This informative guide will explore the number of ways you can customize a complete smile makeover and examine the numerous benefits of improving the appearance of your teeth.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a comprehensive approach to enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth. It involves two or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to address various issues, including color, shape, alignment, and overall aesthetics.

Customization Options for a Complete Smile Makeover

The following options are the typical components of a smile makeover, but your treatment plan will be personalized to meet your unique needs:

Tooth-Colored Fillings

• Composite resin fillings are used to repair cavities while matching the natural color of the teeth.
• Tooth-colored fillings provide a discreet and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal fillings.

Professional Teeth Whitening

• Professional teeth whitening involves using safe and effective bleaching agents to lighten the color of the teeth.
• Benefits include eliminating dental stains for a brighter and more youthful smile.

Porcelain Veneers

• Ultra-thin porcelain shells are custom-made and bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their appearance.
• This cosmetic dental treatment offers several benefits, such as correcting structural issues like small, misshapen, or worn-down teeth, chips, and minor misalignment, as well as concealing deep permanent discoloration resistant to teeth-whitening for a flawless smile.

Porcelain Crowns

• By enhancing the shape, strength, and appearance of damaged teeth, these customized tooth caps are color-matched and made to look like your naturally healthy tooth before being placed.
• Porcelain crowns are designed to improve the structural integrity of your tooth, restore function, and improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Clear Dental Aligners Like Invisalign® or ClearCorrect®

• Clear dental aligners gradually shift teeth into proper alignment without cumbersome metal braces.
• This orthodontic treatment offers a discreet, comfortable way to address crooked, crowded, twisted, or misaligned teeth for a straighter, more functional smile.

Dental Implants

• Dental implants comprehensively replace missing teeth, restoring a complete and natural-looking smile while helping to keep the jawbone healthy by providing stimulation.
• Titanium implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a foundation for high-quality porcelain crowns.

The Benefits of an Attractive Smile

A healthy and attractive smile offers several benefits to help increase your overall well-being, some of which include:

• Increased confidence: A beautiful smile contributes significantly to self-esteem, empowering individuals to feel more confident in various social and professional settings.
• Improved social interactions: A confident and attractive smile can positively impact social interactions, fostering a sense of connection and approachability.
• Professional success: A polished and engaging smile can make a lasting impression in professional settings, potentially influencing career opportunities and financial success.
• Healthier dental habits: Investing in a complete smile makeover often motivates individuals to maintain excellent oral hygiene to maintain their results, promoting better oral and overall health.
• Youthful appearance: A well-crafted smile can take years off one’s appearance, contributing to a more youthful and vibrant look.
• Enhanced function: Beyond aesthetics, procedures like dental implants and clear aligners can improve bite function and oral health.

Customizing Your Smile Makeover Journey

Schedule a consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist to discuss the goals you have for your smile and explore customized treatment options. A qualified cosmetic dentist will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns to deliver your desired outcome.

Many individuals benefit from a combination of procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign, to achieve a comprehensive smile makeover.

Consideration of Your Facial Features

A reputable cosmetic dentist recommending treatments for your customized smile makeover will consider your unique facial features and include enhancements that harmonize with the overall aesthetics of your face.

Smile Makeovers With a Top Chicago Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing to undergo a complete smile makeover can be a big part of self-improvement and transformation. Customizing your smile to align with your preferences enhances your appearance and elevates your confidence and quality of life.

By exploring the diverse options available and collaborating with a skilled cosmetic dentist like Dr. Vlad Fedin in Chicago, Illinois, you can achieve a stunning smile that reflects the best version of yourself.

Remember, a confident smile is a key that unlocks doors to countless opportunities, leaving a lasting and positive impression on the world around you.

Call Chicago Dental Arts at (312) 642-6631 to schedule your smile makeover consultation! We look forward to serving our Chicago area communities and your cosmetic dentistry needs. We provide treatment for individuals in:

• Chicago
• Bucktown
• Chicago Loop
• Glencoe
• Glenview
• Gold Coast
• Logan Square
• Northbrook
• Northfield
• River East
• River North
• Skokie
• Streeterville
• West Loop
• Wicker Park
• Wilmette
• Winnetka

The post How to Customize Your Smile Makeover first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

What Comprises a Dental Implant?

Implants are specially crafted to last long in your mouth and are one of the most effective tooth replacement options. Implants are made of materials designed to combat wear and tear and lengthen the amount of time you can use them. Implants consist of three fundamental mechanisms, including:

• The implant itself
• The crown
• The abutment

The implant is a titanium or zirconia post and is linked through a surgical procedure. Implants attach to your jawbone and are used as the base and root for your crown. The crown is essentially a false tooth, designed to replace the look and functionality of a natural tooth. The abutment brings the implant and crown together and attaches to the implant to hold the crown in place.

How Long Will a Typical Dental Implant Last?

Truth be told, your dental implants will last almost as long as you want them to. The implant itself will last a lifetime with the right maintenance and care. The crown usually lasts about 10 to 15 years before wear and tear rear its ugly head. But, you can extend its lifespan by regularly visiting your dentist every six months and ensuring you keep up with important maintenance work.

An important factor to consider when estimating the longevity of a dental implant is the location of your implant in your mouth. An implant in the front of the mouth usually won’t wear out as quickly as one in the back of your mouth.

How to Ensure My Implant Lasts a Long Time

If your implant is properly cared for, you won’t have to worry about your dental implant failing, but there are health factors that can compromise your implants. The best way to ensure that your implant lasts as long as possible is to keep up with the instructions given by your dentist and avoid bad habits and stressful situations that cause your implant to fail.

Poor hygiene can lead to gum disease that causes your implant to falter prematurely. Patients with diabetes and other conditions are at a greater risk of a failing implant or a crown that lasts on the shorter end of the timeline. Either way, regular dental checks should be done to monitor your oral hygiene and track the condition of your implants. 

How Do Dental Implants Compare to Other Options?

While other options exist for tooth replacement, dental implants are by far the preferred option for missing teeth. They are a permanent solution and, unlike dentures, involve cleaning alongside your natural teeth. Implants don’t stress your teeth and jaw out like dental bridges do and are a nearly seamless fit for most mouths.

Are You Looking to Take the Plunge on Dental Implants?

If you believe that dental implants might be a great option, consider reaching out to the best cosmetic dentists in Chicago! Our team is committed to providing a first-class dental experience that goes above and beyond to give your teeth the care it deserves. To learn more about how our comprehensive services can help address all of your dental needs, get in touch with us today.

The post How Long Do Full-Mouth Dental Implants Last? first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Gingivitis (gum disease) is a serious problem, and when it goes undetected or ignored, it can lead to serious adverse health issues and complicated dental surgeries. Because our mouths are linked to other parts of our body, it is extremely important to diligently maintain the health of the oral cavity.

A good, daily oral hygiene routine is critical to maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Additionally, regular dental visits can help you avoid serious oral health issues by ensuring small problems don’t go unnoticed. This applies to everyone – from the person with seemingly perfect teeth, to the individual who has a mouth filled with crowns and bridges.

Gum Disease Should Never Go Untreated

While routine dental exams and regularly scheduled, professional cleanings help keep your teeth healthy, they are equally as important in the fight against gum disease. In fact, the number one cause of adult tooth loss is periodontal disease – not decay or trauma.

Gum disease begins insidiously, often with very minor symptoms which you may dismiss as nothing to worry about. Nevertheless, while gingivitis begins with the gums, left untreated, it will ultimately lead to periodontal diseases that can wreak havoc on the underlying support tissues and jawbone. This will eventually cause the tooth to loosen and fall out, or necessitate a tooth extraction.

However, that is just the beginning of the damage that gum disease can cause. As gingivitis spreads and chronic periodontitis sets in, the accompanying infection can spread well beyond the teeth, gums, and jawbone. Infection leads to inflammation, which is simply the body trying to fight infection (or heal an injury caused by trauma) by means of the inflammatory response. This is a natural mechanism that causes increased blood flow and extra white blood cells to flood the problematic location.

Unfortunately, when a chronic infection is not brought under control by the body’s immune system or corrective treatment, the continuing inflammatory response also becomes chronic. This can lead to worsening health issues throughout the entire body. Rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease are all suspected to be caused, or exacerbated, by inflammation.

The Link Between Gum Disease and Increased Risk of Mortality

Gum disease is consistently linked to serious inflammatory conditions. So, it is not surprising that a 2017 study showed a direct correlation between periodontal disease, tooth loss, and heart disease related death in post-menopausal women.

Gum disease is also one of the risk factors for serious complications in patients with diabetes. Unfortunately, due to the nature of both diseases, it often becomes almost impossible to control either once gum disease gets a foothold. An experienced dentist is key to successful treatment and a good outcome. Depending on the situation, it may sometimes be necessary to schedule oral surgery in Chicago, IL for the diabetic patient.

Dental and craniofacial research has helped shed more light on these issues. Increased inflammation is also linked to cancer, as indicated in two large studies coming out of Harvard in 2020. Tracking almost 150,000 men and women, over 28 years, the results concluded a greatly increased risk of both esophageal and gastric cancers.

Preventing Periodontal Infection

While poor oral hygiene can cause gum disease, which can lead to increased risk for serious illness, you should know that it is not terribly difficult to maintain your oral health. This will help to prevent both gingivitis and periodontal infection. Taking control of your overall health often begins with small, manageable steps. A good place to start is with your oral health – as it can provide a large impact without requiring a great deal of effort.

We recommend certain simple steps that can help you avoid gum disease and the inflammatory conditions that put your health at risk. These include:

• Twice daily brushing and flossing to clear away tartar and bacterial plaques.
• Scheduling regular dental visits and professional dental cleanings.
• Stopping smoking to prevent both tooth decay and gum disease.
• Adopting a healthy diet to strengthen your immune system, lose weight, and reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases.
• Seeing your dentist right away if you notice any sign of gum infection or inflammation.

Another important aspect of attaining – and maintaining – excellent oral health is finding an excellent dentist. The right dentist will provide exceptional dental care using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Furthermore, every aspect of the dental practice should make you feel relaxed and comfortable.

At Chicago Dental Arts, arguably the best dentist in Chicago, Illinois, we want you to enjoy a healthy smile and a long and healthy life. If you think you might be seeing the beginning signs of gum disease, we invite you to reach out to our highly skilled dental team today. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have, as well as provide information about our treatments.

The post A Chicago Dentist Discusses Inflammation and Gum Disease first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Implants are an amazingly natural looking, technologically advanced option for tooth replacement, and they are suitable for almost anyone – but they are not cheap. That should be reason enough to take excellent care of them. As for your oral hygiene routine, it doesn’t matter if you have your natural teeth, implants, or a combination of the two, maintaining a healthy mouth is the best way to protect that bright, beautiful smile for the rest of your life.

Both natural teeth and implants benefit from regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush. Firm toothbrush bristles can cause damage to your implants and are hard on your gums. Flossing is also just as important as it ever was, and whether you use regular floss or a water jet, it is the only way to remove food particles and plaque from in between your teeth.

The Importance of Professional Teeth Cleaning

Scheduling regular checkups and professional teeth cleanings is an important part of any successful dental hygiene routine. This is the only way to ensure food particles and other bits of debris and plaque won’t get a foothold below the gumline.

Once plaque forms, if it is not removed regularly, it bonds with various minerals, becoming calcified and significantly harder to remove. This buildup, called calculus, can lead to periodontitis, a serious infection of the gum tissue – which can then spread to the bone, resulting in bone deterioration, tooth loss and implant failure.

Don’t Discount the Aesthetics

While it is extremely important to take good care of your oral health and your implants, preventing gum disease and implant failure is not the only reason to do it. After all, didn’t you go to the trouble of getting the implants because you care about the appearance of your smile? Showing off a brilliantly healthy smile is a sign of confidence. White teeth are also associated with a more youthful smile. Taking proper care of your implants will allow you to enjoy the aesthetic benefits they offer for many years to come.

Which Products are Safe To Use?

As we have already stressed, brushing and flossing on a regular basis, as well as visiting your dental professional for checkups and teeth cleanings is especially important whether you have implants or your natural teeth. Nevertheless, there is a bit of a difference between natural teeth and implants when you are thinking about using any type of whitening product.

At-home teeth whitening kits may be perfectly safe to use on your natural teeth, but if you have implants, you should rely on a dental professional for your whitening treatments. Your dentist has the correct tools and the appropriate products to clean and whiten your implants without damaging or discoloring them. In fact, the products your dentist uses will not only make your smile beautiful, but they will also extend the life of your implants.

Dental Implants are an Investment – Take Care of Them

Dental implants are an investment in your health and your appearance. Care for them as you would any other investment to ensure you receive your money’s worth. Brush and floss regularly, schedule twice-yearly dental visits with someone who specializes in cosmetic dentistry in Chicago, IL, and make sure to take care of any small issues before they turn into big ones.

At Chicago Dental Arts, we provide state-of-the art cosmetic dentistry services, including beautiful, durable, natural-looking implants. We also have the skill and expertise to help you care for them properly.

Whether you are thinking about getting dental implants, or you already have them and are searching for a dentist who is experienced in taking care of them, we offer exceptional dental services to keep your smile beautiful and healthy.

For more information about cosmetic dental procedures or caring for dental implants, reach out to our dedicated staff at Chicago Dental Arts. We are always happy to help you schedule your appointment and answer any questions you may have about all types of dental services and procedures. We invite you to call today.

The post Caring for Your Dental Implants in Chicago, IL first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are designed to literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge attaches to one or more abutment (supporting) teeth, filling the gap between them with a false tooth. One or both of the teeth on either side of the gap will need to be fitted with a crown in order to support the attached bridge.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant replaces a tooth that has been lost by inserting a titanium rod into the gums and attaching a natural-looking false tooth atop it. Those without adequate jaw bone mass below the gum may need a bone graft before the procedure. Dental implants are popular for their exceptional strength and are a good option for individuals looking to permanently replace one or more missing teeth.

Combining Dental Implants and Bridges

Patients seeking dental implants in Chicago often come to learn that their unique dental circumstances require a combination of both treatments. This is especially true for those who are looking to replace several teeth in a row. Your dentist may recommend dental implants as a means to support a bridge. This ‘best-of-both-worlds’ solution may help make your dental implants in Chicago, IL more accessible.

Reasons to Choose One Over the Other

If your dentist presents you with both options, know that there’s an argument to be made for both bridges and implants. Dental bridges offer a shorter procedure and a shorter recovery, but you may need to avoid certain hard-to-chew foods. The dental implant process is likely to be longer, but the results are more stable, allowing the recipient to enjoy all their favorite foods. While dental implants in Chicago, IL are available, a simple dental bridge may be the more economical option depending on your needs.

Our High Quality Dental Implants in Chicago, IL

For many people, the cost of dental implants or a new bridge represents a significant investment in their oral health. At Chicago Dental Arts, we always begin with a no-obligation consultation. During this appointment, you can ask any questions you have regarding our financing options. We are happy to accept CareCredit and Lending Club, two financing options that can help bring the beautiful dental implants you want within reach. Contact us today to book your appointment—and don’t forget to check out our specials for a deal!

The post Comparing Dental Implants and Bridges first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Do Dental Implants Hurt?

We understand that avoiding pain is the top priority for many patients. The most important factor in avoiding pain during this procedure is to select a dentist you can trust. At the Chicago Dental Arts, we pride ourselves on providing a ‘zero pain, zero anxiety’ experience to our patients, including those receiving dental implants.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are a permanent solution for a missing tooth. During the procedure, a metal rod will be inserted into the jawbone. This rod provides a permanent and irreversible anchor for a natural-looking tooth replacement (the crown). Excellent care and a lack of damaging habits (such as tooth grinding) can help your dental implant last 25 years or more.

Can You Eat … With Dental Implants?

After getting a dental implant, yes, you can eat steak, apples, and corn again! One of the main advantages to dental implants is their impressive stability, which provides recipients the ability to eat certain difficult-to-chew foods they’ve previously had to avoid. Almost anything you can safely eat with your natural teeth is compatible with a dental implant—see the next answer for more information.

Will Food Get Stuck Under My Implant?

It’s rare, but occasionally patients report getting food stuck under their implant. Popcorn husks, small seeds, and other food debris have been known to slip below the gumline and cause discomfort. Infection is possible if the particle is not removed. If you begin to feel like you may have something lodged in your gum, schedule an appointment with your dentist to address the issue.

Dental Implants Near Skokie

Our conveniently located dental offices provide a comfortable and efficient atmosphere for general, cosmetic, and restorative services. If you are researching your options for dental implants near Skokie, think of us, and give us a call! We can fit you in for a consultation and answer any additional questions you may have.

The post Answering Common Dental Implant Questions first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Want Strong Bones? Seek Calcium and Phosphorus

If you’re of a certain age, you may remember an ad campaign highlighting milk as a central component to strengthening bones—this is true for your teeth as well! Found in many of the same foods, both calcium and phosphorus are critical nutrients that help build the strength of your bones and maintain them in the years to come. If you want a smile with lasting brilliance, look to include some of the foods below into your diet:

Sources of Calcium

• Low-fat dairy products including milk and yogurt
• Soy products, including tofu and fortified beverages
• Leafy vegetables with a dark green color
• Whole sardines and canned salmon
• Beans, lentils, and almonds

Phosphorus-rich Foods

• Low-fat dairy, beans, lentils, and soy products (all mentioned above)
• Poultry (chicken and turkey), organ meats, and seafood
• Whole grains, amaranth, and quinoa
• Sunflower and pumpkin seeds

Vitamin C Supports Your Teeth and Gums

Your first thought on vitamin C probably includes citrus fruits. If so, you’re absolutely correct: citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit provide good sources of this essential vitamin. It’s important to point out that the acidic juices of these fruits should be rinsed down with water in order to not linger and interfere with your enamel.

Sources of Vitamin C

• Brussels Sprouts, mustard spinach, and broccoli
• Chili peppers and sweet yellow peppers
• Papaya, strawberries, and kiwis
• Parsley and thyme

Find a Dentist in Chicago Who Cares

We have compassionate teams of dental care professionals in Chicago, Skokie, and Hinsdale standing by to provide you with top-notch quality care. Reach out today to schedule an appointment at the office most convenient for you!

The post Nutrition for a More Beautiful Smile first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

First Steps

Oral care for infants should involve the use of a damp, clean cloth. Wiping down your infant’s gums after feedings (and making sure to take the bottle away) helps prevent common early-life issues such as baby bottle tooth decay. Your child’s first tooth is likely to emerge between six and twelve months of age, and this is the optimal time to schedule their first dental visit with a family practitioner. Light brushing can begin once the first tooth emerges, using a soft, infant-sized toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and water. Using a very small amount of toothpaste is the key to helping to keep your child from ingesting it.

Primary Teeth

By the age of three your child is likely to have a full mouth of baby teeth. Though this set will be replaced by larger, stronger adult teeth in time, this is a critical stage for establishing positive habits. Encouraging your kids to brush twice per day, as well as floss once per day, may be met with some resistance (though some kids love it!). Unenthusiastic children may be more willing to stick with it if you provide them with choices and fun perks during this activity. You can try purchasing multiple types of toothpaste to allow them options, time brushing with musical cues, or tell stories to make dental care time more fun.

Adult Teeth

At the age of 13 your child will have grown in almost all of their permanent teeth. With diligent care, your kids may be able to keep this set of natural teeth for the entirety of their lives. As a teen, your child may undergo corrective braces, and it is critical that they follow a care regimen to avoid developing white spots on their teeth. This is often the time in one’s life where we become conscious of our outward appearance, so you may want to remind your child that a clean and sparkling smile can make a big difference in how they feel about themselves.
Many adults struggle with the consequences of poor childhood oral care later in life. If you’re looking for cosmetic dentistry near Skokie, our staff can help talk you through your options for a total smile makeover. Reach out today!

The post Help Your Child’s Smile Last a Lifetime first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Consider Your Diet

Not only can your diet help you feel better physically, but it can also play a role in improving your oral health. Eating foods that are high in sugar and fat can increase your susceptibility to common oral disorders such as gum disease or cavity development. We recommend sticking to foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts to help your body function at its best. Plus, chewing on raw vegetables is an easy way to reduce plaque from your teeth and freshen your breath.

Quit Using Tobacco Products

Not only are tobacco products bad for your overall health, but they can have a direct impact on your smile as well. Using tobacco products such as cigarettes or chewing tobacco automatically increase your risk of developing cavities, tooth discoloration, gum disease, gum recession and throat, lung and oral cancer. These are serious oral issues that can ultimately have an impact on your overall health as well. Simply stepping away from these negative habits can easily turn around your oral health and have you on a path to a healthier smile and a healthier life.

Reduce Your Alcohol Intake

In addition to eliminating tobacco from your life in 2020, we recommend reducing your alcohol intake to help reduce damage to your teeth. The Academy of general dentistry notes that those who regularly use tobacco products and drink alcohol are more likely to develop periodontal pocketing, also known as gum recession. Having a drink once in a while won’t have a large impact, but it’s important to monitor your alcohol intake and drink in moderation to maintain your oral health.

Brush At Least Twice/Day and Floss Once a Day

Don’t forget about the basics this year! Our dentist in Chicago recommends brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice per day and flossing once per day to get the optimal results from your routine. These simple habits can have a huge impact on getting rid of plaque, an invisible film that consists of harmful bacteria. It’s easy to skip flossing, but this helps reduce the amount of plaque between your teeth, an area that brushing cannot always reach.

Visit Our Chicago Dentist on a Regular Basis

The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice every year for a general checkup. Even though there may not be anything wrong with your teeth or gums, visiting our dentist in Chicago is an easy way to stay on top of developing problems and catch them before they transition into a larger issue.
Our dentist in Chicago looks forward to helping you get your best and healthiest smile this 2020! What are your personal smile goals for the next year?

The post New Year’s Resolutions for Your Smile first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Festive Fruit

Who doesn’t love a good themed fruit arrangement? Not only is fruit extremely delicious, but it is also extremely versatile when it comes to presentation. While, of course, there is natural sugar found in fruits, this type of sugar is much healthier than processed sugar. Think homemade Santa hats using strawberries or a fruit and crackers assembly to make a Christmas tree.

Nuts & Cheese

Nuts and cheese are both extremely festive and won’t negatively impact your teeth! Nuts can help stimulate the saliva production in your mouth, making it easy to minimize bacteria and debris. They can also gently scrub your teeth to keep them clean. Cheese is full of healthy calcium that helps keep your enamel strong. The two combined together is a tasty, festive and healthy holiday snack!

Pumpkin Pie

Yes, you read that correctly! Pumpkin itself isn’t bad for your teeth, in fact, it has vitamin A and fiber to help keep you full. Making a pumpkin pie from scratch allows you to cut down on the amount of sugar in it, and be sure to skip the whipped cream. Your pearly whites will thank you!
Our dentist in Chicago wishes you a happy and healthy holiday season!

The post Holiday Snacking That Won’t Hurt Your Teeth first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.