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My Teeth See Through

Why are My Teeth See Through?

By Bruxism

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. 

Schedule a visit today!

What Are The TMD Treatment Options?

What Are the TMD Treatment Options?

By Blog, TMJ

What is TMJ Exactly and What Are TMD Treatment Options?

Our Naperville prosthodontist, Dr. Anthony LaVacca, received the following question, which we’re sharing with permission:

“My sister has been diagnosed with TMJ. I want to help her research this, and determine what her treatment options are. What exactly is it?” 

– Michael

In this post, we’ll be answering Michael’s question and discussing what TMJ is, the symptoms and causes of TMJ disorders, how to find relief, and the different TMD treatment options. 

What is TMJ?

While people commonly call issues with the jaw “TMJ.” TMJ actually stands for temporomandibular joint and refers to the joint itself. Problems with the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, are technically called temporomandibular joint disorders or temporomandibular disorders, often shortened to TMJ disorders, TMD or TMJD. We know, it’s a whole lot of acronyms! 

Before we dive into TMJ disorders, first, let’s talk about the temporomandibular joint. There is one TMJ on either side of the head connecting the jaws 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. 

TMJ muscle explanation

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 a complex joint, problems with it can also be complex, potentially involving not just the joints and muscles, but also the tendons, teeth, ligaments and nerves. 

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders fall into three main categories:

  • 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.)
  • 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?

TMD symptoms 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 (popping or clicking on their own aren’t necessarily indicative of TMJ disorders 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, called tinnitus, dizziness and other symptoms. TMJ disorders are more common in women than men, leading some experts to think they might be linked to female hormones. 

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

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 TMJD home remedies on their own or in conjunction with professional TMD treatment options to alleviate discomfort and encourage mobility in the joint:

  • Eat soft foods. During an episode of TMJ pain, avoid foods that are difficult to chew and that involve 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, try to chew with both sides of your mouth.
  • Use moist heat or ice. If you’re experiencing a muscle spasm, muscle pain or your jaw feels locked, hold a washcloth that has been moistened with warm water or 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’re experiencing facial swelling, a cold pack will reduce swelling and pain. For a DIY option, cover a bag of frozen vegetables or 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, etc.), and chewing on your fingernails, ice or other objects. 
  • 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 and, 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. To prevent clenching, which will worsen your TMJ pain, when at rest, 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, certain 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 oral 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 methods to help with pain and prevent future occurrences. 
  • Injections – Sometimes, TMJ disorders respond to 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. LaVacca is an American board-certified prosthodontist. Prosthodontists have the experience that makes them well suited to helping patients with TMJ disorders. 

After completing 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. 

Key Takeaways

  • The acronym TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and refers to the joint itself. Problems with the temporomandibular joint are technically known as temporomandibular joint disorders or temporomandibular disorders, often shortened to TMJ disorders, TMJD or 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 has 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 unable to get relief, schedule a visit with Dr. LaVacca today. Dr. LaVacca and our team will use cutting-edge diagnostic technology to determine the underlying cause of your pain and then create a personalized TMJ treatment plan. 

man-with-gum-disease-pain

Your Guide to Gum Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

By Gum Disease No Comments

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. 

Gum Disease Symptoms

The symptoms and signs of gum disease, include:

  • Puffy, swollen gums
  • Gums that bleed
  • Bright red or purplish gums
  • Gums that are tender when touched
  • Spitting out blood after brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • 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

Woman rinsing her mouth with mouthwash

Bulimia and Teeth: Side Effects, Considerations and Treatments

By Bulimia, Bulimia and Teeth, Eating Disorders and Teeth, Oral Health, Tooth Decay No Comments

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. While the effects of bulimia on the teeth can be significant, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. Today 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.
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women-smiling-why-you-should-see-a-doctor-about-bad-breath

Why You Should See a Dentist About Halitosis (Bad Breath)

By Bad Breath Treatment No Comments

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.

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Is surgery usually recommended for gum disease?

By Gum Disease, Oral Health

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.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Will gum disease prevent me from getting dental implants?

By Dental Implants, Gum Disease, Oral Health

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.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca

abscessed-tooth-is-pulled-blog

Should I expect complications when my abscessed tooth is pulled?

By Oral Health, Root Canal Treatment

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 my abscessed tooth is 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.

This post is sponsored by Naperville Dental Specialists.

Steroids and Antibiotics After Root Canal

By Root Canal Treatment

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.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

2 loose teeth

By General Dentistry, Gum Disease

I have 2 loose teeth. I get dental cleanings regularly and I am sure that they have noticed my teeth are loose but I think it’s strange that no one ever said anything to me. My sister told me that I should check with another dentist just to be sure that nothing serious is wrong. Now I am scared and a little angry that this problem was overlooked. I got my teeth cleaned 2 months ago. Wouldn’t they have noticed a problem? If I go to a dentist with loose teeth will they automatically pull them out? – Faith P.

Faith – If you go to the dentist with loose teeth, he or she will x-ray and examine your teeth to determine why they are loose.

Trauma can cause loose teeth, in which case they may need to be stabilized. Have you recently experienced trauma to your teeth? Over time, grinding your teeth can cause them to become loose. Also, if teeth are misaligned, they can put pressure on other teeth and cause them to become loose.

Periodontal (gum) disease is another cause of loose teeth. If you have periodontal disease, loss of gum and bone around a tooth can make it loose.

Your dentist or a periodontist may perform a periodontal pocket procedure to fold back your gum tissue and remove the bacterial. Damaged bone may be smoothed. This procedure will help your gum tissue attach itself to the healthy bone.

Instead of extracting your teeth, every effort will be made to save them. If it is necessary to extract a tooth, it can be replaced with a dental implant.

Don’t worry excessively though, the cause of your loose teeth has to be determined first. Your dentist will recommend options. Since you are seeking a new dentist, we recommend that you find a prosthodontist—a specialist with advanced training in restoring teeth. You can get a second opinion before you make a final decision for a dental provider.

This blog post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

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