Is It a Cavity? 4 Signs to Watch For

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Cavities can be upsetting and painful. Once you’ve identified that there’s a problem, going to the dentist in Grand Junction, CO, can help you alleviate the pain as quickly as possible. Sometimes, it’s easy to miss the signs of a cavity. Knowing what to look for and getting immediate help is important!

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is a hole in your tooth that’s the result of dental decay. Cavities are caused by a combination of bacteria, regular consumption of sugar and poor oral hygiene habits. Sometimes mild cavities have no symptoms at all, but as they become more severe, you may notice more symptoms.

Signs It’s a Cavity

Not sure if you have a cavity? Here’s what to watch for:

  1. Toothache that happens randomly or when you bite down
  2. Visible holes in your teeth may be stained black or brown
  3. Pain when eating things that are sweet
  4. Sudden increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

Some cavities only hurt a little bit, others can be quite painful. Dental pain isn’t normal, so if you’re experiencing any regular pain at all, you could have a cavity.

When to See the Dentist

You should be going to the dentist twice a year for annual cleanings and checkups. Most likely, if you have a cavity or similar problem, your dentist will catch the issue when you come in for a dental exam.

However, if you’re noticing the symptoms above, contact your dentist at Western Slope Dental Center, even if it’s not yet time to see the dentist for a teeth cleaning. We provide dental fillings in Grand Junction, CO. Don’t live with dental pain. We can help! Call today for an appointment.

Which Summer Foods Are Staining My Teeth?

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Summer foods are so good, but they can be hard on your teeth. Some of those foods, while delicious, can cause your teeth to stain. As your dentist in Grand Junction, CO, we can help you maintain healthy white teeth. Knowing which foods are causing your teeth to stain can help you know when it’s time to take action to care for your teeth.

Which Summer Foods Stain Your Teeth?

There are many summer foods that can stain your teeth, from barbecue sauce to fun adult beverages. In general, foods that are dark-colored and saucy are likely to stain your teeth, so watch for these food types in your summer recipes and on the menus at your favorite restaurants. Some examples of summer foods that stain:

  • Barbecue sauce
  • Red wine
  • Iced coffee
  • Iced tea
  • Berries
  • Dark cherries
  • Beets
  • Ketchup
  • Sports drinks

What Can You Do To Keep Your Teeth White In Summer?

Swish with water after eating. Wash away food particles on your teeth by swishing with water after eating. This will help get rid of the biggest food particles to keep your teeth clean.

Stay hydrated. Drink extra water in summer. Summer is a time when it’s easy to get dehydrated, and that can leave your mouth dry. Saliva helps keep your mouth and teeth clean, so drink extra water on those hot days.

Maintain good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene can help keep your teeth clean. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once each day. See your dentist for exams and cleanings twice per year.

Get your teeth whitened. Have your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist. Professional teeth whitening is safe and effective. For long-lasting white tooth enamel, see the dentist.

Are you interested in professional teeth whitening in Grand Junction, CO? Call Western Slope Dental Center to make an appointment.

 

Why is Preventative Dental Care Important?

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Visiting the dentist on a routine basis can help prevent several different dental problems. From cavities and root canals to cracked teeth and damaged gums, there are many dental issues to consider. If you fail to visit the dentist for checkups and don’t fix problems once they arise, you could experience one of these dental concerns. This is why preventative dental care is essential.

Keep reading to learn even more reasons why preventative dental care is so important.

Identify serious dental problems

When you experience a dental issue, you may notice pain, swelling, or discomfort. However, that isn’t always the case. As some dental problems don’t pose any symptoms at all, it’s important to see a dentist for a checkup. It’s even possible to develop oral cancer or another life-threatening condition, which may require immediate treatment.

If you need a dental checkup and teeth cleaning in Grand Junction, CO, look no further than Western Slope Dental Center! We’re happy to provide reliable preventative care services.

Save money

A typical dental checkup is relatively cost-effective. However, if you fail to visit the dentist every few months, small dental issues can become much more severe. For example, if you have a cavity but don’t seek treatment, this can eventually turn into a root canal, which is more expensive and uncomfortable.

Learn the best oral hygiene practices

During a preventative dental visit, a dental expert can tell you all about proper oral hygiene practices. This can involve how to brush correctly, tips on flossing, and other suggestions about caring for your dental health. Furthermore, since these specialists understand your dental situation, they can recommend the right products for your needs, such as a particular toothpaste, specific toothbrush, or type of floss.

To work with the leading dentist in Grand Junction, CO, contact Western Slope Dental Center today to make an appointment!

Why is Teeth Grinding so Bad For Teeth?

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Millions of people grind their teeth either consciously or unconsciously. Most people are unaware that they grind their teeth, since it often occurs at night while a person is fast asleep. No doubt, you’ve heard from your dentist in Grand Junction, CO that teeth grinding isn’t good for teeth, but what exactly are the problems that teeth grinding can cause?

Teeth Grinding Wears Down Teeth

Teeth grinding, officially called bruxism, is the habit of moving the jaw back and forth, where the top teeth and the bottom teeth grind against each other. Just as if you were doing this habitually to any other material, teeth grinding wears down the top surface of the teeth. If you keep doing this long enough, the upper and lower teeth will no longer fit together as they should.

Teeth Grinding Wears Down Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel is a thin, protective barrier that covers the surface of the tooth and protects against bacteria. Bruxism wears down this layer, which creates a breach in the enamel and exposes the tooth’s dentin. Those who chronically grind their teeth usually have higher incidences of cavities, because their teeth are less protected.

Teeth Grinding Can Cause Fractures and Breakage

People who grind their teeth often experience tooth fractures, chips, cracks and breaks. Imagine if you ground a rock against your teeth for long periods of time. That’s essentially what’s happening with teeth grinding.

Teeth Grinding Can Cause Jaw Problems and Headaches

Another common result of teeth grinding is TMJ, or temporomandibular joint dysfunction of the jaw. In turn, this often leads to chronic headaches or migraines.

If you know or suspect that you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist in Grand Junction, CO right away. Contact our office today to book your next appointment.

How Can I Keep My Teeth White at the Holidays

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White teeth are beautiful! If you’re seeing a lot of friends and relatives at the holidays, whitening your teeth with your dentist in Grand Junction, CO can make your smile bright and beautiful for the upcoming events. There are in fact many things you can do to make your teeth a white as possible around the holidays. Here’s what you need to know.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene starts with brushing your teeth twice per day. Use a soft bristle toothbrush to clean your teeth but avoid causing damage to your gums. For instructions on how to brush your teeth properly, speak with your dentist at your next dental appointment, or watch this video from the American Dental Association.

Remember to floss twice daily as well. Flossing prevents bacteria, plaque and tartar from building up between your teeth, thus helping to protect your teeth from stains.

See the Dentist

You should be seeing the dentist twice per year. When was the last time you saw the dentist at Western Slope Dental Center for a teeth cleaning and examination?

If the last time you went to the dentist was more than 6 months ago, then it’s time for another visit. Call your dentist today to make an appointment. Teeth cleaning procedures keep your teeth slick, which helps staining foods wash away before they’re able to make an impact on the color of your teeth.

Get Professional Teeth Whitening

At Western Slope Dental Center, we offer teeth whitening in Grand Junction, CO. Our professional teeth whitening services can turn your teeth several shades whiter. Whitening services are an affordable and long-lasting way to make your teeth whiter and brighter at the holidays! Call today to make an appointment.