Restorative Denstistry Archives - Smile Glen Ellyn Restorative Dentist
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28Nov

Do you ever look in the mirror wishing for a brighter, whiter smile? If so, no doubt you have considered one of two popular – yet very different – ways to achieve that perfect white smile – teeth whitening or veneers. Both procedures offer subtle results with few risks and can take years off your appearance.

But although they both cover similar ground, there are important differences between teeth whitening and veneers that should be considered before making any decisions about your oral health. This post will examine which procedure is right for you by reviewing the costs associated with each treatment and what you can expect from its effects on your overall dental care routine.

The pros and cons of teeth whitening

A whiter smile is something that many people wish for, and teeth whitening can help to achieve this. Teeth whitening procedures have become very popular in recent years as they are effective and relatively affordable. While the results will vary depending on the whitening method used, there are numerous benefits to be gained by undergoing this process. Most notably, teeth whitening can dramatically improve one’s self-esteem and confidence levels by elevating the visual aspect of their smile.

Additionally, improved oral hygiene can also be achieved due to increased motivation to take better care of teeth after the successful results of whitening. Furthermore, professional teeth whitening can provide a more cost-effective approach than buying over-the-counter alternatives, which may not produce desired outcomes or last long periods. All told, teeth whitening carries several compelling advantages for those wanting to whiten their smile and boost their overall appearance.

Teeth whitening is a popular procedure; however, it has a few drawbacks. Bleaching can cause your teeth to become more sensitive due to removing essential minerals. In some cases, this sensitivity can last for several months.

Home kits are typically less effective than visiting a dentist, as they often contain lower bleaching agents and are harder to use correctly. Additionally, you may end up having discolored teeth if you overuse at-home whitening products or have bacteria trapped in dental pockets in your gums.

The pros and cons of dental veneers

Dental veneers are a dental restoration that can be used to help improve the look of teeth. There are many pros associated with getting dental veneers, including improved appearance, greater enamel protection, and reduced chances of further decay and staining. The ability to modify the shape and alignment of your teeth makes them an excellent option for those looking to improve their smile in a non-invasive and time-efficient way.

Veneers are also more affordable than more involved procedures such as crowns or implants. Furthermore, veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years when properly cared for, meaning you can enjoy your restored smile for years after the procedure. With so many benefits, it is no wonder why dental veneers have become an increasingly popular choice among those who want to enhance their smile.

Dental veneers offer a durable solution to discoloration issues, but they come with specific drawbacks compared to teeth whitening as a treatment option. Veneers are permanent and irreversible – where teeth whitening is a temporary fix that can be reapplied as needed – so it’s important that you’re sure you want the new look before committing. Additionally, the procedure usually involves removing some tooth enamel to allow for the application, which can be uncomfortable. Reducing enamel increases the risk of tooth sensitivity in the future.

Lastly, good quality veneers are more costly than whitening, so consider your overall budget when deciding between teeth whitening or veneer placement.

Which is the right choice for you?

If you’re looking for a quick fix and teeth whitening sounds like it will do the trick, go ahead and book an appointment. However, if you want to achieve long-term results with minimal upkeep, veneers may be a better option for you. No matter what your decision is, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution for your unique needs.

30Oct

Advances in dentistry have made it possible to restore a beautiful and healthy smile more quickly and effectively. In the past, people who lost most or all of their teeth had to settle for wearing uncomfortable dentures. Dental implants allow people to have fully functional replacement teeth that look and feel natural.

What are All-on-Four Dental Implants?

All-on-Four offers a unique solution to those needing a full arch (top or bottom set) of fixed, replacement teeth. All-on-Four dental implants are also known as implant dentures or snap-in dentures.

These implants consist of several key elements:

  • Four dental implants in the jaw serve as the anchoring points for a long-lasting denture.
  • Four abutments above the gum where replacement teeth will be mounted.
  • A row of full replacement teeth.
  • Retaining screw to connect the denture to the abutments and implants.

All-on-Four dental implants are not as easily removed as dentures and are considered more permanent replacements. Depending on how well you take care of them, dental implants can last forever–but replacement dentures will need to be replaced at least every eight years.

How do All-on-Four dental implants compare to traditional implants?

The All-on-Four dental implant technique is usually quicker and has a shorter healing time because it only uses four implants for each arch, as opposed to the six to eight used in traditional implants. The implants of the All-on-4 procedure are also placed at an angle. This allows for increased contact and support from your bone. The All-on-Four procedure is not only less invasive, but it also doesn’t require bone grafting for most patients. In conclusion, All-on-4 dental implants are a more efficient and cost-effective method with less pain.

How Does All-on-Four Work?

The All-on-Four procedure is a dental implant method in which dentures are permanently affixed to a patient’s gums. The system is specifically designed to use four dental implants to keep dentures securely in place. Dental implants can take some time to be placed and may require additional procedures like bone grafting for certain patients.

Dental implants consist of three main parts:

The “root”: We surgically place a titanium rod into the jawbone in this step. This part of the treatment usually takes several weeks to complete before moving on to the next stage.

Abutment: the part of the implant that will hold the dentures in place

False teeth: In this case, a denture plate is used to replace missing teeth, but in other instances, crowns are used.

Once the implants have been placed and have had time to heal, dentures can be affixed to them. And that’s it! A patient’s brand-new teeth will now be solid and secure.

All-on-Four Process

On average, the surgery lasts two hours and 30 minutes for each arch. We can put All-on-Four implants in your upper or lower teeth or both at the same time. Dentists may make teeth cleanings look easy, but surgery is complex. However, we can complete it quickly and efficiently. There are four steps to getting All-on-Four implants:

Step 1: We will examine your records, current oral health, whether you have Dentures, what your facial structure needs are for implants, and any other relevant factors.

Step 2: The procedure generally uses CT scans, which are three-dimensional images of the jawbone. The scans show us where to place the replacement teeth and provide vital data about the position of nearby nerves and sinuses.

Step 3: We use technological advances to create a computer simulation of your implants, so we can digitally position them into the jawbone. This gives you more support from your replacement teeth. We will custom-fit your implants and new teeth to your mouth.

Step 4: The final and most crucial step is the oral surgery. We will place implants in your jawbone to securely hold your new teeth during surgery. To ensure that you are comfortable, we will provide anesthesia beforehand.

Customized Implant Solutions for Your Needs

We’re dedicated to providing top-notch care for our patients and always consider their unique needs. Instead of immediately recommending All-on-Four dentures to every patient who wants them, we listen to your concerns and needs to ensure that this is the best solution for you. At our dental practice, we walk you through your options and ensure you’re comfortable with the choices before moving forward. We understand that deciding on treatment can be difficult, and we never force anyone into a decision. We want our patients to take the time to make a choice that will positively impact the rest of their lives. We vow to make you feel comfortable during every step of the treatment process.

Dental Smile
15Sep

Special moments are often highlighted by a genuine smile. Whether it’s a graduation,  wedding, anniversary, important birthday, or family reunion, or another of life’s major milestones, the experiences are accompanied by a great smile. But if you are self-conscious about your teeth, you may be looking for a better smile. Dr. Gibbs offers numerous cosmetic dental procedures that can help improve and transform your smile. Here are five cosmetic treatments and how they help give you a new smile design.

 Get a Better Smile with Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular and practical tooth replacement options. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone, so they are sturdy and feel like your natural teeth. Implants are so natural-looking that others will not be able to tell you have dental implants. They blend naturally into your smile design, restoring aesthetics and function at the same time.

 Make Veneers Part of Your Smile Design

Veneers are one of the simplest cosmetic dental procedures, but they have a dramatic effect on your smile and appearance. Dental veneers are very thin shells that add a layer to the surface of your teeth. They are used to conceal flaws, improve your teeth’s appearance, and even out uneven teeth. A little bit of the front of the tooth must be reduced for veneers to be placed. They look natural and greatly improve your smile’s appearance. Porcelain veneers are the most popular choice.

 Let Dr. Gibbs Transform your Smile with Lumineers

Dental Lumineers are one type of veneer. They are much thinner than porcelain veneers and the teeth don’t have to be reduced before they are placed. Lumineers are popular with patients who don’t like the idea of having their natural teeth reduced and with those who prefer a material option other than porcelain.

 Teeth Whitening in Glen Ellyn Can Transform Your Smile

If you want a better smile fast, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jessica Gibbs to have your teeth whitened. Your teeth stain easily when exposed to things like soda, tea, and coffee every day. If you are looking for a low-cost way to improve your smile, teeth whitening is the way to go. Just one trip to your Glen Ellyn dentist will help make over and improve your smile.  

 Check Out Ceramic Crowns at Your Glen Ellyn Dentist

If your teeth are stained, cracked, or discolored, dental crowns are a great way to give your smile a makeover. Crowns are a non-surgical procedure. A small cap or crown is placed over the damaged or discolored tooth. This helps give you a better smile by improving the appearance of the tooth. But it also makes the tooth stronger and prevents further damage. They fit comfortably and are a long-lasting treatment option that helps your teeth look and feel better.

 Ready for a Better Smile?

If you are ready for a new smile design, any of these five cosmetic dental treatments can help give you a whole new smile. If you are not sure which option is right for you, or which one will be best for improving your teeth’s appearance, please contact us to schedule an exam with Dr. Jessica Gibbs. She can recommend treatment based on your teeth’s appearance. Let us help you get the smile you desire!

Dental Implants
15Feb

Thanks to modern dentistry, false teeth are no longer the only option for replacing missing teeth. If you are missing one or more teeth, you have more options available than ever before. Drs. Gibbs may recommend dental implants or partial dentures. While either option is reasonable, improves your smile, and restores tooth function, there are pros and cons for both dental implants and partial dentures. To make the right choice, you’ll want to consider several things.

Your Current Dental Health

Most people are candidates for dental implants, but it can depend on your dental health and whether or not you have a healthy jawbone capable of supporting implants. If you do not, it is still very likely you can be fitted with dental implants Dr. Thomas Gibbs can perform bone grafts to rebuild the jawbone. A partial denture is suitable in most cases on a temporary basis and can often be worn until your mouth is healthy enough to support implants.

 Aesthetic Appearance

Generally, dental implants tend to be more aesthetic than partial dentures. Both provide a realistic appearance. However, the clasps that attach partials to your natural teeth can be visible. In terms of teeth replacement, implants and dentures help preserve your natural smile. Implants look and function closer to your natural teeth.

 Comfort of Partial Dentures vs Dental Implants

Dental implants are fused to the jawbone, so they remain securely in place. Partial dentures are attached to natural teeth but are mostly supported by gums. They can rub or slip which can cause sore spots. Partials can make it difficult to eat crunchy and chewy foods comfortably.

 Cost of Dental Implants and Partial Dentures

The price of dental implants continues to be affordable for many, and some insurance companies now cover them. They are still more expensive than dentures. However, implants are a permanent solution that will last as long as natural teeth with proper care.

 Stability and Strength

Partial dentures restore about 25% of your natural bite strength. When bite strength is inadequate, it’s harder to eat foods like steak or corn on the cob. Dental implants feel more like natural teeth and help restore over 90% of your biting strength. This allows you to continue enjoying all your favorite foods, and can often have a beneficial impact on allowing you to continue eating nutritious and healthful foods.

 Future of Your Oral Health

When a tooth or multiple teeth are removed, gum tissue and the jawbone begin to shrink. Over some time, this causes the face to have a sunken appearance which can make you look older. Even if your dentures are well-fitted, they eventually become loose. Wearing dentures long-term can also cause chronic sores and inflammation in your mouth. This raises your risk of developing gum disease. Since dental implants replace both the entire tooth including the root which helps prevent or reduce bone loss. They also reduce your risk for gum disease, mouth sores, and inflammation.

 How long do implants and partial dentures last?

With proper maintenance, partial dentures can last for between six and eight years. Implants, on the other hand, can last a lifetime with proper care. Since they are made from porcelain and metal, they are not susceptible to bacteria that cause cavities and decay.

 Implants vs Dentures

Partial dentures are removable whereas implants are not. Partials are anchored to natural teeth. Implants create a stable base, and each implant supports a single crown. If you are missing a few teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge is an option that only requires two implants.

 Contact Smile Glen Ellyn

If you are ready to smile again, contact Dr. Gibbs at Smile Glen Ellyn. After a thorough exam and x-rays, Dr. Jessica Gibbs can make recommendations to help you make the best choice for you. Call us today to schedule your exam.

beautiful smile with Smile Glen Ellyn
15Sep

When is the last time you mentioned going to the dentist among friends? You’ve likely heard horror stories involving various levels of pain and discomfort. There are a lot of people who simply expect to experience pain when they visit the dentist. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Sedation dentistry helps you be more comfortable during dental treatments.

What is sedation dentistry?

When you visit Smile Glen Ellyn, you will be greeted by friendly and warm staff members. One goal is to create a healthy relationship between you and the dental team. When you have confidence in those who are working with you the experience will go much smoother. Dr. Gibbs and the dental team understand that when you are at ease your body can more easily respond to pain control and medication. Sedation dentistry ensures you can get the dental treatment you need without fear of pain.

Safe forms of sedation are used to help provide calmness before procedures are performed. This may include relieving anxiety or numbing affected areas so you can’t feel the dental professional working. There are various levels of sedation including:

  •  Minimal sedation where the patient remains awake but has calm feelings.
  •  Moderate sedation where the patient is fully awake, but not fully aware.
  •  Deep sedation keeps the patient awake but they only have minimal consciousness.
  •  General anesthesia will cause the patient to sleep deeply without being conscious.

How safe is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry has been practiced for years, it’s not new. However, over the last decade or so, new techniques have been able to expand its application. The latest techniques can be used for routine cleanings or even for those who experience a lot of anxiety just by being in the dentist’s chair. Sedation can be used as an antidote for anxiety or to help provide a numbing effect. It can also prevent most pain during procedures. The three ways sedation is administered in the Glen Ellyn dental office include:

  • Inhalation – Commonly called “laughing gas” nitrous oxide is administered using a breathing mask. It has a calming effect but the patient isn’t unconscious. In most cases, they can drive themselves home safely after the procedure.
  • Oral Medication – Sedation may be administered using a pill that is available in different strengths. It mostly makes people groggy and many times patients fall asleep during the procedure.
  • Intravenous Drip – Sedation can also be administered via an IV. They will feel it take effect almost immediately. The doctor carefully monitors and adjusts the dosage during procedures.

These types of sedation may also be paired with a topical anesthetic to numb the immediate area where the dentist is working. Combining two approaches is extremely effective. Following a dental procedure, you’ll be given instructions on any measures you can take at home to help provide relief from any discomfort that may follow. This can include applying ice packs, warm rags, or taking medications to alleviate pain.

Sedation Dentistry at Glen Ellyn

Many dental practitioners do not offer sedation dental care. But Dr. Gibbs at Smile Glen Ellyn makes procedures easy and convenient. Call us today to discuss what level of sedation might be appropriate to help you alleviate anxious feelings about visiting the dentist.  We have specialized staff, experience, and certifications to ensure your next trip to the dentist is as comfortable as possible. Contact our offices today to schedule your next visit.

6Oct

Dental Implants might just be your new best friend! Why? If you have been faced with some challenging dental health issues in the past or are currently, you may want to consider this procedure. This American Dental Association-approved procedure is not only safe, but very cost-effective and long-term. Dr. Thomas Gibbs wants to help you get on the path to a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Tooth decay, loss and ill-fitting dentures are all potential causes for bone loss in the jaw, wrinkles around the mouth area, and bad breath. Dental health is very important and that’s why we want to provide you with options.

Dental Implants

What are they? They’re small metal parts that are surgically placed where your old tooth’s root once was. A new implant will then go right on top of that metal part and voila – you have a natural-looking brand-new smile you can feel confident about.

Smile Glen Ellyn can answer any questions you may have about this procedure.

Cost-Effective

Not only will you receive a thorough consultation about a solid treatment plan with payment options, but you will be supported by your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist from point A to point B throughout the process.

Our mouths are one of the very first things people see when they look at you. We want you to feel good about your smile, so do come in if you’re considering dental implants.

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