Tag: Dentist Berwyn

6 Reasons Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important

You’ve probably heard the old adage, “You are what you eat.” Well, the same can be said for your teeth. If you don’t take care of your teeth, they’ll decay and become infected. If that happens, you could end up with a mouth full of cavities, gum disease or other problems related to your oral health. Dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease and some forms of oral cancers. They will also help keep your mouth in shape by preventing infections and keeping plaque off your teeth. Eating right and getting regular dental cleanings can help prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

Here are 6 reasons why regular dental cleanings are important:

1. Prevents gum disease

Gum disease is a common problem that affects more than 90 percent of adults over the age of 25. It’s caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a substance that forms when bacteria feed off food and drink left on your teeth for too long. Tartar is hardened plaque, which can be removed by brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing at least once daily.

2. Prevents cavities

Cavities are caused by acid from plaque or other substances eating away at the tooth enamel and mineralizing into spaces between teeth called pits or fissures in your enamel. This leads to cavities as well as pain, sensitivity, bad breath and tooth loss over time if left untreated.

3. Prevents gum recession

Gum recession is a serious problem because it can cause loose gums as they pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root surfaces of your teeth. When you see your dentist every six months, your dentist can perform an oral examination to check for any existing fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, root canals, or prosthetics; make a note of any missing, chipped, broken, or decayed teeth that need attention; check for early signs of throat or mouth cancer; assess your jaw joint for signs of TMD, and more.

4. Reduces the Risk of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common oral health problem that occurs when gums become inflamed and swollen due to poor oral hygiene habits like neglecting your gums or brushing too hard with hard bristles on your toothbrush or toothpaste (tartar). Reducing this inflammation helps protect against future periodontal disease.

5. Prevents tooth decay

Teeth are made of hard material, but they’re not impervious to damage. Any injury to the outer enamel layer of your teeth will cause them to become vulnerable to cavities and infections. The most common cause of tooth decay is bacteria that live in the plaque on your teeth. When you eat or drink something containing sugar, bacteria produce acid that attacks the enamel layer and causes decay.

6. Eliminates Plaque Buildup

Plaque is a biofilm that forms on the surfaces of our teeth. It contains plaque bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque also causes bad breath because it collects food particles in between your teeth where they become sticky and hard to remove with brushing or flossing alone. Regular dental cleanings help to remove plaque buildup from between your teeth so that food particles aren’t trapped there anymore!

CONCLUSION

Just remember that if you brush your teeth and floss frequently, you shouldn’t have any problem making regular dental cleanings a part of your routine. However, if you do happen to miss a few, it is also critical that you get them done as soon as possible. By having your mouths professionally cleaned every few months you can potentially prevent damage to your gums and teeth and keep them at optimal health level.

Visit our Berwyn dentist and get started with your regular dental cleanings today.

Know The Steps To Prepare For Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction removes the third set of molars (known as wisdom teeth) and is usually performed between the ages of 17 and 25. Most individuals have at least one impacted wisdom tooth, which means it lacks adequate space to develop normally.

You can prevent them from harming the adjacent teeth and bones by going for wisdom teeth removal. It is important to note that not removing an impacted or infected wisdom tooth on time can be the reason for other severe problems. 

In this blog, we will discuss the ways to prepare for wisdom teeth extraction. So, why wait anymore? Go through the sections below to gather information related to this topic. 

Ways To Prepare For Wisdom Teeth Extraction

  • Discuss any worries you may have with your dentist before the process. They can advise you on what to do in the days leading up to surgery and how to prepare for recovery. Additionally, they can discuss the sort of anesthesia that will be used and how you’ll feel following the procedure.
  • The degree of impaction and the number of teeth being removed will affect the cost of removing the wisdom teeth. Check with your dentist to find out the benefits offered by your insurance provider.
  • Buying some soft or liquid-based food items that are simple to eat after surgery will help you prepare for recovery. Smoothies, applesauce, oats, yogurt, and other simple meals may feel easy to eat.
  • Wear comfortable and loose clothing for the treatment procedure. You can also wear a shirt with short sleeves or one that allows you to easily roll the sleeves up in case you receive an intravenous anesthetic. 
  • Be careful to follow your dentist’s instructions when it comes to drinking or eating before the wisdom teeth removal. The instructions might vary based on the type of sedative used. You won’t be allowed to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the surgery if you receive an intravenous anesthetic to ensure your stomach is empty.
  • Bring your dental insurance card as well as any required documents. Your dentist will advise you to arrange for someone to drive you home as you’ll be sleepy after anesthesia once the procedure is completed. 

What To Do After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

  • The nitrous oxide gas or IV drip will be stopped once the treatment is over, and you’ll be brought slowly out of sedation.
  • The dentist will give you gauze to bite down on to help the blood clot in the area. You might have moderate post-operative anesthetic side effects like nausea, dizziness, and shivering right away.
  • You’ll be sent to a recovery room, where you’ll be kept under observation. An “all-clear’ will be given by the dental professional to return home if he/she feels that you are stable and breathing correctly. You might have to stay in the recovery room for less than an hour.
  • You’ll feel drowsy and swollen after surgery. Even if you do not experience much pain right away, it will likely get worse as the local anesthetic wears off in the hours following surgery.

Contact Berwyn Dental Connection if you are looking for effective and safe teeth extraction treatment in Berwyn, IL. Our team of dentists and other dental professionals make sure to provide customized treatment plans that perfectly suit a patient’s requirements. Give us a call today!

What Are The Different Kinds of Orthognathic Surgeries?

Everyone wants to seem appealing and to have a beautiful smile. But how many of us truly have it? Many people dislike showing their teeth when they are smiling. Some individuals have gorgeous smiles, but their gums may be exposed, which does not look so attractive. These issues make people lose their natural confidence. 

Fortunately, there are numerous jaw reconstructive surgeries or orthognathic surgeries that are capable of solving elemental problems of teeth alignment and structural deformities of the face and the jaw. But what is orthognathic surgery? Orthognathic surgery refers to several types of corrective jaw surgery operations. This type of oral surgery can treat the issues of upper and lower jaws as needed by the patient. 

Right Candidates For Orthognathic Surgical Procedures

Some long-term jaw irregularities can result in difficulty in talking, eating, sleeping, and other oral health difficulties. There are also other kinds of abnormalities of congenital defects of the jaw that can be corrected with the help of orthognathic surgical procedures. Here are some factors that can make you a potential candidate for this treatment:

  • If you are suffering from teeth grinding disorder or bruxism.
  • Problems with normal speech.
  • Experiencing headaches and jaw pain caused by TMJ disorders.
  • Issues related to sleep apnea.
  • Having troubles with chewing.
  • Poor facial appearance due to misaligned jaws. 

People who are experiencing any of the concerns listed above are the greatest candidates for this type of face surgery. These patients should be in good overall condition and have reasonable expectations regarding the procedure and what it can accomplish. It is also crucial that patients follow the care recommendations of their dental surgeons to the letter to minimize the risk of problems and harmful side effects after surgery.

Various Types of Orthognathic Surgeries

There are 4 types of corrective jaw surgeries. These surgical treatments depend on which part of your jaw needs correcting:

Genioplasty: Genioplasty is a surgical procedure that is used to correct issues of the chin. A weak chin is sometimes associated with a greatly receding lower jaw. Oftentimes, surgeons can reconstruct the chin as well as change the jaw during the same procedure.

Maxillary Osteotomy: Maxillary Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that removes the maxillary bone or the upper jaw. This procedure is used to treat a crossbite, or when there are too many or too few teeth visible. It can also be used to close an open bite.

Mandibular Osteotomy: This surgery is used to repair a drastically receding lower jaw. Depending on the optimal correction and bite alignment, the surgeon pushes the jawbone forwards or backward.

Bimaxillary Osteotomy: Bimaxillary osteotomy is a procedure that involves the correction of both your upper and lower jaws. This procedure is used when a problem affects both jawbones.

 Finally, we hope our blog has helped to enlighten you about the various orthognathic surgeries and their purposes. If you need the best orthognathic treatments in Berwyn, IL, then please visit us at Berwyn Dental Connection. We pride ourselves on our exceptional services. 

Dentist Near Me | Coffee and Your Teeth

Coffee is well-known as hazardous to teeth, but there are things you can do besides cut it out completely. Here are some things to know about coffee’s effects on your oral health and diet, as well as how to mitigate them.

Contrary to popular belief, the pigments that give coffee its color can stain your teeth regardless of whether you take your coffee black or with cream. These pigments embed themselves in microscopic crevices and pits in your tooth enamel and are difficult to remove. To counteract this, don’t give the pigments time to set. When drinking coffee, drink quickly instead of sipping over a long period. Enjoy, then rinse your mouth with water to help neutralize the acid. In addition, following your recommended schedule of dental cleanings can help prevent stains. Whitening can improve the color of your teeth if mild staining has started. Ask our doctor how best to keep your smile bright.

Coffee can have minor benefits for your nutrition, but there are also things to beware. Drinks that are high in dairy fat or sugar can add substantial calories, as well as contributing to the chance of tooth decay. Try making your own coffee at home, where you can control the ingredients used. Minimize your use of creamer and sugar, or try using non-fat or sugar-free substitutes.

Coffee can still be a healthy party of your life if you take some care to protect your teeth. For more tips or to schedule a professional cleaning, contact our office.

Dentist in Berwyn | Can You Inherit Oral Health Issues?

Dentist in Berwyn IL

Most serious oral health issues can be prevented by maintaining an effective routine of dental hygiene and in-office care. However, you could be at higher risk for some oral illnesses due to hereditary factors. Awareness and proper treatment can help minimize these risks. Here are a few of the most common oral health concerns that are affected by genetics.

Tooth decay – One of the most common oral issues, some tooth decay has been linked to a genetic deficiency of a protein called DEFB1. If your parents experienced an unusually high rate of tooth decay, then you may want to be more vigilant regarding your own dental care.

Oral cancer – Certain genetic factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Our doctor recommends annual oral cancer screening for early identification and treatment. In addition, certain lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, can help reduce your risk of oral cancer.

Periodontal disease – Recent research has found that some forms of gum disease may be linked to mutations in genes that affect immunity and inflammatory response.

Misaligned or supernumerary (extra) teeth – Genetics can play a role in having misaligned or even extra teeth. The size of your jaw is determined mostly through heredity, and is the most common reason for an overbite, underbite, or dental crowding.

Canker sores – In most cases, canker sores are an isolated reaction to fatigue, stress, or menstrual cycles. However, there are certain inherited diseases that count canker sores among their symptoms. Crohn’s disease and Celiac sprue are two such conditions.

While you may not be able to avoid hereditary oral health issues entirely, we can help minimize or even reverse their effects with proper treatment and care. If you suffer from any of these inherited conditions, contact our office for an oral health evaluation. We can help.

Berwyn IL Dentyist | 3 Ways to Fix a Chipped Tooth

Berwyn IL Dentyist | 3 Ways to Fix a Chipped Tooth

Chipping a tooth could be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to fix a chipped tooth. We will recommend a solution based on your particular needs. Here are three options we may provide you:

1.      Dental Bonding

Bonding is a quick and easy solution for most small, cosmetic chips. In the bonding process, the remaining enamel on the tooth is first roughened in order for composite to better adhere to the tooth’s surface. Composite is then shaped to replace the chip and hardened with a dental curing light, instantly solidifying the material. Typically, bonding can last up to ten years with proper care.

2.     Porcelain Veneers

If the tooth was fully cracked or there was significant damage to the tooth, veneers may be recommended. Also, if you have chipped a tooth several times or wish to repair the tooth’s color, getting veneers may be the best option.

A veneer uses porcelain material that covers the front surface of your teeth, giving them a natural look while also providing strength comparable to natural tooth enamel. In order to apply a veneer, a small amount of existing tooth structure is removed to make room around the affected area. Then, we will take an impression of the tooth to use in making the permanent veneer and place a temporary veneer.

Once the permanent, porcelain veneer arrives, the temporary veneer is removed and the area around the tooth is cleaned. We will then place the adhesive and set in the new veneer for exact fit. Finally, the veneer is light cured and you will have a natural, beautiful smile.

3.     Dental Crowns.

Dental crowns are a “cap” that covers your tooth. A crown restores a tooth back to its normal shape, size, and function. Crowns are best-suited when a large portion of the original tooth is missing, or when the tooth is significantly damaged, causing pain when chewing or drinking. They are an effective solution to repair the shape and look of your tooth quickly, preventing further damage from tooth decay or exposed nerves.

If you have a chipped tooth, contact us as soon as possible. We have a number of solutions to fix any oral health issues that arise from chipping or cracking a tooth. We will provide a customized plan for you based on your needs.

Berwyn IL Dentist | Don’t Miss Your Screening

Oral cancer does not discriminate. It affects those of all ages, genders and races. Smokers do develop oral cancers at higher rates than non-smokers. However, this does not absolve the rest of the population from being at risk, as well.

Berwyn IL Dentist | Don't Miss Your Screening

It’s incredibly important to keep to your recommended schedule of oral health examinations. By visiting your general dentist at least twice per year, it is much more likely that our dental team will be able to identify potentially cancerous lesions in the early stages. As you may know, the key to the survival of most forms of cancer is early detection. Oral cancers are treatable, especially if caught before displaying obvious signs. The best results occur when oral cancer is identified and treated during early stages.

If your general dentist identifies a lesion that appears to be irregular, he or she may refer you to our team. We’ll recommend the next steps. Once pathology has been identified, we can proceed with treatment if necessary.

We will complete a biopsy to confirm whether a lesion is cancerous. It is not possible to confirm an oral cancer diagnosis without a biopsy. For this reason, try to refrain from making assumptions until we have confirmed your diagnosis. If it’s been more than 6 months since your last appointment or if you have noticed a lesion, bump or irregular patch of skin that doesn’t heal within a few days, consider an oral cancer screening by your general dentist. Know that your dentist will provide you with advice and may refer you to our team for a closer look.

If you have considered skipping the recommended dental visits that provide your first line of defense against oral cancers, please reconsider. It could save your life. Contact us today to schedule your next visit.

Berwyn IL Dentist | Preventing Enamel Erosion

Do you have white spots on your teeth? Are your teeth quite sensitive? Do your teeth have cracks, chips, or indentations? If yes, then you may be experiencing enamel erosion. 

Berwyn IL Dentist | Preventing Enamel Erosion

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. It is the clear coating that protects your teeth. However, being the strongest substance in the body does not mean it should be neglected. Enamel can erode. Without the protection of enamel, you not only risk developing decay, but also abscesses, tooth pain, and even tooth loss. 

What Causes Tooth Enamel Erosion? 

There are several factors that cause tooth enamel to erode, some of which are the result of everyday actions. Sugars and acids can wear down enamel. If you regularly drink soft drinks or sugary fruit drinks, you may be damaging your teeth. To protect your teeth, limit your consumption of such drinks. Alcohol can also erode enamel, as well as a diet that is high in sugary or starchy foods. The bacteria in the mouth can transforms starches and sugars in foods such as bread into damaging acid.  

Other factors include acid reflux, recurrent vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, genetically  inherited conditions, grinding your teeth, even brushing too hard or not flossing properly. All of these impact the health of your enamel, and, ultimately, your teeth. Once the enamel is worn or chipped away, it cannot be replaced. 

Keep the sweets from becoming everyday treats, replace white breads with whole grains, and try eating more cheese and yogurt to bolster the calcium in your saliva to keep the acids in check. 

How Can Enamel Erosion Be Prevented? 

In addition to exercising moderation with soft drinks, alcohol, sugars and starches, and, of course, taking extra care with regard to medical conditions and your tooth care regimen, there are a few extra things you can do to protect your smile. Saliva can neutralize harmful acids in your mouth. By drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum, you can boost saliva production.  

Keep the sweets from becoming everyday treats and replace white bread with whole grains. Add more cheese and yogurt to your diet. Not only are both foods high in calcium, but they also help neutralize harmful acids in your mouth. 

Tooth enamel is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Be mindful of what you eat and drink. Enamel erosion may also be the consequence of other complications such as excessive teeth  grinding or acid reflux. Regular visits to our office allow our team to provide a full examination. If we detect that your enamel is eroding, we will discuss potential causes and solutions.  

To schedule your next visit to our office, please contact our team today. 

Berwyn IL Dentist | Oral Hygiene at Work

Do you brush your teeth after lunch? If you’re one of the millions of people who work outside the home, chances are you don’t have the time or resources to brush during the day. However, not being able to brush doesn’t mean you can’t protect  your teeth at work.  

Berwyn IL Dentist | Oral Hygiene at Work

Grab a drink of water. When you finish eating, get a drink of water. Swish the water around in your mouth, then spit or swallow it. Water helps to remove small particles of food that can remain on your teeth after your meal or snack. 

Chew sugarless gum. There are certain types of sugarless gum that are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) as good for your oral health. The reason for this is that chewing stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth. That saliva washes away food particles and helps to neutralize acids on your teeth. 

Limit time drinking coffee or soda. Coffee, soda, tea, and many other beverages contain high levels of sugars and acids. The more time you spend sipping your drink, the longer your teeth are exposed to these sources of decay. Instead of spending an hour taking small swallows, drink quickly to limit exposure, then rinse your mouth or switch to water to help counteract the effects. 

Brush and floss when you can. Try to keep to a regular routine of good oral hygiene practices when you are at home. Brush at least twice daily, for two full minutes each time. Floss or use an interdental cleaner of your choice  once a day. Keep your recommended appointments to have your teeth cleaned and evaluated by our team. 

Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to interrupt your workday. Keeping these simple tips in mind can help protect your mouth from tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues. 

To learn more ways to preserve your oral health, talk to our team during your visit. Contact our office to schedule your next appointment today. 

Berwyn IL Dentist | Do I Really Need an Exam?

It’s highly likely that after visiting our practice, you understand the value of a thorough, professional dental cleaning. It’s also likely that you may not fully understand the importance of a complete exam and radiographs.  

Berwyn IL Dentist | Do I Really Need an Exam?

There are many reasons the exam is an important part of your oral health routine.  

1. Exams allow the doctor to evaluate for signs of health conditions. Many health conditions present early signs and symptoms in  the mouth, including Crohn’s, Addison’s, Leukemia, Diabetes, Lupus, Anemia, and many others. Skipping an exam could prevent your dentist from screening for oral manifestations of systemic disease.  

2. According to research, one American dies every hour from oral cancer. A thorough complete examination can catch early signs of oral cancer, allowing for early treatment, which can be key to survival.  

3. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and is  related to serious systemic  health conditions such as heart disease and stroke, among many others. Evaluating your soft tissue and bone health allows our team to identify early signs of periodontal disease, which can allow for prevention and early treatment. This is vital for your oral and overall health.  

4. Radiographs provide valuable insight. Decay and other oral health issues are often hidden from the human eye. Radiographs (X-Rays) allow us to find what we could not otherwise see, allowing for early treatment and less invasive solutions.  

Whether it has been 6 months or 6 years since your last appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re here for you and your heath and comfort are our main concerns.