to worst, gum disease starts with gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Below, Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, explores the stages of gum disease. 

What is Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and periodontal tissues. If left untreated, the infection can destroy enough tissue and spread to the underlying bone.

This infection is typically caused by improper brushing and flossing routines. After all, there are around 700 strains and types of oral bacteria inside the mouth. Some of them are infections that contribute to plaque development.

The main cause of gum disease is dental plaque, which is a sticky, “yucky” film that accumulates on the surface of the teeth. If you don’t remove all of the plaque on your teeth, it can spread to the gums. Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which can irritate and infect the gums.

Gum disease can also be caused by viruses, oral trauma, and other autoimmune illnesses. A lack of vitamin C raises the chance of getting periodontal disease.

Gum Disease Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of periodontal disease usually vary depending on the stage or severity of the illness. For example, during the early stages of gingivitis, you may just have swollen gums or bleeding. This is especially apparent when you floss or clean your teeth.

If the condition is allowed to grow, it might cause more severe symptoms such as:

  • Bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Plaque
  • Loose teeth
  • Foul taste

Note: If gum disease is left untreated, you will eventually lose your natural teeth. Are you experiencing the above symptoms of gum disease? Contact your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, for a consultation. Dr. Josh and the High Desert team will get your oral health back on track. 

Gum Disease’s Four Stages

As mentioned above, periodontal disease is classified into four stages. 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the easiest stage of gum disease to treat because it is still non-destructive. It exclusively affects the gingiva in the early stages. The gingiva is the gum tissue that surrounds the base of the upper and lower teeth.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gingiva. It creates swollen, sensitive, and aching gums at this phase. It might also cause the gums to bleed more easily. 

Mild Periodontitis 

Gum inflammation can occur in as little as five days during the early stages of gingivitis. The symptoms of widespread gingivitis become more visible after two to three weeks. If you continue to ignore this, it will progress to mild periodontal disease.

At this point, your gums will begin to peel away from your teeth or “recede.” As a result, small pockets will form between your teeth and the affected gums. More dangerous bacteria can subsequently infiltrate these “spaces,” resulting in even more bleeding. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says that treating your gum disease is crucial at this point. In fact, if the gum disease progresses any further, you may experience permanent damage.

 

“Dr. Joshua was caring, made me feel comfortable, and was extremely thorough. I would recommend him. Both the dental assistants are good as well.” – Nancy W.

Moderate Periodontitis

During the third stage of gum disease, there will be more bleeding and gum recession, says Dr. Josh. Your teeth will lose support as more tissues die, and they will become moveable. The tooth infection can also cause a generalized inflammatory reaction. At this point, you should have already visited your dentist in Grand Junction for periodontics treatment. 

Advanced Periodontitis 

This is the most severe of the four phases of gum disease, inflicting the most damage to your gums and bones. The tissues that hold your teeth in place and connect them to the bone are already deteriorating. You’re likely to be in a lot of pain and have terrible breath. This stage out of the stages of gum disease is where you’ll most likely lose your teeth. 

Contact Dentist in Grand Junction

As you can see, gum disease is a serious dental problem. If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease, contact High Desert Dental immediately. Our staff will do everything we can to restore your oral health. High Desert Dental also offers emergency dentistry services.

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