It has been estimated that as many as half of all Americans may suffer from some degree of periodontal disease, a progressive inflammation of the gums . If you have diabetes, you should be particularly careful about having your teeth and gums checked by your dentist on a regular basis, since statistics show that people with diabetes are more likely to contract periodontal disease.

There are a number of reasons why diabetes can raise a person’s risk of periodontal disease. It is believed that diabetes interferes with the immune system and makes a person more vulnerable to infections. Mouth wounds also take longer to heal for people who have diabetes, which can exacerbate mouth infections and make gum disease more likely.

If you are interested in learning more about how to prevent gum disease, contact the experienced dentists at University Associates in Dentistry in Chicago. We pride ourselves on offering a comfortable atmosphere, state-of-the-art techniques, and patient-friendly care. You can  visit our website  for more information, or call (312) 704-5511 to schedule an appointment. 

A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that both looks and functions the same as a natural tooth. If you have lost a tooth, getting a dental implant at your dentist’s office will help you keep your smile looking great and protect you against potential infections, bone loss, and receding gums. Here is a closer look at how your dentist will place your dental implant.

First, your dentist will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. If you are in good overall health, you are likely to be a good candidate. Your gums and teeth should also be in good condition; any chronic issues such as periodontal disease could interfere with the stability of your implant. After determining your suitability, your dental team will put together a treatment plan that is targeted to your needs as an individual.

When you are ready to  receive the implant , your dentist will place the root of your new tooth directly into the socket of your jawbone. Then, you will need to wait for the bone to heal and secure the implant, which usually takes about 6-12 weeks. When the bonding process is complete, your dentist will attach an abutment and crown—which has been designed to look like your other teeth—will be placed.

Your new tooth is now complete; with the proper care, it should last you for a lifetime. Problems are rare; if you are experiencing any pain after the procedure, you can use an over-the-counter pain medication.

If you are in need of a dental implant, you can depend on the professionals at  University Associates in Dentistry . We offer top-quality implants from Nobel Biocare, and we use local anesthetics to ensure a comfortable patient experience. To get started, visit us online or call our Chicago office today at (312) 704-5511. 

If you were quizzed on your knowledge of good dental hygiene , how do you think you would fare? According to a recent survey by the American Dental Association, most Americans lack any understanding of some of the most basic ways to maintain good dental health. For instance, approximately 60 percent of respondents were unaware that oral infections can be spread by way of sharing cups, forks, and spoons. To learn more about what the survey found, watch this video.

At University Associates in Dentistry, we provide a wide range of essential dental services to patients in the Chicago area, including  cosmetic and restorative dentistry . To set up an appointment today, call us at (312) 704-5511. 

Periodontal disease , commonly known as gum disease, is a serious progressive illness that can lead to long-term health problems. Millions of people around the world suffer from periodontal disease, many of whom are not even aware that they have it. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the disease and how it can affect your life. 

What is Periodontal Disease?  
Periodontal disease begins when plaque develops on your teeth. As it hardens, plaque causes your gums to become inflamed. This stage of the disease is known as gingivitis. If the disease is not checked at this point, it  progresses into periodontitis , which causes the gums to begin to pull away from the teeth and raises the risk of infections, bone loss, and loose teeth.

What Health Issues are Associated with Periodontal Disease?  
Some studies have suggested that having periodontal disease can increase your chances of developing heart disease. It may also raise your risk of suffering a stroke. If you have a lung condition, periodontal disease may worsen it. Having gum disease can also exacerbate diabetes.

How Can Periodontal Disease Be Treated?  
You can keep your mouth healthy by brushing and flossing daily and also by having a professional dental cleaning on a regular basis. If you notice any signs of gingivitis, it’s important to have it treated right away. In most cases, the disease can be halted at this stage. If periodontitis develops, however, surgical treatment may be necessary.

The best way to reduce your chances of periodontal disease is to see your dentist at least twice a year.  University Associates in Dentistry  offers first-rate general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services to the Chicago community, including scaling and root planning for advanced cases of periodontal disease. If you would like to learn more about our dental services, visit us on the Web today or call (312) 704-5511. 

An avulsed tooth is a medical term often used by dentists to describe a tooth that has been knocked out of its socket due to injury or accident. Dental avulsion is one of the most common types of dental emergencies, and it is essential to act quickly to save the tooth.

First, be sure to handle the tooth carefully, and try to avoid touching the delicate root. If the tooth is dirty, hold it by its upper part and rinse it with milk or water. Keep the tooth moist by either dropping it into a glass of milk or placing it between your tooth and gum. If possible, try to slip it back into its socket until you can make it to the dentist.

The team of dentists at  University Associates in Dentistry  are proud to be the official dentists of the Chicago Blackhawks. As athletes know, the first step in avoiding dental avulsion is being fitted for a mouth guard. To set up an appointment with a dentist, call our Chicago practice today at (312) 704-5511.

If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal , you may feel understandably anxious. Fortunately, new developments in modern dentistry have made root canals safe, routine, and minimally invasive procedures. In fact, most people report that a root canal is no more painful than having a dentist place a filling. Read on to learn everything you need to know about root canals.

Why a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment performed by a dentist to repair and save a tooth that has decayed or become infected. When the pulp, or the soft area within the tooth, becomes infected, it sends messages of pain to the nerve. As the infection persists, this nerve tissue breaks down and bacteria begin to multiply. Eventually, an abscess may develop. An abscess is a dangerous pus-filled pocket that can cause bone loss and swelling.

How Is a Root Canal Performed?
During a root canal, your dentist will  remove the infected nerve and pulp  from the inside of your tooth. First, your dentist will numb the area near the tooth. Next, an access hole is drilled into the tooth so your dentist can remove the damaged tissues. After the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it is sealed. Sometimes a second appointment is required to restore the tooth.

When Should I See My Dentist?
If you experience severe toothache, prolonged temperature sensitivity, or discoloration of the tooth, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. You should also check in if you experience swelling or soreness in the gums or have recently suffered an oral injury or trauma.

At University Associates in Dentistry, our dentists stay on top of the latest methods in cosmetic dentistry and periodontics. We take pride in providing  comfortable accommodations and personalized care . From root canals to All on 4 permanent denture replacement, all dental procedures are performed in our downtown Chicago office. Call (312) 704-5511 to schedule an appointment today.

Dental implants are comprised of tiny titanium screws that are implanted directly into the bone. As you will learn in this video, the meticulous design of a dental implant allows it to provide a permanent restorative and cosmetic solution for missing or broken teeth.

The portion that sticks out from the implant is known as the post, or abutment. This tiny piece of metal is tightened with a screw so that it locks into the jaw and is flush with the implant. This new titanium screw and post serve as a functional tooth, while a crown caps the implant to provide the cosmetic exterior.

For your  dental implant  needs, please call University Associates in Dentistry at (312) 704-5511. Our Chicago restoration dentists are pleased to offer a wide range of services, including the exciting new All on 4 dental implant procedure. 

When it comes to taking care of your oral health and the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, experienced dentists know best . Each patient has specific concerns, so it’s important to talk to your dentist before using any new product, especially if you have dentures or have had cosmetic work done. Most patients can benefit from these dentist-approved products.

Biotene
If you suffer from dry mouth or inadequate saliva, you are probably already familiar with the irritating and uncomfortable symptoms. Unfortunately, dry mouth can also cause a  whole host of health problems , from serious tooth decay to chronic bad breath and even infection. Biotene is the No. 1 dentist-recommended product to treat dry mouth symptoms. A great-tasting toothpaste, mouth spray, oral rinse, gel, and chewing gum all contain Biotene’s innovative moisturizing polymers so you can find immediate oral comfort and relief.

Sonicare Toothbrush
Dentists everywhere recommend Sonicare electric toothbrushes for patients of all ages. With an innovative design that is based on vibration, a Sonicare toothbrush allows you to brush as you normally would even as your teeth and soft gum tissues are cleaned more efficiently. For patients with heavy plaque or tartar buildup, dentists recommend Oral B toothbrushes.

Retainer Brite
When you visit your cosmetic dentist to get Invisalign aligners, a retainer, or a specially fitted athletic mouthguard, your dentist will most likely recommend Retainer Brite as the best cleaning solution. Retainer Brite helps keep your removable dental appliances stain-free and clear while providing essential disinfecting and cleaning aid.

For all your cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry needs, visit Chicago’s University Associates in Dentistry. Our dentists are proud to provide the very latest techniques and the most innovative dental procedures to all of our patients. Whether you want to learn more about dental implants or All on 4 permanent denture replacement or would like to chat with a dentist about Invisalign,  call us today  at (312) 704-5511. 

One of the most common causes of bad breath is a poor oral care routine. When food particles accumulate in your mouth, they encourage the buildup of bacteria, leading to bad breath. Additionally, certain foods can cause persistent bad breath even after you brush, such as onions and garlic. These foods stay in your bloodstream, affect your lungs, and seep into your breath.

If you experience persistent bad breath, see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning. Tell your dentist about any changes in your medical history; some medical conditions can contribute to bad breath, including diabetes and kidney failure. Bad breath can also be caused by oral infections, such as gum disease, mouth sores, or an infected surgical site. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your condition.

If your bad breath is caused by gum disease, schedule an appointment for scaling and root planing at University Associates in Dentistry. We invite Chicago-area residents to call our  cosmetic dentistry  practice at (312) 704-5511.

Although dry mouth syndrome, or xerostomia, may seem like a minor problem, it can greatly affect your oral health. When left untreated, dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay and cause problems with eating and speaking. When you visit your dentist , tell them of any new diagnoses you may have or medications you may be taking. Your dentist uses your medical history to determine the underlying causes of your dry mouth and develop a treatment plan.

Medications
Certain medications can cause dry mouth syndrome, including antidepressants, pain relievers, diuretics, and bronchodilators. During your visit, tell your dentist about any over-the-counter drugs or supplements you take. Cold medications, including antihistamines and decongestants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also lead to xerostomia.

Medical Conditions
There are a wide range of  medical conditions that can cause dry mouth ; inform your dentist of all other medical conditions you have, even if they may seem unrelated. For example, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and anxiety disorders may be to blame. Sometimes, a medical condition might cause you to feel as if your mouth is drier than usual, even when it isn’t. Examples include Alzheimer’s disease and a stroke.

Lifestyle Factors
Your dentist will likely ask you about your lifestyle habits. All types of tobacco products can cause dry mouth. Mouth breathing also prematurely dries out your mouth.

Treatment Options
Your treatment plan depends on the underlying causes of your dry mouth syndrome. If you use tobacco, talk to a doctor about assistance with smoking cessation. If you have a medical condition, work with your doctor to manage it. Additionally, your dentist might recommend chewing sugar-free gum, sipping water frequently throughout the day, and using saliva substitute products.

Keep your smile beautiful with regular dentist visits. Schedule your next dentist visit today with  University Associates in Dentistry . You can reach our Chicago practice at (312) 704-5511 or visit our website to learn more about our services, including dental implants.