If you’ve been considering transforming your smile with porcelain veneers but have a dental crown, you might be wondering, “Can you get veneers over crowns?” The short answer is that while veneers can’t be placed directly over crowns, there are still excellent ways to achieve a seamless smile makeover.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, our team specializes in custom treatments to give you the perfect smile, even if you have existing dental work.
In this post, we’ll explore the difference between crowns and veneers, what the process of getting veneers is like if you have another restoration and how we can help you achieve a stunning smile no matter your starting point.
Crown vs. Veneer: What’s the Difference?
First, what is the difference between a crown and a veneer? Let’s take a look:
Dental Crown: A dental crown covers the entire tooth to the gumline, restoring its function and appearance. Crowns are often used for teeth that are severely decayed, damaged or have undergone root canal treatment. They’re designed to provide strength and stability.
Porcelain Veneer: A veneer is a thin porcelain shell that covers only the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are primarily cosmetic and are used to mask minor imperfections like discoloration, small gaps, mild misalignment, chips or worn enamel.
Both crowns and veneers can dramatically improve the look of your smile, but they’re used for different purposes.
Can You Get Veneers Over Crowns?
What if you already have a dental crown on one of the teeth visible when you smile? Can you put a veneer over a crown? Unfortunately, no. Veneers are designed to bond to natural tooth enamel. Getting a veneer over a crown would also require the dentist to file down the crown to fit under the veneer, which would weaken the crown’s structural integrity.
Can You Replace a Crown with a Veneer?
So now that you know a veneer crown isn’t a thing, your next question might be, “Can you replace a crown with a veneer?” Again, the answer is usually no. When we removed the crown, it would be unlikely that there would be enough natural tooth structure left to support a veneer.
Even if it were possible, only the front of the tooth would be covered while the back of the tooth, which presumably underwent crown preparation, wouldn’t be protected.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
Getting Porcelain Veneers With Crowned Teeth
If you’re planning a smile makeover and have both natural teeth and crowned teeth, a Naperville cosmetic dentist can create a cohesive look by combining crowns and veneers.
Our team always tailors the treatment plan to your unique needs. If you have a new porcelain crown and you’re happy with the look and color, you won’t need to remove it. The dentist can likely design your porcelain veneers to blend in seamlessly with the crowned tooth.
On the other hand, if you have an old crown that’s the wrong color, looks bulky or won’t complement your veneers, we can replace it with a new all-porcelain crown. The dentist will ensure the crown perfectly matches your veneers in color, shape, and translucency. The end result will be a harmonious, natural-looking smile.
How Naperville Dental Specialists Can Help
Our Naperville cosmetic dentists are experienced at crafting personalized treatment plans that include dental crowns, veneers or a combination of both. Whether we’re correcting a single tooth or transforming your entire smile, we’ll use state-of-the-art technology and an eye for detail to achieve outstanding results more quickly and comfortably.
Plus, there are still nearly two weeks left to take advantage of our New Year, New Smile promotion:
20% OFF Porcelain Veneers (when purchasing 4 or more)
$750 OFF Invisalign®
Professional Teeth Whitening for $89
Schedule an appointment before January 31, 2025 to claim these savings!
Book a Consultation to Explore Crowns and Veneers
Don’t let existing dental work hold you back from getting a smile you love! Schedule a consultation with a Naperville cosmetic dentist to learn how we can give you flawless, natural-looking results.
Thankfully, sedation dentistry is a solution that can help alleviate anxiety and make dental procedures more relaxing and comfortable. If you’re hesitant about exploring the option and are wondering if sedation is safe, the answer is, yes, sedation is safe when administered by an experienced provider.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry helps patients relax and feel at ease, so they can get dental care in a way that’s stress-free and painless. Often, sedation is mild to moderate and you’re awake during the procedure and able to answer questions and respond to commands.
For certain situations, deep sedation is an option too. What is deep sedation dentistry? It’s where general anesthesia is administered through an IV and you’re asleep throughout the entire dental procedure.
Sedation dentistry can be a good choice for patients with:
The type of sedation we recommend depends on a number of factors, including:
The type of dental procedure being performed
How long the dental procedure will last
Your anxiety levels
Your overall health and the medications you take
While the specific sedatives used and the offerings can vary by practice, these are the ones we offer at our office:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has been used in dentistry for over 100 years and is the most common type of sedation for kids, though it can be used for adults as well. The laughing gas is administered through a mask that covers your nose. You’ll breathe in a mixture of nitrous and oxygen and within a few minutes, you’ll feel calm and euphoric.
Your Naperville dentist controls the amount of nitrous oxide you get, so they can deliver mild or even moderate effects, depending on your needs. Nitrous oxide is a form of conscious sedation, meaning you’ll be awake during your treatment, though your senses will be dulled.
When the procedure is over, your dentist will have you breathe in pure oxygen to flush out the nitrous oxide. Laughing gas wears off just as quickly as it kicks in and has very few side effects, so you’ll be able to go back to school, work or daily activities after your appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
If you choose oral sedation dentistry, your dentist will prescribe you an oral medication for reducing anxiety. Depending on the dosage, sedation can range from minimal to moderate. You’ll take the medication about an hour before your scheduled appointment.
During your dental procedure, as the name suggests, you’ll be conscious and able to follow instructions. However, you’ll feel comfortable and relaxed. In fact, it’s common for patients to fall asleep during their visit.
While side effects are generally minimal, you might feel sleepy after your appointment. And, because sedatives can impact your reaction time, you will need someone to drive you to and home from your visit.
General Anesthesia / IV Sedation
For patients with severe dental anxiety or people undergoing oral surgical procedures, general anesthesia could be recommended. With this type of sedation, anesthesia is delivered through an IV and your vital signs are monitored throughout.
You’ll be unconscious and have no memory of the procedure when you wake up. After your procedure, you’ll recover for several hours at the office before leaving. You will need to have a responsible adult drive you home.
How Safe is Sedation Dentistry?
Nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation both have very good safety profiles. Most patients experience little-to-no side effects. When you visit our practice for sedation dentistry in Naperville, we’ll perform a comprehensive exam and take a detailed health and medication history to ensure you’re a good candidate and there are no contraindications.
Our general dentists and specialists are licensed and trained in providing in-office sedation. And our state-of-the-art office is equipped with the latest technology and tools, so we’re able to carefully monitor your vitals throughout your procedure.
How safe is IV sedation for dental work? This type of sedation is also safe but it’s essential that the dental practice has the necessary monitoring equipment, trained personnel and an anesthesiologist on-hand. The facility should also be licensed to offer it.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, we always consider general anesthesia on a case-by-case basis. Again, we take a complete medical and medication history to ensure it will be safe for you. We also provide you with pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize the chance of complications.
Our team follows all safety guidelines, and we have cutting-edge monitoring in place. And our board-certified professionals, including our prosthodontist and oral surgeon, have received advanced training in safe sedation. We also have a highly trained, American board-certified anesthesiologist on our team. Our anesthesiologist administers the general anesthesia.
Which Type of Dental Sedation is the Safest?
In general, conscious sedation has fewer risks than general anesthesia, but people respond differently to different types of sedation, so the form that’s safest for one person might not be ideal for you. It really depends on your medical history, the medications you are taking, your overall health and other individual factors. An experienced dentist can help you decide on the best form of sedation for your circumstances.
Weighing the Risks vs. the Benefits
As with any medical procedure, sedation dentistry involves weighing the risks vs. the benefits. If you’re not able to get the dental care you need due to anxiety, a medical condition or other circumstances, your untreated dental problems will pose a bigger risk to your oral and overall health than conscious or IV sedation dentistry.
Issues, such as tooth decay and tooth loss aren’t just painful, they also impact your ability to bite and chew, which, in turn, impacts your diet and nutrition. Oral infections, like dental abscesses, can spread to other parts of the body and, in rare cases, even be life threatening.
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, has been tied to a number of health conditions. The inflammation of the gums and supporting bone causes jawbone loss and, eventually, tooth loss if not treated. Periodontitis, the most severe form of gum disease, is tied to adverse pregnancy outcomes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other systemic illnesses.
How Do I Prepare for Dental Sedation?
For nitrous oxide sedation and oral conscious sedation, you don’t need to do much to prepare. However, you should:
Have a light meal or snack and avoid eating anything heavy prior to your appointment.
Call our office and let us know if you experience any changes in your health or medications.
Arrange to have a responsible adult accompany you to your appointment and drive you home if you are taking an oral sedation medication.
If you’ll be undergoing IV sedation dentistry, following your pre-op instructions will help you have a safe, effective experience. While we’ll give you specific instructions for your situation, here are some general guidelines to adhere to:
Let our team know if you experience any changes in your health.
Your stomach should be empty during your anesthesia appointment.
Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your surgery.
Inform our team of any medications you take on a daily basis, including supplements and herbal remedies. If we give you the go-ahead to take your medication on the day of your procedure, take it with only a small sip of water.
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable, short-sleeved clothing and flat, comfortable shoes.
Do not wear jewelry, makeup or nail polish to your appointment.
Take your contact lenses out before your procedure.
Arrange to have a responsible adult come with you to your procedure, drive you home and stay with you while you recover afterwards.
Where Can I Find Sedation Dentistry Near Me?
If you’re not in Illinois, we’d recommend doing some research on local sedation dentists to find someone licensed and experienced in administering the type of sedation you’re looking for.
If you live in the Chicagoland area, we offer sedation dentistry in Naperville at our high-tech, comfortable office. With American board-certified specialists on our team, including an anesthesiologist, and modern equipment and tools, we can help you safely get the care you need. Schedule an appointment with us today!
You’ve probably heard the terms “cosmetic dentist” and “cosmetic dentistry.” In fact, we offer cosmetic dentistry in Naperville, IL at our practice. But what exactly is a cosmetic dentist and what do cosmetic dentists do? Are they the professional to turn to for cavities or do they only fix esthetic concerns? In this post, the team at Naperville Dental Specialists will be delving into the topic to give you a better understanding of this area of dentistry.
What is a Cosmetic Dentist?
Cosmetic dentistry is also called esthetic dentistry. A cosmetic dentist is a doctor who focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and gums to create a beautiful smile. While esthetics might be the main goal, as a dental professional, they also ensure treatment complements the oral and overall health of the patient.
As for how to become a cosmetic dentist, the training is the same as that of a general dentist, because, technically, a cosmetic dentist is a general dentist. They attend four years of dental school where they earn their Doctor of Dental Medicine or Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.
While cosmetic dentistry isn’t a dental speciality like orthodontics or prosthodontics and doesn’t require attending a residency program, cosmetic dentists take courses and seminars in cosmetic dentistry. Others, such as those at Naperville Dental Specialists, are members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and do much more extensive training in esthetic smile design and advanced cosmetic procedures.
What Do Cosmetic Dentists Do?
Do cosmetic dentists do surgery? Do cosmetic dentists do braces? We get these questions a lot. While, yes, cosmetic dentists do surgery, such as periodontal plastic surgery and some even offer dental implants, it’s usually advisable for patients to see a specialist like an oral surgeon, periodontist or prosthodontist, especially if they have a complex case. Specialists complete an additional two to three years of rigorous training in a residency program after dental school and the sole focus of their practice is that of their specialty.
And, yes, cosmetic dentists do also sometimes offer braces or Invisalign®. But, again, seeing a specialist is your best bet. An orthodontist also completes specialty training in a residency program, giving them the expertise to straighten the teeth and align the bite in the healthiest, most effective way possible.
So, what do cosmetic dentists do? They treat a variety of concerns, such as discolored, chipped, misshapen, misaligned and missing teeth with the goal of helping your smile look its absolute best. Common cosmetic dental services include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, cosmetic dental bonding, crowns and bridges. A cosmetic dentist combines art and science to design a smile that looks amazing and functions just as well.
Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are considered elective, however, many do provide restorative benefits too. For example, if you have a severely decayed tooth that requires a dental crown, a cosmetic dentist can remove the decay and protect your tooth with a crown. However, they’re going to tap into their expertise and artistry to design a beautiful, realistic-looking crown that enhances your appearance.
Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a relatively affordable, fast way to give your smile a boost. While teeth whitening strips and other over-the-counter methods can brighten your enamel, they typically only get rid of surface stains and take several weeks of use to work. Professional in-office teeth whitening achieves much more dramatic results in just one session.
Our Naperville cosmetic dentists protect your gums and then use a professional-strength whitening gel. The gel is activated by a specially designed light and the solution breaks down stains on the teeth, including those that are deeper set. In less than an hour, you’ll have a significantly brighter smile. We’ll also give you post-whitening care instructions to help you maintain your results for a long time. In fact, your smile will always be whiter than it was before the procedure.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers, or porcelain veneers, are the ultimate cosmetic dental procedure, because they can give your smile an entirely new look. The treatment involves bonding thin pieces of porcelain to the front of your teeth, masking imperfections.
With veneers, you can tackle a range of concerns, including gaps between the teeth, chipped or broken teeth, discoloration, misshapen or crooked teeth and short or worn teeth with a single procedure. Once your veneers are in place, you’ll have the straight, white teeth you’ve always dreamed of.
When patients visit with a Naperville cosmetic dentist at our practice, we use our iTero® digital scanner to take digital images of your teeth. Once your scans are uploaded into our treatment planning software, your cosmetic dentist designs custom veneers that match the color, shape and even translucency of your natural enamel. They then remove a little bit of your enamel to get an optimal fit before cementing your veneers in place.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown, or cap, covers your entire tooth to the gumline, restoring its appearance, strength and function. Typically, crowns are needed when a tooth is decayed, cracked or damaged and can’t be repaired with a filling.
Though dental crowns can be used for esthetic purposes, since the natural tooth must be recontoured to fit under the crown, they’re usually reserved for teeth that are missing a lot of natural structure. For someone with healthy teeth, veneers or cosmetic dental bonding would be less invasive options.
We offer different types of dental crowns at our practice. If you need a crown on a tooth that’s visible when you smile, getting a porcelain crown from a cosmetic dentist will give you the most natural looking results. The dentist will design a crown that blends in flawlessly and mimics the natural translucency, color and contours of a real tooth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The most common type of bridge is a fixed bridge. It consists of two crowns with a filler tooth in the center (the pontic). The teeth on either side of the gap are recontoured to fit under the crowns, which are permanently bonded to the teeth. These abutment teeth support the replacement tooth that sits in the gap.
A good cosmetic dentist has the skill and eye for detail to create a bridge that looks beautiful and natural. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we use cutting-edge treatment planning software and high quality materials to give our patients durable, yet highly esthetic dental bridges.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Cosmetic dental bonding involves applying a custom-tinted composite resin to the tooth enamel. Once it’s hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to match the rest of your smile. It can cover imperfections like chips, cracks, small gaps, short or worn teeth, discoloration and misshapen teeth.
Cosmetic dental bonding is fairly affordable and doesn’t usually involve removing any tooth enamel, but it doesn’t last as long as veneers and, over time, the resin can darken. The procedure can be a good alternative to dental veneers for patients who only have one or two minor concerns they want to fix. It’s also preferable for kids and teens who are still developing and wouldn’t be candidates for a permanent treatment.
Is Cosmetic Dental Work Covered by Insurance?
Whether or not cosmetic dental work is covered by insurance depends on the procedure, your insurance plan and the reason for the treatment. For the most part, treatments like teeth whitening or dental veneers are not covered by insurance. If treatment is both medically necessary and esthetic, such as getting a dental crown on a decayed or damaged tooth, then your dental insurance will likely cover a portion of the procedure.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, we offer a dental savings plan called VantageOne. When you purchase a membership, you can use the plan at our practice and receive discounts on all types of treatment, including cosmetic dental care. This will reduce your out-of-pocket costs if you don’t have insurance or it doesn’t cover the procedures you’re interested in.
How Much Do Cosmetic Dental Procedures Cost?
Cosmetic dentistry prices vary depending on a number of factors, including the procedure(s) you’re getting, the practice and how extensive your case is. For example, the cost of dental veneers will be significantly higher than the cost of teeth whitening or cosmetic dental bonding. However, your smile makeover will be longer lasting and more dramatic. It really boils down to your priorities.
Another thing to consider is lab costs and materials. These are the factors that sometimes mean cosmetic dentistry prices will be higher than general dentistry prices. Why? Getting, say, a gold crown with the goal of restoring function from your general dentist doesn’t involve the level of planning and customization at a lab that getting a cosmetic porcelain crown does.
When you visit Naperville Dental Specialists for a consultation with a cosmetic dentist, they’ll perform an exam, talk with you about your goals and needs and evaluate your diagnostic records. They’ll then be able to provide you with personalized treatment recommendations and let you know how much it will cost upfront.
How to Find a Good Cosmetic Dentist
With so many areas of dentistry, it can be difficult to know how to find a good cosmetic dentist. Really, it comes down to training, experience and technology. While all dentists receive an overview of some of the components of cosmetic dentistry in dental school, you want to find a cosmetic dentist who has completed additional training in things like esthetic smile design or advanced cosmetic dental procedures. Their courses will have gone much more in depth into the nuances of designing a beautiful smile.
Technology is also important. The world of dentistry is always evolving and the tools available today are unparalleled. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we use digital scanning instead of uncomfortable, messy impressions, as well as CAD/CAM software that allows us to design restorations in three dimensions. When creating a dental crown, for example, we can use our software to make a mirror image of the tooth on the other side of your mouth, so that it matches exactly.
Digital tools are more precise and efficient. And, since we have an in-house lab, we use our technology to offer same-day crowns and veneers that meet our exacting standards. Don’t be afraid to ask about a cosmetic dentist’s training and experience, as well as the technology they use at your first visit.
Schedule a Consultation With a Naperville Cosmetic Dentist
To find out your options for a smile makeover, schedule a visit with a Naperville, IL cosmetic dentist today! Our caring, knowledgeable team and expert dentists will give you the personalized, high quality care you deserve.
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as a cure-all for everything from heartburn to acne. While there aren’t a ton of studies to support many of the claims, the home remedy is still incredibly popular. Recently, there have been articles and blog posts about the benefits of apple cider vinegar for oral health. Recommendations include drinking a glass of it a day, using it as mouthwash and even rubbing it directly on the teeth to make them whiter. But, before you jump on the apple cider vinegar bandwagon, get the facts from our Naperville general dentists.
What are the Supposed Benefits of Apple
Cider Vinegar for Oral Health?
There are claims of what does apple cider vinegar do for your teeth as a mouthwash is that it can kill the bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities and gum disease, and the potassium in the vinegar can help to strengthen teeth. Yet, the most popular application is using apple cider vinegar for teeth whitening. Some suggest brushing it directly on the teeth, while others say to mix it with baking soda.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Bad For Your Teeth?
Apple cider vinegar is acidic. It typically has a pH between 2.5 and 3. For reference, distilled water, which is neutral, has a pH of 7. Any type of acid, including the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar, can erode tooth enamel. So, yes, drinking or swishing with large quantities of apple cider vinegar is bad for your teeth.
When the enamel breaks down, it leads to sensitivity and puts you at a higher risk for tooth decay. Eventually, as the underlying dentin is exposed, your teeth will also look yellow.
A 2014 study examined the erosive effects of different types of vinegar on tooth enamel. The researchers found that between 1% and 20% of the minerals in the enamel were lost when the enamel was soaked in various kinds of vinegar for four hours. While the study did demonstrate that vinegar eroded teeth, it didn’t account for factors like the impact of saliva on the process, so more research is needed to understand the full extent of damage.
A 2012 case study of a 15-year-old girl whose enamel was significantly eroded found that the erosion was due to the daily glass of apple cider vinegar she drank for weight loss.
There are no conclusive studies on whether apple cider vinegar is more effective at killing cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth than any other remedies.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Make Teeth Whiter?
Studies, including one published in 2014, found that apple cider vinegar does make teeth whiter. However, though it has a minor bleaching effect, it can also damage the hardness of the enamel.
The American Dental Association has weighed in on the topic. Their stance? Don’t whiten your teeth with apple cider vinegar, because the prolonged contact can wear away enamel.
The minimal results that you’d get aren’t worth the risk. You’d achieve safer, much more dramatic results with a professional teeth whitening treatment at your dentist’s office.
How to Protect Your Teeth From Apple Cider Vinegar
While large amounts of apple cider vinegar can damage your teeth, you don’t have to forgo it all altogether. Here’s how to protect your teeth from apple cider vinegar:
Dilute the vinegar with water. If you’re drinking it for health purposes, use five parts water for every one part apple cider vinegar.
Enjoy it in moderation. Putting it on a salad or having the occasional diluted glass of it is fine for most people’s teeth.
Never use apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash or drink it straight from the bottle.
Consider switching to a supplement. Some companies sell apple cider vinegar in pill form, allowing you to get the benefits without it coming into contact with your teeth.
If you have apple cider vinegar (or anything acidic), wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. If you brush your teeth immediately, you can damage your enamel while it’s temporarily weakened from the acidity.
After eating or drinking something with apple cider vinegar in it, rinse your mouth out really well with water. This will reduce the amount of vinegar that sits on your enamel.
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily. When your enamel is strong, you’ll be less vulnerable to the effects of apple cider vinegar on your teeth.
Schedule a Visit With a General or Cosmetic Dentist in Naperville, IL
If you have oral health concerns or want to get whiter teeth, schedule a visit with a general or cosmetic dentist at Naperville Dental Specialists. We can give you personalized recommendations to improve your oral health or whiten your teeth in a way that’s safe and effective.
You may have noticed someone that has chalky white spots on their teeth or maybe you have them on your own teeth. Beyond being an aesthetic concern, exactly what are the white spots on teeth? Technically referred to as white spot lesions, there are a number of things that can cause them. At ourNaperville cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry practice, it’s a problem we see frequently. Today, we’ll be diving into the causes, as well as solutions for how to get rid of white spots on teeth.
Why Do I Have White Spots on My Teeth?
The two most common causes of white spots on teeth are fluorosis and early decay, though they can also be the result of certain nutritional problems or genetics.Fluorosis occurs when a child is exposed to too much fluoride during the first eight years of their life. When the permanent teeth come in, parents or the dentist will often notice discoloration, including white spots.
The other cause is decalcification, which is the first sign of tooth decay. Essentially, white spots on teeth are often early cavities, which is why we sometimes call them cariogenic white spots. White spots on teeth after braces are extremely common. Plaque tends to accumulate around the bracket and it’s hard to reach it to brush it away. When it sits there, the plaque acids cause mineral loss underneath the surface enamel of the tooth. This causes white spots to form where the brackets once were.
How to Get Rid of White Spots on Teeth
We know discovering white spots on teeth after braces is especially disheartening because you went through the effort to get a perfect smile. When the big day arrives, and your brackets come off, the last thing you want are white spot lesions ruining the show. The good news is, there are ways to remove white spots on teeth and help you reclaim your smile, regardless of the cause. Here are some of the treatments for white spot lesions:
Prescription Paste – A prescription product called MI Paste, which is the commercial name for casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate, or CCP-ACP, and sodium fluoride (NaF) may both help remineralize white spots. However, researchers are still looking into the treatments and they tend to work better when used preventatively.
Remineralization – Some dentists offer remineralization treatments after orthodontic treatment, such as a fluoride varnish. Remineralization replaces the minerals that were lost due to the plaque acids and should, theoretically, stop the decay from progressing and help even out the appearance of white spots. While onestudy did show that fluoride helped reduce the appearance of white spots on teeth after braces, more research is needed and it might not give you the dramatic results you’re looking for.
Icon Infiltration Technique – Icon infiltration is a cutting-edge way to gently treat white spots on teeth without needles or drilling.Research has shown that resin infiltration is more effective than CCP-ACP and fluoride in the esthetic improvement of white spots. We offer Icon caries infiltrant in Naperville at our office. We inject a highly fluid resin into the enamel where the white spot is. It makes its way into the tooth’s pore system and it fills the area, quickly stopping decay and esthetically blending the white spots so they match the rest of your enamel. The infiltration technique also has the added benefit of preserving your tooth and increasing its life expectancy.
Veneers or Composite Fillings – As a last resort, veneers, composite fillings or bonding can give you the even, white smile you want. However, since a treatment like veneers will involve filing down healthy teeth, it’s best to try less invasive options first, such as the Icon infiltration technique.
Ways to Prevent White Spot Lesions
You can prevent white spots on teeth after braces, or at any time in your life, by following these tips:
To prevent white spots on your child’s smile, avoid excessive fluoride. Talk with your pediatric dentist about how much fluoride your child should be getting before adding any topical fluoride products to the mix.
Practice good oral hygiene, especially when you’re wearing braces. Brush using an electric toothbrush in the morning, after meals and before bed. Be sure to floss once daily as well. If you need a little extra help cleaning around your braces brackets, use an interproximal brush or a water flosser in addition to your toothbrush and dental floss. These tools are good for getting in tight spaces and around brackets.
Watch your diet. Acidic foods and drinks, including citrus fruit, sports drinks, soda, white wine and fruit juice eat away at your tooth enamel and can increase your risk of getting white spots. Try to enjoy these types of foods and beverages in moderation.
Ask your orthodontist or dentist about topical fluoride. If you’re at a higher risk for cavities or white spots, they may prescribe a special fluoride rinse or toothpaste or apply a fluoride varnish in the office.
If you’re unhappy with the white spots on your teeth, we can help! Schedule a visit at Naperville Dental Specialists today and learn about how we can removewhite spots on teeth and restore your smile with the Icon infiltration technique.
If we’ve learned anything in our years as Naperville’s general dentists, it’s that everyone wants a perfect pair of sparkling pearly whites. But between the foods we eat and the habits we create, getting shiny white teeth can be easier said than done. Whitening your teeth (and keeping them that way) requires good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, regular cleanings, and avoiding things that cause damage and discoloration, like smoking and poor diet.
If you’re suffering from teeth stains or yellowing teeth, don’t worry — you’re not alone. There are many ways to whiten your teeth, both at home and at the dentist, and things you can do to keep discoloration at bay. But while at-home practices can be effective, nothing will give you the same dramatic results as professional teeth whitening.
No matter which teeth whitening method you choose, the experts at Naperville Dental Specialists are here to help you restore your teeth to their former brilliancy. Let’s take a look at what causes tooth discoloration and how to put the “white” back in your pearly whites.
What Causes Yellow Teeth
There are many factors that contribute to yellow teeth — from lifestyle and diet choices to genetic predispositions and aging. Some of these things are in our power to change; for example, we can choose to eat more fruits and veggies and avoid smoking. Other things are just a part of how we’re built.
When it comes to whitening your teeth, it’s important to understand that your teeth have two basic parts: the enamel (or outer layer) and dentin (or inner core). As we age, dentin naturally yellows which unfortunately is just a part of growing older. But there are ways to combat the aging process, and to whiten your enamel, to keep your teeth looking whiter for longer. Here’s how:
Eat healthy, nutritious foods: A diet that lacks proper vitamins and nutrients will lead to premature aging of the dentin, meaning your teeth will look yellow quicker. At the same time, your enamel can become discolored by highly pigmented foods and drinks, like red wine, coffee and tobacco. Fortunately, eating a diet rich in healthy, nutrient-packed foods will slow yellowing down and whitening treatments are extremely effective to clear up your enamel.
Protect your teeth from trauma: Grinding and trauma from accidents, falls or sporting injuries can all accelerate the aging of the dentin. As we’ve learned, that equals yellow teeth. When you grind your teeth or suffer damage from an accident, the force can cause the dentin to shrink and trigger the aging process, so be sure to take good care of your teeth.
Get a whitening treatment: From at-home solutions to in-office professional services, there are so many ways to get whiter teeth. Keep reading to find out more and then ask your dentist which method is best for you.
How to Get Whiter Teeth
Now that you know what’s dulling your teeth’s shine, let’s talk about the best way to get whiter teeth. The most effective solution is professional teeth whitening but it can be more of an investment than some patients are ready to make. For those who prefer to whiten their teeth on their own, there are plenty of DIY teeth whitening practices you can try. Just be aware that while at-home methods and regular cleanings at your dentist will help get rid of surface stains, they won’t be able to clear away deep, set-in discoloration. In most cases, professional teeth whitening is the best solution.
Teeth whitening strips: It seems that every major toothpaste brand has some sort of teeth whitening product that promises to give you the shiny, white teeth of your dreams. This type of method is super popular for good reason: it’s super affordable and you can do it in the comfort of your own home.
The truth is whitening strips are actually effective — but that doesn’t make them safe. These strips typically contain hydrogen peroxide, which definitely makes your teeth whiter by breaking down the molecules that cause discoloration in both your enamel and dentin. But hydrogen peroxide is considered toxic or harmful when used in the mouth, so the side effects may not be worth the pearly whites after all.
Activated charcoal: This one is for the DIY-ers out there. Activated charcoal has long been used to promote detoxification and treat poisoning, dating back nearly 200 years. The healing properties of activated charcoal have stood the test of time and are now used in all types of beauty and health products, including teeth whitening methods. Unlike hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal cannot reach the dentin and can only whiten surface stains caused by environmental factors, food and drinks — but it is a 100% safe, natural way to whiten your teeth. To try it out, make a paste with activated charcoal, then smear it on your teeth and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then rinse and brush away anything remaining. Since charcoal is quite abrasive, it’s best to only use this homemade toothpaste a few times a week.
Professional teeth whitening: Like we’ve mentioned, this is the only guaranteed way to get whiter teeth that last. Professional teeth whitening can safely get rid of stains and yellowing on both your enamel and dentin, giving you the whitest smile possible.
At Naperville Dental Specialists, we offer Zoom Tooth Whitening. Using a specially designed, light-activated gel, this method breaks down stains. In less than an hour, you’ll have the brightest, whitest teeth you’ve had in years. All you have to do is follow our aftercare instructions and practice good oral hygiene. With our professional teeth whitening service, we’re confident we can put the sparkle back in your smile.
The dental crown procedure is among the most common restorative treatments and it’s one our Naperville cosmetic dentists perform frequently. Unfortunately, crowns get a bad rap because the process has a reputation for being time consuming and, in some cases, it can require multiple visits to different practices. At Naperville Dental Specialists, we have a team of general dentists and specialists under one roof, so you don’t need a referral to another office and all of your treatments, including getting your dental crown, can be done in the same place. We also have an in-house laboratory, so same-day crowns are an option, meaning we can restore your tooth in a single visit. Whichever route you choose to go, here’s what you need to know about getting a dental crown:
Will I need a shot in my gums? I’m sweating trying to find a gentle dentist or one who does sedation and can fit me in their schedule. There is a bump on my gums at one of my bottom left molar teeth. Yesterday, I sterilized a needle and stuck the bump with it. A bunch of yellow pus came out. It hurts pretty bad and the bump is seeming just to fill up with pus again. It’s been 4 years since I’ve been to a dentist. I have tried to avoid the dentist for this bump on my gums, but I might not have a choice. Will a dentist have to give me a shot in my gum? If I can find a gentle dentist will they be able to make it absolutely pain free?? Thanks. Jon
Jon – The bump on your gums that you described is an abscess that is caused by an infection. The infection will not go away on its own. It needs to be treated by a dentist. Sedation dentistry will help you get the treatment you need
After you are sedated, the dentist will clean the area around your tooth and numb your gum. There is no need to worry, though. A gentle dentist will use topical anesthetic or a hand-held pulsating device to numb your gum and give you a pain-free injection. The injection will relieve your pain and prevent you from feeling pain that may otherwise result from the dental procedure.
If there is an infection in your tooth, a root canal treatment will remove it. After that, the tooth will be protected with a dental crown. It is important that you get help right away to treat the infection and avoid further pain and discomfort.
Find a Gentle Dentist Who Offers Sedation Dentistry
You should speak to a gentle dentist about your anxiety. Sedation dentistry can help you relax during dental visits so you can get the treatment you need.
Nitrous oxide – This is also called laughing gas. During your appointment, you can breathe it in to relax.
Oral conscious sedation – A dentist can give you anti-anxiety medication to take before your appointment. You will be drowsy and relaxed.
Don’t delay in getting the bump on your gums treated. A gentle dentist can use his or techniques and sedation dentistry make your experience pain free.
I recently applied a bleach-based tooth whitener to my teeth for the first time. The next day, one tooth turned gray and my cheek inside my mouth has a small bump on it. Neither the tooth nor the bump hurt. I just think it’s strange. I don’t want to believe that it’s related to the tooth whitener, but I didn’t have any problems before that. What could have caused my tooth to turn gray? Is there anything I can do to reverse what the teeth whitener did and get my tooth back to its original color? – Brie
Brie – It is strange that your tooth would turn gray after using teeth whitener. Make an appointment with your dentist to examine your tooth, and bring the whitening agent with you to the appointment. Your dentist can examine it, the contents, and if necessary have it tested to determine what’s really in it.
Why Did Your Tooth Turn Gray After Whitening It?
There are several things to consider:
It may be that your tooth was damaged before you applied the whitening gel to it, and it became irritated afterward.
The problem might stem from the whitening gel. Depending on its source, the gel could be old, contain harmful ingredients, or not be bleaching gel at all.
Only a dentist can make the determination after examining your tooth and the bleaching gel.
Although many people prefer to whiten their teeth on their own, there are still many advantages to getting your teeth whitened by a dentist. In advance of providing you with the whitening gel, your dentist will examine your teeth, determine if whitening gel will work for you, anticipate any problems that will occur, and monitor your progress. The results will be predictable and exactly what you hoped to achieve.
The bump on the inside of your mouth will need to be examined to determine why your oral tissue is irritated. Whenever you have oral health issues, it’s best to receive an examination from a dentist and not to determine the cause and treatment. Prompt treatment can save you time and money, and prevent further damage to your tooth.
I’m wondering if a prosthodontist would be willing to do porcelain veneers for me. I’ve been to 2 dentists about veneers and neither of them will do them for me because I grind my teeth a lot. They say the veneers would break under the pressure from grinding. I know that different dentists have different techniques and some can accomplish things that others won’t touch. The issue with my teeth is that they are too small. My smile is short and looks like it belongs to an adolescent. I’m 37 years old and would very much like a change. Is a new smile with porcelain veneers something a prosthodontist would be willing to do? Thanks. Jess
Jess – Many dentists would not recommend porcelain veneers if you’re a heavy teeth grinder. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause damage to natural teeth, porcelain veneers, and even porcelain crowns.
Before addressing the cosmetic issues with your teeth, a prosthodontist would try to determine the cause of your teeth grinding habit. Treatment, which can include relaxation techniques, minimizing stress, and wearing a custom night guard can help protect your teeth and dental restorations.
A prosthodontist wouldn’t give you porcelain veneers right away. Several things have to be done first. Some of them include:
Examine the health of your natural teeth and gums to determine if you’re a candidate for porcelain veneers.
Collaborate with you to determine the cause of your teeth grinding.
Determine if you need TMJ (temporomandibular joint) treatment.
Recommend therapy or jaw exercises to alleviate discomfort from teeth grinding
Provide a customized night guard to minimize grinding and protect your teeth
A prosthodontist is a specialist in the replacement and restoration of teeth. After general dentistry training, a prosthodontist receives up to four years of specialized training. They understand dental aesthetics and what is required to improve your smile.
Porcelain veneers aren’t the only option for lengthening the appearance of your teeth. A prosthodontist will let you know your options, based on your case and the condition of your teeth and gums.
We suggest that you find a specialist who can address your bruxism and your desire to lengthen the appearance of your teeth. A prosthodontist can do both. You can get a second opinion from a prosthodontist to discuss your options.
This post is sponsored by American Board certified prosthodontist and Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
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.
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