Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Look 10 Years Younger

Dental Implants in Chicago

Your smile is one of the first things a person will notice when you meet.  If you would like to improve your smile with a simple procedure, te

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Look 10 Years Younger

eth whitening may be a great option for you, especially if you have stained, dull or discolored teeth. Our dental office is providing teeth whitening services to new and existing patients.

 

Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, over time, discoloration will occur.  The main causes of stained teeth are genetics, antibiotics, tobacco and certain foods. As we age, our teeth darken as well. While preventing tooth discoloration is nearly impossible, our experienced team can help reverse the effects of discoloration by helping to create a whiter and brighter smile.

 

Whether it’s an in-office treatment or at-home treatment, the principles of teeth whitening are the same.  A special whitening agent is applied to the teeth in order to bleach stains and brighten your smile. Our expert dentist will discuss your whitening needs and goals with you to determine which option is best for you.

 

In-office teeth whitening is the quickest method to a brighter, whiter smile.  With the supervision of an experienced dental professional, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than with at-home kits. Optimal results are achieved much faster with the professional whitening treatment, and in many ways the results are much better given the nature of the bleaching agents that are used. On average, patients find they appear up to ten years younger just by restoring the bright, white smile of their youth.

 

During a professional teeth whitening treatment, we will first clean the teeth.  They will apply a whitening agent to your teeth, carefully avoiding your gums and soft tissue.  Once applied, a laser light will be directed at the teeth to expedite the process.  For maximum results, the process may be repeated more than once.

 

If a visit to our office for professional whitening isn’t an option for you, at-home treatment may provide the whitening you need. While you will find a vast variety of at-home teeth whitening products on the market, including whitening toothpastes, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays and more, we can fit you with custom-made whitening trays that will more accurately fit to your teeth for a more even whitening result.

 

At-home teeth whitening results are less dramatic compared to those achieved at the dentist. While at-home teeth whitening is easy to use, it is not recommended if your teeth or gums are sensitive.

 

If you are looking to brighten your smile and look ten years younger, contact our team for more information or to schedule a consultation today.

 

 

Busting Myths About Gum Disease

Dental Implants in Chicago

Gum Disease Millions of Americans have gum disease. If you suffer from red, tender, or bleeding gums, you may have this condition as well. Gum disease affects many people, and without appropriate treatment, the ramifications of it can be permanent. By knowing just how rampant, serious, yet preventable gum disease is, you can make more informed choices about avoiding and addressing it. If you suspect you have this problem, see a dentist in Chicago.

Gum Disease Happens to the Elderly
Many people assume that most dental problems affect either the pediatric or senior populations. Children may love candy, but individuals of all ages can suffer from tooth decay. Likewise, though elder individuals may have missing teeth and dentures, people young and old can be susceptible to poor gum health . Gum disease is not the result of older age. It happens because of plaque buildup and tissue inflammation that puts sufferers at risk for tooth loss.

Flossing Can’t Help Gum Disease
Your dentist tells you to floss daily for good reason. Brushing can get rid of food particles and bacteria lingering in tooth ridges and on tooth surfaces, but it cannot reach under the gumline and between teeth. It’s these locations that tend to suffer the most from plaque accumulation. When you floss, you can remove the bacteria, food, and plaque that could otherwise trigger the irritation of gums that may evolve into damaged gum fibers, bone loss, and missing teeth.

Gum Disease Isn’t a Serious Problem
Tooth decay is often considered a significant dental problem. Especially once a person suffers from a toothache, he may recognize the need for professional dental care. Yet even when gum tissue exhibits evident signs of disease such as recession, many people delay getting treatment for it. The longer that gum disease has the opportunity to progress, the greater the chance that a person will experience tooth loss. Once this complication of gum disease occurs, only dentures, bridges, or teeth implants can remedy the problem.

Don’t wait to get the gum disease treatment you need. Call University Associates in Dentistry at (312) 704-5511 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit our website for information on our services for gum disease and tooth loss.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | To Floss or Not To Floss

Dental Implants in Chicago

By now, you have likely seen news reports questioning whether flossing is necessary for your oral health.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | To Floss or Not to Floss?

We want to answer your question right away with an absolute YES. Cleaning between your teeth is an essential part of caring for your teeth and gums.

 

Whether you use traditional string dental floss, a water flosser, an interdental (between teeth) brush, or other form of interdental cleaning, it is important that you clean between your teeth correctly and on a daily basis.

 

Unfortunately, in the quest for catchy headlines, many news agencies have been providing a great deal of incomplete and inaccurate information.

 

Here’s the truth: Plaque and bacteria can be prevented from building up between teeth when flossing is done correctly on a daily basis.

 

Why does that matter? Build-up of plaque and bacteria between teeth is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease, a condition which not only affects your mouth, teeth, and gums, but has been linked to complications with diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and many other systemic health issues.

 

The next time you visit our office, ask your hygienist to show you the most effective way to clean between your teeth. For more information on flossing and interdental cleaning or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

 

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Dental Implants in Chicago

Teeth whitening in Chicago is such a popular dental treatment because so many people suffer from tooth discoloration. Use this guide to learn more about what discolors the teeth so you can try to minimize it in your own mouth:

Foods and Beverages
Foods and beverages are responsible for a lot of discoloration. Coffee, tea, wine, berries, and even certain vegetables like potatoes can stain your teeth and take away from the aesthetic appeal of your smile. If you are serious about keeping your teeth white and beautiful, you should try to limit the amount of staining foods and beverages that you consume.

Tobacco
Tobacco products like cigarettes can cause major problems for your oral health. On top of increasing your risk for developing periodontal disease and oral cancer, they can also severely stain your teeth . If you smoke or chew tobacco, you should make an effort to stop so you can enjoy a whiter, healthier smile.

Medications
Certain medications cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. If you take antibiotics like tetracycline or doxycycline, they might leave their mark on your teeth. Certain medications like antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, and blood pressure drugs can also affect the color of your teeth. Make sure to inform your dentist of any medications that you take so he or she can determine if they will stain your teeth.

Aging
Sometimes the natural aging process can discolor the teeth. You should always make an effort to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to keep your mouth as clean as possible. Visit your dentist twice a year to get deeper cleanings that help keep your teeth white.

At University Associates in Dentistry , we want you to have the healthiest, most attractive smile possible. With the help of our dentists and services like teeth whitening, we make it easy to get the care you need. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, visit us online or call (312) 704-5511.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Oral Cancer Screening Can Save Your Life

Dental Implants in Chicago

Our expert dentist wants to remind patients that our office offers thorough oral cancer screening as part of our comprehensive dental health services. Like with every form of cancer, early diagnosis can have a profound impact on the success of your treatment. Regular screenings are your first line of defense against oral cancer and our doctor is here to help.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Oral Cancer Screening Can Save Your Life

In your screening, our doctor will check your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any abnormalities that could be or become cancerous. We will give careful consideration to any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have experienced any oral cancer symptoms for more than a week without improvement, schedule an appointment and tell your dentist immediately. Symptoms that could indicate oral cancer include:

 

  • Ear pain
  • Unexplained mouth bleeding
  • Mouth sores that don’t heal
  • White or red patches in your mouth
  • Dramatic weight loss
  • Lumps or swellings in or around your mouth
  • Sore throat without other sinus symptoms
  • Sensation of something caught in the back of your throat
  • Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

 

One adult American dies of oral cancer every hour. Though anyone can develop oral cancer, some factors can increase your risks. Some of the most common risk factors include: genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, unhealthy diet, and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Oral cancer is more common in men than women. Patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are at increased risk. Users of tobacco in any form are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users.

 

Whatever the cause, the success of treatment depends on the size, type, and stage of the cancer. Early detection can play a critical role in your successful recovery. When found in early stages, oral cancers have an 80 – 90% survival rate. The primary reason for this is that early detection leads to earlier treatment. Oral cancers that are found in early or precancerous stages can often be removed and require less invasive procedures to treat. Later stages of cancer are likely to be larger and more complex and often have spread far beyond your mouth.

 

We are accepting new patients. If you would like more information about oral cancer and oral cancer screening, contact our office for a consultation.

 

Maintaining Your Newly Whitened Smile

Dental Implants in Chicago

After you visit the dentist for a teeth whitening in Chicago , you can modify your behavior to ensure that your results last for as long as possible. Keep reading to find out how you can maintain your newly whitened smile long after you visit the dentist:

Be Careful with Your Diet
The wrong foods and beverages can quickly stain your teeth and reduce the effects of your teeth-whitening treatment. If you want to keep your smile bright and white, you should try to avoid large amount of coffee, tea, soda, red wine, and candy that could stain your teeth. Instead, try to fill your plate with foods that are high in calcium, protein, and healthy fats to keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

Take Care of Your Teeth
After your dentist whitens your teeth , it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss once a day. Try to drink water when you eat to clean out your mouth before foods can coat your teeth and ruin their white appeal.

Ask Your Dentist About Medications
When you visit the dentist to get your teeth whitened, you should bring a list of any medications that you are taking. Some medicines might stain the teeth as a side effect. Your dentist can tell you if any of these medications might affect your whitening results and whether or not there is an alternative that can prevent this issue.

At University Associates in Dentistry , we work hard to help our patients get the most attractive, healthiest smiles. Our dental services include everything from teeth whitening treatments to dental implants to ensure that you have everything you need to get a smile that you love. To learn more about our services or to schedule your next appointment, visit us online or call (312) 704-5511.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Providing Relief from Periodontal Disease

Dental Implants in Chicago

Over 45% of U.S. adults have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease ranges from a mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a major oral disease that can result in soft tissue and bone damage and even tooth loss.  Our experienced dentist is providing periodontal treatments to both new and existing patients who are suffering from any form of periodontal (gum) disease.

Chicago IL Cosmetic Dentist | Providing Relief from Periodontal Disease

One of the major causes of gum disease is practicing poor oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. When these practices are not followed, plaque can form on the teeth and along the gumline. If this plaque is not properly removed, it may harden over time and become tartar. Once that occurs, only a dental professional can remove tartar from teeth.

 

If gum disease is not treated in a timely manner, tartar may continue to build. When this occurs, the gum disease may advance. Gums redden, swell, and become prone to bleeding from normal activities, such as brushing or eating. At this point, professional periodontal treatment is needed to prevent the disease from advancing further.

 

When periodontal disease is not treated in a timely manner, it may become periodontitis. Periodontitis is the most advanced form of periodontal disease. With periodontitis, gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gumline. These spaces are highly difficult to clean without professional intervention and can lead to rapid worsening in overall oral health. Without prompt and thorough treatment, bone, gums, and soft tissues may be destroyed by periodontitis. One of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease.

 

Some of the most common factors that contribute to periodontal disease developing include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and female hormonal changes. Some medications can cause gum tissue to develop abnormal tissues, which can increase difficulty in proper cleaning of the teeth. People who are receiving treatment for AIDS are also at increased risk of developing periodontal disease.

 

Our doctor has the training and experience to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Some symptoms include: chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, red or swollen gums, sensitive or bleeding gums, and difficulty or pain with chewing. Our dentist provides excellent periodontal care for our patients, and welcomes new patient consultations. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our office.

 

What You Need to Know About Cavities

Dental Implants in Chicago

A lot of oral health issues start off slowly and blossom into much more serious problems. Knowing about cavities helps you do what you can to avoid them so you can maintain healthy and beautiful teeth. Use this guide to learn more about cavities:

A Cavity forms Slowly

A cavity is actually a small hole that develops in a tooth. They are often called decay or caries. Cavities start to develop when bacteria in the mouth mix with acid and start to wear down the enamel on the teeth. Without treatment, cavities will continue to grow and might lead to an infection or tooth loss.

A Cavity Has a Range of Symptoms

When a cavity first develops, you might not even notice anything strange in your mouth. Once it becomes bigger, though, it might cause a toothache or severe sensitivity . It might also cause pain when you eat. Sometimes you can see small holes or brown or black stains on the surface of your teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to see if you need a filling.

You Can Prevent a Cavity

Improving your oral hygiene routine can help you avoid issues with cavities. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush to dislodge food and bacteria that might be stuck on your teeth. You should floss once a day to get rid of food that might be stuck between the tooth and the gums. Visit your dentist regularly to get deeper cleanings and checkups that help you avoid cavities.

University Associates in Dentistry is one of the best dental offices in Chicago. We help you with general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to ensure that you have the healthiest, most attractive teeth possible. From Invisalign to sleep apnea treatment, we help find the cause of your problems so we can bring you the proper treatment. For more information on our services, visit us online or call (888) 481-6598.

University Associates in Dentistry