April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and at Naperville Dental Specialists, we’re using this opportunity to answer a critical question: how valid are dentist checks for oral cancer?
This is an important topic because, according to the Oral Cancer Foundation, oral cancer is responsible for over 12,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone. The good news? Routine dental visits can be a powerful tool for detecting oral cancer in its earliest stages when it’s still highly treatable.
Do Dentists Check for Oral Cancer?
Yes, many dentists do check for oral cancer. If your dentist doesn’t offer the service, you should find a dental practice like Naperville Dental Specialists that has the training and tools to provide optional oral cancer screenings.
While there is no national protocol, most dentists perform an 8-step oral cancer screening that involves looking at the lips, tongue, gums, floor and roof of the mouth, and inside of the cheeks, as well as palpating the head, jaw, and neck.
Both dentists and dental hygienists are trained to identify abnormalities such as red or white patches, lesions or swelling that could be a sign of cancer or another oral disease.
Can a Dentist Diagnose Oral Cancer?
Patients are sometimes curious about whether a dentist can diagnose mouth cancer. The answer is, not exactly. A general dentist’s role is discovery. If they find something suspicious, they’ll perform a biopsy or refer you to an oral surgeon for a biopsy and diagnosis. So while a dentist screening for oral cancer won’t confirm the presence of cancer, it plays a vital role in early detection.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, we have general dentists and specialists, including a board-certified oral surgeon, under one roof. This means you won’t need to be referred out for a biopsy and diagnosis. Instead, we can perform the biopsy at our practice and send it to the lab where a pathologist will examine the tissue under a microscope. Of course, we let you know the results as soon as we receive them.
How Valid are Dentist Checks for Oral Cancer According to Research?
Very valid! While there’s no way to accurately diagnose oral cancer with a visual exam alone, oral cancer screenings can save lives through early detection. The Oral Cancer Foundation states that because oral cancer is often found late, only 57% of those diagnosed survive beyond five years. However, when identified in its early stages, there’s an 80 to 90% survival rate. That’s a huge difference and really makes the case for proactive screening.
A large, cluster-randomized controlled trial in Kerala, India, where oral cancer rates are among the highest in the world, showed that subjects who underwent routine oral cancer screenings had cancers diagnosed at earlier stages and significantly higher 5-year survival rates compared to those who were not screened. High-risk individuals who were screened also had a notably lower oral cancer mortality rate (Sankaranarayanan et al., 2005).
This study relied only on visual and palpation screening, which highlights how impactful even standard dentist checks can be when done regularly and thoroughly.
Is an Oral Cancer Screening at the Dentist Enough?
The challenge lies in what can’t be seen with the naked eye. Some dangerous lesions can mimic benign issues like a canker sore or irritation from a poor-fitting denture. A visual and tactile exam alone can sometimes lead to missed or delayed diagnoses.
That’s where technology like VELscope® comes in. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we go beyond the standard visual exam by offering VELscope oral cancer screenings.
This screening test for oral cancer uses blue-spectrum light to highlight abnormalities in soft tissue that are invisible in natural light. It does not emit radiation, is completely painless, and allows us to detect suspicious lesions earlier when treatment is most effective.
VELscope is an adjunctive tool, meaning it’s used alongside the comprehensive oral exam, not in place of it. It helps guide clinical judgment and determine whether an area needs monitoring, a biopsy or treatment.
If you have risk factors for oral cancer or you simply like to stay on top of your health, combining comprehensive oral exams, VELscope screenings, and monthly self-checks will significantly increase the odds of catching cancer early.
Who Should Be Screened for Oral Cancer?
Everyone. While tobacco use, alcohol consumption, HPV, sun exposure and a family history of cancer increase your risk, oral cancer can affect anyone. In fact, cases related to HPV are rising in younger populations who don’t fit traditional risk profiles.
Lumps, bumps or swelling in the mouth, jaw or neck
Changes in how your teeth fit together
While it’s easy to find a “Do I Have Mouth Cancer?” quiz online, if you have concerns or identify any of the signs above, you should schedule a dental visit. A professional evaluation is always best.
The Bottom Line
So, how valid are dentist checks for oral cancer? Very. When performed regularly and enhanced with tools like VELscope, oral cancer screenings are a powerful weapon against a disease that’s too often detected too late.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, we’re committed to providing advanced, comprehensive care, including oral cancer screenings. If it’s been a while since your last exam, now’s the perfect time to schedule one.
Contact us today to book an oral cancer screening in Naperville.
Sankaranarayanan R, Ramadas K, Thomas G, et al. Effect of screening on oral cancer mortality in Kerala, India: a cluster-randomised controlled trial. Lancet. 2005;365(9475):1927-1933. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(05)66658-5
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Why are my teeth see through?” You might be wondering if it’s something that just happens naturally as you get older or if it’s a sign of a dental problem.
Our expert Naperville dentists have answers. In this post, we’ll be exploring the causes of see-through teeth, how the issue can be prevented and the ways Naperville Dental Specialists can restore your smile’s radiance.
Tooth Structure: The Basics
To understand the reason behind transparent teeth, let’s first cover the basics of tooth structure. Each tooth consists of multiple layers, including the protective outer layer called enamel. Enamel, which is made up of minerals, gives teeth their strength and glossy appearance. While enamel naturally has some translucency, it usually appears opaque due to the underlying layers of dentin and pulp.
What Causes Teeth to Look See Through?
Transparent teeth are caused by enamel erosion. You might notice you can see through the bottom of the teeth and along the outer edges. This is because the underlying layer of dentin doesn’t reach all of the way to the edges of the teeth, so these areas are composed solely of enamel. As the enamel thins, it becomes translucent. If enamel loss spreads to the rest of the tooth, those sections will look yellowish or grayish, because there is dentin underneath that is now exposed.
So, what causes enamel erosion? Any of the following can contribute to enamel loss:
Acidic Foods and Drinks
Drinking a lot of acidic beverages, such as energy drinks, soda and coffee, and regularly eating acidic foods like citrus fruits and candy can wear down the enamel. The more frequently you have these types of foods and drinks, the more pronounced acid erosion will be.
Soda and sports drinks are especially harmful. Most soft drinks and sports beverages are high in sugar and they contain enamel-dissolving acids. Unfortunately, according to research, diet sodas are nearly as erosive as their sugar-filled counterparts.
Tooth Wear and Abrasion
Physical enamel erosion is another common culprit. Brushing the teeth with too much force or using a hard-bristle toothbrush or abrasive toothpaste will strip away the tooth’s surface.
Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), using your teeth as tools and habits like biting your fingernails or chewing on ice can have the same effect. While at first you’ll be able to see through the bottom of the teeth, eventually, these weakened spots can chip and stain from the continued force.
Medical Conditions
Conditions like heartburn and acid reflux and those that lead to frequent vomiting, such as bulimia and morning sickness, regularly expose the teeth to corrosive stomach acid. The enamel thins, causing transparency, as well as yellowing wherever dentin is exposed. Celiac disease may also result in see-through teeth because it can interfere with enamel formation while the teeth are developing.
Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel hypoplasia occurs when tooth development is interrupted and the enamel is very thin or, in some cases, non-existent. The condition can impact the primary teeth or permanent teeth. Because the teeth don’t have adequate enamel coverage, they’re vulnerable to erosion, transparency and decay.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, can be caused by medications, medical conditions, dehydration and more. Saliva is crucial for neutralizing acids in the mouth, remineralizing the teeth, washing away food and plaque and limiting bacteria. If dry mouth is chronic and you’re consistently not producing enough saliva, enamel loss and tooth decay will occur.
Diet High in Sugar and Starches
The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches, and when they do, they release acids. The acid byproduct forms plaque, which further eats away at tooth enamel. That’s why eating a diet high in sugar and simple starches increases your risk for transparent teeth.
Genetic Factors
Some people inherit genes that predispose them to thinner enamel. This makes them much more susceptible to acid erosion and wear and tear.
Preventing Translucent Teeth
Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining the opacity of your teeth. To keep enamel erosion at bay:
Practice proper oral hygiene – Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel. Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day. Floss once daily to remove food bits and acid-producing plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline.
Eat a healthy, well-rounded diet that’s low in sugar – Stick to as many whole and minimally processed foods as possible and enjoy sugar and simple carbohydrates in moderation. When you do have a treat, eat it one sitting, preferably with a larger meal.
Snack less often – Frequent snacking or sipping prolongs your enamel’s exposure to the acid byproduct from oral bacteria.
Watch your acidic foods and drinks – Avoid sodas and sports drinks, or at least minimize your intake, and have things like fruit juice and coffee in moderation. After eating or drinking something acidic, wait about an hour before brushing your teeth. Brushing immediately after eating or drinking will damage enamel while it’s in a temporarily weakened state.
Manage health conditions – If acid reflux, bulimia or another condition is causing enamel loss and tooth transparency, speak with your doctor. Getting the condition under control will go a long way in keeping your teeth strong.
And just like after eating or drinking something acidic, avoid brushing your teeth for an hour after vomiting or suffering from a bout of reflux. While you’re waiting, you can rinse with a fluoride mouthwash or dissolve a tablespoon of baking soda in eight ounces of water and swish it around in your mouth. This will get rid of the bad taste and neutralize acidity.
Quit harmful oral habits – Stopping harmful oral habits or getting treatment for bruxism will reduce tooth damage.
Banish dry mouth – If a medication or medical concern is causing dry mouth, speak with your doctor about your options. Also be sure to stay hydrated and rinse your mouth with water after eating. Try chewing sugarless gum or sucking on a sugar-free lozenge after meals or whenever your mouth feels dry to promote the flow of saliva.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings – During routine dental exams and cleanings, we’re able to detect enamel erosion in its earliest stages. Remineralization treatments, like a professional fluoride treatment, and guidance on homecare, diet and oral habits can stop erosion from progressing.
How to Fix See-Through Teeth
Home Remedies for Enamel Erosion
You can’t grow new enamel, however, you can strengthen your remaining enamel by focusing your efforts on remineralization. To promote remineralization, use fluoride toothpaste and eat a smile-friendly diet that includes foods rich in calcium and phosphorus.
While some people claim there are natural solutions to combat tooth transparency, there isn’t scientific evidence to support them. That’s why it’s important to approach these remedies with caution and always get professional guidance.
Dental Treatments for Transparent Teeth
The best way to fix see-through teeth is to visit your dentist. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we offer a range of cosmetic and restorative dentistry services to address enamel erosion and improve the appearance, strength and health of your smile. Two effective treatments include dental bonding and porcelain veneers.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is an affordable, non-invasive way to replace lost enamel. Your dentist applies a thin layer of tooth-colored composite resin to the areas of your tooth, or teeth, where enamel is thin. They then use a curing light to harden the resin before applying another layer. This process is repeated until the desired thickness is achieved.
When complete, the dentist shapes and polishes the composite resin so that it blends in seamlessly with your natural enamel. The material creates a strong bond with your tooth. While it can last for years, cosmetic dental bonding doesn’t last as long as a permanent restoration like porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a long-lasting, highly effective way to transform your smile. Whether transparent teeth are your only concern or you have multiple cosmetic flaws you’d like to fix, veneers could be a great option.
Your Naperville cosmetic dentist will take digital scans of your mouth and design custom veneers to create the ideal shape and color. Your veneers will be fabricated from natural-looking, durable porcelain. The wafer thin shells will then be bonded to your teeth, covering translucency, discoloration, chips and cracks, wear and even minor spacing or crowding.
While the dentist does need to remove a small amount of enamel to fit the veneers, the procedure is painless and preserves much more of your natural tooth structure as compared to treatments like dental crowns.
Restore Your Teeth With General and Cosmetic Dentistry in Naperville, IL
Now that you know enamel erosion is the reason why you can see through your teeth, are you ready to explore solutions? At Naperville Dental Specialists, our experienced dentists provide high-tech, personalized care to improve your oral health and confidence. They’ll determine the underlying cause of your enamel loss and create an individualized treatment plan to help you reclaim your smile.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Treatments, According to TMJ Experts
Updated 06/15/2026
If you’re suffering from jaw pain or you’ve been diagnosed with a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), you’re probably wondering: What are the TMD treatment options?
The good news is there are solutions! And with proper homecare and professional treatment, such as physical therapy or a custom TMJ nightguard, you can minimize flare-ups and get back to normal functioning quickly.
In this post, we’ll be covering what TMJ is, home remedies for jaw pain, and the various treatment options available.
What is TMJ?
Before we dive into TMJ disorders and jaw pain treatment, let’s go over the basics. While people commonly call issues with the jaw “TMJ.” TMJ actually stands for temporomandibular joint and refers to the joint itself.
There is one TMJ on either side of the head that connects the jaw to the temporal bones in your skull. The joints allow you to move your jaw side to side and up and down. When you yawn, chew, talk, or open and close your mouth, your TMJ is hard at work.
Problems with the temporomandibular joint are technically called TMJ disorders, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJDs) or temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). We know, it’s a lot of acronyms!
What are TMJ Disorders?
Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ disorders, are a group of conditions that result in dysfunction and pain in the jaw joint and/or muscles that control the movement of your jaw.
Since the TMJ is complex, problems with it can also be complex, potentially involving not just the joints and muscles, but also the tendons, teeth, ligaments and nerves.
myofascial pain (pain in the muscles related to jaw function);
dysfunction or pain in the joint itself (i.e., displaced joint, injured condyle, dislocated jaw, etc.); and
arthritis in the joint.
A patient could have a TMJ problem that fits into one of the above categories, or even all three.
What are the TMJD/TMD Symptoms?
Symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder may include:
Pain or tenderness in the jaw, joint area and face
Pain in and around the ear
Headaches and/or neck aches
Popping or clicking noises when opening the mouth (note:popping or clicking on their own aren’t necessarily indicative of a TMJ disorder unless accompanied by pain or other symptoms)
Jaw pain when chewing, speaking or opening the mouth wide
Difficulty opening the mouth all of the way
The jaws getting “stuck” or “locked” in an open or closed position
Swelling on the side of the face
TMJ disorders can also cause toothaches (in multiple teeth), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness and other issues.
What are the Causes of TMJ Disorders?
While pinpointing the exact cause of a TMJ disorder can be difficult, many times it’s related to:
A misaligned bite (the upper and lower teeth not coming together properly).
Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint.
Trauma to the jaw and joint, such as a blow to the face.
Grinding or clenching the teeth (bruxism), which can put undue pressure on the joint.
Stress that causes you to tighten your facial muscles or clench your teeth.
Additionally, TMJ disorders are more common in women than men, leading some experts to think there could be a link to hormones.
How to Achieve TMJ Pain Relief at Home?
TMJ pain can range from mild to severe and it can be temporary or chronic. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we typically recommend trying TMJD home remedies first.
If you’re not able to get TMJ pain relief, then conservative measures are your next option. Permanent treatments, such as TMJ surgery, should always be the last resort.
Try the following home remedies on their own or in conjunction with professional TMD treatment to alleviate discomfort and encourage mobility in the joint:
Eat soft foods.
During a TMD flare-up, avoid foods that are difficult to chew and/or require opening your mouth wide to bite into them.
Instead, opt for soft foods, such as yogurt, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soft-cooked fish, bananas, applesauce, steamed vegetables, oatmeal, protein shakes and smoothies until your discomfort subsides.
When you do go back to your regular diet, make a concerted effort to chew with both sides of your mouth equally.
Use moist heat or ice.
If you’re experiencing a muscle spasm, a dull ache or your jaw feels locked, hold a warm compress on the outside of your face in the area of the joint for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This will help loosen the muscles and boost blood flow.
If you have facial swelling, a cold pack will reduce inflammation and pain. For a DIY option, cover a bag of frozen vegetables or a Ziploc baggie of ice with a thin towel or cloth. Hold the cold pack against your face for 10-15 minutes, repeating as needed throughout the day.
Give your jaws a break!
Avoid chewing gum, extreme jaw movements (i.e., big yawns, yelling, singing) and chewing on objects (ice, pens, fingernails, etc.).
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help with pain and swelling. For more severe TMJ pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or, in some cases, certain antidepressants.
Practice good posture.
Try to hold your head in a neutral position with your ears in line with your shoulders. If you work at a desk, keep ergonomics in mind.
Manage stress.
Stress can make you clench your jaw and tighten your facial muscles, which may cause or exacerbate TMJ disorders. Try different stress-reduction methods, such as deep breathing or guided meditation, until you find one that works for you.
If you can’t seem to manage your stress and worry, consider scheduling an appointment with a therapist or counselor.
Keep your upper and lower teeth slightly apart when at rest.
To prevent clenching, which will worsen your TMJ pain, try to keep your upper and lower teeth slightly apart.
This will take pressure off your jaw and allow your temporomandibular joints to rest and heal. If you need to, stick your tongue between your teeth.
Do gentle TMJ stretching and strengthening exercises once your pain improves.
When you’re no longer feeling major discomfort, TMJ exercises can encourage mobility in the joint and strengthen the chewing muscles to prevent TMD symptoms from returning.
The American Academy of Family Physicians has a list of TMJ exercises you may want to try.
What are the TMD Treatment Options?
For moderate to severe TMJ disorders that don’t improve on their own, professional TMD treatment could be necessary.
TMJD treatment options may include:
Custom TMJ appliances
Custom nightguards or TMJ splints are a great way to get TMJ pain relief without medication or surgery.
These appliances are made for you by your Naperville dentist. Nightguards reduce the impact from clenching or grinding the teeth, which wards off damage to the teeth and jaw and reduces compression of your TMJ.
A TMJ splint holds the jaw in a stable position and takes pressure off the joints so they can heal.
TMJ devices
At Naperville Dental Specialists, another TMJ treatment we offer is the TMJ NextGeneration device. This FDA-cleared device is custom-made to fit comfortably and discreetly in the ear canal.
It supports the temporomandibular joints and reduces TMJ pain, while also increasing your awareness of teeth grinding, clenching and other para-functional behavior.
Physical therapy
Depending on the underlying cause of your TMJ disorder, physical therapy can be effective for strengthening the muscles that control jaw movement, increasing mobility and controlling discomfort and swelling.
Your dentist or doctor can refer you to a physical therapist who will show you different stretching and strengthening exercises. They might also use massage techniques, myofascial release, moist heat and ice, ultrasound and other modalities to help with pain and prevent future occurrences.
Injections
Sometimes, TMJ disorders respond to joint injections, including corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, trigger point injections to release muscle spasms, or Botox® injections to temporarily relax the chewing muscles and prevent them from contracting.
Orthodontic treatment
When a temporomandibular joint disorder is due to a bite imbalance, treatment with braces or Invisalign® may be recommended to align the teeth and jaws.
When the teeth are moved, the TMJ and surrounding structures will also be repositioned.
Before treating TMJ disorders with orthodontic treatment, however, we have to make sure any tooth movements will improve the position of the TMJ and help with pain and not make things worse.
Restorative dental work
In certain instances, if the way the upper and lower teeth meet is putting pressure on the TMJ and leading to pain, your Naperville cosmetic dentist can use dental crowns, bridges or, in the case of missing teeth, dental implants, to fix your bite problem and balance the biting surfaces of the teeth.
This, in turn, will help with healing.
Alternative medicine
Biofeedback, a technique that involves using electrical sensors to alert you to muscle tightening and jaw clenching, has become a popular TMD treatment option. The technique helps you to notice your internal cues so you can relax and prevent pain.
Other alternative options that some patients swear by are acupuncture and radio wave therapy.
TMJ surgery
If all of the other TMD treatments fail, surgery is an option. Since surgery is permanent and the different procedures have varying levels of effectiveness, this should be a last option.
What Type of Doctor Treats TMJ Disorders?
Although no one can technically be referred to as a TMJ specialist or TMJ dentist since it’s not a recognized specialty, Dr. Anthony LaVacca is an American board-certified prosthodontist.
After dental school, a prosthodontist like Dr. LaVacca completes at least three additional years of advanced training and education in a post-graduate program. While there, they learn the intricacies of diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial problems, including TMJ disorders.
One aspect of dental sleep medicine is bridging the gap between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and TMD management through custom oral appliance therapy.
Key Takeaways
The acronym TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and refers to the joint itself. Problems with the temporomandibular joint are technically known as a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) or a temporomandibular disorder (TMD).
The TMJ is a complex joint and it can be difficult to pinpoint the underlying cause of TMJD, but arthritis, a bite imbalance, bruxism and trauma to the joint are among the common culprits.
While there isn’t a recognized TMJ specialist designation, an American board-certified prosthodontist like Dr. LaVacca or a sleep medicine dentist like Dr. Spencer both have the expertise and knowledge to diagnose and treat TMJ disorders.
TMD treatment options can range from home remedies to TMJ appliances to surgery. Conservative treatments should always be considered first and surgical intervention should be the last resort.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Naperville TMJ Expert
If you’re suffering from TMJ pain and are unable to get relief, schedule a visit at Naperville Dental Specialists today.
Our team will use cutting-edge diagnostic technology to determine the underlying cause of your pain and then create a personalized TMJ treatment plan.
A lot of times, when people think of their oral health, the teeth instantly come to mind. However, the gums are incredibly important as well. Our gum tissue, or gingiva, helps to hold the teeth in place and serves as a protective seal to keep out harmful bacteria. Additionally, the health of our gums is tied to our overall health since gum disease is linked to a host of problems, including tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes and, in women, premature birth and low-birth-weight babies. Our Naperville general dentists and specialists are gum disease experts and we’re covering the basics here in our guide to gum disease.
Key Highlights:
Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection and, if untreated, can lead to the destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth.
The signs of gum disease include red, swollen, bleeding gums, changes in your bite, bad breath and receding gums.
Gingivitis is gum disease in its earliest stages and is still reversible with professional cleanings and proper homecare.
Periodontitis, the more advanced stage of gum disease, isn’t reversible but can be managed by your dentist to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
Gum disease treatment options include professional dental cleaning, scaling and root planing, and more extensive procedures.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is when bacteria in the mouth cause infection and inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues. It can progress and lead to the destruction of the bone, which in turn, can eventually result in tooth loss. There are stages of gum disease. The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. This is when plaque buildup at the gumline causes inflammation. You may notice red, swollen, sore gum tissue and bleeding when you floss. However, in this early stage, gum disease can be reversed.
The next stage of periodontal disease is periodontitis. Once gingivitis advances to periodontitis, the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth have been damaged irreversibly. You may start to form pockets below the gumline that trap plaque and food. Your dentist, along with a solid homecare routine, can prevent further damage.
The final step in the stages of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. The connective tissue and bone have been destroyed and your teeth have likely shifted or started to loosen. Aggressive treatment could help to save the teeth but, if it fails, you could need to have some teeth removed.
Receding gums that make your teeth look longer than normal
Change in your bite (the way the teeth fit together)
Loose teeth
Pain when chewing
Spaces developing between teeth that weren’t there before
Change in the fit of partial dentures
Tooth loss
What Causes Gum Disease?
As for what causes gum disease, the main cause is plaque build-up. When plaque accumulates on the gumline because it’s not removed with brushing, flossing and professional dental cleanings, it can lead to gingivitis. If this isn’t treated and reversed, it will eventually cause periodontitis. However, there are other risk factors that increase the likelihood a person develops gum disease, including:
Smoking or using chewing tobacco
Certain medications, such as anticonvulsants, oral contraceptives, steroids, calcium channel blockers and chemotherapy
Crowded or crooked teeth that are hard to clean
Diabetes
Poorly fitted dental appliances
Pregnancy
Genetics
Compromised immunity as with HIV/AIDS
Gum Disease Treatment
When you have gingivitis, it’s all about reversing gum disease and this can often be done with a professional dental cleaning and a dedicated homecare routine. When you come in for a cleaning, a team member will gently remove the hardened plaque, called calculus or tartar, that you can’t get rid of with a toothbrush at home. You’ll want to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once daily in between cleanings. We may also suggest or prescribe a mouthwash depending on your needs.
If misaligned teeth are at the root of your gingivitis, once we reverse the infection, you may want to consider orthodontic treatment because straight teeth are easier to clean, which can prevent a recurrence of gum disease. As part of Innovative Dental Partners, we’re under the same roof as Innovative Orthodontic Centers. Board-certified orthodontists Dr. Manal Ibrahim and Dr. Christine Gin offer cutting-edge treatment, such as Invisalign® and braces with SureSmile® prescription wires to achieve results more more comfortably and conveniently. Not only will straightening your teeth improve your oral health but, as an added bonus, you’ll get a fantastic smile too.
If you have periodontitis, you may require scaling and root planing. This is where we get rid of buildup above and below the gumline all the way to the bottom of the gum pockets. We then smooth the tooth roots, which helps prevent plaque from sticking to them. We may also use antibiotics or an antimicrobial cream to prevent infection. That may sound intimidating, but at Naperville Dental Specialists, we believe in painless dentistry and use the latest advances to make procedures comfortable. Once we’ve completed this deep cleaning, you’ll just come in for regular maintenance appointments so we can prevent plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy.
In cases of advanced periodontitis, there are other gum disease treatment options, such as flap surgery and grafts, which you’ll discuss with your dentist on an individual basis. While reversing gum disease isn’t a possibility at this point, these procedures can sometimes save your teeth. You’ll also have to continue with gum disease treatment at home with regular brushing, flossing and mouthwash.
Are you interested in Naperville gum disease treatment? Schedule a visit at Naperville Dental Specialists today by calling us at (630) 848-2010! Our knowledgeable dentists will help you restore your gums to optimal health. You can read about the measures we’re taking to keep our patients safe during the coronavirus here.
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that involves a cycle of binging and purging, which refers to binge eating followed by using compensatory behavior, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative use, excessive exercise, fasting or using diet pills or diuretics to rid the body of calories.
It’s a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that can affect all aspects of your health, including your oral health, particularly if you practice self-induced vomiting. In this blog, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about bulimia and teeth, from the oral health side effects of the disorder to the treatment options available to restore your smile. Read More
Unless you avoid garlic, onions and a whole lot of delicious food, at some point, you’ll suffer from bad breath, technically known as halitosis. This type of bad breath (or a bit of morning breath) isn’t a concern and usually goes away pretty quickly.
However, if halitosis is frequent, persistent or making you feel embarrassed, it’s time to visit your dentist. We offer bad breath treatment in Naperville because it’s a common problem our patients experience and it can occasionally, though not always, indicate a more serious health condition.
Here’s what you need to know about the halitosis causes and how to manage the issue.
I have 4 crowns that I got in 2002. My gums are inflamed around all of the crowns. The inflammation became noticeable in January. My dentist has tried antibacterial liquid. She asked me to start flossing 2 times a day. The gums around my natural teeth are fine. It’s just the teeth that have crowns that are presenting the problem. My dentist is suggesting gum surgery to trim my gum tissue. She says it might not work but if there is a problem with the way the crowns fit, trimming my gums will help. I’m wondering why after 15 years there would be a problem with the way my gums fit. For some reason, after examining my teeth and gums my dentist is confident that I don’t have gum disease. That’s somewhat of a relief but I am wondering what’s going on. If she isn’t sure that gum surgery will work, why is she recommending it? Is this normal procedure? Thanks. Norm
Norm – Gum inflammation that is around teeth with crowns, but not around your natural teeth, can result from several issues.
Some possible causes are listed below, but in each case, the reaction would be immediate. It wouldn’t take 15 years to surface:
The area around the crowns wasn’t thoroughly cleaned and left free of cement.
The crowns don’t fit correctly.
The crowns fit too deeply below the gumline.
Other possibilities that are not necessarily immediate include:
Metal sensitivity to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
Periodontal (gum disease) that can be related to your oral health or your general health.
If you have gum disease, the treatment includes regular, deep cleanings to remove plaque and bacteria from the pockets between your teeth and gums. Gum surgery is not the first resort. If your dentist doesn’t understand how to address the problem, you should be referred to a periodontist—a specialist in gum tissue.
Your dentist hasn’t referred you to a periodontist, so it’s probably best to find one on your own. You can look for online reviews or call other dentists’ office to ask which periodontists they use for their own patients. Don’t allow your dentist’s lack of understanding to delay you from getting help.
I have gum disease and I’m losing teeth. I want dental implants to replace them but my dentist tells me that he has to get my gum disease under control first. It was February of 2016 when he first told me I have gum disease and it seems like it hasn’t gotten any better. I’m not sure what is taking so long to get it straightened out. I don’t want to keep losing teeth while he tries to get things under control. Can I get dental implants from another dentist or do I have to wait for my dentist to figure out what he is doing? Thanks. Karmin
Karmin – Dental implants are the best option to replace teeth that are loose or missing due to periodontal (gum) disease. Before you receive implants, periodontal disease should be under control. If it’s been a year, and your dentist isn’t able to control your gum disease, it might be time to visit a periodontist—a specialist in diseases of the gum tissue.
How Periodontal Disease Can Affect Dental Implants
Dental implants are most successful in people with sufficient bone density and healthy gum tissue. Here’s why periodontal disease should be controlled first:
Advanced periodontal disease damages gum tissue and bone. Bone and gums should have a snug fit around tooth roots or dental implant fixtures.
If gum disease has caused your gums to recede, the base of your dental implants will be exposed. It will be challenging to keep the exposed area clean and free of plaque buildup.
Thin or receding gums around an implant fixture are unattractive. Either the fixture will show through thin gums, or be completely exposed if your gums recede.
We recommend that you have a consultation with an experienced prosthodontist. After an examination, 3-D x-rays, and a review of your medical history, he or she will let you know if you are a candidate for this treatment.
The prosthodontist will also determine if your gums are healthy enough and thick enough to support dental implants. Bone grafting and gum tissue grafting might be needed to ensure stability and success of your implants. In several months, the grafts will heal, and the implant fixtures will be surgically placed in your jawbone.
After your periodontal disease is controlled, if you receive dental implants, your oral health will likely improve. The fixtures stimulate bone grown and promote healthy gum tissue.
I had a horrible toothache for about 5 months and finally went to the dentist. Well, I went to an emergency dentist because I don’t have a regular dentist. She said that I had an abscess but she couldn’t get me numb to get the tooth out. I have antibiotics and another appointment late next week. I am worried that she won’t be able to get the tooth out even if she can get me numb. Should I expect complications while getting an abscessed tooth pulled? – Janele
Janele – An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by an infection. A tooth abscess occurs in or around a tooth root. It may or may not be painful.
If a tooth is injured, has a cavity, or experiences trauma, an infection can occur. When the pulp, or soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected and inflamed, the infection can spread to the tooth root, and an abscess will form.
Properly Treating an Abscessed Tooth
Instead of extracting an infected tooth, an abscess is commonly treated with a root canal treatment. The infection is removed from the tooth, the space is filled with a special dental filler material, and the tooth is sealed. A dental crown may be required to protect the tooth.
On rare occasions, root canal treatment isn’t enough to save your tooth, and endodontic surgery is required. A specialist can locate hidden canals in your tooth that may still harbor the infection. He or she will determine which methods are best to preserve your tooth.
And that’s the goal—tooth preservation. Based on the information you provided us, we don’t understand why there are plans to extract your tooth. We recommend that you receive a second opinion from an experienced dentist who will examine, and likely x-ray your tooth, to determine the best treatment.
Extracting a tooth leads to other issues, including bone shrinkage in the area of the missing tooth, adjacent teeth start to drift into the position of the missing one, and your bite may be affected and eventually cause jaw and facial pain. When a tooth is extracted, for optimum oral health, it will need to be replaced. No form of tooth replacement is as good as a natural tooth.
You would benefit if you take the time to receive a second opinion to find out if your tooth can be preserved.
I got a canal at the beginning of July and my tooth still hurts. The pain is pretty bad. My dentist prescribed steroids and antibiotics but I can’t tell that they did anything at all. Actually, my tooth has been hurting since July but not it is getting worse. If I mistakenly bite down on anything with the tooth the pain is off the charts. The gum around the tooth hurts and the pain feels like it is deep in the tooth. I am not sure what should be done about this but I am not taking any more steroids for a tooth especially since it didn’t help at all. What should I ask my dentist to do about this tooth? Thanks. Vickie
Vickie,
Your concern about not taking any more steroids is valid. Although steroids can help treat root canal pain, they also prevent your body from properly fighting the infection. We’ll explain why some dentists prescribe steroids after root canal treatment.
During root canal treatment, instruments are used to clean the tooth. The tooth gets irritated, the tissue in it inflames, and there is pain after the treatment. The swollen tissue also raises the height of the tooth, which affects your occlusion, or the way your teeth fit together. The pressure on the tooth from the imbalanced bite causes more pain and inflammation. Steroids are effective in treating the inflammation.
As we mentioned, not only is inflammation blocked with steroids, so is your body’s ability to fight the infection. So antibiotics are prescribed for the infection. The symptoms you describe probably indicate here is still an infection in your tooth and another root canal treatment is needed. If a specialist didn’t perform the first root canal treatment, ask to be referred to a specialist. He or she might be able to get to the very tip of the roots and remove the infection. If the case is complex, the tooth might need to be extracted.
Instead of prescribing steroids and antibiotics, some dentists choose to give patients high-strength ibuprofen before the appointment. Time is allowed for the body to absorb the anti-inflammatory drug, which in turn limits inflammation after the root canal treatment. Additionally, the tooth that requires the root canal treatment is reduced a little to prevent it from rising and causing occlusal issues after the treatment. The tooth would eventually need to be reduced in size to accommodate a dental crown. Post-operative pain is minimal.
Contact your dentist for another evaluation of your tooth, or schedule an appointment for a second opinion with a prosthodontist.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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!
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!).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
