Author: Familydentalcare_aDMeeN

Do you have damaged or missing teeth on your jaw? Damaged or missing teeth can affect your smile, bite, and chewing abilities. However, you don’t have to suffer the agony of tooth gaps or broken or severely decayed teeth.

With some restorative dentistry options such as dental crowns your bridges, you can improve your smile and restore your oral functions. For missing teeth, your dentist might recommend a dental bridge in Oaklawn, while for damaged teeth, a tooth crown would be suitable.

What Is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are artificial tooth caps that your dentist might use to cover your damaged teeth, place over a dental implant, or support a tooth bridge. When you have damaged teeth, you might be at risk of root canal infections that required complex treatments. Therefore, by placing a crown over the damaged teeth, your dentist prevents infections and improves the tooth’s appearance.

There are several types of dental crowns, which include:

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns can be gold and other alloys such as nickel. Unlike the other types of dental crowns, metal crowns are stronger and durable. Therefore, your dentist might recommend these types of crowns for your back teeth since they can handle pressure without the risk of breaking or chipping.

Ceramic Dental Crowns

Ceramic or all-porcelain dental crowns mimic your natural tooth color. Therefore, they are the right choices if you want to improve your smile aesthetics. However, the ceramic material is prone to cracking and chipping, making them only suitable for front teeth.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

If you need dental crowns to restore damaged teeth on both the front and the back of the jaw, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the way to go since they are durable and provide smile aesthetics. However, the porcelain material might be prone to chipping and cracking if you don’t take good care of your restorations.

All-resin Dental Crowns

All-resin dental crowns provide smile aesthetics since your dentist can choose a shade that matches your natural tooth color. However, the composite resin material is prone to chipping. Therefore, you can select them to restore your front teeth since they are the cheapest types of dental crowns.

Dental Crowns Procedure

When getting a dental crown, your dentist in Oaklawn will examine your teeth and determine if dental crowns are the most suitable dental restoration for your teeth. Next, the dentist will prepare your tooth by shedding the damaged parts of the enamel to accommodate your tooth caps.

After preparing your teeth, the crown dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental lab to create your permanent dental crowns. Meanwhile, your dentist will place a temporary one to cover the prepared one.

Your dentist will then schedule another appointment to place your permanent dental crowns. During the second appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and replace it with a permanent one. The dentist will then proceed to check your bite and make necessary adjustments before cementing it in place.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a tooth replacement solution that utilizes abutment teeth, dental frameworks, tooth crowns, and a false tooth. There are four types of dental bridges, which include:

• Traditional dental bridges- utilize two abutment teeth to hold them in place
• Maryland-bonded dental bridges-utilize metal or porcelain frameworks to hold them in place
• Cantilever dental bridges- instead of utilizing two abutment teeth, a cantilever bridge requires only one abutment tooth on the side
• Implant-supported bridge- uses a dental implant to hold them in place

Dental Bridges Procedure

When you are getting a dental procedure, our dentist at Family Dental Care in Oaklawn first examines your teeth. Next, your dentist will prepare your abutment teeth to place the bridge. The dentist will then take impressions of the teeth and send them to the dental lab to create your permanent dental bridges.

Meanwhile, your dentist will place a temporary dental bridge as you wait for your permanent ones. During the final appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and replace it with a permanent one before checking your bite and making necessary adjustments.

The dentist will then cement the dental bridge in place. However, the procedure for getting dental bridges varies according to the type of tooth restoration you are getting.

Cosmetic dentistry has become popular, and it will only get more popular in the coming years. Many people are starting to see the true value of a beautiful smile, and the procedures are becoming more and more affordable.

There is a cosmetic dental procedure for every problem. In this post, we will discuss the top trends in cosmetic dentistry. Hopefully, you will find a procedure that can solve your problem.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is, by far, the most common cosmetic procedure in dentistry. The procedure involves the use of advanced whitening techniques under the supervision of a professional. Typically, the procedure is conducted in a dental office. Its results are always something admirable.

Tooth whitening is more affordable than other cosmetic procedures, and it does not take long to complete. In most cases, it will not take you more than 45 minutes in the dental office. However, it is worth noting that the whitening effects do not last forever.

In most cases, you will require a touchup every two years if you maintain proper oral hygiene. However, if you are a smoker or continuously take staining foods without maintaining proper oral hygiene, the effects may last as little as two months.

If you don’t want to try in-office whitening, you can try at-home techniques. The techniques are effective and cheap, but it can take a long time before you start seeing the effects. Furthermore, overuse of whitening products can lead to increased sensitivity. Some of the at-home techniques you can try include:

• Swish your mouth with coconut or sesame oil for two minutes after brushing.
• Eat more pineapples and papayas since they contain enzymes that have been proved to help with whitening.
• Use whitening toothpaste and trays.
• Avoid staining drinks and foods.
• Use baking soda once a day to brush your teeth.

Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment has been around for decades. However, it used to be a treatment for kids. Adults didn’t care much about it. But with the introduction of clear aligners such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®, the treatment has become popular among adults.

Clear aligners are discreet, comfortable, and removable, making them a perfect option for adults. Typically, you will need to wear the aligners at least 22 hours a day. The treatment can take up to two years, depending on the extent of the problem. In the end, you will achieve well-aligned teeth without wide gaps. We are here for you if you are looking for cosmetic dental services in Chicago, IL.

Veneers

Tooth whitening is usually effective, but unfortunately, not all stains can be whitened. For example, if you have brown or black stains, whitening will not do you any good. Whitening chemicals often work with yellow stains. However, you don’t need to worry. There are other options to improve the appearance of your teeth. One of the finest options is dental veneers.

Veneers use thin tooth-colored shells designed to improve the appearance of a tooth and strengthen the weak ones. The procedure is fast and painless. It is also relatively affordable, despite being a permanent tooth whitening option. The material used for the veneers is stain-resistant and can last for a long time. However, you will still need to continue taking proper care of your teeth.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is as aesthetic as it is affordable. It uses tooth-colored material and often used to repair chipped and broken teeth affecting your smile. The procedure is fast and painless, plus you won’t need to be sedated.

Dental Implants

Implants are often used for restorative purposes. That does not mean that it doesn’t improve your smile, though. The implant is pretty much like your natural teeth in terms of functionality and appearance. It uses a titanium screw that acts as a root and a tooth-colored crown. Typically, it is considered the best restorative procedure.

Unfortunately, the whole procedure takes some time before completion. It can take up to six months to get an implant. It is always worth the wait, though.

A Dentist Near You

If you are looking for a dentist in Chicago, IL, you are in the right place. We can help you with cosmetic, preventive, and restorative procedures. We strive to provide our clients with services of the highest quality at pocket-friendly prices. Book an appointment now.

Periodontal/gum disease is one of the most common dental infections. It affects the gum and the surrounding bone, loosening a tooth and, in the end, making it fall.

It is the leading cause of tooth loss because it is often a silent “killer.” Many people don’t realize they are suffering from gum disease until it is too late. That’s why it is always important to visit the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.

In this blog, we will discuss gum disease in detail to help you make an informed decision. We are here for you if you are looking for periodontal treatment near you in Calumet City.

Periodontal Disease Affects Over 70 Percent of Americans

A large percent of the population is affected by gum disease, but unfortunately, most don’t even know it. Most cases are undiagnosed, but you can change that by paying your dentist a visit every six months.

It Affects Everyone

Periodontal disease does not know children, ladies, or gentlemen. It affects everyone, despite their age, gender, or health. However, some individuals are at a higher risk of infection than others. For example, smokers are at the highest risk of developing gum disease.

The same applies to older people. They are also at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Still, it is crucial for everyone to visit the dentist every six months to reduce the risk of losing a natural tooth to the infection.

Bad Breath is a Major Sign of Periodontitis

Bad breath may seem like a normal thing, especially if it disappears after brushing, but sometimes it is a sign of periodontitis. It is worse if the bad breath won’t disappear even after brushing your teeth. If that’s the case, instead of stocking up on chewing gums, see a dentist, and identify the root cause of the bad breath.

Gum Disease Can Be a Sign of Other Serious Medical Conditions

Several studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and some serious medical conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, doing all you can to prevent periodontitis should be a priority. By doing so, you will be preventing other infections as well.

People from Families with Periodontitis History Are At a Higher Risk

Periodontal disease is not hereditary per se, but there are various studies that show genetics influence the susceptibility of the disease. One of those studies was conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology.

Therefore, if your family has a history of periodontal disease, talk to your dentist so you can derive so you can develop a more customized plan.

Periodontal Disease is Treatable

Periodontitis is not a chronic disease, and anyone with it can be treated. There are various treatments for the condition. If one does not work for you, the dentist can always try another. The only problem is most people figure they have the condition when it is too late.

Sometimes, the affected tooth has to be extracted to prevent it from spreading the infection to the surrounding teeth. But in most cases, the eaten bone will be regrown, and your tooth will be treated.

Most treatments are easy to perform and do not involve cut-and-sew. However, sometimes surgery has to be used if the gum disease is too severe. Don’t panic, though. It will be pain-free, thanks to sedation.

Dental Implants Can Be Affected By Gum Disease Too

Typically, cavities do not affect dental implants. Now, some people use this logic to conclude that periodontal disease does not affect dental implants. That’s not the case, though. Implants are not safe from gum disease. In fact, gum disease is responsible for three to twenty percent of dental implant fails.

Periodontitis is Preventable

Gum disease is scary, but the good news is it is preventable. Continue maintaining proper oral hygiene and visit your dentist every six months for checkups. Even if you are attacked by gum disease, and you visit the dentist regularly, it will be treated before it causes any irreversible damage.

Dentist in Calumet City, IL

If you are looking for periodontal services, you are in the right place. We offer comprehensive dental services, and our services come at pocket-friendly prices. Book an appointment today.

Orthodontic treatment has become quite popular, thanks to invisible aligners such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®. Clear aligners are removable, discreet, and comfortable. They are the best option for any adult looking to straighten his/her teeth.

However, some people are still not sure about the procedures. In this blog, we answer the most common questions about Invisalign. Hopefully, the answers will help you make an informed decision.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic option that uses nearly invisible aligners to correct misaligned teeth and wide gaps between teeth. The aligners do not use wires, and the material used to make them is approved by the FDA. . The treatment is most common among adults, but that does not mean it can’t be used by children.

Why Should I Choose Invisalign Over Traditional Braces?

There is no problem with using traditional braces to correct misalignment. However, traditional braces come with some discomforts and are often associated with children. Also, Invisalign has many benefits over metal braces. These benefits include:

• Clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces. They don’t have wires and brackets, which often cause discomfort in traditional braces.
• Invisalign aligners are almost invisible, meaning no one will know you are under treatment if you don’t tell. However, they don’t magically disappear when you place them on your teeth. If someone looks hard enough, she will see them.
• Clear aligners are more convenient because they are removable. You can remove them, eat all your favorite foods, brush your teeth, rinse the aligners, and put them back.
• Invisalign aligners are easier to maintain compared to metal braces.
• You will only need to visit the dentist at least once every six weeks during the treatment. With traditional braces, you may need to visit the dentist every two to three weeks.

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

The cost of clear aligners varies from one dental clinic to another. Several factors affect the cost, including the dentist’s experience, location of the clinic, and the need for additional procedures. Talk to us if you are looking for affordable Invisalign in Evergreen Park. We got you covered.

What are the Dos and Don’ts of Invisalign?

• Don’t eat or drink anything apart from the water with your Invisalign.
• Don’t use colored soap to clean your aligners.
• Do sanitize your aligners with denture cleaner from time to time.
• Do brush your aligners but do it gently.
• Do rinse the aligners every time before putting them back in the mouth.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Typically, invisible aligners work pretty much like traditional braces when it comes to correcting misalignment. The major difference between the two is one is invisible while the other one is “shouting.”

Each aligner is considerately designed to exert specific pressure and make a gradual adjustment to the teeth. You will need to wear the aligners at least 22 hours a day and swap them every two weeks. Your dentist will give you the replacements and teach you how to swap them.

How Long Will Invisalign Treatment Take?

Some people have been convinced that Invisalign treatment is faster than metal braces treatment, but that’s just a myth. The two treatments take almost the same time. Some cases can be faster with metal braces, while others can be faster with Invisalign. Therefore, expect the treatment to take between 12 and 18 months. Your dentist will give you an estimation of how long the treatment will take.

Will I Need to Give Up Certain Foods If I Choose Invisalign?

No. Unlike traditional braces, where you need to be very careful with fibrous and sticky foods, you have nothing to worry about with traditional braces. After all, you can remove the aligners, eat the food of your choice, and put them back after cleaning your teeth.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

No, Invisalign does not hurt. However, there are some discomforts at the beginning of the treatment, although they won’t last long. The severity of these discomforts varies from one patient to another.

Dentist in Evergreen Park

If you are looking for Invisalign in Evergreen Park, you are in the right place. We provide comprehensive dental services under one roof, and you can count on us for all dental services. Book an appointment today and let us help you.

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures. Unfortunately, it is faced with a lot of misinformation that some patients don’t think they can benefit from it. In this blog, we will debunk the most common myths about the treatment to help you make an informed decision.

But first, let’s learn a little about the treatment. We are here for you if you are looking for root canal services near you in Crestwood.

Fast Facts About Endodontic (Root Canal) Treatment

• Endodontic treatment is considered the last resort for a severely decayed or infected tooth.
• Tooth extraction is often the consideration if endodontic treatment fails to save the tooth.
• The dentist fits a dental crown to restore the functionality and appearance of your tooth.
• A dentist who specializes in conducting root canals is known as an endodontist.
• You can get an endodontic treatment at Family Dental Care in Crestwood.

Myth #1: Endodontic Treatment is the Most Painful Dental Procedure

A few years ago, dental procedures used to painful, and the root canal used to be the most painful among all. However, that has changed with the introduction of oral sedation. The dentist sedates a patient before an advanced treatment, and now root canal is as painless as other dental procedures.

Myth #2: Endodontic Treatment Causes Illness

The internet is great, but it can be a major source of misinformation. For example, if you search, “Does root canal cause illness?” You will find more than one article with evidence showing how endodontic treatment is bad and causes illnesses. However, that’s not true.

The myth originated from half-baked research conducted almost a century ago. Then, doctors had not understood the cause of many illnesses, and when a few individuals got sick after undergoing root canal therapy, it was concluded it causes illnesses. But the truth is root canal is safe and does not cause illnesses.

Myth #3: Tooth Extraction is a Better Option than Root Canal

The truth is, nothing can replace your natural tooth. That’s why it is crucial to preserve your teeth by all means. Therefore, if a root canal can save your tooth, you should choose it without thinking twice. You should only consider extraction if the tooth cannot be saved through a root canal.

Myth #4: Dentist Removes Infected Roots During the Procedure

Despite having the word root in its name, endodontic treatment does not touch the roots of the infected tooth. The only thing the dentist will remove is the dental pulp and the infections affecting it. Finally, he will add tooth filling or dental crown to restore the functionality of the tooth.

Myth #5: The Treatment is Extremely Expensive

We provide the exact cost of the treatment because each clinic charges differently. However, we can assure you that it is not too expensive and it is worth every dollar. After all, you are saving a natural tooth.

Furthermore, if you extract the tooth, you will need to replace it. Replacement options are even more expensive. Our dentist in Crestwood is here for you if you want to get the exact cost of the procedure.

Myth #6: Pregnant Women Cannot Get a Root Canal Treatment

There are hundreds of things pregnant ladies should not do, but getting a root canal treatment is not one of them. Yes, there will be a few x-ray scans, but the radiation is too little to cause any harm to you or your little one.

Furthermore, the dentist will ensure that you wear protective gear, and the x-rays will be directed towards your mouth and not the abdomen. Therefore, you can still get a root canal even if you are pregnant. Just make sure to inform the dentist beforehand.

Myth #7: It Increases Tooth Sensitivity

After the treatment, you will experience slightly increased sensitivity, so there is some truth to the myth. However, these side effects do not last long, and your tooth should be back to normal within a few days. Therefore, if you fear getting a root canal thinking that the sensitivity lasts forever, that’s not the case.

A Dentist Near You

If you are looking for root canal services in Crestwood, you are in the right place. We are always ready to serve, and we assure you of the services of the highest quality. Book an appointment now.

Most dental problems are preventable when one maintains proper oral hygiene. What many people don’t understand is proper oral hygiene does not only mean brushing your teeth twice and flossing once. You need to use the right brushing techniques, use the right toothpaste, and undergo regular professional cleanings and exams.

A dentist can help you stay grow cavity-free and avoid other infections such as periodontal disease. In this blog, we will answer frequently asked questions about preventive dental services to help you make an informed decision.

What is Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is simply taking proper care of your oral hygiene with the help of a dentist or hygienist. With the help of a dentist, you can grow cavity-free, avoid infections, and maintain a beautiful smile. The dentist will work with you to ensure you don’t need expensive dental services in the future.

Is Preventive Dentistry for Everyone?

Yes, preventive dentistry is not restricted to any age or gender. It is a treatment meant for everyone, from a one-year-old baby to a hundred-year-old senior citizen. It also benefits people who have lost their natural teeth and are using dentures, bridges, or implants.

Some preventive care plans include annual oral cancer screenings. This means you will be screened for oral cancer annually. If you are diagnosed, you will have better odds of beating it because it will be diagnosed early. The dentist can also identify early signs of serious infections such as diabetes and heart attack.

What Are the Benefits of Preventive Dental Care?

Some of the benefits of preventive care include:

• Tooth decay prevention. Cavities are pretty common, especially among children, and a dentist can help your kid grow cavity-free.
• Comprehensive exams whereby the dentist can identify early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other severe infections such as heart attack and high blood pressure.
• Gum disease prevention. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Preventing it means preserving your natural teeth.
• Fluoride treatment to prevent cavities and strengthen the bone.
• Bad breath help. Bad breath can affect your self-confidence and make you fear talking in public. The dentist can help you always have a fresh breath.

What Is My Role in Preventive Dentistry?

Typically, the dentist is there to guide you, and you should do as he says. Some of the things he might ask you to do are:

• Brush and floss your teeth as recommended. Be sure to use the techniques your dentist will teach you.
• Don’t spit the toothpaste immediately after brushing. Allow the fluoride for about one or two minutes to stay on the teeth so it can be absorbed.
• Use an electric toothbrush whenever possible.
• Use a recommended mouthwash after flossing.
• Reduce your sugary foods and drinks intake
• Cut down your intake of acidic drinks such as soda and alcohol.
• Use sugar-free gum from time to time to increase saliva production in your mouth.
• Quit drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco
• Never miss a scheduled visit to the dentist.

What Are the Types of Preventive Dental Care Services?

• Regular dental exams and professional cleanings. In most cases, these cleanings will come every six months.
• Routine x-ray checkups
• Oral cancer cleanings. However, you should note that not all preventive care plans cover oral cancer screenings. Be sure to confirm with your dentist.
• Fluoride treatments
• Dental sealants

Who Should I See for Preventive Dental Care Services?

A pediatric dentist will help your child from when she’s one year old until her late teen years. Any qualified dentist can help you if you want to start a preventive care plan as an adult. You can also get these services from an oral hygienist.

A Dentist You Can Trust

If you are looking for a dentist in Chicago, you are in the right place. Our clinic is family-friendly, and we can help your child grow cavity-free. You can also count on us for cosmetic and restorative services.

Loud snoring may not sound like a big deal until your partner tells you she can’t be with you because you snore. Jokes aside, snoring is a major sign of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that can affect your day to day life. Luckily, there are treatments for this condition. In this blog, we will discuss sleep apnea in detail to help you make an informed decision about the treatment options available.

What is Sleep, Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes breathing interruptions when one is sleeping. The interruptions cause pauses that can last up to 20 seconds. The pauses can happen up to 100 times in one hour.

These pauses minimize the amount of oxygen you inhale, leading to less deep sleep, making you feel fatigued to carry out your daily activities. The disorder can also lead to potentially severe health conditions. Therefore, if you notice signs of sleep apnea, you should get help as soon as possible.

Types of Sleep Apnea

• Obstructive sleep apnea. It is the most common type, often characterized by loud snoring and interrupted breathing.
• Central sleep apnea. This type is less common and often caused by underlying health conditions. Typically, people suffering from central sleep apnea rarely snore.
• Mixed sleep apnea: It is a rare combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Signs of Apnea

It is not easy to identify you suffer from sleep apnea if you live alone since the major symptoms occur when you are sleeping. If you have a partner, it will be much easier since they can observe the symptoms of sleep disorder, which include:

• Frequent and loud snoring
• Gasping for air in your sleep
• Daytime fatigue and sleepiness despite sleeping for eight hours or more.
• Waking up with a sore throat or dry mouth
• Insomnia
• Shortness of breath when you wake up
• Morning headache.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

Before your dentist or doctor starts treating you for the disorder, you will need to be diagnosed. The diagnosis is often made based on your sleep, as shown by a study by a sleep specialist. Typically, if you have more than 30 pauses in an hour, you suffer from severe apnea. Luckily, even extreme apnea is treatable. Here are the treatment options that you have:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP involves the use of sleep apnea devices that delivers more air pressure than the surrounding air. By doing so, your airways stay open, hence preventing you from snoring. Just make sure to choose a device that will feel comfortable while using. If you continue snoring even with the machine, contact your doctor.

Use Other Appliances

If CPAP does not work for you, your doctor will recommend other devices such as BPAP and oral appliances. Most of the devices are available in your dentist’s office, so you can try several to identify the one that feels the most comfortable.

Treatment of Associated Health Problems

Central sleep apnea is often caused by underlying medical conditions. If the conditions are treated, it might help with the apnea.

Supplemental Oxygen

Central sleep apnea can be treated by ensuring you get enough oxygen to the lungs using oxygen devices often available in a dental office.

Surgery

If other sleep apnea treatment options fail to help you with the condition, your doctor will suggest surgery. It is typically the last resort and only considered after at least a month’s trial with the other treatment options. There are several surgical treatments, including:

• Tissue removal
• Tissue shrinkage
• Sleep apnea implants (not to be confused with dental implants).
• Jaw repositioning
• Nerve stimulation
• Bariatric surgery

Your dentist will help you choose the most suitable surgery for your condition. In most cases, surgical treatment will work.

At-Home Remedies

For mild to moderate sleep apnea, you can adopt a few lifestyle changes to manage the disorder. These changes include:

• Losing a few pounds
• Regular exercise can help manage obstructive sleep apnea.
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid medications that can relax the muscles of your throat, such as sleeping pills and tranquilizers.
• Sleep on your abdomen or side if you are a back sleeper.
• Quit smoking

Family Dental Care

If you are looking for a dentist in Chicago, you are in the right place. We can help you with snoring and sleep apnea as well as dental conditions such as teeth whitening, cleaning, and exams. Book an appointment today.