I’m wondering if teeth whitening swabs are okay to use on my daughter’s teeth. If so, could one of your pediatric dentists give me a recommendation on which brand to use? I would like to use them over the summer to remove at least some of the stains. Her teeth are really yellow despite good hygiene at home. She was teased so much near the end of the school year. I promised her that we will do something about it before she returns to school in September because it will be her first year of middle school and that transition alone is enough without being teased. We searched online and found some swabs at a reasonable price. Will they get stubborn stains out of her teeth? – Lilly
Lilly,
Before you whiten your daughter’s teeth, you need the professional opinion of a pediatric dentist.
Why See a Pediatric Dentist before Using Teeth Whitening?
There are several benefits of doing so:
- Determine the cause of the stains in her teeth
- Examine her teeth and gums to ensure they are free of disease and decay
- Anticipate the results of whitening them. Sometimes bleaching gel can make stains look worse.
- Provide the correct type of whitening
Depending on the type and concentration of bleaching gel in the whitening swabs, they may or may not be effective. Swabs are not as effective as customized trays, which keep bleaching gel in contact with the teeth for even, thorough penetration that breaks down stains.
When you look at online reviews for whitening swabs, some people report good results, but the majority of users are disappointed with the results. Ask your child’s pediatric dentist to examine your daughter’s teeth and recommend treatment to improve the color of them.
This post is sponsored by Naperville Dental Specialists.
I’ve been following a story in the news and am worried about the safety of some dental implants. The story involves a dentist from San Diego who just got four years in jail for doing the work incorrectly and injuring a woman. It seems like every time I watch the news, there’s new information to be worried about. I don’t know if I will go forward with treatment, but I have to wonder, how is it possible for an average person to know that their dental implants will be safe?
-Joseph
Dear Joseph,
It sounds like you’re referencing the Robert Mansueto case. Indeed, this is a heartbreaking case. While a victim of a crime suffers, there were some major red flags that should have been observed.
- The first red flag here is that the “dentist” in question was meeting patients at his house. That’s certainly not a sign of professionalism. Patients should meet their dentist at the office—not at his or her home.
- The biggest red flag, however, was that the “dentist” convinced people to leave the country with him. Mansueto drove at least one woman across the border into Tijuana to perform the surgery. Every reputable dental agency in the United States cautions against leaving the country. There is never a good reason for doing so, and it’s unthinkable that any professional would consider incorporating this into the patient’s treatment plan.
How to Stay Safe with Dental Implants
- Check Credentials. The man involved in this story was not a licensed dentist. Although he was formerly a dentist, he lost his license a decade ago. There’s actually a great online tool to check licensure, and it even notes if the professional has been disciplined. Many states also have their own lists.
- Choose a Specialist: Although many dentists are legally able to provide patients with dental implants, a prosthodontist has extensive training and generally has more experience than others. This has a significant impact on the overall success of the procedure.
- See Examples: Find out if the dentist has a smile gallery or other ways to view examples of his work. Don’t accept stock photos that are routinely used for educational purposes. You need to be able to see what the dentist has actually accomplished.
- Watch for Red Flags: You shouldn’t meet anyone claiming to be a doctor or dentist at his home. You should only get treatment in a dental office. Ideally, with a procedure as sensitive as dental implants, you’ll want a local dentist whom you can visit with ease in case complications arise.
This blog is sponsored by Naperville dental implants provider Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I have a question about pediatric dentistry. Although I’m not a parent, I am an elementary school teacher and just finished up my first year at a new school. The other teachers and I all got together for a last hurrah after the last day of class and somehow we got on the topic of the children’s teeth and why every pediatric dentist seems to prefer silver when doing crowns for kids. One suggested that it might be different in other parts of the state or country because a lot of our kids come from low-income homes. However, I’ve also seen kids who come from higher-income households with mouths full of silver, and I think there must be some other logical reason for it. Still, it’s odd because adults always get the white ones, right?
Thank you,
Ms. Smith
Dear Ms. Smith,
This is a great question. Before we get into the logic of silver fillings it’s important to note that kids from any type of household can get tooth decay. Tooth decay is linked to oral hygiene, preventative care, diet, and habits the child has or had, such as taking a cup or bottle of juice or soda to bed. Moreover, some children are genetically predisposed to tooth decay.
There are also factors such as socioeconomical status and race which are linked with lower rates of preventative care, like cleanings and sealants. These children are also less likely to have tooth decay treated, which means by the time they see a pediatric dentist, the only option is a crown (possibly with a specialized root canal called a pulpotomy) or an extraction. So, then, it’s no surprise that if many of the students in your school come from low-income families and/or are minorities, they would likely have more dental issues.
There are organizations that help low-income families, and many states offer free dental coverage to children. Many parents are quite loving and dedicated, but they could be unaware of the options for getting dental care.
Why Do Pediatric Dentists Use Silver Crowns?
- The cost. Baby teeth need to remain in place until the adult teeth erupt, so restoring them is preferred over extracting them. Stainless-steel crowns are less expensive than the tooth-colored crowns adults usually get. They come in premade shapes, so they can be placed inexpensively.
- It reduces the number of visits. Many small children need anesthesia for dental work or are prone to wiggling, so limiting the number of visits is important. Because the crowns are premade, they can be placed in one visit.
- Stainless steel is effective. When too much tooth structure is lost, a filling won’t preserve the tooth. It needs full coverage, which the stainless-steel crown provides.
- It can protect the tooth longer. A crown can help prevent the tooth from further decay and repairs. It also helps protect it from sensitivity.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends stainless-steel crowns. For all these reasons, and more, the AAP recommends stainless steel. Doctors who use these crowns are following the recommendation.
This blog is sponsored by Naperville Dental Specialists.
My 9 yr old son sees our pediatric dentist every 6 months for checkups. In April, the dentist insisted that my son get sealants for his teeth. The dentist said that they give kids nitrous for the procedure, although I thought it wasn’t necessary because my son loves going to the dentist. I had to pay out of pocket for the nitrous because my insurance doesn’t cover it. Now the dentist says my son needs 3 of the 8 sealants replaced because they came off. She says that my son must have been eating something sticky like candied apples or taffy for the sealants to come out. My son has never eaten candied apples or taffy. My kids are only allowed to have sweets on the weekend, and I bake them. The dentist’s office expects me to pay for the new sealants. I didn’t ask, but I suppose they are going to insist on using nitrous again. I feel like finding another pediatric dentist, but I am wondering if there is a certain way I should handle this. What do you suggest? – Teri
Teri – Your son’s pediatric dentist likely used sealants because they are very effective in preventing tooth decay. Children in your son’s age range are usually able to brush and floss on their own, but they often miss brushing in deep crevices. Dentists recommend sealants to protect permanent teeth from decay.
When a pediatric dentist properly applies sealants, they can last ten years or more. If your son’s sealants have fallen out already, there might be a problem with the way they were placed. You have already mentioned that you don’t allow your children to eat sweet, sticky foods, so that issue isn’t the cause of the issue.
Options for Replacing Dental Sealants from the Pediatric Dentist
- We recommend that you speak with the office manager at your son’s pediatric dentist and ask if the sealants can be replaced at no charge.
- You can also request that the sealants be replaced without sedating your son with nitrous oxide, given your son’s good track record of cooperation with the dentist. If the office manager seems unwilling to honor your request, you can ask to speak directly to the dentist.
- As a last resort, consider getting a second opinion from another pediatric dentist.
This post is sponsored by the pediatric dentists at Naperville Dental Specialists.
I’m wondering if it’s too late for dental implants to help my facial sagging. I’ve had dentures since I was 49 years old and I just turned 61 last week. The bags on my face from dentures are finally catching up with me. Other than cosmetic surgery, what are some ways that people with dentures can at least soften their wrinkles? Is it too late for dental implants?
Madge – After years of wearing dentures, facial sagging results from jawbone shrinkage. When all of your teeth are missing, the bone that once supported the teeth is resorbed and used elsewhere in the body. The jawbone is no longer available to support facial muscles, so sagging and shrinking result. Although cosmetic surgery may tighten facial tissue, jawbone shrinkage can continue and additional wrinkles or sagging can occur. Dental implants can help.
How Dental Implants Can Help with Facial Sagging
Bone grafting – If you don’t have enough jawbone density to support your facial muscles, you probably lack the density to support dental implants. But it’s not too late for dental implants. The good news is that jawbone can be built up through bone grafting. After the grafts heal, dental implants can be placed, and jawbone shrinkage can be prevented or interrupted.
Support for your dentures and facial muscles – Your dentures will be attached to the dental implants. Your facial muscles will have support, and the process will rejuvenate your face and help you look longer.
Healthier than cosmetic surgery – Dental implants stimulate jawbone growth. Cosmetic surgery doesn’t. When all of your teeth are missing, dental implants and bone grafting support your oral health, while cosmetic surgery only lifts your facial muscles and improves your facial appearance. Without dental implants, your bone will continue to shrink, and additional cosmetic treatment might be needed in the future.
Before you receive any treatment, diagnostic studies are needed to determine how much jawbone shrinkage has occurred and the best way to address it. The process will take several months, but you’ll have better oral health, and it will enhance your facial appearance.
This post is sponsored by board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
Our pediatric dentist says that my 4 yr old daughter’s teeth grinding is normal for her age. I’m wondering if I need to transfer my daughter to a new pediatric dentist who might know a little more. The dentist said that he will watch our daughter’s teeth to make sure she isn’t wearing them down. Other than that it’s a habit that she will grow out of. I’m very concerned about this. What if she doesn’t grow out of it? What do we do then? If intervention is needed, I want to know about it ASAP. Should I find another pediatric dentist for a second opinion to take a look at her teeth or is our pediatric dentist right? Alejandra
Alejandra – Your pediatric dentist is correct, but for peace of mind, if you want to schedule an appointment with another dentist for a second opinion, you should do so.
Consider a few facts about teeth grinding during childhood:
- Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is common.
- It’s most common during cycles of sleep—most frequently during non-Rapid-Eye-Movement (REM) sleep.
- The habit usually starts after a child is one year old.
- Sometimes the habit goes unnoticed by parents because it occurs mostly during sleep.
- Stress can be another cause of teeth grinding.
- Allergies, certain prescription medication, and sleep apnea can cause the habit.
If in addition to grinding her teeth, your daughter snores or breathes through her mouth, the issue might be related to sleep apnea. If you suspect that sleep apnea might be an issue, speak with your family doctor or pediatrician.
Usually, the teeth grinding habit is temporary and children grow out of it. If your daughter’s teeth grinding habit is accompanied by headaches, neck pain, earaches, or facial pain, it might be a cause for concern. Although she might not tell you that she has certain types of pain, watch closely to see if she is holding her face, jaw, or neck. It’s good that your pediatric dentist will periodically check your daughter’s teeth for signs of excessive wear. If the problem persists and it’s affecting the health of your child’s teeth, a mouth guard to wear at night might be recommended.
Along with your pediatric dentist, keep watch on your daughter’s teeth grinding habit and the condition of her teeth. It will help you and your dentist make decisions on the best way to handle the issue.
This post is sponsored by Dr. Anthony LaVacca and the pediatric dentists at Naperville Dental Specialists.
I have 4 upper teeth and 3 bottom teeth left. I don’t want dentures. Everyone that I know who wears dentures hates them. Plus they look bad. The teeth look like white plastic and the gums look like dark plastic. It is interesting to me that as long as dentures have been around that they still look unsightly. I’ve been looking into alternatives to dentures that might look more natural. Can I get a snap on smile instead? I think it will look better than false teeth. – Ephraim
Ephraim – Dentures vary in quality. The prosthesis you have described are likely budget dentures. They are the least expensive and least natural-looking dentures available. But for people with a limited budget, this is an option that is better than having all of your teeth missing. It enables people to chew and to smile with more confidence than having no teeth at all.
Dentures vs. Snap-On Smile
There are several characteristics of a Snap-On Smile that make it an unsuitable alternative to dentures:
- It is designed to snap over your natural teeth, and your teeth keep it in place. If all, or most, of your teeth are missing, the appliance will easily dislodge.
- It is temporary. If you wear it daily, it will wear out very quickly and need to be replaced.
- Without the support of your natural teeth beneath the Snap-On Smile, you will have difficulty chewing. And as we mentioned, it will be almost impossible to keep it in your mouth.
Cosmetic Dentures
You can get comfortable cosmetic dentures that are made of high-quality materials and look natural. A prosthodontist will provide you with customized dentures that fit well. They will look much better than a Snap-On Smile.
A prosthodontist has at least two years of post-dental school training in replacing and restoring teeth. You will be included in the process of designing dentures that like your natural smile. They will compliment your facial features and be an expression of your personality.
If it’s within your budget, you can consider securing your dentures with dental implants. The implants will prevent your dentures for from slipping. Implant overdentures may fit over the remaining natural teeth that you have left, if the teeth are healthy.
Request a consultation with a prosthodontist to learn about cosmetic dentures and your options for stabilizing them.
This post is sponsored by award-winning prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca of Naperville.
Dave McGee
17:12 01 Apr 20
On starting to experience a tooth pain in the last 24-36 hours I called NDS as a brand new patient today. With everything going on in terms of social distancing and stay-at-home, they were very efficient and quick in responding to my query. They prioritized it and began work to book an emergency appointment immediately. Very happy with Dr. Lavacci and the team. Highly recommended.
Freeman Smith
14:13 08 Feb 20
From the warm greeting to the warm neck wrap. Being respectful of my time and seeing me exactly at my appointment scheduled with a detailed and efficient exam and cleaning. I can’t say enjoy going to the dentist but I can say I don’t Hate anymore
Zachary Bowers
15:21 07 Feb 20
I had a fantastic first visit yesterday. My hygienist Kelley was very thorough and gentle. The office is quite nice- relaxing and inviting. I'm going to bring the whole family over.
Robert Stanley
12:13 27 Jan 20
Saturday visit was for a routine cleaning. What made it special was not so much the cleaning but the care in which Becky the hygienist did her job. Not only was she sensitive to my dislike of the “plaque removal tool” as she did the job with the upmost care but the friendly atmosphere she maintains during the visit. With a friendly approach, Dr. Dustin came in at the end to check things out. We chatted about the cleaning which revealed no issues. But what was most striking was his welcoming approach and genuine dialogue about his work as a dentist and the care for each patient. Together, they both have a unique way of making you almost feel like, you are not at the dentist! Overall, I rate this place as A#1 in the areas for dental care.
Denise Garcia
02:43 24 Jan 20
We have the best dentist and orthodontist! I have sung their praises many times on social media but today they went above and beyond!My 12 yr old son knocked one of his permanent teeth out this afternoon while playing with his younger brothers. The dentist’s office was closed but that didn’t stop Dr Anthony LaVacca . Dr Anthony LaVacca and his wonderful assistant Kelly met my husband and scared son after hours this evening to see what they could do to save the tooth. I cannot say enough about Dr LaVacca, Dr Ibrahim and their team at Naperville Dental Partners! They are truly the best!
Marna Haas
04:10 23 Jan 20
Had a follow up from getting the All on 4 dental implants in September. Brandy and Gina were awesome today. They were so kind, knowledgeable and efficient. If you are looking for a great dental experience Dr. LaVacca and staff are the best.
Tracie shelton
02:57 12 Jan 20
Dr. Irene is absolutely the best! Everyone hates going to the dentist, but she makes a point to connect with her patients and puts them at ease. Our entire family loves Dr. Irene!
Patricia Rosenmann
12:51 05 Dec 19
Excellent experience. Dentist hygienist are very thorough. This is the first time hygienist was running 15 minutes late. Typically they are on time. I will suggest improving check out since you have to wait over 10 minutes to pay and check out . Dentist hygienist are very courteous, gentle and attentive.
Karen Treverton
22:32 21 Nov 19
Poor. I Had a cap reglued. Took five minutes. Was billed over $200. I thought they were in my network, but it wasn’t covered. I sent two letters showing them why I thought they were in network and received no response. All I get is past due notices. I expect I’ll have to pay but was hoping I’d get the courtesy of a response. Bad customer service.
rich cremona
12:00 12 Oct 19
Great experience...Dental Hygienist Celina and Dr. Dustin were both fantastic...THANK YOU....Rich Cremona
Carrie Siddens
15:59 25 Sep 19
I had my cleaning yesterday and have never had such a good hygienist! Her name was Julie and I feel cleaner, whiter, and not a spot of plaque. Thank you, NDS!
DERA
21:10 22 Sep 19
I had my first appointment last week. There was a new dental hygienist that tried to do x rays and after about 30 min she had to call a more experienced worker to do that. She seemed really with no much of experience.The doctor was very careful and helpful, explained to me all treatment plan - how it will work and what should be done.
Judy Hughes
08:32 20 Sep 19
Went in today to have my teeth cleaned. My hygienist was Taryn. She always does an excellent job. The entire staff is professional and friendly. I have recommended many people to the office.
Xiao Yin
17:28 19 Sep 19
Only if I could, I would give -5 start to this place. I went to dental group had my x-ray done, and I have one fillings need to be done. On the way home, I saw this Naperville dental specialist, so make an appointment to get second opinion. One of the doctor there said I have 5 fillings need to be done, since they called themselves specialist, I trust them. Had my first fillings done on June 12, went back 2 weeks later to treat pain from fillings, and went to back 3 later again to treat pain from fillings again, then went to back 2 weeks later to treat pain from fillings again. Finally one of the doctor said I need to redone my fillings. I made an appointment went back redone my fillings 3 weeks later. And told I may have pain for awhile. I waited for a month the pain still didn’t go away. Now, after 4 months, I pain worsened. Called again to speak to a manager, only heard that managers are busy, nobody call back. I went to different doctor office, whi
Todd Walker
16:22 15 Aug 19
Innovative Dental Specialists have performed a wonderful job with our three kids since moving from St. Louis a year ago. Especially with our teenager who had to have four teeth extracted for over-crowding issues. He said he felt fine during the whole procedure (lasted about 45 mins and used laughing gas) and really felt no pain afterwards. Way to go Innovative!
Jesse McDonald
13:43 12 Aug 19
Overall a very good experience with my first appointment here. The hygienist did a fantastic job. I had to wait quite a while for the dentist to attend to me, so hopefully that is not typical here. But he was friendly and attentive to my needs. I also had to wait several minutes for the receptionist to schedule my follow up appointment. Not sure what else she was working on, but this length of wait should never happen at reception. Again, hopefully these things are not going to happen regularly. But overall, the most important part of the experience was my checkup from the hygienist, which was great.
Rizz Mo
02:19 27 Jun 19
Five-Shining Stars! I am amazed by this facility. The ambience feels like home. Well decorated, neat and welcoming. The staff are very friendly amd professional. They are highly equipped with contemporary technology. They treat their patients very special and with respect. I would highly recommend this dentistry!
Josh Lauer
21:52 10 Jun 19
I couldn't be more pleased with the service I've received from Naperville Dental Specialists! I've had the honor of being a patient of Dr. Anthony LaVacca. When he hasn't been available, I have had other doctors on staff instead. I have found that there is a cohesiveness is their recommendations and that they all know a lot. During my last visit, I had the best assistant ever during my 4-hour procedure - Becca! I highly recommend going to NDS for your dental needs (they even have pediatric dentistry!).
Katie Root
17:45 10 Jun 19
I waited 20 minutes in the waiting room. I have never had to wait more than 5 minutes before. Also, as nice as she was, there was a new dental hygienist that poked and prodded my mouth with the piece to hold it open for x rays. She had to call a more experienced worker in to retake three of the photos. It took over 30 minutes just for the x rays. The lavender pillow was not as nice as I remember it. I don't know what happened. It seems like someone new is running the office / establishment. On the positive side, all of the staff was friendly, but I seriously am thinking of changing dentist's if my next visit is as unpleasant as this one.
Linda Holquist
14:15 26 Apr 19
I came to Naperville Dental Specialists due to my dentist and insurance company causing issues for me AND a tooth that needed immediate attention. Angie was so helpful and dealt with all of my financial needs-insurance and individual. Dr. John was very thorough in his examination and explanation of my needs. After my agreement and paper signing the procedure took very little time and very little pain. I am so happy with the full procedure that I have now moved all of my dental needs to this facility. After only one visit, the employees were so very friendly and helpful, that I highly recommend Naperville Dental Specialists.
Merrilyn Schultz
13:50 12 Apr 19
I have only good things to say about Naperville Dental Specialists. I’ve been going there for over 2 years and have never had a bad experience. Dr Lydia is the best! I’m especially impressed with how efficient everyone is including my hygienist, Lauren, and the processing of my dental insurance.
Nitin Arora
14:52 10 Apr 19
I loved the experience in my first visit. The ambience is great, the setup is more friendly rather than being treated in dark walled cubicles. The staff ia very friends and the place has one of the most advanced gadgets you can find.
Andy Pham
17:15 14 Mar 19
I thought that it was a pretty awesome experience. The office is beautiful! The service was great. I didn't get any work done; it was a consultation. But it was really nice.
Barbara Wong
01:53 07 Mar 19
Everyone is so helpful and professional. Dr. Irene is amazing! Becky, my hygienist, is super friendly & caring! Wish I would have started seeing this team sooner than I did.
Patrick Sheehy
19:45 04 Jun 18
The most thorough cleaning and check up I’ve ever had with the most advanced equipment. The staff was very friendly and let me decide on my terms what I wanted to have treated after they advised me as to what I needed and what the priorities should be. Highly recommend them!
jessica camerino
05:05 02 Jun 18
I finally found a dental office that I felt totally comfortable at with no anxiety! I was told exactly what was going to be done before it was preformed! The staff was so nice and welcoming! I'm so glad I've found a dentist near me that I can continue to go to!
Brittany McCloud
15:48 20 Apr 18
I've always gone to the same dentist office since I was a kid. I'm not in my late 20s and moved to a new state. I didn't want to have to find a new dentist since I was so comfortable with my previous one. I'm very happy that I found NDS. They have been very kind and friendly. When the decision to pull my wisdom teeth came up at my cleaning, the dentist assured me it would be an easy process and recommended the nitrous oxide option. I was so nervous, but I'm glad I went with that option as opposed to being put under. Saved me some money in the end.
DMR Virtual 630-479-8944 David
14:15 30 Mar 18
most pleasant and professional dental practice you will ever encounter
William Ross
22:15 21 Feb 18
Naperville Dental Specialists is a great facility! The staff is very friendly and professional. The waiting area is nice and comfortable, even my kids like going here because they have a lot of fun things to play with. The service is great and so is Dr. Irene. I can't speak for any of the other dentists but I'm sure they are all very good as well. I definitely recommend them to anyone!
Richard Ketchum
20:10 18 Jan 18
Naperville Dental Specialists had been recommended to me by several friends over the past 2 years. I finally got it together enough to make an appointment and go in. I was taken within 5 minutes of my appointed time. I spent some two hours in the chair receiving an array of diagnostics that I had never experienced in my very frequent previous trips to multiple dentists. In fact, the tools used were more advanced than any I have seen before. All of the results were immediately entered into their computer system. Despite being surrounded by the latest in dental technology, the people who operated it were extremely personable and open to explaining what they were doing. When my diagnostics were completed and the course of treatment was determined, I was sat down with one of their office staff who discussed the costs of the treatment and nature of my insurance coverage therefor. The lady I dealt with was very patient and precise in her explanations of what I was to expect. All in all, it could easily be described as the most impressive dental outing I have ever experienced.
