Our most typical concerns about oral health focus on

tooth decay

and

periodontal issues

. However, oral cancer is an insidious disease that the

American Cancer Society

estimates will claim over 11,000 lives this year, and produce about 54,000 new cases diagnosed. April is

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

– a time when dental professionals call attention to the importance of early detection and treatment to save lives. Our

24/7 Local Dentist

team is proud to help this important effort, and hopes that this article will help you recognize symptoms should they occur between your

twice-yearly dental examinations

– as well as make any necessary lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.

What is Oral Cancer?

Like all cancers, oral cancer (also known as oral cavity cancer) starts when cells in the affected tissues start to grow out of control. Oral cancer can occur in the following areas:

Oral cancer often is discussed in the same medical literature as oropharyngeal cancer, which starts in the middle part of the throat just behind the oral cavity that can be seen when the mouth is open. Being aware of the symptoms of both is essential in receiving a timely diagnosis and treatment. According to the

American Academy of Oral Medicine

(AAOM), when oral and oropharyngeal cancers are detected and treated early, mortality and treatment-related health problems are reduced.

Oral Cancer Symptoms

The

American Cancer Society

lists the following symptoms of oral cancer:

Many of these signs and symptoms can also be caused by diseases other than cancer, or even by other cancers. Still, it’s very important to see a doctor or dentist if any of these conditions last more than two weeks so that the cause can be found and treated if needed.

Common Causes of Oral Cancer

As with other types of cancer, there may be a genetic predisposition to developing oral cancer. Be especially vigilant about the condition of your mouth if your relatives have had oral cancer. The

Oral Cancer Foundation

notes that about 10 percent of oral cancers occur in individuals with no known risk factors. They share no discernable commonalities, and they may be due to unidentified genetic frailty yet to be discovered.

Although the reason is unknown, men are more likely to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancers than women. However,

lifestyle choices

play a major role in increasing one’s risk factor. Those who are more likely to develop oral cancer include:

In addition, infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) – specifically the HPV 16 type – has been implicated as a high-risk factor for oral cancer. This is an STD (sexually transmitted disease) that can be prevented with a vaccination administered during adolescence. The

Cancer.Net website

provides recommendations for reducing your exposure to HPV.

Diagnosing and Treating Oral Cancer

Because oral cancer can spread quickly,

early detection is important

. Your dentist will perform an oral cancer examination as part of your regular twice-yearly examination. Of course, should you discover one of the signs/symptoms listed here before your next examination is due,

call immediately to schedule an appointment

. The sooner oral cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better your chance of survival. If discovered early, the cure rate is nearly 90%. If cancer has already spread before diagnosis, the survival rate is 60% after five years of treatment.

Should your dentist find an abnormal growth, a biopsy (tissue sample) will be taken from the lesion and nearby tissues and sent to a laboratory for testing to determine if it is cancerous. If the biopsy tests positive for cancer, your dentist will recommend the next step. This may be a referral to a specialist – such as an oncologist – or to another doctor. As each case is individual, we cannot be specific concerning the course your treatment will take.

Generally, however, additional imaging tests – such as a CT scan or MRI – may be ordered. A treatment plan will then be based on the cancer’s stage and the location of the lesion or tumor – as well as other factors. Surgery will be necessary to remove the cancerous tissue. Post-surgical treatment may include radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of both, if necessary.

Depending upon the extent of surgery, reconstructive oral surgery may be needed. Our blog post – “

Oral Surgery: What to Expect

” – covers different types of surgical procedures, including reconstruction and cosmetic.

The Take-Home Message

While the month of April is designated as Oral Cancer Awareness Month, being aware of the risk should be front of mind throughout the year. Paying attention to the condition of your lips, inside cheeks, gums, and tongue for any abnormal changes as you perform your daily oral hygiene routine could literally save your life – as long as you act immediately to

schedule an appointment with your dentist

. Should this be the start of a challenging journey, be assured that our

24/7 Local Dentist team

is here to give you experienced, compassionate care and support at every step.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing

page for more information.

At

2

4/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

Many people depend on energy drinks to power them through their demanding day. Although popular for their ability to enhance energy levels, physical alertness and performance, energy drinks have come under scrutiny for their adverse effects on health when consumed in excess. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the potential dangers include the following:

While you may be aware of such risks, you might not know that energy drinks also can promote tooth decay. We at

24/7 Local Dentist

believe that knowledge is power, and the more you learn about good oral health practices, the better you’ll be able to keep your teeth for a lifetime!

The ingredients in a typical energy drink provide obvious clues. The CDC defines an energy drink as “A beverage that typically contains large amounts of caffeine, added sugars, other additives, and legal stimulants such as guarana, taurine, and L-carnitine. These legal stimulants can increase alertness, attention, energy, as well as increase blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing.”

Sugar has long been implicated as a culprit in tooth decay, but as our blog post — “

Common Dental Health Myths

” — covers, sugar itself doesn’t promote cavities. How long the sugar remains in your mouth is the real cause. Sugars introduced into the mouth cause bacteria to produce acids that slowly eat away at your tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities. Of course, if tooth decay goes untreated, it can cause pain, infection, and eventually, tooth loss.

However, the high acidity levels of energy drinks combine with the high sugar levels to deliver a one-two punch. According to

Dental Choice

, drinks that are high in sugar and acidity can cause irreversible damage to tooth enamel, which leaves teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and decay. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body but is vulnerable to dissolving due to prolonged exposure to an acidic environment.

Energy drinks essentially bathe tooth enamel in a highly acidic liquid. It doesn’t help that the bacteria naturally present in your mouth consumes sugar as it comes in contact with your saliva. Once the sugar mixes with the bacteria, it produces acids that break down enamel and leave teeth susceptible to sensitivity and decay. And energy drinks contain a lot of sugar — about 55 grams depending on the brand, according to the

DentalNegligenceTeam

. 

The human mouth has a natural pH level of 6.8 to 7, but energy drinks can cause it to plummet. According to Bobby J. Grossi, DDS, in his interview with

Healthline

, “In all my years in dentistry, I’ve found the leading cause of tooth decay in children to be juice, and in adults, it is energy drinks. Energy drinks, with a pH of roughly 3.2, are almost as acidic as battery acid, which has a pH of 1.”

In addition, according to Nammy Patel, DDS, in her interview with

Healthline

, energy drinks can spur more acid reflux production, which can, in turn, cause more cavities. Still, says Dr. Patel, cavities aren’t the only risk to your teeth that over-consumption of energy drinks can lead to. “Because people are so wired after drinking an energy drink, they grind their teeth. That sometimes causes tooth breakage and tooth loss.”

If you’ve been reading between the lines, you should get the message that relying on energy drinks to achieve peak mental or physical performance on a regular basis isn’t good for your health at any level. Unfortunately, it is possible to develop a physical addiction to energy drinks. Healthline’s

excellent article about energy drink addiction

notes that there is no official definition for an energy drink addiction, but it can be considered as drinking excessive amounts of energy drinks without being able to control your consumption.

An addiction to energy drinks can involve addictive symptoms that are related to brain and nervous system function, such as the following:

Another sign is experiencing withdrawal symptoms when abstaining from energy drinks, such as headaches, irritability, fatigue, and a depressed mood. The Healthline article provides steps for breaking your dependence — including how to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Giving up energy drinks doesn’t mean you have to slog through the day. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and trace elements that are beneficial for your teeth and overall health.

DentalChoice

and Healthline offer the following healthy alternatives:

In today’s fast-paced world, the demands of work, school, or life, in general, can prompt us to look for an edge to help keep up. Energy drinks are readily available and fast to consume — which has made them popular, but pose risks to dental and overall health because of their chemical composition and the strong possibility of developing an addiction or dependency. If such drinks are a regular part of your day, you should consider replacing them with healthy alternatives while taking any other steps necessary to wean yourself off.

During this time of stepping down from energy drinks, be especially diligent about your oral care. Brush three times a day, and rinse your mouth well with water after finishing an energy drink if you are unable to brush. While energy drinks increase your risk for cavities, there are other conditions that can also do so. Our blog post — “

Causes of Tooth Decay & How to Stop It

” — covers this topic in greater detail.

Scheduling

twice-yearly dental examinations

are fundamental to good oral health. If you consume energy drinks on a daily basis, tell

your dentist

, as this is important information necessary for your short- and long-term treatment. Regular examinations allow the dentist to observe changes or conditions that need treatment before they become critical, and remove plaque that brushing alone can’t accomplish.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing

page for more information.

At

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

Whether it’s in your morning coffee, doughnut, or sprinkled on your favorite cereal for that extra sweetness, sugar is the way many people start their day. Yet what we know as sugar is actually refined sugar. Also called processed sugar, it’s extracted from the sugar cane or sugar beet plant and chemically processed to remove its natural nutrients. If the words “chemically processed” look ominous to you, you’re correct in assuming it isn’t healthy. According to

Healthline

, refined sugars may increase your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. They’re also linked to a higher likelihood of depression, dementia, liver disease, and certain types of cancer.

And if you depend upon a sugar-charged snack or beverage as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, there’s a wealth of scientific evidence that they ultimately have the opposite effect. According to an article by Elizabeth Millard for

Runner’s World

, “When researchers

crunched the data from 31 studies

, they discovered that sugary foods and drinks do not actually improve mood or fatigue. In fact, consuming them can actually increase your energy slump.”

The typical American diet is top-heavy in refined sugar — including “hidden” sugars in foods you wouldn’t suspect, such as pasta sauces and granola bars. So if you’ve recently embarked on following a healthier lifestyle, kicking the sugar habit may be harder to deal with than you’d expected!

Interestingly enough, although refined sugar is often implicated as a cause of tooth decay, sugar itself isn’t really the culprit. As our blog post — “

Common Dental Health Myths

” — covers, sugar does not promote cavities. Rather, how long the sugar remains in your mouth is the real issue. Sugars introduced into the mouth cause bacteria to produce acids that slowly eat away at tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities.

Most of us don’t brush after every meal, and people tend to snack on foods and drink beverages containing refined sugar throughout the day. According to

University General Dentists

, “Foods containing high amounts of white processed sugar are particularly damaging because these foods leave a sticky residue on your teeth that is too strong for your saliva to wash away. The only way to remove this residue is by brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and dental cleanings.”

In addition, high sugar consumption can contribute to

periodontal (gum) disease

.

One study

of young adults ages 18 through 25 concluded that “A high frequency of consumption of added sugars is associated with periodontal disease, independent of traditional risk factors, suggesting that this consumption pattern may contribute to the systemic inflammation observed in periodontal disease and associated non-communicable diseases.”

Refined sugar packs a one-two punch, affecting both our overall health and oral health. Looking at your health goals and taking the appropriate steps toward improvement starts with being aware of what you’ve been eating, and making good choices moving forward.

Remember what we just mentioned about the dangers of “hidden” sugars? Instead of relying on your assumptions or guesswork, read the Nutrition Facts label on packaged foods and beverages. This label is required by federal law on such products. The total grams of sugar per serving is under the heading Total Carbohydrates. Being informed will help you make smart decisions in reducing the number of refined sugars in your diet!

Once you’ve made the commitment to cut down, however, you may find that you’re physically dependent on consuming high amounts of sugar every day. There is a growing amount of research confirming sugar’s addictive effect. As a

Healthline article

covers, eating sugar releases opioids and dopamine in the body. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is a key part of the “reward circuit” associated with addictive behavior.

“When a certain behavior causes an excess release of dopamine, you feel a pleasurable ‘high’ that you are inclined to re-experience, and so repeat the behavior. As you repeat that behavior more and more, your brain adjusts to release less dopamine. The only way to feel the same ‘high’ as before is to repeat the behavior in increasing amounts and frequency.

“Sugar activates the opiate receptors in our brain and affects the reward center, which leads to compulsive behavior, despite the negative consequences like weight gain, headaches, hormone imbalances, and more. Every time we eat sweets, we are reinforcing those neuropathways, causing the brain to become increasingly hardwired to crave sugar, building up a tolerance like any other drug.”

Setting your goal is important in making any lifestyle change. Do you want to decrease the amount of sugar you consume on a daily basis, or eliminate it as much as possible, knowing that many processed foods contain some amount of sugar? If the latter is the case, this necessitates a major change in how you buy and prepare food. If your objective is just to be mindful of what you eat and eliminate — or limit — desserts, “junk foods” and sodas, your adjustment will be easier, although still challenging, as you’re likely to crave them.

WORD OF CAUTION:

 Consult your doctor if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes before making any change to your diet. Your doctor will be pleased that you want to be proactive in improving your health, but needs to be your partner to make sure you proceed safely.

Enjoy in moderation —

Instead of eating a full-size candy bar, buy a chocolate bar that can be broken up into sections and have one or two pieces. Read the Nutrition Facts label for the amount of sugar per serving. Extra tip: Eat somewhat less than a serving. This also will help reduce fat grams and calories. If someone brings goodies to the office, cut a small slice or — in the case of doughnuts — cut it in half. Don’t go back for seconds.

Eat at regular times —

Many people have a busy schedule and skip meals. Or they stick to a traditional breakfast-lunch-dinner meal pattern. But waiting too long between meals may set you up to choose sugary, fatty foods. Recent nutritional research indicates that eating every three to five hours instead can help keep blood sugar levels stable. A healthy mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack consisting of fruit, yogurt (be sure to check the label, as some brands are high in sugar) or an energy bar (same advice applies) can curb sugar cravings. Other good choices include proteins and fiber-rich foods — such as whole grains and produce.

Replace soda with spring water –

This may be the hardest sugar habit to break, especially if your favorite soda contains caffeine — which, of course, is a highly addictive substance on its own. But

avoid the mistaken belief that sugar-free soda is a good substitute

! The absence of sugar doesn’t mean that sugar-free carbonated sodas won’t harm your teeth. Tooth enamel can still be damaged by the high acidity of soda. Also, diet soft drinks have been implicated as a cause/contributing factor of

headaches, type 2 diabetes, and – ironically enough – weight gain

.

Go cold turkey

—

Eliminating all sweets works for some people. But it isn’t easy. The initial 48 to 72 hours are especially difficult. After this time, you may notice sugar cravings greatly reduced, or at least better able to be managed over time. Again, consult your doctor if you have diabetes.

Those who are serious about reducing their sugar cravings should retrain their taste buds to appreciate naturally sweet foods, or at least, those with a reduced amount of added sugar. As previously mentioned, American processed foods are overall sky-high in refined sugars. You may recall that an Irish court ruled that a certain U.S.-based fast-food chain’s bread was too high in sugar content to be legally called “bread.” Here’s a brief list of healthful alternatives to get you started:

Of course, we also encourage you to do your own research! Making positive changes takes time, and don’t feel guilty if you occasionally give in to that big, gooey slice of pie. But over time, you’ll feel the difference — and nothing succeeds like success in reinforcing good habits that you’ll follow for a healthier life!

Whatever modifications you can make to reduce the amount of refined sugar you consume, the better off your oral health will be. Even so, you’ll still need to brush and floss regularly — as well as schedule twice-yearly examinations and cleanings with

your dentist

! Our

complete dental checkups

include professional teeth cleaning, an oral cancer screening, DIAGNOdent cavity detection, and when necessary, digital X-rays. We also offer supplemental fluoride applications when needed. After your complete dental checkup, you will know exactly where you stand in terms of your oral health and what you should do to provide proper care for your teeth and gums.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing

page for more information.

At

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

Does the toothpaste aisle in your supermarket seem daunting to you? Not only are numerous brands available, but toothpaste (known in the dental profession as dentifrices

)

is formulated to serve a wide variety of needs. Some promote their whitening ability, others are intended to prevent tartar build-up, and so on. But which type is right for you? We’ll cut to the chase and advise that you

ask your dentist

, who is familiar with your oral health history and specific issues that can make your teeth and gums more susceptible to decay or periodontal disease. Your dentist will be able to recommend the best toothpaste type for your particular situation.

However, if we left it there, this would be the shortest blog post in history! Your dentist should be the one to steer you in the right direction, but as an informed consumer, it’s to your advantage to know about the different types of toothpaste and what they do. You may be surprised to learn that a toothpaste formulated to help in one area may cause problems in another! For example, an article for

Dental Choice

points out that using a whitening toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth can increase sensitivity because of the stronger ingredients used to lighten stains.

Before we look at the main categories of toothpastes for specialized needs, make sure that the toothpaste you choose has the

American Dental Association

(ADA)

Seal of Acceptance

. This ensures that it has been tested and ensured by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs, which means the claims are confirmed and the ingredients are safe and effective.

Toothpastes containing fluoride are frequently recommended by dentists for protection against tooth decay. Fluoride is a natural mineral that’s used in most toothpaste brands to help harden tooth enamel, thereby strengthening teeth. Although tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body – harder even than bones – steady exposure to foods and beverages with a

high sugar content

causes bacteria to produce acids that slowly eat away at tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities. Toothpastes that contain fluoride help in

enamel remineralization

to reverse this effect.

According to the

National Institutes of Health

(NIH), most toothpaste sold in the United States contains fluoride in the form of sodium fluoride or monofluorophosphate, most commonly at a level of 1,000 to 1,100 mg/L (about 1.3 mg in a quarter teaspoon, a typical amount of toothpaste used for one brushing).

Your dentist may recommend a fluoride toothpaste that’s available by prescription only. Prescription fluoride toothpaste contains a higher concentration of fluoride (5000 parts per million), which is the maximum strength. It’s typically prescribed for patients whose teeth are especially susceptible to cavities – as in the case of weak enamel due to

being prescribed tetracycline

in childhood – or after periodontal surgery that

exposes the roots of the teeth

.

Prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste is beneficial and safe when used as directed. A prescription is required to prevent accidental ingestion by children – as well as indiscriminate use by adults, which can lead to a condition called

fluorosis

, characterized by staining, pitting and/or surface irregularities of tooth enamel. So if your enamel is already strong, using a toothpaste containing a higher amount of fluoride won’t make your teeth even stronger – it could cause issues, which is why it’s sold by prescription only instead of over-the-counter.

If you watch TV for any length of time, you’ll see commercials promoting toothpaste that relieves tooth sensitivity. While some of these ads seem somewhat overly dramatic, sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food can negatively impact your enjoyment of meals, snacks, and beverages. After all, you want to savor your cup of coffee, not dread the feeling of your teeth figuratively screaming in pain! Symptoms of sensitive teeth can range from a mild twinge to considerable discomfort. Pain can come and go and may be worse on some occasions than others.

According to

Mayo Clinic

, sensitive teeth are typically the result of worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. “Sometimes, however, tooth discomfort is caused by other factors, such as a cavity, a cracked or chipped tooth, a worn filling, or gum disease.” So while TV commercials portray sensitive teeth as a common condition, you need to consult with your dentist to learn if a serious condition is causing sensitivity, rather than assuming the right toothpaste will take care of it. If your dentist rules out a major issue, a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth can relieve discomfort when used twice daily. Use on a regular basis for at least one month to start experiencing results.

Tartar (calculus) is bacterial plaque that has hardened. Once tartar has formed, the only way to remove it is to visit your dental hygienist. Tartar control toothpastes include tartar-fighting ingredients such as zinc citrate or pyrophosphates that prevent plaque from hardening. Toothpastes containing multiple anti-plaque agents have been proven to be even more effective than those with only one plaque fighter.

Regular brushing and flossing – as well as

cleanings during your twice-yearly dental examinations

– will prevent a buildup of tartar that can lead to periodontal disease. Our blog post – “

What is Periodontal Gum Disease?

” – covers this topic in detail.

Everyone wants a bright, white smile! Tooth whitening toothpastes seem to offer a fast road to success, but it’s important to know just what can be achieved. Writing for

Mayo Clinic

, Thomas J. Salinas, D.D.S., provides the following observations:

“Whitening toothpaste can appear to whiten teeth slightly by removing surface stains, such as those caused by drinking coffee or smoking. However, whitening toothpastes can’t change the natural color of your teeth or lighten a stain that goes deeper than a tooth’s surface. To remove surface stains, whitening toothpaste typically includes special abrasives that gently polish the teeth, and peroxide or other chemicals that help break down or dissolve stains.

“Some whitening toothpastes contain the chemical blue covarine, which adheres to the surface of the teeth and creates an optical illusion that can make teeth appear less yellow. When used twice a day, whitening toothpaste can take from two to six weeks to make teeth appear whiter. Whitening toothpastes that contain blue covarine can have an immediate effect. Although whitening toothpastes are typically designed to maximize cleaning and minimize wear on tooth enamel, be careful to follow manufacturer recommendations.”

As mentioned earlier, whitening toothpaste can increase the sensitivity of sensitive teeth. There are toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth that promote whitening by natural ingredients, such as charcoal derived from coconuts. This could be a solution to discuss with your dentist.

Whitening toothpastes are effective for the circumstances covered above, but those who have deeper stains should consult their dentist about in-office or take-home professional whitening procedures.

24/7 Local Dentist

is proud to offer

Zoom

and

Opalescence

teeth whitening treatments. Each of these excellent, proven treatments is administered by different means. We will recommend the treatment best suited to your situation and aesthetic goals based upon your consultation.

There’s a wide array of toothpastes on store shelves, each offering different benefits. To make matters more confusing, each brand has various varieties, based upon the benefit it’s formulated to deliver. Rather than feeling you have to go it alone in making this important decision, talk to your trusted partner in oral health –

your dentist

!

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based upon your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing page

for more information.

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

In 1945, Grand Rapids, MI, became the first community in the world to add fluoride to the municipal water supply in order to help prevent tooth decay. When subsequent studies showed a significantly lower rate of cavities in schoolchildren, water fluoridation spread to other towns and cities — including Chicago. The

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC) considers fluoridation of water one of the greatest achievements in public health in the 20th century.

The CDC provides this

succinct explanation

of fluoride’s effectiveness:

“Fluoride works by stopping or even reversing the tooth decay process — it keeps tooth enamel strong and solid. Certain bacteria in the mouth cause tooth decay. When a person eats sugar and other refined carbohydrates, these bacteria produce acid that removes minerals from the surface of the tooth. Fluoride helps to remineralize tooth surfaces and prevents cavities from forming.”

Although the benefits of fluoride in cavity prevention are well-established, the need for (and safety of) its addition to drinking water remains a subject of debate. Because we at

24/7 Local Dentist

believe that well-informed people are better able to make good decisions about their dental and overall health, we present the following myths and facts regarding fluoride.

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally and is released from rocks into the soil, water and air.

Almost all water contains some fluoride

, but usually not enough to prevent tooth decay. The

American Dental Association

(ADA) recommends community fluoridation to achieve the level necessary to do so. Its guidelines are available at

ADA.org/fluoride

. The city of Chicago fluoridates its water to approximately 1.0ppm within the guidelines of the ADA (0.7ppm to 1.2ppm).

Fluoride is typically used as a generic term, although the facts are more complex. There are three types of fluoride additives typically used in municipal water supplies. The CDC provides the

following breakdown

:

To complicate matters, oral hygiene products such as toothpaste contain one of two fluoride compounds: stannous fluoride and sodium fluoride. Stannous fluoride is an antibacterial agent that’s clinically proven to protect against gingivitis, plaque and tooth sensitivity, while still protecting against cavities. Sodium fluoride protects against cavities, but doesn’t provide protection from these other conditions.

Fluoride can also be prescribed as a liquid, tablet or chewable tablet for children and adults in areas that do not have fluoridated water. As our blog post — “

What to Look for in a Toothpaste

” — covers, your dentist may recommend a fluoride toothpaste that’s available by prescription only. Prescription fluoride toothpaste contains a higher concentration of fluoride (5000 parts per million) than over-the-counter brands, which is the maximum strength. It’s typically prescribed for patients whose teeth are especially susceptible to cavities — as in the case of weak enamel due to

being prescribed tetracycline

in childhood — or after periodontal surgery that

exposes the roots of the teeth

.

Although fluoride toothpaste is very effective in preventing tooth decay, fluoridated water provides extra protection. According to

Campaign for Dental Health

— a program of the

American Academy of Pediatrics

— the benefits of water fluoridation build on those from

fluoride toothpaste

. Fluoride toothpaste alone is not enough, which is why pediatricians and dentists often prescribe fluoride tablets to children living in non-fluoridated areas.

Numerous studies conducted over the years have shown that fluoridation reduces tooth decay.

Campaign for Dental Health

provides the following:

In fact, getting enough fluoride in childhood is critical to strengthening teeth over an entire lifetime. Children need fluoride to strengthen their developing and emerging teeth — which include primary (baby) teeth. The use of fluoride to prevent and control cavities is documented to be both safe and effective. According to

the

Campaign for Dental Health

, a 2010 study confirmed that the fluoridated water consumed as a young child makes the loss of teeth due to decay less likely 40 or 50 years later.

When it comes to brushing with a toothpaste containing fluoride, the ADA’s guideline for

children under three years of age

is to brush using a “smear” of fluoride-containing toothpaste, no larger than the size of a grain of rice. Parents should brush their child’s teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. When your child turns three, the ADA recommends that you continue brushing your child’s teeth twice a day, but with a slightly larger portion of fluoride toothpaste, the size of a pea.

Fluorosis is a condition characterized by staining, pitting, and/or surface irregularities of tooth enamel caused by overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life. This is the time when most permanent teeth are being formed. The concentration of fluoride added to the drinking water supply is very unlikely to lead to fluorosis. However, this is why it is important to follow the

guidelines

on the appropriate amount of toothpaste to use for children, to supervise children when brushing, and to teach them not to swallow, but to spit when finished.

According to the

American Cancer Society

, the US Public Health Service issued a report on the benefits and risks of fluoride in 1991. When looking at a possible link with cancer, they first reviewed the results of studies done with lab animals. They concluded that the few studies available “fail[ed] to establish an association between fluoride and cancer.” They also looked at population-based studies, including a large study conducted by the National Cancer Institute. They concluded: “Optimal fluoridation of drinking water does not pose a detectable cancer risk to humans as evidenced by extensive human epidemiological data available to date, including the new studies prepared for this report.”

European countries do have water fluoridation systems in place. Fluoridated water reaches 12 million Europeans, mostly in Great Britain, Ireland, and Spain. At least 70 million Europeans consume fluoridated salt — which is used to reach most of the population in Germany and Switzerland. These two countries have the lowest rates of tooth decay in Europe.

The internet can be a valuable source of information on numerous topics, but credible sources dealing with oral health — or general health — can sometimes be difficult to separate from unreliable sources based on “junk science.”

When you have questions about the safety or effectiveness of any matter relating to oral health, the best person to ask is

your dentist

. Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing page

for more information.

A clean taste in your mouth, fresh breath and an extra defense against the bacteria that cause plaque buildup and gum disease are among the main benefits that mouthwash delivers. But is it really a necessary part of your daily oral hygiene routine, or do you just believe it is thanks to successful marketing by the major brands? The cut-to-the-chase answer is yes — mouthwash does have a place in promoting oral health! However, its role isn’t as straightforward as you may think. There’s actually a good deal to learn about mouthwash, so keep reading!

Mouthwash — also called mouth rinse or oral rinse — reaches areas of your mouth that a toothbrush alone can’t. According to

Mouth Healthy

— an oral health information website presented by the

American Dental Association

(ADA) — it can provide the following benefits when used on a regular basis:

What mouthwash can’t do is replace brushing. The friction and motion of brushing and flossing are what help to remove bacteria, plaque, food debris and acid from the surface of your teeth. Mouthwash is most effective as a reinforcement when incorporated into your morning and evening oral care routine.

Faced with a wide array of mouthwash brands and specialized formulas on the shelves of the supermarket or drugstore, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. How do you choose, and how do you know if you’re making the right choice? Breaking it down step-by-step can help lead you to an informed decision.

First, there are two main categories of mouthwash:

cosmetic and therapeutic

. Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily control or reduce bad breath and leave your mouth with a pleasant taste, but don’t reduce your risk of cavities or gum disease. Therapeutic mouthwashes have active ingredients that kill bacteria and can help reduce plaque, gingivitis, cavities and bad breath. Those that contain fluoride help prevent or reduce tooth decay. Some therapeutic mouthwashes require a prescription, but many are available over-the-counter. When selecting an over-the-counter mouthwash, look for products that carry the

American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance

, which means that they have been tested and shown to be safe and effective.

Beyond these basic categories are a variety of formulations to address specific issues, such as gum disease, cavity prevention, tartar prevention, tooth sensitivity and whitening. While the oral health benefits of each formulation is clearly stated on the label, reading the list of ingredients will also help you identify what the mouthwash is intended to do. Look for the following:

A note for those in alcohol recovery:

Numerous brands of mouthwash contain a high percentage of alcohol,

increasing the risk of a relapse

if used. Most major brands have an alcohol-free option available, which provides the same benefits as standard mouthwash products.

For most people, eliminating bad breath is the main reason for using mouthwash. Much as using deodorant, it’s considered essential to good general hygiene. In fact, did you know that

mouthwash can be used as an emergency deodorant

? Needless to say, the reverse doesn’t hold true! But mouthwash isn’t effective against halitosis — the clinical term for chronic bad breath. As

Mouth Healthy

explains, “Unlike ‘morning breath’ or a strong smell that lingers after a tuna sandwich, halitosis remains for an extended amount of time and may be a sign of something more serious.” Our blog post — “

What is Halitosis? Getting to the Bottom of Bad Breath

” — covers this condition in greater detail.

Halitosis can have one of the following causes:

If your bad breath persists despite regular use of mouthwash, schedule an appointment with

your dentist

to check for an underlying cause. Should a dental examination be inconclusive, schedule an appointment with your doctor. The sooner a medical condition is diagnosed, the sooner you’ll receive appropriate treatment.

While this may seem straightforward, there is some debate as to when you should use mouthwash during your morning and evening brushing routine. Some sources recommend waiting 30 minutes after brushing to rinse with mouthwash so as not to wash away the fluoride in the toothpaste. Our blog post — “

What to Look For In a Toothpaste

” — covers fluoride toothpastes in greater detail. However, there are mouthwashes that contain fluoride, so the wait may not be necessary. Also, a half-hour wait isn’t practical for many people — either in the morning while rushing to get ready for work or a busy day of errands, or before bedtime.

Mayo Clinic

recommends using mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth. On the other hand, the ADA states that it’s a matter of

personal preference

whether you rinse with mouthwash before or after brushing — while acknowledging that you should follow label instructions, which may have a specific order for use, depending upon the product’s ingredients.

Vivid Smiles

of Terre Haute, IN, recommends using mouthwash at lunch or after other meals and snacks when brushing isn’t possible. A quick rinse with mouthwash will help kill bacteria and remove food particles, preventing plaque and acid buildup in your mouth. Keep a small bottle at your office desk or workstation.

Whether at home or work, pour about four teaspoons of mouthwash into a cup. Do not dilute with water. Empty the cup into your mouth, and swish for a full 30 seconds. Finish by gargling, then spit out in the sink.

Mouthwash is not recommended for

children younger than six years of age

. They may accidentally swallow large amounts of the mouthwash, which can cause nausea, vomiting and intoxication (due to the alcohol content in some rinses). Check the label and follow specific precautions, instructions and age recommendations.

There are dentists who say that mouthwash is not strictly necessary if you brush your teeth well twice a day and floss daily. However, most dentists highly recommend adding mouthwash to your morning and evening routine. As mouthwash does play an important role in reducing the bacteria that’s the source of most oral health issues, it should be part of your life!

To be sure you select the mouthwash formula that best addresses your oral health needs and goals,

ask your dentist

! As your trusted partner in oral health, your dentist will know if you can benefit from a mouthwash formulated to fight plaque, help prevent cavities or be gentle to sensitive teeth.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based upon your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing page

for more information.

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the

neighborhoods

of

Logan Square

, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the

Best Dentist in Chicago!

Choosing a healthcare provider is an important decision. Finding a professional worthy of your trust to treat and prevent illness — perhaps not only for yourself but also for your family — is a task to take seriously, rather than left to chance. Our team at

24/7 Local Dentist

always emphasizes that dental health is part of overall health. For this reason, we offer the following advice on choosing a dentist — from researching professional credentials to questions to ask during the consultation, and what you need to look for when you visit the office. We’ll also cover “red flags” that indicate the practice you’re considering may not be right for you.

Your dentist should be more than someone you see twice a year for a cleaning and oral exam or visit when you have a toothache. A good dentist will be your partner in helping you achieve and maintain optimum oral health by recognizing and treating conditions — such as

periodontal disease

— in their early stages, as well as recommending a regular oral health routine for you to follow at home, based upon your individual situation.

Dr. Cathy Taylor-Osborne — director of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Bureau of Oral Health —

writes the following

for

MouthHealthy

— an oral health information website presented by the

American Dental Association

(ADA):

“Your dental health is such a vital part of your overall health, so it’s important for every patient to have a dental home. That means there is always someone looking out for the best interest of you and your family.” In this way, having a dental home allows you to feel comfortable when you’re dropping in for a regular visit and provides you with a safe, trusted place to turn for a procedure or dental emergency. Our blog post — “

How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency

” — highlights the advantage of having a regular dentist to call to receive care as soon as possible.

If you are also seeking a dentist for your child, you may want to find one whose practice includes pediatric (child) dentistry. This is a specialty area for many reasons, and not every dental practice is conducive to treating children.

24/7 Local Dentist provides comprehensive pediatric dentistry

, giving your child the very best start for a lifetime of excellent oral health in a calming, supportive environment. Most dental practices do not offer specific pediatric treatment. While such a practice can offer high-quality, conscientious treatment for adults, you most likely will need to look elsewhere for a pediatric dentist.

Looking for a new dentist isn’t something you do on a regular basis, so knowing what you need to take into consideration will give you the ability to make a good choice. The following tips are courtesy of

MouthHealthy

,

HealthGrades

, and

DentistryIQ

:

Research credentials —

Board certification is one of the most important factors when choosing a dentist. It tells you that the dentist has the necessary training, skills, and experience to provide healthcare in general dentistry. Also, confirm that the dentist has no history of malpractice claims or disciplinary actions. You can find the dentist’s medical school, training hospital, certifications, and malpractice and disciplinary history on

Healthgrades.com

and state websites.

Look for ADA membership

—

Dentists who are ADA members have agreed to follow the

ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct

and made a professional promise to put your health and well-being first. The ADA’s free online

Find-A-Dentist

tool allows you to search by name, location, and specialty for member dentists.

Read patient reviews —

Reading what other people have to say about a dentist can provide insight into how a dentist practices general dentistry, as well as how his or her dental practice is operated.

Patient reviews

typically reflect people’s experience with scheduling appointments, wait times, office environment, and office staff friendliness. You can learn how well patients trust the dentist, how much time he or she spends with their patients, and how well he or she answers questions.

Visit their website and social media accounts

—

A dental practice’s

website

provides valuable information about services, specialties, and other pertinent facts. For example, you may learn that a dentist is good at putting anxious patients at ease. Active

social media accounts

indicate that the practice values engaging with patients by sharing news and photos of office activities.

If you have dental insurance, know what your plan covers

—

You chose dental insurance to save money. To receive the most benefits and pay the least out-of-pocket for your care, you may need to choose a dentist who participates in your plan. You should still consider credentials, experience, outcomes, and the quality of the office as you select an in-network dentist.

Schedule a consultation

—

Schedule a consultation time to meet with the dentist and staff before making an appointment. Compile a list of questions and bring your records so the dentist can look at your dental history if you want to ask something specific. You’ll also be able to see if the office is welcoming, comfortable, and neat.

A few questions you might want to ask include:

Look around the office and ask about their technology —

The overall impression you get should be of a clean, well-ordered environment. Most offices have intraoral cameras to show you what’s going on in your mouth and digital X-ray equipment. The office should be computerized, instead of using paper charts. We’re getting a little ahead of ourselves here, but old equipment, shabby waiting room furniture, and a general disorganized vibe are signs that you need to continue your search.

Ask what will happen at your new patient appointment —

There should be time to talk to the dentist and staff to understand or establish your oral health goals. An office that offers this opportunity is dedicated to providing comprehensive care.

Convenient location —

Your time is valuable, but so is your oral health. The dentist who is closest to your home or office isn’t necessarily the best for you. If, after you’ve done your research and due diligence that turns out to be the case, great! Otherwise, you could be trading the skilled, competent care you need for convenience.

The cost factor

—

Budgets are real, and most people economize wherever and whenever possible. But looking for a bargain in a dentist can not only negatively impact your oral health, but it can also ultimately wind up costing you extra.

a

As Amanda Hill, BSDH, RDH

states for DentistryIQ

, “Selecting someone who doesn’t have the expertise you need or someone who only treats issues when they’re true problems — as opposed to looking for the why behind all the cavities you keep getting or the receding gums that cause sensitivity — could, in the long run, cost you time and teeth.

“Often the least expensive dentistry isn’t the most comprehensive; for example, you might have a rather large cavity in a tooth, and while you could put a big filling in it for less money, down the road, that tooth could crack, need a root canal, or worse yet, need to be pulled and an implant placed. So, for the price of an excellent-fitting crown the first time, you could have saved thousands of dollars.”

Because a friend tells you their dentist is “nice” —

While rapport is crucial in any relationship with a healthcare provider, “nice” doesn’t always correlate to the quality of care you’ll receive.

“You can ask to see examples of their dentistry; look at before and after pictures and X-rays of recent crowns they have done,” says Hill. “How does their dentistry look to you? Does it look natural or like bright white Chiclets? When you look at an X-ray there shouldn’t be dark spots or ledges around crowns. Ask them to explain what you’re looking at and why they’re exceptional at what they do.”

Watch out for the following

—

As previously mentioned, pay attention to the overall cleanliness and condition of the office. Worn-out furniture could indicate the practice doesn’t have enough patients to be able to afford better. Take note of the attitude of the front desk staff, dental assistants, etc. If they seem overly stressed, rude, or dismissive toward you, working conditions may not be good — or the dentist doesn’t care about the quality of the staff.

Look at the age and condition of equipment, such as the X-ray machine and the dental chair. The dental chair is part of the dental unit, which consists of specific parts that also include the dental chair, stool, lighting, hydric box, aspiration, cuspidor, and other elements. All imaging equipment and the dental unit should be up-to-date and functioning efficiently. If they aren’t, continue your search.

How does the dentist impress you? If he/she doesn’t answer your questions to your satisfaction — or doesn’t want to answer them at all — seems dismissive of your concerns, etc., this particular dentist might not be right for you, even if the reviews you’ve read are mostly positive. Also, note how he/she speaks to the dental assistant and other staff members. Does the dentist treat them in a professional manner, or seem angry, impatient, or annoyed? Your dentist doesn’t have to be your best buddy, but you do need to have a good doctor-patient relationship based on respect. If you don’t feel you get that during the consultation, keep looking.

Last, but certainly not least, you should

never

feel that you are being pressured to consent to extensive, expensive treatment. This can be a situation in practices that heavily promote cosmetic dentistry. After a consultation and recommendation for crowns or veneers, the patient may be led to a room by someone other than the dentist and given a form to sign consenting to the recommended work — which may cost several thousands of dollars. You need to take the time to consider the proposed treatment, your budget, and your payment plan. Do not sign

any

form or document before you are comfortable with your decision. If you feel pressured to do so, leave, and find another dentist.

Whether you need to find a new dentist because you’ve just moved, your current dentist is retiring or relocating, or you’re not satisfied with the treatment you’ve been receiving, the process can be less stressful if you know how to go about it. We hope we’ve provided a helpful guide on your journey to connecting with a dentist who will be your trusted partner in caring for your oral health!

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing page

for more information.

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-ceratified periodontist and Diplomat of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

Having a beautiful smile is a powerful boost to self-confidence — and can open doors in many aspects of your life! But the bright, perfect “movie star” smile that’s so desirable can’t always be achieved by best oral health practices alone. Fortunately, a smile makeover is designed to give you what nature didn’t — or what poor restorations and/or other adverse dental conditions took away. If you’re considering your options to achieve a smile you can be proud of, a smile makeover could be the solution!

As the name implies, a smile makeover involves a combination of cosmetic dental procedures and treatments to correct multiple aesthetic flaws that affect your smile. Teeth that are broken, gapped, uneven, chipped, short, worn-down, misshapen — or have minor misalignments or permanent staining — can achieve a look that is aesthetically balanced, with a brighter, whiter color that complements your skin tone. Correcting a “gummy” smile also can be part of this process.

Depending on your oral structure and aesthetic goals, your smile makeover could involve the following:

Veneers –

Comprised of thin, wafer-like porcelain shells that are custom-shaped and bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their appearance and correct noticeable flaws, veneers are one of the most popular treatments in cosmetics dentistry. Teeth are prepared by removing a layer of enamel, which allows the veneer to fit securely over the tooth and create a strong bond. We invite you to read our blog posts — “

What are Veneers?

” and “

Are Veneers Right for You?

” — to learn more.

In addition to traditional

veneers

,

24/7 Local Dentist Dental

is proud to offer the

Lumineers®

brand, which is designed to be ultra-thin and eliminates the need to remove tooth enamel.

Composite bonding

— This can be an option for those with insufficient enamel for veneers. A composite resin is sculpted, shaped, polished, and adhered to the front of the teeth. However, bonding is not stain-resistant and is not as natural-appearing as porcelain veneers. Our blog post — “

Is Composite Bonding Right for You?

” — covers this procedure in greater detail.

Crowns

— Unlike veneers, a

crown

covers the entire tooth down to the gumline. This requires the tooth to be significantly ground down, meaning that it can never again be without a crown. However, crowns may be the recommended solution — especially for those with damaged teeth — as they have the appearance of strong, healthy teeth and can last for 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Dental implants

— This is an important element of a smile makeover for those with a missing tooth for whom a bridge may not be an option. The prosthesis (tooth restoration) element of the implant will be fashioned to complement the other tooth restorations in shape, alignment, and color so it seamlessly matches and works harmoniously to create a complete aesthetic result.

Gum recontouring

— This procedure is performed to correct a gummy smile, which is caused by an excess of gum tissue covering the teeth. Our blog post — “

What is Gum Lengthening?

” — covers this topic in detail.

Teeth whitening

— This is an option for those who are generally pleased with the appearance of their teeth, but want to remove stains and brighten the color. Although many over-the-counter whitening kits are available, a

dental practice

will safely provide the best possible result — either with an in-office treatment or a take-home custom tray and whitening gel. We are proud to offer the

Zoom

and

Opalescence

brands of teeth whitening treatments.

As you may now be realizing, a smile makeover requires the dentist to have a strong sense of aesthetics as well as technical skills. There is no one-size-fits-all, cookie-cutter approach. Each makeover is individually designed according to the patient’s oral structure, facial structure, and shape — as well as other considerations.

Consumer Guide to Dentistry

provides the

following elements

that go into planning a smile makeover:

Tooth length

— Long teeth lend a youthful appearance. Aging produces wear and tear that often results in shorter teeth, and a gummy smile also can make teeth appear shorter. A treatment for shorter teeth may include reshaping and lengthening the two front central teeth with composite bonding or porcelain veneers. If you have a gummy smile, your cosmetic dentist may provide treatment to modify the gum line and lengthen the appearance of the teeth using laser dentistry procedures. You may also be referred to a periodontist for crown lengthening if necessary.

Teeth lengthening may also impact your overall facial appearance. For example, shapely, long, square teeth on a round-faced individual can provide a slimming effect.

Smile line

— The smile line is an imaginary line that follows the edges of your upper teeth from side to side, which ideally should be the same as the curve of your lower lip when you smile. This standard point of reference may be used to help determine how long your new teeth should be.

Tooth proportions

— Your cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth to determine if they are in correct proportion with each other. Most people recognize a pleasing smile as one in which the two central front teeth are dominant and have a width-to-length ratio of 4-to-5. This proportion guides the length and width of other teeth in the aesthetic zone so that the smile line appears balanced.

Tooth texture and characterization

— An artistic dentist can characterize your crowns or veneers to create a more feminine or a more masculine appearance, in addition to matching the look and feel of natural teeth.

How is a Smile Makeover Different from Full-Mouth Reconstruction?

Although there are similarities, full-mouth reconstruction is more intensive than a smile makeover. According to

The Smile Centre

, “While smile makeovers encompass a wide range of cosmetic dental procedures to improve the appearance of your smile, a full mouth reconstruction may include a smile makeover in addition to procedures that deal with jaw alignment and dental health issues. Full mouth reconstruction involves the combination of multiple restorative, neuromuscular and general dentistry dental procedures. The objective is to not only restore the aesthetic appearance of your smile but to also strengthen the structure and functionality of your teeth.

“Full mouth restorations are often crucial for a patient’s overall well-being due to the interconnected nature of oral health. For example, if you suffer from a chipped tooth, it can lead to problems with your bite. Bite issues can cause chewing difficulties, which in turn can lead to excess wear on other teeth. Misaligned bites are linked with a myriad of other issues, many of which are associated with problems such as headaches, jaw soreness, neck pain, and even poor posture.”

Depending upon your existing oral health conditions, treatment may be necessary before reconstruction procedures can begin.

Periodontal disease

or misaligned teeth that require

orthodontic treatment

will have to be addressed first.

A smile makeover is an investment in yourself. According to

Dr. Micheal J. Wei, DDS

, “You want your investment to pay dividends, making you look younger, happier, and healthier. One of the worst situations a dental patient can experience is undergoing cosmetic or restorative dentistry, only to have those changes fail soon after.”

Dr. Wei provides the general lifespan of the following types of cosmetic dental restorations:

As with your overall oral health, you’ll get the most out of your smile makeover investment by regular visits to your dentist for an

examination and cleaning

— and maintain a consistent oral care regimen of brushing and flossing. Also, prevent damage to your teeth by wearing a mouthguard when playing sports or participating in physical recreational activities, as well as not chewing on hard food items (such as ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels). Also, never use your teeth to tear things apart or open bottles! Scissors and bottle openers, respectively, are the appropriate tools. Being careless can damage restorations as well as teeth in their natural state.

A smile makeover can boost your self-image and let you face the world with confidence! Choosing a dentist with the skill, experience, and artistic eye to create the perfect smile just for you is essential to achieving the best result.

24/7 Local Dentist

, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and

periodontal services

. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist,

Dr. Nilofer Khan

, our endodontist,

Dr. Sabek

, and our periodontist,

Dr. Amir Danesh

. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the

American Board of Periodontology

. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the

neighborhoods

of

Logan Square

, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the

Best Dentist in Chicago!

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our

financing page

for more information.