Friday, December 18, 2015

Cosmetic Dentist Procedures That Will Make You Smile

Cosmetic DentistIf you have teeth you are unhappy with, modern cosmetic dentists make it easier than ever before to attain the smile you have always wanted. If you need a self-confidence boost, want a more attractive smile, or are concerned about health risks due to crowded teeth, we can help. We provide a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures with the ability to improve your teeth. Learn more about the services we offer and how we can give you your best smile.

Teeth Whitening:

We offer in-office and at-home whitening solutions that range in effectiveness and simplicity. We have options that can suit any budget while still providing you with whiter teeth by eliminating stains and discoloration. A simple teeth whitening cosmetic dentists can provide you with surprising results.

Dental Bonding:

If you have chipped or cracked teeth or a single discolored tooth, we can provide you with dental bonding, which covers injured teeth and imperfections with a malleable solution that is permanently hardened after being placed in the correct area. This option will quickly and easily fix small dental imperfections.

Dental Contouring:

Dental contouring can be employed to align and reshape crooked or misshapen teeth. We will gently buff areas of each tooth to create a more attractively shaped structure.
White Fillings: If you have metallic fillings and would like a tooth-colored update, we can remove your dated fillings and replace them with a more attractive option. Our white fillings will blend in with your tooth color perfectly and look natural when you smile.
Dental Veneers: Our veneers are thin, porcelain shells bonded to the fronts of your teeth. They effectively cover discolored, misshapen, and oddly spaced teeth and also improve the look of jagged or chipped teeth edges. Veneers are customized for your individual needs and attractively cover dental flaws, improving your appearance drastically.

Dental Implants:

If you have missing teeth, you should consider receiving our dental implants instead of getting traditional dentures. Dental implants last forever, look and feel more natural, and are created to match surrounding teeth. Our implants are planted into your jawbone for a permanent foundation.
Dental Bridges: If you don't want a removable dental replacement, but prefer to avoid the cost and procedure of dental implants, dental bridges are an excellent option. A fabricated tooth is held in a gap by two crowns placed over abutment teeth. This is a more permanent option than dentures and provides a natural looking replacement.

These are only a few of our most common cosmetic dentists can improve the appearance and health of your teeth. Most of our treatments are minimally invasive and do not cause discomfort during or after the process. We use appropriate anesthetics as needed to offer you the most comfortable visit possible. You will be pleased with your improved smile and quick results. Our quality materials, products, and procedures provide long-lasting and beautiful teeth resilient to staining and wear.

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Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Learn About Professional Teeth Whitening Brands

Teeth WhiteningIf you want information on professional teeth whitening brands, we encourage you to call and schedule an appointment. Things are changing all the time with companies releasing new and improved products. Visiting our office allows us to provide you with the latest updates. Still, there are a few things you should know about whitening your teeth before you do so.

The Process

When you whiten your teeth, you can do so using an at-home whitening kit or with laser whitening. We recommend using the at-home kit. Regardless of how you whiten your teeth, the solution will typically contain some level of peroxide. The type of peroxide in the solution and its chemical makeup, in general, will influence how effective it is for whitening teeth. Most products you buy in the store will only remove the surface stains on your teeth. While they will make your teeth look better, they will not turn yellow teeth bright white. On the other hand, a professional-grade whitening solution penetrates the enamel and begins the process of oxidization. This is where the molecules inside your teeth begin to reflect less light and appear colorless. Your smile will look bright white as a result, and your teeth will no longer be yellow. This is the type of solution we use in our office.

The Application

When comparing professional teeth whitening brands, you should also consider how the solution is applied to the teeth. Some whitening kits have you brush on the solution using a pen, but the results from this are not significant because the solution will not remain on your teeth long enough. Whitening strips are a better option, but they can still slip out of place, and many people find them to be inconvenient. We recommend you use a kit that uses whitening trays. This way, a solution is placed in the trays for you to then secure around your teeth and wear for thirty minutes or so. The only challenge with this option is that if you buy a kit from the store, the trays will not be designed for your teeth, but for anyone who buys the products. This creates a risk of leakage or the trays slipping out of place. For this reason, we suggest you use professional teeth whitening brands sold by our office. We will begin by having you come in for an appointment, where we make an impression of your teeth. Using that impression, we will then create customized trays designed to fit you perfectly. As a result, the whitening solution will remain in place, not leak out, and the process will be entirely comfortable. Simultaneously, since the solution is professional-grade, you will see the best possible results.

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Tuesday, November 24, 2015

How Dental Veneers Restore Damaged Teeth

Dental VeneersEsthetically dental veneers can fix damaged and stained teeth, providing you with a perfect solution that gives you back a beautiful white smile. Dental veneers are so close to the original teeth that once you have had them placed, you will forget which teeth have been augmented using the porcelain veneers. They look, feel, and act exactly like your original teeth. To do this the thin strips of porcelain, which the dental veneers consist of, have to take on some of the qualities of the naturally occurring enamel. They look exactly the same and are shade matched so that they are a match for the surrounding teeth. They also have the same hardiness. Enamel is the bodies hardest substance to withstand the rigors of chewing and biting, in a normal dietary routine. The veneers are also extremely hard to perform these same functions. On the flip side, both veneers and enamel, can be damaged if you engage in activities that put the teeth at risk for breaking, chipping, or cracking.

For damaged teeth, dental veneers provide protection, augmenting the teeth so that the damage cannot spread further. When a tooth has been cracked, broken, or chipped, there is always the potential that the damage could continue to spread as pressure is put on the tooth. This pressure comes in the form of regular activities like biting and cannot be avoided. Using a dental veneer we can repair the damage, and the veneer will provide strength to the tooth that in turn prevents the damage from spreading. Similarly when a tooth is damaged there is always the potential that bacteria could make its way past the protective barrier of the enamel and into the inner part of the tooth, spreading an infection. The dental veneers prevent this from happening by effectively sealing the tooth in much the same way as the original enamel did.

Properly taken care of dental veneers can have a long lifespan. There are not definite answers as to just how long, based on the fact that the mouth changes and each individual has a unique set of circumstances. What we do know is that veneers typically will last between seven and thirty years and that how a person maintains their mouth has a lot to do with the longevity of them. Unforeseen occurrences like accidents can cause damage, as can gum diseases and other dental emergencies. However, as long as you maintain a good oral health routine, chances are that they will last well into old age.

Some of our patients wonder how, or if, they will need to alter their routine after having a veneer replacement. The simple answer to this question is no. Veneers require no extra maintenance than your natural teeth, which includes brushing twice per day, flossing regularly, and scheduling professional cleanings with us at least twice in the year. Other than this the only thing we suggest is to avoid the overuse of products that might stain your natural teeth. Since the dental veneer doesn't stain, you do not want to overly stain the teeth around it and make things look uneven.

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Monday, November 2, 2015

An Invisalign® Dentist Has Solutions For You and Your Teen

Invisalign DentistAs an Invisalign® dentist, we are seeing a greater interest in young adults and teens for this alternative means of straightening teeth. Invisalign® has two distinct qualities that make it immensely popular among adults. They are extremely convenient to use, and they are very discrete. The inconspicuous nature of these tooth straightening devices have made them a favorite among adults who want to straighten their teeth without having the slightly embarrassing look that comes from wearing traditional braces. For adults, it is almost revolutionary that they have a discrete path to straighter more beautiful teeth. Sadly, a lot of parents have not made the same leap when it comes to planning a treatment for their teenagers.  They are among the largest group that use braces; they are also a group that depends on their parents to make medical choices for them. As such, there is certainly a strong case to be made for selecting Invisalign® for teenagers.

The makers of Invisalign® have come out with a new product designed specifically with a teenage audience in mind. Similar to adults, teenagers have a lot of peer pressure and the desire to hide their treatment, as they straighten their teeth, is very important to teenagers. When you consider the habits of most teenagers, the food that they prefer to eat, the importance looks play in their social structure, and their busy schedules it becomes clear that parents should be considering Invisalign® Teen as an option for their growing child. It is a stellar alternative to the traditional metal braces.

There are natural advantages to working with Invisalign®, however, some patients have concerns about the effectiveness, and so it is important to note that this product works on exactly the same principle as traditional braces. Traditional braces work to move teeth into a proper alignment by exerting pressure on them. This is achieved using connected brackets, screws, and rubber bands. With Invisalign® the same effect is evident by using a series of progressive aligners, essentially putting a similar amount of pressure on the teeth to make them move. The difference is that with the new technology, this can be achieved without you or your teenager having to have a mouth full of metal and constantly having to visit our office for adjustments.  As an Invisalign® dentist, we find that the conveniences of this solution cannot be understated.

One of the biggest complaints teenagers have against traditional braces, other than the fact that it hampers their looks, is the fact that it comes with a laundry list of foods that can no longer be eaten. Since braces are permanently affixed to the mouth, they have to be protected from damage. As a result your child will not be able to eat anything that is too sticky, too sweet, too sour, or too hard for fear that any of these may damage the wires or brackets in the braces. With Invisalign® there are no such restrictions. The aligners are fully removable and are supposed to be taken out to eat meals. Once you are done eating, rinse out your mouth to clean your teeth, then put the aligners back in.  As an Invisalign® dentist, we can go over all of the benefits with you during a consultation.

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Tuesday, October 27, 2015

The Various Types of Dental Crowns

CrownsDental crowns are used to repair a number of different issues with teeth, providing a strong and stable solution that can greatly extend the life of your teeth. When it comes to dental crowns, you have a great deal more choices than you did a few years ago. While we have been working diligently to improve dental crowns, this has created a situation where you have to select between a variety of options. Some people swear by the full porcelain crowns, however, we have learned that when it comes to dental crowns there is no one size fits all solution, meaning you may actually not be the best fit for them. What is challenging is that so few people really understand the differences between the types of crown materials used, or the pros and cons of each of them. We can explain to you what the best kind of material for your mouth is and why during your appointment.

Porcelain dental crowns were, and still are, the best material to use when it comes to an aesthetic point of view. Porcelain looks and feels almost exactly like enamel, which means that once a dental crown is placed, the tooth is almost identical to the natural teeth. There are some other advantages to using porcelain to make dental crowns. For example, porcelain is a poor conductor of heat, which means that your teeth will experience far less sensitivity to cold and hot substances in the immediate aftermath of placing the crowns. Porcelain is extremely hard, making it very durable. This, however, also creates a disadvantage in some situations. The hardness of porcelain can cause it to wear down the opposing teeth. The other disadvantage to porcelain dental crowns is that porcelain tends to be more fragile and if mistreated can crack.

Gold has been used to created dental crowns for a very long time. For a while, gold dental crowns were the standard to which everyone aspired. Gold, like porcelain, has both advantages and disadvantages when used to create dental crowns. Some of the advantages are that gold can be attached, or bonded, to the teeth using a glass ionomer. This is advantageous because fewer people have a sensitive reaction to the glass ionomer bonding than do the more comprehensive bonding techniques used when placing porcelain crowns. In addition to this, gold is very durable, which means your crowns will last a long time. To make gold more durable, the crowns are made of an alloy which includes other metal like titanium, palladium, and silver to make the gold harder since in its purest state gold is extremely soft. Gold dental crowns also put less pressure on the opposing teeth, meaning they will cause less wear. As far as disadvantages go, the most obvious is the fact that gold is not the color of teeth and cannot be used to repair front or prominently visible teeth. In addition to this gold is a good conductor of heat, which can increase a patient's sensitivity to hot and cold substances immediately after the procedure. For these reasons, most of our patients select a tooth-colored dental crown but we can discuss both options with you during an appointment.

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Monday, October 12, 2015

Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridges

Dental ImplantsWe can provide you with dental implants or dental bridges to replace your missing teeth. While we provide preventative dental care to help reduce the risk of tooth loss, this is still an issue that many adults deal with on some level. If you have lost a tooth due to age, infection, or an accident, we recommend you take the time to consider all your options. As a cosmetic dentist, there are many ways to replace missing teeth, and it is important to select the option that is right for you. The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation. In the meantime, here is what you need to know:

Dental implants. The most secure and natural-looking solution for tooth loss is dental implants. Unlike a bridge that requires other natural teeth, implants are surgically placed beneath the gums and secured to the jawbone. As a result, no other teeth are required or impacted by the procedure. The new tooth is simultaneously more secure because of the process of osseointegration. This is where the titanium post and jawbone fuse together to create a new root system that will support your new tooth. This makes it possible to eat all your favorite foods and engage in normal activities without restriction. The only drawback to this when compared with a bridge is that since it is surgical, you can expect a longer recovery time. Simultaneously, osseointegration, while important, takes a few months to complete.

Dental bridges. If you want a solution that is more secure and durable than dentures, dental bridges is a good option. A bridge is used for partial tooth loss when there are natural teeth that are strong enough to support it. To complete the procedure, we make an impression of your mouth and take measurements so the dental lab can make your bridge. To secure it in place, a crown will be placed on the two teeth surrounding your missing one, and these crowns will serve as anchors to secure the bridge. As a result, you will have a semi-permanent tooth replacement that looks natural and functions like a natural tooth.

If you are interested in either dental implants or dental bridges, we are an ideal dentist office to visit. As a cosmetic dentist, we can provide you with both solutions and complete the procedure in a way that restores the form and function of your smile. Both of these solutions will look like natural teeth when we are done. This is not always the case with a dental bridge, so it is important to visit a cosmetic dentist who has the skill to create high-quality prosthetics. Both options will also allow you to eat your favorite foods, etc. The main difference is that implants not only replace your teeth, they improve the health of your jawbone by providing it with much-needed stimulation. To learn more, schedule an appointment.

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Monday, September 21, 2015

Teeth Whitening- The Most Affordable and Effective Cosmetic Improvement


teeth-whitening
If you are looking for an economical and successful way to improve your smile, teeth whitening is the best option for you. Teeth whitening is an incredibly popular cosmetic dental improvement with Americans spending nearly $1.5 billion a year on teeth whitening products and services. So many people whiten their teeth because they know it is a cost-effective way to attain a more professional and attractive appearance without having to make drastic changes to their smile. 80% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 49 desire whiter teeth because it is the most affordable and effective solution for a better smile.

How is teeth whitening effective?
The majority of teeth whitening products use a form of peroxide to whiten teeth through oxidation. Peroxide can reach the inner part of the enamel within a few minutes for a fast route to whitening. The oxidation process affects the organic compounds within your enamel that produce color. The peroxide solution will provide a route to a colorless enamel that represents itself as whiter teeth. With store bought products, you will get some of the peroxide agents, but they are not as effective as teeth whitening kits from a dentist office. Office teeth whitening products provide more than one peroxide whitening compound or stronger levels of it so your teeth are whitened faster and the results are more dramatic, leading to a more effective teeth whitening process for an affordable price.

Is teeth whitening better after dental cleaning?
Yes. When you use store bought products, the whitening process is often hindered by the plaque on your teeth. When you visit our office for teeth whitening, we will first provide you with a deep teeth cleaning that will naturally whiten your teeth by removing surface stains. After the cleaning, we can perform teeth whitening services that result in even more effective results.

Why are my teeth stained?
Teeth become stained for many reasons, most commonly due to everyday use. Eating and drinking staining foods and drinks can lead to darker or yellowed teeth. Try to avoid coffee, tea, wine, soda, dark fruits and veggies, and bright or dark colored candies unless you plan to rinse your mouth out or brush your teeth right after you consume the items. Smoking and age are also contributors to stained teeth. Medication and hereditary factors can discolor teeth, but are hard to avoid. Teeth whitening from our office can combat the staining that is caused by all of these factors.

After I get teeth whitening will my teeth be white forever?
Unfortunately, teeth whitening does not produce permanent results since you use your teeth every day so they are constantly exposed to staining items. A proper teeth whitening should last a few months. Despite the fact that it isn't permanent, it is so affordable that many people just come right back in for more teeth whitening when they feel their teeth are becoming dull again. We can also provide quick touch-ups as well.

Contact us to learn more about why teeth whitening is the most affordable and one of the most effective cosmetic dental improvements. We can provide you with the teeth whitening you need and help you determine what shade is best for you.


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Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Dental Bonding: A Fast and Easy Restorative Solution

Dental Bonding

As a cosmetic dentist, we realize many people have not heard of dental bonding. It is more common to discuss restorative solutions like dental crowns or dental veneers. Still, bonding is one of the most affordable, convenient, and fast restorations you can get. If you have cracked or chipped a tooth, this is one way to restore it in a single visit to our dental office. For people on a time crunch or being budget-conscious, this is an excellent solution to consider.

Here is how it works:
The process of dental bonding is fairly simplistic, but it takes the skilled hand of a cosmetic dentist to ensure it looks natural once done. Most dental restorations (crowns and veneers, for example) are created in a dental lab by a skilled technician. The lab tech creates these restorations using measurements and an impression made of your mouth. They have time to craft a restoration the exact size and shape it is supposed to be and make any adjustments if necessary. The bonding process works without the help of a dental lab, and the dentist is the one who shapes the material in-office. This makes it important to select a dentist who performs this procedure regularly and can do it well.
When you come in for dental bonding, your tooth will be cleaned and then slightly roughened. Your enamel will remain in place, so this is a non-invasive treatment. After it has been roughened, a moisturizing solution will be applied. Next, the dental bonding material will be placed onto your tooth, and the dentist will shape it in place. It will be shaped to give you a beautifully shaped tooth that looks entirely natural. Once done, the material will be hardened using a special dental light. It will also be created in a shade that matches your natural teeth to further ensure it blends in. The process can be completed fairly quickly, in less than an hour per tooth. As a result, you can come in for a restoration and leave with a completed one that same day.

What dental bonding can do for you:
Since bonding material can be shaped in place, it is incredibly versatile and also strong. It can restore the structure of your tooth if the tooth becomes cracked or chipped. It can also be used to cover dark stains when a teeth whitening treatment is not enough to remove them. As a cosmetic dentist, we even use bonding material to close small gaps in between the teeth. This means you can benefit from a drastic improvement to your smile, without needing to wear braces for months or going through a lengthy cosmetic treatment process. We can even use bonding material as a way to change the shape or size of your teeth in combination with contouring. Given the versatility and convenience of dental bonding, we highly recommend it as a treatment solution. To learn more, call and schedule an appointment.



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Friday, August 28, 2015

Dermal Fillers in Chicago Can Complete Your Smile Makeover


Dermal Fillers in Chicago
Dermal fillers in Chicago can provide you with a complete smile makeover. If you have had cosmetic dental improvements done before, but still feel as though something isn't right, a dermal filler can help. Dermal fillers also referred to as dermal fillers, provide the extra touch-up you need for your best smile ever.

Smile Improvement: When your teeth look great, but your smile still sags, it can detract from the attractive appearance of your teeth. Today, we provide a range of dermal fillers in Chicago that can improve the structure of your smile. If you feel as though your skin sags or you have thin lips, creases in your cheeks, or wrinkles by your eyes or on your forehead that take away from your beautiful smile, our fillers can help today. If you have recently had work done to improve your teeth, don't let the skin on your face take away attention from improvements you have invested time and money into.
There are several advantages to using our dermal fillers in combination with a smile makeover:
Quick Application: Our dermal fillers in Chicago can be performed in one visit. We will apply the filler to the areas requested through an injection that will instantly create an improvement. You can even have your filler injected during your lunch break.

Minimally Invasive: All that is required in order to improve your smile is a quick dermal filler visit. As mentioned above, one visit is all it takes. Following the dermal fillers treatment, you can leave the appointment with no recovery or healing time necessary. Some dermal fillers begin working immediately while others require a few weeks to take on their full effect.

Minimal Side Effects: The most prevalent side effect is slight swelling at the injection site. You may also notice a little redness. In some cases, bruising may occur. Bruising is most commonly experience in areas of thinner skin, like the forehead. Any bruising that occurs will only last for two to five days in most cases. The rarest side effects are itching, rash, and the development of small lumps. Our patients rarely complain of these issues.

Longevity: The development of dermal fillers in Chicago over the years has led to a longer period of improvement. Dermal fillers are not considered a permanent improvement, but our fillers can create an enhancement that lasts for many years. In rare cases, improvements only remain for six months.

Dermal fillers in Chicago are a safe and effective way to improve the look of your smile. Compared to more complex forms of cosmetic surgery like traditional facelifts, dermal fillers are non-invasive and provide competitive results. Why spend more money and more recovery time on a facelift that may or may not work when you can receive tried and true results from dermal fillers in Chicago? Don't let those wrinkles or that saggy skin detracts from your beautiful and straight smile. Visit us for more information about the process and whether or not it is right for you today.



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Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Why You Should Consider Dental Bonding When Restoring or Improving Your Smile



Dental Bonding
We use dental bonding as a solution to a variety of dental challenges. In our dental office, we practice cosmetic dentistry, so if you have an issue with your teeth, there are generally multiple ways to address it. For example, if you crack a tooth, we could correct it using bonding material, a dental veneer, or a dental crown - three solutions all accomplishing the same thing, but in different ways. We believe in providing patients with options and will take the time to explain the pros and cons of each during your dental appointment. What we have found is that while many people are familiar with solutions like dental crowns, few are aware of bonding or how it can help them. With that in mind, here is what you need to know.
What dental bonding can accomplish:
Restorations. We can use bonding material to restore damaged teeth. If a tooth is cracked or chipped, this is an excellent solution. The bonding material looks natural and is tooth-colored, so it will blend in and be difficult to tell that the tooth was ever damaged in the first place.
Shaping. If you have a tooth that is misshapen, like if one tooth is longer than another, we can remove part of your enamel and use bonding material to finish shaping and protecting the tooth.
Covering stains. Since bonding material is applied to the surface of teeth, it can be used to cover dark stains when a whitening procedure is not enough to do so. This can be necessary if the discoloration is severe due to tobacco use or excessive antibiotics.
Closing gaps. If you have small gaps in between your teeth, bonding material can close them. This is an excellent alternative to orthodontics and can serve to correct this common aesthetic challenge.
Advantages of dental bonding:
Non-invasive. When applying dental bonding, we only need to roughen the tooth and apply a moisturizing solution. This is different from the process for placing dental veneers or dental crowns since both of these solutions require a portion of the enamel to be removed first. These procedures can cause irritation and require medication to keep patients comfortable, while a bonding procedure does not.
Great for kids. If your child or teen has damaged a tooth, dental bonding is an excellent way to restore it because it is a non-invasive procedure. Bonding can be completed quickly, so your child will not need to hold still for an extended period of time.
Fast procedure. We can complete a bonding procedure in one visit to our dental office whereas veneers or crowns typically take two to three appointments to place. This means that if you are in a hurry or need a fast dental restoration or aesthetic improvement, we can do so without disrupting your schedule.
Affordable. Since we complete everything in-house and without help from the dental lab, bonding can be more affordable than other cosmetic dentistry solutions.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call our office today.

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Wednesday, July 29, 2015

If You Want to Overcome Dental Anxiety, Visit Our Dental Office

Dental Office
The dental office may not be the place most people chose to spend a relaxing afternoon, but it is the place where you can learn about oral health, get your teeth taken care of, and even overcome an anxiety or two. The sad truth is that too many people are deadly afraid of visiting the dental office. This anxiety, which stems from a number of causes, will make people prefer unhealthy mouths or even damaged teeth to coming in and getting their problems taken care of. One of our goals is to help you overcome these fears.

Dental anxiety is a common occurrence.  In fact, around the United States, 26% of the population states that they know they are in need of dental care. They agree that with dental care their teeth would be in better condition, but refuse to seek out a dentist, other than in an emergency, because of their anxiety about visiting one. We have found that even among people that do make a habit of visiting the dentist, there is a sense of anxiety that is pervasive. Between 9% and 20% of all our patients admit to having anxiety, which ranges from mild to the border of panic attacks, when they have to have a procedure done. For patients who experience this kind of anxiety, but are willing to go to the dentist anyway, much of the anxiety springs from the unknown. Not knowing what condition your teeth are in, what the dentist might find, or what remedies might be needed to bring your teeth back to perfect health is a significant cause of concern. At the dental office, we have found there are three very important things you can do which, if you commit to them, will actually help you to start overcoming your anxiety of dentistry.

How our dental office can help you to overcome some of your anxiety -
The first thing we will help you to understand is what we do, how we do it, and the tools that we use to complete our dental procedures. Knowledge and anxiety are natural enemies, so the more you learn about what we do and the measures we go through to ensure your safety and comfort, the less likely you are to be afraid of receiving dental care. We hope you will ask a lot of questions in your quest to become more familiar with dentistry. Second, we will help you to isolate what your fears actually are. No anxiety is all encompassing. With dental anxiety, we have found that it tends to start from smaller sources, like a fear of experiencing discomfort. While this kind of anxiety is no less intense, it is something that we can isolate and work to prevent. Finally, we encourage building familiarity by scheduling bi-annual cleanings and examinations. When you make it a habit to come in at least 2 times a year, you start to get familiar with the tools and people in our office. As you go through non-invasive and relaxing procedures, you will start to realize that there is nothing to fear from our dental office. If you need additional assistance, we can discuss your options for medication and sedation.



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Friday, July 3, 2015

What You Should Know About Dental Fillings in Chicago

Dental Fillings in Chicago
A dental filling in Chicago rarely starts with a patient that is looking for their teeth to get a filling, despite the fact that the gold fillings do look very snazzy. The reality is that most patients come in for a regularly scheduled checkup and we find that there is sufficient wear and tear, or decay, in a tooth that it requires a filling to keep the tooth viable. Occasionally, although rare these days, will we get a patient who is young or has been lucky with great teeth and has no idea what a filling is or why it is necessary. For the benefit of those folks, a dental filling in Chicago, or anywhere else for that matter, is exactly what it sounds like. A dental filling is a material that is used to replace the tooth enamel that has been damaged by decay to the point where a cavity has appeared. At other times, we will find what is known as a soft spot, where the enamel has almost given way to a cavity but not quite. We prefer to fill these as well since it is only a matter of time before the decay breaks through.
Considering that a dental filling in Chicago usually starts with an examination, we cannot stress enough the importance of coming in for regular checkups. The best rule of thumb is to try and make an appointment, and keep it, at least twice a year which allows us to find things like soft spots or identify areas that have excessive plaque buildup to prevent you needing a dental filling in Chicago
The first thing we do with a filling is to numb the area around the tooth so that you feel no discomfort. This is done by an application of local anesthetic directly into the gums. Once you are fully numb, you will not feel any discomfort at all but it is important to note that you will still feel things like pressure as we work on the tooth. After the tooth has been properly numbed, we can proceed to the actual cleaning. In order to make sure that we get rid of all the decay and that the decay has no chance of spreading or coming back, we will shave off all the portions of the tooth that have decay. While the dentist is removing this bad enamel, we will also take the opportunity to shape where the cavity had been so that it is a good shape for a filling. This will allow the filling itself to be more secure.
From this point on, the tooth is ready to receive the filling and we would go into any special preparations that might be required based on the kind of dental filling in Chicago you wanted to get. For a bonded filling, for example, the dentist would need to etch the tooth whereas some fillings require resin. If a resin is used, we apply it and then use the cool blue light to harden and strengthen it.


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Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Get Information You Need From a Dentist in Chicago

Dentist in Chicago
As a dentist in Chicago, we believe in the old saying “prevention is better than cure”.  Every one of our patients gets the benefit of a dentist who spends time on oral hygiene education along with providing tips for preventing cavities and infections. While providing preventative care, we practice a form of holistic dental medicine. We will spend as long as it takes to ensure that your teeth remain clean, diseases free, and in the best shape possible, so that you never have to experience a dental emergency or a situation where medical intervention is required.

Naturally if a situation does arise where we have to provide you with intervention, the best place to be is with a dentist in Chicago. We will bring all of our experience to bear so that we can cure whatever ails you as fast and as efficiently as possible. Once we have rid you of the dental problem, we can turn our attention to assuring that the problem never reoccurs. To do this, we will give you all the tools you need. The most powerful of all tools that any medical provider can give you is information. The better informed you are, the more likely it is that you will make the right choices for your teeth.

As a dentist in Chicago, we know that the information age has made things far more accessible to everyone, which has in a sense taken away the personal touch. We love it when a patient comes to our office Chicago with questions, so the internet is definitely a great resource. As long as you are using the internet as a way to supplement information, and to know when it is time to call us for help, it can be an outstanding tool. For those seeking better ways of caring for their teeth, the same is true. Where it becomes challenging is when the information online is highly technical or confusing. What you need to remember is twofold. First, the internet has a massive size and scope. Each day there are millions of people around the world searching for a million things. As people look for everything from dental crowns to baseball caps, there are an equal number of websites and experts that offer advice. This leads to the second thing you should remember. None of the people online is addressing your needs specifically because they are writing for a broader audience.

There is only one place for you to get the kind of personalised information you need to make important dental and oral health decisions, and that is with your dentist. Nothing beats being able to talk to a medical provider face to face when you want to have answers about your dental health. As a dentist in Chicago, we provide information about oral health on our blog but always suggest visiting our office for an official diagnosis so that we can provide you with details about your health and create a treatment plan that is designed to fit your needs.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Speak With a Sleep Apnea Dentist Near Chicago to Find Out if You Have This Condition

Sleep Apnea Dentist near Chicago
If you are looking for a sleep apnea dentist near Chicago, we can help you to learn about the condition. If you are not sure whether or not you have sleep apnea, we can provide you with the right tests and diagnosis. Sleep apnea is a bothersome disorder that occurs while you sleep. It involves a variety of factors that block your breathing, causing you to sleep restlessly and your heart to overwork. With time, this disorder can lead to more serious health problems, including stroke or heart attack. Continue reading to learn more as we answer a few questions that we commonly receive.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, and restlessness. Some other symptoms that patients experience are sleep deprivation, abnormal breathing patterns while sleeping, irritability, dry mouth and throat, weight gain, and headaches. Many significant others have reported that their partners with sleep apnea often have episodes of no breathing for short periods of time. Sleep partners also complain that snoring can be heard several rooms away.

What causes sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea occurs when there are enlarged tissues in the throat that collapse and sometimes block your airway. This action reduces the amount of oxygen that is delivered to your entire body, including your heart. If your blood-oxygen level reaches a certain low, your body will momentarily wake up in response. In many cases, patients do not even realize they are waking up several times a night. This can cause you to feel unrefreshed and your body to remain in an unhealthy state.

How can a sleep apnea dentist near Chicago diagnose my sleep disorder?

When you visit our office, we will ask questions about your health, symptoms, and any unusual nocturnal behavior that a significant other or family member might have noticed. We will perform an examination as well. In most cases, we perform tests and screenings to help us make a diagnosis. We also offer a testing device that you can take home and wear which will help us to diagnose your sleep apnea, and it will also prevent you from having to make unnecessary trips to our office for extra testing.

What type of treatment can a sleep apnea dentist near Chicago offer me?

Our dental oral appliance for sleep apnea can be created and fitted for your needs. The nightly wearing of this device will help maintain an open airway that will lead to a less restless sleep. These custom-made devices are used as a non-invasive treatment option. This is our most successful treatment option. Other options are an air mask that will allow continues air to flow into your airway through a tube when worn, or we can talk about what positive lifestyle changes you should be making in order to reduce sleep apnea symptoms. Obesity, overeating before bed, and improper hygiene are common contributors to sleep apnea that can be easily changed.

When you visit a sleep apnea dentist near Chicago, we will determine how extensive your needs are and provide the proper care as needed. We want you to understand why you are not sleeping soundly, and we want to provide you with a better night of rest and a more positive lifestyle. We can also answer any further questions you may have when you come in for a visit.

Friday, May 29, 2015

The Versatile Role of Dental Crowns in Chicago

Dental Crowns in Chicago
We provide dental crowns in Chicago so that our patients can have a healthy and beautiful smile.  Many people are unaware of the role that dental crowns play in modern day dentistry, thinking only of amalgam crowns.  If you think of a mouth full of metal or currently have one, there is a better solution for you now.  We offer natural looking ceramic crowns that resemble your teeth.  They do not stand out in any way.  In fact, they blend in seamlessly to give you a beautiful smile regardless of whether you need a restoration, a protective barrier or a cosmetic solution.

Dental Crowns in Chicago Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have something that you do not like about your teeth, there is a good chance that we can correct it using one of our cosmetic dentistry solutions.  Dental crowns are a popular choice because they can be used to correct damage and improve the appearance of teeth at the same time.  As they are placed on the teeth, they can cover dark stains that were not removed with whitening, close gaps in between teeth, change the overall shape and size of teeth and even make teeth appear straighter. Since they cover your existing teeth, you do not need to have them removed in order to see the change.  Simultaneously, if you are missing any teeth, crowns can be used in the creation of a dental bridge.  In this procedure, crowns are placed on the two teeth surrounding the missing one, and they serve as an anchor.  By doing so, they hold the bridge and new tooth in place so that you can love your smile again.  All of this can be completed in our dental office under sedation so that you can remain comfortable and relaxed.

Dental Crowns in Chicago Preventative Care
In many cases, we use dental crowns to protect teeth.  One challenge that many people face with age is that the enamel on their teeth begins to erode.  This happens due to the food that you eat, brushing too aggressively, a lack of dental care and basic aging.  When it happens, eating food that is cold or too hot can cause discomfort and make eating a challenge.  Fortunately, we have a solution by way of the dental crown.  Since it is a cap, it can surround your tooth or teeth and prevent anything from touching it directly.  That way you can eat and bite down without fear of sensitivity.  This also works if your tooth is cracked or chipped or if you have had a root canal and need your tooth structure restored.  Any time that the enamel from your teeth is missing or damaged, a crown can repair it.  The only question is which type of crown you should use.  An all-ceramic crown works well on the front teeth where a ceramic-on-metal crown works well for back teeth and molars because it is stronger and more durable.


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Monday, May 4, 2015

A Teeth Whitening Appointment Can Be Done in Time for Graduation

Teeth Whitening
While helping your child wrap up their time in college, plan for a teeth whitening appointment and taking a break for oral health.  Graduation from college is certainly an accomplishment that is impossible to reach without a lot of hard work and dedication.  Life as a college student can be so busy and demanding that many will let other things slide, like healthcare.  We are sympathetic and are not here to judge, however, with graduation approaching, now is an excellent time to focus on their health.  By scheduling a dental appointment, we can clean and examine their teeth and remove plaque along with whatever damage has been done over the past four years.  Once healthy, we can also discuss whitening their teeth.

It is fairly normal for college students to have their teeth stained by the time their four years are up.  This is often due to all of the late night study sessions that were fueled by coffee and energy drinks.  It takes effort to stay up and study – we get it.  Unfortunately, things like energy drinks are terrible for the teeth and will impact how they look.  The good news is that this damage is not permanent.  We can whiten their teeth and remove the stains so that they look amazing in those proud family photos.

Scheduling a teeth whitening appointment can give them an edge.
One thing you may not know about their smile is that it can impact whether or not they land their dream job.  There have been numerous studies trying to determine what, if any, impact overall appearance and a smile has on a persons' career.  They have found that with all other things being equal, the person with a beautiful smile will be hired for the job.  Since your graduate will be competing against college graduates from across the country, this one thing may give them the edge that they need in order to land their dream job.  Additionally, once they have it, people with a beautiful smile were deemed to be more of a team player and get raises more often.  They have spent four years working hard to reach this point.  Spending an hour to improve their career prospects, is a worthwhile investment.

Our teeth whitening process is more effective than anything you can buy in the store.
When it is time to whiten their teeth, it is important to understand the differences in the options that are available. While you can certainly purchase a solution at the drugstore, the thing to note is that it won't work as well.  The solutions in the store will typically only remove the surface stains that are on the enamel.  This will make an improvement to their teeth, but it won't be as significant as if you had them whitened professionally because most of the stains live within the enamel.  Our solution penetrates through it to start the process of oxidization where the molecules change in order to reflect less light and become colorless.  This is what produces the dramatic results.


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Monday, April 27, 2015

Learn About the Type of Dental Fillings in Chicago


Dental Fillings in Chicago
At some point in your life, you will probably need dental fillings in Chicago. Before this time comes, or if you are considering replacing yours, it is important to know your options. We can share with you the different types of fillings that we can provide. Silver amalgam, composite resin, ceramic, cast gold, and glass ionomers are all great choices, but which is the right filling for you? 
  • Silver amalgam: The silver fillings as they are often called are a classic option. This silver alloy provides lasting coverage for your vulnerable tooth, and they stand up to intense chewing and teeth grating. Silver fillings are also very affordable. The only cons are their tendency to take up more space, requiring more drilling of your natural tooth, and the aesthetic value of silver fillings is fairly low, requiring placement in non-obvious areas of your mouth. In spite of the negatives, many people enjoy the price and durability of silver amalgam fillings since they can last a lifetime. 
  • Composite resin: Composite fillings are our most popular option. These fillings are incredibly attractive, and it is nearly impossible for others to realize that it isn't your natural tooth. These fillings are fairly resilient and long lasting. They are not quite as strong as silver or gold fillings, but they are still close and incredibly durable. Many people choose this option for their incisors and canines due to the eye appeal composite fillings provide.  By providing dental fillings in Chicago, we regularly replace old silver fillings with this tooth-colored option.
  • Ceramic: Ceramic fillings are also known as porcelain fillings. The ceramic dental filling is appealing due to the smooth, tooth shaded surface it creates. These fillings are resistant to damage, but they do require more space to stay in place. This leads to more drilling away of your natural tooth. Ceramic fillings are often used for crowns or inlays that will take up more space anyway. The general quality of ceramic fillings is very good.        
  • Cast gold: This gold alloy is a tried and true option that is non-corrosive and strong. They are generally the longest lasting filling option, but the cost does reflect this pro. With gold fillings being one of the most expensive options, many people opt for silver amalgams when faced with the choice. The gold filling normally takes two visits to place. Regardless of the cost, many people choose this option for long-lasting, attractive results. 
  • Glass ionomers: This option is rarely used.  The glass ionomer is a natural looking cavity fix that provides strong coverage for less trafficked areas of your tooth. Due to it's slightly weaker consistency it is generally not recommended for molars or weight bearing areas. When placed on the side of the tooth, it provides great protection. Another pro is that glass ionomers excrete fluoride into your teeth over the years, creating a stronger overall tooth.  
We can provide you with dental fillings in Chicago that will meet all of your needs. We hope our accessible options will help you decide what is best for your teeth. Our dental fillings provide long-term protection from tooth decay at an affordable price. Depending on the location of your cavity, the severity of your cavity, and the financial budget you have, we can help you decide what filling is best for you.


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