Get Your Dream Smile With Veneers | Dentist Near Me

A porcelain veneer is a thin layer of porcelain that covers the front of the teeth. If your front teeth have slight chips, cracks, stains, or other imperfections, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers.

The smile you wear says a lot about your personality. This is why our office can offer you a variety of cosmetic dentistry options to make your smile as attractive as possible.

Read on to learn how veneers can transform your smile.

Embrace your smile with confidence.

Among the benefits of porcelain veneers is that they can restore your confidence in your smile. It is possible to feel self-conscious and unwilling to smile when you have even one imperfection, whether it is one tooth or multiple teeth. You can, however, regain that confidence and smile at the whole world with porcelain veneers.

Restore the front teeth.

Do you need to repair a chipped tooth? You may be a candidate for dental veneers. Veneers are used to conceal cosmetic rather than structural damage. A cracked tooth may require a dental crown if its structural integrity has been compromised.

It is possible to repair minor imperfections with veneers, such as:

  • Teeth that are chipped
  • Teeth that are misshapen
  • Slight gaps between the front teeth
  • Stained or discolored teeth

Maintain the structure of the teeth.

In comparison to dental crowns, veneers require less enamel to be removed. As a result, you are able to preserve more of your natural tooth enamel, which can never be replaced once it has been damaged.

Due to the fact that a dental crown covers the entire visible portion of your tooth above the gum line, we have to remove more enamel to make space for the crown. Veneers require only a thin layer of enamel to be removed from the front of the teeth during the procedure. Due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, you may not even require anesthesia.

You can enjoy whiter teeth.

A veneer is durable enough to last several years when properly cared for. To maintain good oral health, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Additionally, dental veneers have a greater ability to resist staining than natural tooth enamel.

Maintaining good oral health is easy.

Porcelain veneers should be maintained in the same manner as natural teeth. Keep your teeth clean by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, ensure that you schedule your routine dental cleaning and examination every six months.

Are you ready for an appointment?

Our dental office can assist you in exploring your options for cosmetic dentistry, including porcelain veneers. Call us today to schedule an appointment, and we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Keep Your Mouth, Mind, and Body Healthy! | Dentist in Roselle

The lack of good oral hygiene can contribute to an increase in tooth decay and cavities among children and adults alike. It is directly related to the need for fillings and oftentimes more expensive treatments such as dental implants, crowns, and bridges.

The importance of preventative dentistry

In addition to adversely affecting your oral health, poor oral hygiene can also contribute to chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and recurrent respiratory infections. The prevention of oral disease has a direct correlation with the prevention of serious health complications in the future. An inflammatory condition within the gums, as well as the toxins it releases, can have an adverse effect on the gums and bone, which can then spread to other parts of the body. With the help of our dental office, advanced dental issues can be detected before they occur, and we are able to strengthen, preserve, and improve the function of your teeth.

What is the effect of oral hygiene on your health?

There is a strong correlation between dental diseases and overall health. You may experience deterioration in your general health due to ongoing oral disease. To minimize the need for reconstructive dental procedures and health issues later in life, we recommend biannual oral hygiene appointments.

What causes dental problems? 

A high intake of alcohol, sugar, refined foods, and smoking is associated with dental disease. Sugar is more prevalent in our diets today than ever before, resulting in an increase in tooth decay. In particular, sugar causes decay in young children’s primary teeth, which makes them more susceptible to oral disease as adults.

How Can I Take Care of My Teeth?

Sealants for children and adults

A fissure sealant can protect teeth from tooth decay and reduce the need for replacement of missing teeth or restorations in natural teeth. A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating applied to the teeth in order to prevent dental problems in the future. In spite of the fact that dental sealants are usually recommended for children, adults may also benefit from them.

The best way to maintain good oral hygiene 

It is essential to visit your dentist at least twice a year and have your teeth professionally cleaned in order to prevent tartar build-up and prevent dental disease later in life. A healthy lifestyle includes brushing twice a day, flossing, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and eating a well-balanced diet. When you take care of yourself, you benefit your overall well-being as well, resulting in strong teeth and a healthy body for a lifetime.

What is preventative dental care?

Preventative dental care begins with learning proper oral hygiene. The importance of maintaining your teeth for a lifetime with minimal intervention cannot be overstated. In addition to reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, preventative dental care can help you maintain your natural teeth throughout your life.

It’s never too late or too early to start a good oral hygiene routine. Our dental office can assist you in establishing good oral hygiene habits that will lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Healthy Gums With One Special Tool | Roselle IL Dentist

Loss of teeth, bad breath, and bleeding gums are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease. It can, however, start without any noticeable symptoms. When left untreated or undiagnosed, you could end up causing irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. Fortunately, preventing periodontal disease is possible. In fact, one of the most effective ways only takes a few minutes every day.

The Power of Floss

Since dental floss is easy to use and effective, it can be one of the best defenses against periodontal disease. The buildup of plaque and bacteria between your teeth contributes to periodontal disease. In addition to brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes, you should also floss every day. Dental floss allows you to reach areas that a toothbrush cannot. Food, debris, and sugar get caught in the gaps and tight spaces between teeth throughout the day. Flossing helps to remove these items from hard-to-reach places. If flossing is a difficult task for you, our dentist in Roselle Il can offer solutions.

Flossing Facts

According to a survey by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss every day. Likewise, the study found a direct correlation between regular intra-oral care and improved dental health. However, many people do not brush and floss as frequently as they should. In a study conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, 27% of adults were not honest about their flossing habits when asked by their dentist. Even though you do not have to floss every time you brush your teeth, you should make it a habit to floss at least once a day.

How to Floss Properly

It can be confusing to know how to properly use dental floss. Take about 18 inches of floss and keep it taught between your thumb and index finger. Use about one inch of floss to clean between your teeth. Place the dental floss in between two teeth. Slide the floss up and down between your teeth, rubbing it against both sides. It’s important not to glide the floss into your gums. This might cause your gums to bruise or scratch. Take a fresh piece of floss between each pair of adjacent teeth as you make your way through the 18 inches of floss.

A few minutes of flossing each day can contribute to a lifetime of good oral health. It is one of the best ways for you to keep your gums healthy and prevent tooth decay from forming between your teeth. Floss regularly—your gums will be grateful.

Make sure you visit your Roselle Il cosmetic dentist two times each year to have your teeth cleaned and examined. Please contact our Roselle dentist today to schedule an appointment.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Healthy Gums for Seniors | Roselle IL Dentist

Gum health is one of the most important things to remember for seniors. Your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases with age. The good news is that periodontal disease is both preventable and reversible in many cases. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications, such as bleeding or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the studies linking periodontal disease with serious illnesses. 

We should take special care as we age to protect our teeth and gums from any future complications. Listed below are a few tips to ensure healthy gums as we age.

Health Effects of Periodontal Disease

There is a link between periodontal disease and serious health problems. Researchers from the University of Southampton and King’s College London found a link between periodontal disease and cognitive decline in people with early Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that patients with periodontal disease experienced cognitive decline six times as fast as those who did not.

Periodontal disease is also linked to an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. The risk of these serious health problems increases with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors. Regular dental cleanings and oral health screenings can ensure that your gums are healthy to avoid any health issues associated with gum disease.

Statistics to keep in mind

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74 have moderate or severe periodontal disease. This percentage increases to more than 20% for seniors over 75. Periodontal disease was more prevalent in men than in women. In addition, smoking was found to be significantly associated with periodontal disease. In the same study, 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% of non-smokers.

What You Can Do

As you age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of your gums. By doing so, you reduce your risk factors for serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s. A good oral hygiene routine will help maintain healthy gums by brushing twice a day for two minutes each and flossing daily. Flossing cleans the spaces between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach. Floss holders are available in many stores and may make flossing easier for some people.

For any questions you may have regarding your oral health, please feel free to contact our Roselle cosmetic dentist. We would be happy to schedule a consultation appointment.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Making Oral Hygiene Fun for Your Child | Best Dentist Roselle IL

As a parent, the best way to help ensure your child has a lifetime of healthy teeth is to help them establish great dental hygiene habits as they grow. It can be difficult to get young children to cooperate with brushing and flossing. Making the routine as exciting as possible will make your life easier. Here are some useful tips for keeping your child engaged by making dental hygiene fun:

  • Pick out a special toothbrush

One great way to keep your child excited about brushing is to allow him or her to choose their own toothbrush in a favorite color or branded with a favorite cartoon character. Child-size soft-bristled brushes come in a wide variety of options designed to make your child like their toothbrush. Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes are an even better option to remove plaque and add some excitement to brushing. 

  • Choose children’s toothpaste

Another great option is to use a toothpaste that is designed for kids. While adults generally prefer the fresh taste of a minty toothpaste, many children find mint to be too powerful a flavor. This can make brushing unpleasant or even painful to sensitive taste buds. Instead, let your child choose a children’s toothpaste. There are many options available in a variety of soft mint, fruity, and bubble gum flavors. It is much easier to keep your child brushing for a full two minutes when their toothpaste tastes good. Just be sure that they don’t swallow too much. 

  • Use a timer

Two minutes can seem like a long time to a child. It can be very difficult for your child to try to estimate or count how long to brush without some kind of visual aid. You can help your child stay more engaged and ensure a full two minutes of brushing by using a timer. Choices range from a small sand timer your child can flip over, to a manual stopwatch with buttons to press, or even an app on a phone or tablet to time digitally. There are a lot of fun apps that will even make a game out of brushing. By letting your child take control of the timer, they can be more confident and more engaged in their brushing.

  • Brush (and floss) together

A parent is the first and strongest role model for their child. Brushing together can help your child model your great brushing technique, which will improve their own. Additionally, brushing and flossing together emphasizes to your child that oral hygiene is important. When your child sees that you take dental hygiene seriously, they are likely to follow suit.

For more tips on making dentistry fun for your child, contact our office.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

The Importance of Screening for Oral Cancer | Dentist Roselle IL

Like with every form of cancer, early diagnosis can have a profound impact on the success of your treatment. Regular screenings are your first line of defense against oral cancer and our dentist is thoroughly trained in screening for oral cancer.

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

●Ear pain

●Mouth sores that don’t heal

●White or red patches in your mouth

●Dramatic weight loss

●Lumps or swelling in or around your mouth

●Sore throat without other sinus symptoms

●Sensation of something caught in the back of your throat

●Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

One adult American dies of oral cancer every hour. Though anyone can develop oral cancer, some factors can increase your risks. Some of the most common risk factors include: genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, unhealthy diet, smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. Oral cancer is more common in men than women. 

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

If you would like more information about oral cancer and oral cancer screening, contact our office for a consultation or to schedule a comprehensive dental exam.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Disease | Roselle IL Dentist

dentist in roselle il

Almost half of the population in the United States has been diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can range from gingivitis (mild inflammation) to  periodontitis, a major oral disease that can result in soft tissue damage, bone destruction, and even tooth loss. Our experienced dentist in 60172 is trained to treat all stages of periodontal disease in both new and existing patients. 

A main cause of gum disease is the lack of practicing proper oral hygiene habits.  Habits such as daily brushing and flossing, along with regular professional exams and cleanings, are the key to maintaining optimal oral health. When these practices are not followed on a regular basis, plaque forms on the teeth and underneath the gum tissue. If this plaque is not removed, within time it may harden become tartar. Only a dental professional can remove tartar from teeth during a dental cleaning. 

If gum disease is not treated during the early stages, tartar and bacteria may continue to multiply causing the disease to advance. Gums redden, swell, and become painful and prone to bleeding. When the disease reaches this point, professional periodontal treatment is needed to prevent further advancement. 

Periodontitis is generally considered the most advanced form of periodontal disease. With periodontitis, gums begin to recede away from the teeth, creating “pockets” in between the tooth, root, and gum tissue. These spaces are very difficult to clean and require professional attention. Without prompt and thorough treatment, bone, gums, and soft tissues may be destroyed by the disease. In fact, one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease.

Some of the most common risk factors for periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, smoking, genetics, and female hormonal changes. Some medications can even cause gum tissue overgrowth, which can increase difficulty in proper oral hygiene

Our dentist  has the training and experience to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. If you are experiencing bad breath, bleeding or painful gums, sensitive teeth, or teeth that are becoming loose, contact our Roselle, IL dental office to schedule a periodontal evaluation. We provide excellent, comprehensive periodontal care for both new and existing patients.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

The Benefit of Adding Flossing to Your Routine | Roselle Cosmetic Dentist

60172 Dentist

You have heard the recommendation from your dental hygienist or dentist in Roselle over and over again: “You need to start flossing. Flossing daily is important.” Although it may sound like a broken record at times, flossing truly is instrumental to both your oral and overall dental health. It is important to understand the benefits of flossing daily to keep your smile shining bright. 

Flossing not only protects your gum tissue, but also the surrounding bone support. When you floss, you clean the plaque (dental bacteria) in between your teeth. Simply brushing your teeth does not allow you to reach the areas in between where your teeth touch together. The bacteria can build up and eventually harden into tartar. A combination of bacteria in your mouth and tartar under the gum line can lead to periodontal disease and eventually tooth loss. 

Periodontal disease not only affects your oral health, but your systemic health as well. Long term, unresolved inflammation in your body can lead to many issues. The bacteria found in the mouth that cause periodontal disease have also been shown to circulate throughout the bloodstream. It has been proven that there is a correlation between these bacteria and heart disease, stroke, increased blood sugar levels/diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, among many other diseases. 

A consistent routine of flossing, when paired with brushing and professional cleanings, can save you money in the long run. Preventative care can reduce more severe problems down the road. Flossing can help decrease the amount of decay you develop in between your teeth, therefore decreasing the amount of dental work that needs to be done. It is a great way to stop the problems before they even begin. 

Although it may sound repetitive, you truly do want to heed the advice of a dental professional when it comes to flossing. The old saying “only floss the teeth that you want to keep” holds true. Contact our dental office in Roselle, IL for a full dental examination and a professional dental cleaning, including an evaluation of your oral hygiene habits and how they can be improved.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Should I Be Concerned About A Thumb Sucking Habit? | Roselle IL Cosmetic Dentist

Roselle Cosmetic Dentist

Thumb sucking is one of the most recognizable behaviors found in children. Sucking is a natural reflex and infants and young children may use thumbs, fingers, pacifiers, and other objects on which to suck. It may make them feel secure and happy, or provide a sense of security at difficult periods. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it may even encourage sleep. Studies found by our dentist in 60172 have proposed that as many as 90% of children have engaged in this type of activity in their lives. We have even seen that thumb sucking can begin in the mother’s womb during pregnancy. It’s natural, safe, and can be quite helpful to parents, as their baby learns to soothe themselves from time to time. 

Whether this oral fixation is satisfied with a thumb or the commonly used pacifier, most children discontinue this practice before long. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry states that most children stop thumb sucking on their own between the ages of 2 and 4.  

Once your baby’s first set of teeth are in and thumb sucking persists, there is a chance that this habit could push the teeth slightly forward. Fortunately, this will in no way affect the placement of the adult teeth or add to the cost of your child’s future dental bills. Thumb sucking, even in toddlers, is considered normal. It does not mean there is anything wrong with your child and that they should feel embarrassed or ashamed. Even the most persistent thumb sucker ordinarily stops on their own by the time toddlerhood has ended. 

Thumb sucking infrequently continues past the age of four. This is usually found to be the result of too much attention or negative reinforcement given to the habit in previous years. Beyond this age, thumb sucking can begin to impact the alignment of the adult teeth, so it is best your child shed the habit sooner rather than later. 

How do you help them with this? Don’t reprimand them because of it, don’t remove the thumb from their mouth and don’t mention it. This is where their growing awareness and social cues come in handy. As your child begins to notice that the kids around them aren’t sucking their thumbs anymore, they won’t want to either. They will also start to discover other skills or items to give them comfort and security. Peer pressure becomes a much greater deterrent than a parent’s disapproval.  

What Can I Do to Support my Child Through Thumb Sucking? 

  • Insecurity often causes anxiety in children and this may lead to thumb sucking. Instead of reprimanding them, try to focus on what is making them feel anxious. 
  • Parents who provide comfort and positive reinforcement to their children will see a less likelihood of thumb sucking. 
  • Take note of the times your child tends to suck on their thumb and create diversions during these occasions. 
  • Ask your child’s dentist to speak with them about the impact thumb sucking will have on their mouths.  
  • Place a band-aid or a sock on your child’s thumb as a reminder to avoid putting their thumb or fingers in their mouth. 

Thumb sucking can be a troublesome habit for parents, mostly when it feels like your child is the only one still engaging in the behavior. Permitting your child to find other ways of comforting themselves is more helpful to them in the end. If you have any other questions on how to improve your child’s oral health, please give our Roselle, IL dental office a call. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or give us a call today.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172

Healthy Smile, Healthy Body | Cosmetic Dentist Roselle

Dentist 60172

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. What you might not know is that research has found the health of your mouth actually mirrors the overall condition of your body. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a direct relationship between gum disease and many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The good news is, research also shows that good oral health may actually help prevent certain diseases from occurring. 

Understanding the mouth/body connection 

Poor oral habits can cause bacteria to build up on your teeth, making your gums more prone to disease and infection. When that happens, your immune system goes to work attacking the infection, leading to inflammation and gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis and chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on the rest of your body, leading to a host of health problems. Thankfully, this “worst-case-scenario” is easily preventable. Here’s what you can do to elevate your oral hygiene habits and keep unwanted health concerns at bay: 

  • Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to choose a toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth so you can reach back teeth easily. If you have any questions about which toothbrush we recommend for you, you can ask our office during your appointment. 
  • Remember to replace your toothbrush every three or four months. 
  • Choose an American Dental Association-approved fluoride toothpaste to keep teeth free from decay. 
  • Floss daily to remove tooth decay-causing bacteria that tend to linger between teeth. Regular flossing also helps remove plaque under the gum line and minimize your risk of contracting gum disease. 
  • Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks. 
  • Avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products, which are known to contribute to gum disease and oral cancer. 

In addition to maintaining good daily oral health habits, seeing your dentist regularly is one of the best ways to keep your mouth – and your body – healthy. These exams allow our dentist in Roselle to monitor any changes to your teeth and gums and make recommendations that will help you avoid future health problems. Call our Roselle, IL dental office today to schedule an exam.

Westlake Dental Care of Roselle
Phone: (630) 980-6762
1260 W Lake St Roselle, IL 60172