Dr. Anthony LaVacca

7 Tips for Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

1. Look for Advanced Training in Cosmetic Dentistry

Patients sometimes ask if we’re a cosmetic dental specialist. Cosmetic dentistry isn’t a recognized dental speciality like, say, periodontics or prosthodontics. 

That said, while there isn’t technically such a thing as a cosmetic dental specialist, the top providers absolutely have advanced training beyond general dentistry, particularly in aesthetic smile design, restorative techniques and facial harmony. 

They also focus on cosmetic dentistry day in and day out, as opposed to merely handling the occasional cosmetic case. 

This expertise is critical for procedures such as porcelain veneers, smile makeovers and full-mouth rehabilitation.

At Naperville Dental Specialists, cosmetic dental treatments are led by dentists like Dr. Irene Jovicic, a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry with extensive training in cosmetic dentistry and aesthetic smile design.

For those interested in dental implants, our board-certified prosthodontist, Dr. Anthony LaVacca, is a leader in implant dentistry who has given lectures nationally and internationally. 

By choosing a cosmetic dentist with a high level of experience and training, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your results will be both beautiful and functional.

2. Choose a Dentist Who Focuses on Smile Design; Not Just Teeth

The best cosmetic dentists don’t treat teeth in isolation. They consider:

• Facial proportions
  
• Lip movement and smile line
  
• Tooth shape, color and symmetry
  
• How your smile fits your personality and lifestyle
  

This comprehensive approach is called aesthetic smile design, and it’s what separates average results from truly transformative ones.

At Naperville Dental Specialists, every cosmetic case begins with personalized planning and digital imaging to create a new smile that complements your individual features and face as a whole.

3. Insist on Custom, High-Quality Materials

If you’re considering veneers, crowns or bonding, materials matter.

Mass-produced restorations often look flat or artificial. The top-rated cosmetic dentists use premium materials and work with elite dental ceramists to create restorations that mimic the translucency and texture of natural enamel.

Naperville Dental Specialists partners with the country’s best ceramic artists, each with their own particular skill set. We choose the specific ceramist based on your needs so you get one-of-a-kind, hand-finished restorations designed especially for your smile.

4. Review Cosmetic Dentistry Before and After Photos (Carefully)

One of the most important steps when choosing a cosmetic dentist is reviewing real patient results.

Look for:

• Natural color transitions
  
• Balanced proportions
  
• Consistency across different cases
  
• Smiles that look enhanced, not exaggerated
  

If every smile looks identical, that’s a red flag.

We proudly showcase a wide range of cosmetic dentistry before and after photos that reflect personalized care instead of cookie-cutter results.

5. Make Sure Technology Supports Precision and Comfort

Modern cosmetic dentistry relies on advanced technology to deliver accuracy, comfort and predictable results. 

When evaluating cosmetic dentists near you, make sure they offer 3D imaging and scanning, minimally invasive techniques and precise digital treatment planning. These advancements make a huge difference in not just the outcome but also in the entire experience. 

The team at Naperville Dental Specialists uses state-of-the-art digital tools to ensure treatments are as conservative and comfortable as possible. 

We also show you a digital preview of your future smile and perform a custom in-mouth trial smile design mockup. This lets you visualize the results before you start treatment and collaborate with your dentist to get exactly what you want.

6. Opt for a Dentist Who Values Long-Term Oral Health

Cosmetic dentistry should never compromise the health of your teeth and gums.

A truly excellent cosmetic dentist:

• Preserves natural tooth structure whenever possible
  
• Designs restorations that support proper bite and function
  
• Coordinates cosmetic care with preventive and restorative needs
  

At Naperville Dental Specialists, cosmetic dentistry is integrated with comprehensive dental care. This makes it easy to ensure your smile looks great and stays healthy long term.

7. Local Experience and Reputation Matter

When searching “cosmetic dentist near me” or “cosmetic dentist Naperville,” keep in mind that community reputation is key.

Look for strong patient reviews, local recognition, and longevity and consistency.

Naperville Dental Specialists has earned a reputation for excellence through years of trusted care, advanced training and consistently achieving incredible outcomes for patients throughout Naperville and the greater Chicagoland area.

In fact, we’ve been voted Best Dentist in Naperville by readers of Naperville Magazine for 18 years running!

Why Patients Choose Naperville Dental Specialists

How Do I Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist Near Me? The Bottom Line

First things first, what is dental sleep medicine?

Dental sleep medicine is an extension of general dentistry that focuses on the oral and facial causes and consequences of sleep-related problems, specifically:

• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Chronic snoring
• Sleep-related bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)

According to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), dental sleep medicine centers on the use of oral appliance therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

This field bridges dentistry and medicine, and those specializing in dental sleep medicine work closely with sleep physicians to improve patients’ overall health, energy and quality of life.

Don’t simply Google “sleep apnea dentist near me” and go with a random option. While any dentist can technically offer oral appliance therapy, choosing a dentist with advanced training in dental sleep medicine will ensure you get the best possible care and outcome.

An AADSM-qualified dentist like Dr. Michelson-Spencer has the knowledge and experience to screen for breathing issues and provide personalized treatment options.

A sleep apnea dentist does not replace a sleep physician. Instead, they’re part of a collaborative care model.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. A patient is diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea through a sleep study ordered by a physician or dentist. The sleep study can take place in a sleep center or, sometimes, at home.
   
2. Once the patient is diagnosed with sleep apnea, they receive a prescription for an oral appliance and a referral to a qualified dentist, or they visit the dentist directly.
   
3. The dentist designs and fits a custom dental appliance for sleep apnea.
   
4. The appliance gently repositions the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep.

This approach is especially helpful for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy.

While a CPAP machine is a tried-and-true treatment option for sleep apnea, the devices can be clunky, loud and uncomfortable. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine notes that more than 50% of patients stop using their CPAP because of these reasons. 

An oral appliance for sleep apnea or snoring is a custom-made, FDA-cleared device worn over the teeth while sleeping. It works by holding the lower jaw slightly forward, which prevents airway collapse. 

These appliances are sometimes referred to as:

• Mandibular advancement devices
  
• Dental appliances for sleep apnea
  
• Snoring devices (when used for snoring without apnea)

Compared to a CPAP machine, oral appliances are:

• Comfortable
• Discreet and noise-free
  
• Easy to travel with
  
• Free of masks, hoses, or machines
• Simple to clean
• Known for high patient compliance (one study found the compliance rate was 93%)

A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is the most commonly prescribed dental appliance for sleep apnea.

It works by:

• Gently moving the lower jaw forward
  
• Stabilizing the tongue
  
• Preventing airway obstruction
  

At Naperville Dental Specialists, Dr. Michelson-Spencer designs custom mandibular advancement devices that are precisely fitted for comfort, effectiveness, and long-term health.

You may benefit from seeing a sleep apnea dentist if you:

• Have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
  
• Snore loudly and consistently
  
• Cannot tolerate CPAP therapy
  
• Experience daytime fatigue or morning headaches
  
• Grind your teeth at night or have jaw tension during sleep
  

A qualified dental sleep medicine expert can screen for OSA, snoring and sleep-related bruxism; complete a comprehensive dental sleep medicine exam; and discuss treatment options with you.

At Naperville Dental Specialists, sleep apnea care is led by Dr. Michelson-Spencer, DMD.

Dr. Spencer is a Naperville native who completed a mastery fellowship in oral sleep apnea through the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, a distinction that reflects advanced training and a commitment to evidence-based care.

Her background also includes years of orthodontic research focused on craniofacial development. This gives her deep insight into how jaw position and airway anatomy affect sleep.

As a trusted sleep apnea dentist in Naperville, Dr. Spencer provides personalized, non-invasive solutions designed to help patients sleep better and live healthier.

While snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are the primary focus, dental sleep medicine often intersects with other conditions, including:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
  
• Dry mouth or excessive salivation
  
• Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
• Sleep-related reflux
  

Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine are uniquely positioned to identify oral signs of sleep disorders during routine exams. This is an important advantage, since many people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed.

A sleep apnea dentist is a key part of modern sleep apnea care. They offer non-surgical, oral treatment options through custom dental appliances.

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, working with a qualified sleep apnea dentist can be a powerful step toward better sleep and better health.

Ready to Explore Dental Sleep Medicine? Connect With a Sleep Apnea Dentist in Naperville! 

If you’ve searching “sleep apnea dentist near me” or you want to learn more about oral appliance therapy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nicolette Michelson-Spencer at Naperville Dental Specialists.

Better sleep starts with better breathing—and it might begin at the dentist’s office.

If you’ve been paying attention to health trends lately, you’ve probably heard of probiotics (those “good” bacteria that help keep your gut healthy). But did you know there are also oral probiotics designed specifically for your mouth?

Dental probiotics are gaining popularity as people look for natural ways to improve oral health, freshen breath, and even prevent cavities. But are they actually effective, or just another wellness fad?

Let’s take a closer look at what the research says and what our Naperville dentists recommend.

What Are Oral Probiotics?

Just like probiotics for your gut, dental probiotics (or oral probiotics) are live, beneficial bacteria meant to balance the microbial environment, only this time, inside your mouth.

Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria. Some are helpful, while others contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. When the balance of bacteria gets thrown off—usually due to poor hygiene, diet, or antibiotics—harmful bacteria can take over.

Dental probiotics aim to restore a healthy balance by reintroducing beneficial bacteria that will crowd out the bad guys. This supports healthier gums, teeth, and breath.

How Dental Probiotics Work

When you take oral probiotics, either as lozenges, tablets, or even in probiotic-enhanced foods like yogurt or cheese, they temporarily colonize the surfaces of your mouth (i.e., your tongue, gums, and teeth).

These helpful bacteria can:

• Reduce levels of cavity-causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans
• Support gum health by decreasing inflammation
• Neutralize odor-causing bacteria that lead to bad breath
• Strengthen your oral immune response

Think of it as encouraging a community of “good neighbors” to move in. The more space they take up, the less room there is for the bacterial bad apples.

What the Research Says

While dental probiotics are still being studied, several clinical trials show encouraging results. Potential benefits include:

1. Fewer Cavity-Causing Bacteria
   Studies suggest that consuming probiotic products containing Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium may help reduce the number of S. mutans bacteria in saliva, which is one of the main culprits behind cavities.¹
   For example, research found that children who consumed probiotic curd daily had lower levels of S. mutans compared to those who didn’t.² Other studies showed that probiotic milk or cheese containing Lactobacillus casei also reduced the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth.¹
   That said, scientists note that fewer bacteria in saliva doesn’t automatically mean fewer cavities, but it’s a promising sign.
2. Improved Gum Health
   Gum inflammation and bleeding are common signs of gingivitis, or early periodontal disease. Some studies show that Lactobacillus reuteri probiotics can help reduce gum bleeding, plaque buildup, and pocket depth when used alongside regular brushing and flossing.³
   In fact, probiotic therapy may help regulate your immune response and decrease harmful inflammation, especially when combined with professional cleanings.⁵
3. Better Breath
   Bad breath (halitosis) often comes from odor-producing bacteria on the tongue or gums. Clinical trials involving Weissella cibaria probiotics showed improvements in both self-reported breath freshness and overall oral quality of life after just a few weeks of use.⁴
   These probiotics appear to neutralize sulfur compounds that cause odor, making your breath smell fresher naturally.
4. Support for Dental Implants and Oral Healing
   Early studies suggest that multispecies probiotics might help reduce inflammation around dental implants and support healing after cleanings or periodontal therapy.⁶
   While the evidence is still limited, researchers believe the anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting effects of probiotics could make them a useful adjunct to care.

Are Dental Probiotics Right for You?

If you have:

• frequent bad breath;
• mild gum inflammation;
• a history of cavities; or
• you’re recovering from dental treatment

…probiotics could be a simple way to support your oral microbiome between checkups.

However, they’re not a replacement for brushing, flossing, or regular dental visits. At best, probiotics are a complement to your daily routine…not a cure-all.

When to See a Dentist Instead

If you’re experiencing persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, tooth pain, or sensitivity, it’s important to visit your dentist. These symptoms often point to an underlying issue, such as gum disease or decay, that requires professional treatment.

At Naperville Dental Specialists, we can treat the cause of your oral health issues, help identify whether oral probiotics are right for you, and create a customized plan to strengthen your smile.

Bottom Line on Dental Probiotics: What Our Experts Think

The science behind dental probiotics is promising, but still evolving. Current studies suggest oral probiotics can help reduce bad bacteria and inflammation, freshen breath, and support gum health, especially when paired with good oral hygiene.

If you’re curious about trying them, look for strains like:

• Lactobacillus reuteri
• Lactobacillus casei
• Bifidobacterium lactis
• Weissella cibaria

And choose high-quality products specifically labeled as oral probiotics—not just general digestive ones.

Expert Care in Naperville

At Naperville Dental Specialists, our general dentists and specialists stay up to date on the latest research and technology to give our patients the best possible care, from preventive cleanings to advanced cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

If you’re wondering whether dental probiotics can benefit your smile, schedule a consultation today. We’ll provide personalized guidance to put you on the path to exceptional oral health.

Sources:

1. Inchingolo F., Inchingolo A. M., Malcangi G., et al. (2023). The benefits of probiotics on oral health: Systematic review of the literature. Pharmaceuticals, 16(9), 1313. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16091313
2. Megha, S., Shalini, G., Varsha, S. A., Abhishek, D., & Neetu, J. (2019). Effect of short-term placebo-controlled consumption of probiotic yoghurt and Indian curd on the Streptococcus mutans level in children undergoing fixed interceptive orthodontic therapy. Turkish Journal of Orthodontics, 32(1), 16–21. https://doi.org/10.5152/TurkJOrthod.2019.18016
3. Ochôa, C., Castro, F., Bulhosa, J. F., Manso, C., Fernandes, J. C. H., & Fernandes, G. V. O. (2023). Influence of the probiotic L. reuteri on periodontal clinical parameters after nonsurgical treatment: A systematic review. Microorganisms, 11(6), 1449. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11061449
4. Han H. S., Choi J., et al. (2023). Improvement of halitosis by probiotic bacterium Weissella cibaria CMU: Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Frontiers in Microbiology, 14, 1108762. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1108762
5. Kang M. S., Lee D. S., Lee S. A., Kim M. S., Nam S. H. (2020). Effects of probiotic bacterium Weissella cibaria CMU on periodontal health and microbiota: A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial. BMC Oral Health, 20, 243. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-020-01231-2
6. Galofré M., Palao D., Vicario M., Nart J., & Violant D. (2018). Clinical and microbiological evaluation of the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri in the treatment of mucositis and peri-implantitis: A triple-blind randomized clinical trial. Journal of Periodontal Research, 53(3), 378–390. https://doi.org/10.1111/jre.12523

If you want a full-on smile makeover, you might be considering porcelain veneers. But we get it, the idea of an irreversible procedure that involves removing natural tooth enamel can be intimidating for some patients.

That’s where no-prep veneers come in. At Naperville Dental Specialists, Dr. Irene Jovicic offers this minimally invasive traditional porcelain veneers alternative. The cosmetic dental solution can give you a beautiful, natural-looking smile with little to no impact on your natural teeth.

All About Non-Invasive Veneers

What Are No-Prep Veneers?

First things first, what are no-prep veneers? They’re thin, custom-made porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to mask visible cosmetic imperfections like discoloration, chips, and gaps.

While your cosmetic dentist has to remove a little bit of enamel to fit traditional veneers, with no-prep veneers, there’s no drilling, no numbing, and minimal enamel removal. Since the restorations are thinner, they can be bonded directly to your teeth.

9 Benefits of No-Prep Veneers

If you’ve been looking for a traditional porcelain veneers alternative, here are some compelling reasons to consider no-prep veneers:

1. Preserves Your Natural Teeth

Normally, veneer prep involves removing natural enamel to ensure the final porcelain veneer fit. As the name suggests, no-prep veneers are, well, no prep. This means you can get veneers without shaving teeth. Your underlying enamel will remain healthy and strong!

2. Minimally Invasive, Maximally Effective

Because little to no healthy enamel needs to be removed for no-prep veneers, there’s no numbing, no needles, and no discomfort involved. The procedure is stress-free even for patients with dental anxiety.

That said, non-invasive veneers don’t mean ineffective. Dr. Jovicic is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has advanced training in esthetic smile design. She taps into her expertise to help you achieve a whiter, brighter, more even smile with prepless veneers.

3. No Need for Temporaries

With little to no tooth preparation needed, your teeth will remain intact and functional while your custom veneers are being made. You won’t have to wear temporary veneers and worry about one popping off and revealing a shaved tooth underneath.

4. Largely Reversible

Though traditional porcelain veneers are irreversible, no-prep veneers are not. If you decide you no longer want to have veneers, we can remove them without causing damage to your natural teeth. In fact, your smile will look like it did before the procedure.

5. Natural-Looking Results

Dr. Jovicic combines her artistic eye with advanced digital technology to design veneers that match your teeth, bite, and facial features perfectly. She partners with the best ceramicists in the country and selects the right ceramicist for each individual case to achieve the best possible results.

This careful craftsmanship ensures each veneer has the right shape, color, translucency, and texture, so your smile looks completely natural.

6. Long-Lasting Investment

How long do no-prep veneers last? With proper care, your no-prep veneers can last 15 years or more. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we use top-quality materials and state-of-the-art treatment planning technology to craft veneers that are as durable as they are beautiful.

7. Fixes Multiple Cosmetic Concerns at Once

Just like conventional veneers, no-prep veneers can address multiple cosmetic concerns with a single procedure. They can mask:

• Stains and discoloration
• Chips and cracks
• Mild misalignment and small gaps
• Worn enamel
• Pitting and other surface defects

8. Faster Process

Getting veneers without shaving teeth eliminates a number of steps in the traditional veneer process. This allows you to see your new smile sooner and with fewer appointments.

Here’s how the no-prep veneers procedure works:

1. Consultation & Smile Design
   At your initial consultation, Dr. Jovicic will evaluate your oral health and chat with you about your smile goals. A team member will take a digital scan of your teeth.Then, if you’re a candidate for no-prep veneers, Dr. Jovicic will perform a custom in-mouth trial smile design mock-up. You’ll be able to see the outcome before you start treatment.
2. Customization & Craftsmanship
   As we noted above, Dr. Jovicic works with the top ceramicists in the United States. She’ll partner with the ideal ceramicist for your case to handcraft your veneers to perfection. Your veneers will even be hand-glazed to mimic the translucency and detail of natural enamel.
3. Final Placement
   When your prepless porcelain veneers are ready, Dr. Jovicic will bond them to your teeth. And that’s it! You’ll leave our office with a straight, gorgeous, radiant smile.

9. You Can Preview Your Future Smile

Don’t just Google “no-prep veneers near me” and go with the first provider. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we prioritize your vision. During your complimentary smile design consultation, Dr. Jovicic will utilize digital technology and cutting-edge techniques to provide a custom in-mouth trial smile design mock-up.

You’ll see a preview of your future smile before any work begins. This eliminates the guesswork and ensures you’ll be completely satisfied with the results.

How Much Do No-Prep Veneers Cost?

Ahh, the million-dollar question: how much do no prep-veneers cost? The final number will depend on your specific needs and treatment plan. At your complimentary consultation, we’ll provide an outline of all fees upfront so there are no surprises.

To make the no-prep veneers cost even more manageable, take advantage of our flexible financing options.

Experience the Undetectable Artistry of No-Prep Veneers in Naperville

Patients from all over the country visit our practice for custom, no-prep veneers in Naperville. Want to see what all of the fuss is about?

Book a complimentary smile design consultation with Dr. Irene Jovicic today and take the first step toward the flawless smile you’ve always dreamed of – without the drilling.