Chicago Implant Dentist: Tips for Keeping Your Teeth in Top Condition, PART 1

This three-part article series provides advice on how to keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition and, in doing so, to keep your teeth!

In spite of the advanced state of modern day medical and dental heath care, the statistics of tooth loss in the United States are still incredibly dire. Millions of teeth are lost every year to oral diseases, such as decay and periodontists or gum disease. The good thing about most of the conditions that can cause tooth loss, if anything good can indeed be seen about them, is that they are totally preventable! We spoke to a Chicago implant dentist - the specialist responsible for replacing missing teeth – about what we can do to keep our teeth and gums in fantastic lifelong condition. In this three-part article series, we present to you this advise in the following categories...

(1) Basic oral hygiene (Part 1),

(2) Advanced oral healthcare (Part 2) and

(3) Lifestyle and daily habits.

Basic Oral Hygiene

"Everyone should maintain a thorough at-home oral hygiene routine," says the Chicago dental implant specialist. "Brushing, flossing and rinsing are the foundation habits that will help to prevent decay and gum disease and in doing so, keep your teeth and gums healthy. You shower everyday to keep your body clean, so you should be doing what it takes to keep your mouth clean as well."

What exactly does it take to keep your mouth clean? More than just a quick brush once or twice a day, it would seem! According to the Chicago implant dentist, you should:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. And not just for 30 seconds or so. You should give your teeth and tongue a good scrub for two minutes every time you brush. That'll give your mouth a thorough clean.

• Floss everyday and preferably before you go to bed at night. Your teeth are three-dimensional structures. Since most of them are surrounded on both sides by neighboring teeth, your brush cannot clean these surfaces. If you don't floss, therefore, you are missing out on cleaning a shocking 35% of your teeth's surfaces! That's like jumping in the shower and only cleaning the upper half of your body!

• Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. "Gargling with an ADA-approved, sugar-free mouthwash is optional," say Chicago dental implant dentists. "But, it can really help you gain the upper hand on the oral bacteria that can cause gum disease and tooth loss. If you are recovering from gingivitis or gum disease or if your family has a history of oral disease, it is highly advisable that you incorporate this additional measure into your hygiene routine. Other risk factors include times of hormonal fluctuation, such as pregnancy and menopause."

• Go to your oral hygienist for regular professional cleanings. "If you're in good oral health and don't smoke or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, you only really need to get your teeth professionally cleaned once a year." advises the Chicago implant dentist. "Otherwise, twice a year is recommended."

Stay Tuned for Part 2

The next important component of keeping your teeth and gums in fantastic lifelong condition is the advanced preventative and restorative oral health care only a professional dentist can provide. We'll take a look at this in Part 2 of this three-part article series.

Next Article Part - 2

Regain your Looks and Health with All On Four Dental Implants in Chicago

This article focuses on elderly people´s lack of teeth and its consequences, namely their nutrition and appearance. It then explains the advantages of the All On Four dental implant procedure.

Many people who wear removable dentures frequently complain about how uncomfortable it is to eat with them. The fact that removable dentures are in direct contact with your gums often creates a lot of discomfort while chewing food. Adding to this distress, the disadvantage of not being able to taste your food properly or feel its texture or temperature makes eating a purely functional process rather than an enjoyable experience.

Luckily, there is a solution to these problems. All On Four Dental Implants in Chicago, in contrast to removable dentures, is supported by implants placed in the jawbone, which reenact the role of natural tooth roots. Where removable dentures often cause pain and discomfort, the “All On Four” eliminates much of the negative attributes of dentures by placing permanent implants into the jawbone, mimicking natural teeth. This allows patients to enjoy their meals with comfort and ease; no longer worrying about the bulky plastic denture that once covered their palate.

All On Four Dental Implants in Chicago: Chew Your Way to a Nutritious Diet!

“The strength with which patients can bite down using removable dentures weakens over the years,” explain Same Day dental implants specialists in Chicago. “The movement of the dentures, deteriorating jawbone health and the discomfort of pressure on the gums result in a weaker bite that leads to a change in the patient’s diet. They tend to favor a limited variety of food that is soft and easier to swallow over food that requires a lot of chewing. As time goes by, these changes become habit, creating dietary routines that are not good for one’s health.”

Malnutrition is a major problem amongst the elderly; the inability to chew effectively with removable dentures can develop serious consequences and possibly shorten one’s average life expectancy. It is through the array of inconveniences and serious consequences that you realize the importance of your teeth and the effect they have on your way of life. The All On Four dental implants protocol in Chicago supports a near natural bite force, which allow patients to enjoy a varied and nutritious diet, thus preserving their health and vitality.

All On Four Implants in Chicago: Promoting a Youthful Smile!

Great jawbone health is linked to a more youthful smile! The mandible of an older person becomes greatly reduced in size over the years. It is a gradual and progressive change that is caused by the loss of natural teeth. Just like muscles lose shape when unexercised, bones waste away when tooth loss occurs. Same Day dental implants can stop this process as they function like natural teeth and help to keep the underlying jawbone stimulated and healthy.

Bone needs the stimulation of the tooth roots to maintain its form, density and strength. When this stimulation is lost, it results in the development of a sunken-in chin and puckered, wrinkled oral appearance. The Same Day dental implants procedure in Chicago replaces both the root and the crown of the missing tooth or teeth, which helps to promote excellent jawbone health and prevent bone atrophy. So, even though you might not be a “spring chicken” anymore, you can still keep your smile looking gorgeous and youthful.

For patients who have lost most of their teeth or have an edentulous mouth, All On Four Dental Implants are what they need. Not only does the protocol promote overall health by allowing patients to enjoy a nutritious and varied diet and experience the pleasure of tasting and choosing whatever the menu has to offer, but it will also help to prevent the jawbone from atrophying and wasting away.

Dental Implant News in Chicago: Implants Bring Back Quality of Life

This article focuses on how dental implants can have a huge impact on a patient’s life by discussing the many benefits offered by these teeth replacement devices.

Missing one or more teeth can be problematic in numerous ways, affecting daily life and habits. Patients sometimes think that the loss of teeth has no impact on their way of life, but as time goes by, you will begin to realize the many terrible adverse effects. It not only changes your looks and smile, but the variety of food you can eat becomes smaller and you can struggle to eat properly.

An effective solution to missing teeth is dental implants. Dental implants mimic the form and function of natural teeth, allowing most of your oral health worries to be overcome by a relatively straightforward treatment. Dental implant procedures in Chicago can bring back the quality of life you had before the loss of teeth occurred, giving you the confidence to eat and smile openly.

Perfect Restoration All on the Same Day!

You can say goodbye to the feeling of helplessness and loss of self-esteem associated with tooth loss, almost always in just one day. Same Day Dental Implants are one of the most recommended procedures for fixing tooth loss in Chicago. This method places four dental implants in the upper and/or lower jaws and attaches a non-removable custom bridge all on the same day!

Same day dental implants provide quick and efficient results for missing teeth. Traditional dental implant techniques can require up to 12 to 18 months to provide patients with a new set of teeth.

Besides Getting my Smile Back… What Else Can I Expect?

Dental implants offer Chicago residents a number of benefits when compared with other methods of tooth replacement. One of the benefits is durability; implants are very strong and have the ability to last many decades or even a lifetime, provided they are looked after properly. Another benefit is smile aesthetics. You will no longer hide your smile or cover your mouth while you laugh. Functionality is another plus; dental implants allow you to once again enjoy the food that had become too difficult or painful to chew, improving your diet and mealtime enjoyment.

Same Day Dental implants are permanent and unlike traditional fixed bridges, they do not typically damage the neighboring teeth. They also help to preserve the health of the underlying jawbone by transferring the eating forces into this hard tissue. This functional stimulation prevents atrophy, maintaining good bone volume and health.

Having to wait several months and even years to get new teeth was indeed the case many years ago until relatively recent technological innovations in dental implant science in Chicago. Now, patients can regain a beautiful and functional smile in one day. After an initial consultation with an implant specialist, a date for surgery will be set. The procedure will be carried out under the effects of sedation and/or anesthesia, keeping patients comfortable and pain-free. By the evening, you will have a brand new set of teeth; teeth that you can immediately admire in the mirror and even enjoy a light dinner with! All on the same day as your procedure!

Tooth Brushing Mistakes 101 Explained By New Implant Teeth Specialists

In this article, we discuss the various mistakes people often make when it comes to brushing their teeth. We offer advice about what dental care products to get and what you should do when cleaning your teeth.

Brushing your teeth every day is the most important step in your oral hygiene routine. However there is more to this daily habit than you might think. In this article, with the help of new implant teeth experts in Chicago, we will supply a list of mistakes people often make when it come to their daily oral hygiene routine. People rarely think twice about brushing their teeth and that can lead to a sloppy approach to this important dental care regimen.

1. Tooth Brushing Mistakes: Poor Quality Brushes

There are a few things to consider when buying a toothbrush. Size, quality and comfort go a long way. Spend a little bit more on a toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth, well designed and is of a decent quality. Even the comfort of the grip is important: if you struggle to hold your toothbrush - for example, if it’s wet and keeps slipping - you will feel less inclined to brush for the required amount of time. You also won’t do a proper job on brushing all of your teeth, especially the back molars.

When it comes to deciding between an electric or manual toothbrush, it’s really more of a matter of personal preference. New implant teeth specialists in Chicago recommend choosing a soft to medium bristled brush. Hard brushes can actually speed up the rate of enamel erosion and irritate your gums. The bristles should be strong enough to get rid of plaque, but not damage your gums.

2. Tooth Brushing Mistakes: Not Taking Your Time

You should ideally brush your teeth about three times a day and if possible, about 30 minutes after every meal. Leaving too much time between brushing allows bacterial plaque to accumulate, leaving you at a heightened risk of a number of oral health problems. Experts of Same day dental implants in Chicago recommend that brushing should last about two minutes, and be sure to brush softly but thoroughly, covering all areas of your mouth, including your tongue.

3. Tooth Brushing Mistakes: Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be a Bad Thing

While it is very important to brush your teeth daily, brushing your teeth too often can actually have a negative impact on your teeth. Excessive brushing can lead to gum recession and the exposure of the tooth roots. This can cause tooth sensitivity. Brushing too often and too hard can also lead to erosion of the dental enamel, which plays a vital role in protecting your teeth from bacteria.

4. Tooth Brushing Mistakes: It’s Not What You Do but How You Do It

It is recommended that when brushing your teeth you brush in vertical or circular motions, not horizontally as this can lead to abrasions at the gum line. It is also important that you reach the inner and outer surfaces of the teeth, the chewing surfaces and your tongue. Many people forget to brush their tongue, not realizing that this textured surface creates a perfect environment for bacterial growth.

Same Day dental implants specialists also find that many people tend to start brushing at the same part of their mouth over and over, getting bored with rest of the mouth. Be disciplined in reaching all areas of the mouth when brushing. Don’t pay more attention to the front teeth and neglect the molars. Most cases of tooth loss begin with the back teeth as a result of this sloppy brushing habit. People also tend to forget to brush the inner surfaces of the teeth, especially of the lower front teeth.

A Final Few Words

New implant teeth experts in Chicago further explain that a vital part of your oral hygiene routine should include rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly after brushing and allowing it to dry. A continually moist toothbrush can become a breeding ground for bacteria. It is also recommended that you change your toothbrush at least every three months and after being ill to prevent reinfection. For more information about your dental care products and oral hygiene routine, speak to your dentist during your next general check up.

“Teeth in A Day” Professionals in Chicago Explain Tooth Enamel Erosion

This article takes a closer look at the importance of looking after your tooth enamel, thereby protecting your teeth. We supply a list of signs that your tooth enamel may be eroded and what you can do to prevent this erosion from occurring.

Tooth enamel is the strongest matter in the human body and is found on the outer layer of the teeth, serving a vital role in protecting your teeth. This is why it’s extremely important to do what you can to prevent its erosion. Tooth enamel is the protective wall that keeps your teeth safe from daily wear and tear and the destructive effects of acids and chemicals. Teeth in a day specialists in Chicago explain that enamel covers the dentin (the softer and more porous underlying tooth structure). Destroying this protective layer ultimately leads to the entire tooth becoming vulnerable to decay and causes hypersensitivity to temperatures. If you are experiencing sensitivity and discomfort when exposing your mouth to hot or cold temperatures, your tooth enamel has most likely been eroded.

What Causes Dental Erosion?

There are a great amount of factors that can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel. Implant dentistry specialists in Chicago point out that in most cases this erosion can be linked to a diet that is high in acidic content and a lack of proper oral hygiene. Factors causing tooth enamel to erode include:

• Excessive intake of sugary substances, such as soft drinks or fruit drinks. Bacteria flourish on sugar and the wastes they produce, which are very acidic, can destroy enamel.
• Eating lots of candies and sour foods: Acid tastes sour, so these foods tend to be acid-rich.
• Keeping your mouth moist is vital and conditions such as dry mouth tend to put your tooth enamel at risk. Saliva helps to prevent enamel decay by neutralizing acids in the mouth, cleansing your mouth of food debris and combating bacteria.
• Brushing your teeth too vigorously, grinding your teeth and using your teeth to open bottles or other materials can also lead to tooth enamel being damaged.
• Behaviors that cause frequent vomiting such as binge drinking or bulimia exposes your teeth to destructive stomach acids.

Tooth Enamel: Signs and Symptoms of Erosion

When your tooth enamel is badly eroded, your teeth become susceptible to cavities and decay, which lead to the following symptoms:

• Cracked, chipped, rough or irregular edges on the teeth are common signs of tooth enamel attrition.
• Pain and sensitivity of the teeth when exposed to temperatures (hot and cold).
• Silky, shiny surfaces on the teeth due to mineral loss.
• Enamel erosion can also lead to yellowed and stained teeth.

What Can I Do To Protect My Tooth Enamel?

As with all oral health risks, the best form of prevention is to follow a good, consistent and disciplined oral hygiene routine at home. “Teeth in a Day” experts in Chicago also recommend visiting your dentist regularly for general checkups. Even if you don’t feel like there’s something wrong with your teeth, these visits are crucial for the prevention and early diagnosis of problems that could cause irreversible damage in the long run. A combination of good oral care at home and at your dentist’s office is the key to preventing tooth enamel erosion:

• Try to cut down on acidic and sugary food and drink. If you do drink and eat foods with high acidity and sugar levels, try doing so at mealtimes (as opposed to snacking) and if possible, brush your teeth afterwards to help remineralize your dental enamel and wash away food debris.
• Drinking sodas and juices with a straw can help in bypassing the acidic interaction with your teeth.
• Drinking a glass of milk or eating a piece of cheese after meals can also help protect your enamel as dairy products aid in neutralizing acids.
• Chewing sugar-free gum promotes saliva production, which, as we mentioned earlier, helps to fight bacteria, cleansing your mouth of food debris.

A Final Note

Protecting your tooth enamel means protecting your teeth and a healthy mouth is a happy mouth. By following the advice provided by implant dentistry specialists in Chicago, you can protect your teeth from the destructive forces of cavities and decay. You must also see your dentist regularly for the preventative care that will keep your standard of oral health high.

What Chicago Dental Implant Specialists Have To Say About Gum Disease

In this article we take a look at the two forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. We offer a list of signs and symptoms that may be present when this condition occurs and what you can do to prevent the development of gum disease.

The leading cause of tooth loss in the United States is gum (periodontal) disease. Millions of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease and if left untreated, you run the risk of developing a great deal of health issues, both oral and general. Chicago dental implant experts explain that the keys to healthy teeth are healthy gums and a sound oral healthcare regime. Your gums protect the base of your teeth, where connective tissue secures them to the supporting jaw bone. In this article, we will look at the two types of gum disease - gingivitis and periodontitis - as well as explain what can be done to prevent or treat gum disease.

Gum Disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis

The initial form of gum disease is gingivitis, and this occurs when bacteria develop and collect in pockets at the gum line, causing irritation and inflammation. The most common symptoms related to gingivitis are red and inflamed gums, bleeding when brushing your teeth and persistent bad breath (halitosis). If you leave gingivitis untreated, the inflammation and can invade your connective tissue and even bone, leading to infection and the development of periodontitis; the most severe from of gum disease.

Gum Disease: Symptoms of Periodontitis

Periodontitis is typically quite uncomfortable and causes a host of undesirable symptoms. Leaving this condition untreated will cause you to lose your teeth and puts the rest of your body at risk of other health problems, including heart disease, respiratory disease and stroke. Some of the symptoms of periodontitis include:

• Receding gums
• Inflammation and discomfort along the gum line
• Red, swollen and bleeding gums
• Tenderness of the gums
• Persistent and lasting sensitivity to temperatures (hot and cold)
• Tooth discoloration
• Painful oral abscesses
• Persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth

Gum Disease: Prevention

It is unfortunate that most people only notice the symptoms of periodontitis when it is too late to totally reverse the damage. This is why All-On-Four dentures specialists in Chicago recommend going for a general dental check-up at least twice a year. Your dentist will give you a thorough oral examination and spot warning signs early enough to treat and indeed reverse any damage that may have already been caused. With the help of the incredible modern technology available today in the form of dental X-rays and CAT scans, your dentist should be able to give your mouth a comprehensive check-up and ensure that your oral health remains in excellent condition.

The Importance of Early Detection

As we mentioned before, catching gum disease in its early stages is vital not only for your oral health but also for your general health. You can do a lot from home to ensure you keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition. A leading cause of gum disease is simply a lack of a good oral hygiene routine and lifestyle choices such as excessive alcohol intake and smoking.

Chicago dental implant specialists urge that you remember to brush, floss, scrape your tongue and rinse daily as this can go a long way in preventing gingivitis and other oral ailments. Go see your dentist at least twice a year and ask him/her about what further measures you can take to prevent from developing gum disease and how to maintain proper oral health.

Routine Checkups: Guidance From New Teeth Experts in Chicago

In this article we discuss the basics of a routine checkup. This article aims to help readers get a better sense of what they can expect from a visit to the dentist’s chair and what they can do to improve their standard of oral health.

Many people avoid what should be their regular visit to the dentist’s office either because of a relatively common anxiety or simply due to a lack of care. However new teeth experts in Chicago can ensure you that the dentist’s chair does not have to be a scary place that leaves you with terrible anxiety. In fact, experienced and compassionate dentists go out of their way to ensure your level of comfort and ease while they work towards improving your oral health. In this article, we will give you a clearer idea of what you can expect from a routine check-up and why this is a vital part of maintaining oral health.

Routine Checkups: What to Expect

Ideally you should be visiting your dentist and oral hygienist at least once a year; twice is better. During your routine checkup, your dentist will inspect your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems. If any of these problems are present, your dentist will recommend the appropriate course of treatment for your specific situation.

Routine checkups also include a professional teeth cleaning. During this procedure, your oral hygienist will clean your teeth using a small metal tool that will scrape away tartar (a hard mineral build-up) from the crowns of your teeth and just beneath the gum line. After this step your oral hygienist will floss, polish and coat your teeth using fluoride.

Routine Checkups: Getting a Closer Look

In order to get a greater sense of the state of your teeth and gums, modern dentistry makes use of incredible technology that enable healthcare professionals to detect problems at beneath the gum line. All-On-Four dental implants specialists in Chicago say that your annual check-up should include X-rays, which allow your dentist to inspect the health of your tooth roots and jawbone. This will help him/her to determine any signs of infection or decay that aren't visible to the naked eye.

Your dentist may also recommend placing protective sealant on the chewing surface on the back teeth in order to prevent them from developing cavities. Sealants help to guard your teeth from food debris and prevent bacteria from getting stuck in the deep grooves and cusps of the teeth, especially the molars.

Routine Checkups: Finishing Touches

During your routine checkup, your dentist may apply a fluoride solution directly to your teeth in order to keep them strong and cavity-resistant. It is very important that you disclose your medical history and existing conditions with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to determine the safest courses of treatment for your oral health care in combination with your current general health. If you are prone to infections, it may be necessary for you to undergo a course of antibiotics before having any dental work done. Your dentist may also inquire about your diet, in order to determine whether or not you are getting enough of all the right minerals and vitamins.

If your dentist finds that you have active gum disease or tooth decay, he or she will advise you about your oral hygiene routine and what you can do in order to fight the problems. New teeth experts in Chicago advocate the daily discipline of a good oral hygiene routine coupled with regular routine checkups as the best way to maintain an excellent standard of oral health.