Treatment Options for Open Bite

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Are you struggling with an open bite? This occurs when your upper teeth no longer meet your lower teeth when your mouth is closed. Although an open bite can happen in the front or the back of your mouth, it usually affects the front incisors. As a result, biting and chewing your favorite foods becomes much more difficult. Your dentist in Willowbrook, IL, can tell you more about what causes an open bite and how it’s treated.

Why Do I Have an Open Bite?

There are several good reasons why you may have developed an open bite. You may just be prone to this malocclusion through genetics. Or, possibly, you suffered recent trauma or injury to your teeth or mouth. In children, open bites may develop due to thumb- or pacifier-sucking. Or if you have a habit of constantly sucking your lower lip or thrusting your tongue against your front teeth, these habits could contribute, too.

Regardless of why you may have developed an open bite, your orthodontist can fix it. And you’re never too old to correct this type of dental problem. The first step is getting in touch with your family dentist for a consultation and diagnostic tests to see what’s going on beneath your gums.

What Can My Dentist Do for Open Bite?

Braces are often a good treatment option to correct an open bite. And if you dislike how visible they are, clean aligners may be another great solution. There may be some instances where braces or aligners aren’t the right choice, however. And in these instances, your orthodontist may recommend a safe oral surgery to correct the problem.

Treatment for Open Bite in Willowbrook, IL

For the diagnosis and treatment of open bite in Willowbrook, IL, turn to the Dentists of Hinsdale Lake. The Dentists of Hinsdale Lake specialize in keeping you and your family at ease. We know dental visits can be stressful, but our friendly and experienced staff are professionals, and we’ll go that extra mile to answer any questions you may have regarding treatment for your open bite. Call today to set up a convenient consultation.

3 Reasons to Schedule a Dental Appointment After the Holidays

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The holidays are here! Are you thinking about scheduling an appointment for a dental checkup in Willowbrook IL when the holidays are over? If not, you should be! There are many reasons that you might want to see the dentist when the holidays are over. Below, we’ve listed a few important reasons to see the dentist after the holidays.

1. Wine and Coffee Stain Teeth

Do you drink a lot of coffee and wine at the holidays? So do a lot of people. These drinks can stain your teeth, turning them a yellow-ish or even gray-ish color. Wine and coffee aren’t the only staining foods and drinks that people consume at this time of year.

Cranberry sauce, hot tea, gravy, saucy lasagna – all of these foods and drinks can stain your teeth. When the holidays are over, you might benefit from teeth whitening from your dentist in Willowbrook IL.

2. Sugary Food Intake Goes Up Around Holidays

Sugary food is bad for your teeth – but around the holidays, just about everyone eats sugary foods. Cookies are bad enough, but do you find yourself chewing on candy canes? Hard candies like this have a way of sticking to tooth enamel, and that can cause cavities and tooth decay.

One more food to worry about is pecan pie! Anything that’s sticky and chewy and also high in sugar content is bad for your teeth. Making your dentist appointment right after the holidays can help ensure that your teeth get cleaned and tooth decay is stopped in its tracks before it becomes serious.

3. Tooth Grinding from Stress Can Damage Teeth

A lot of people get stressed over the holidays, and that causes tooth grinding. Tooth grinding can cause your teeth to wear down and even become cracked. If your gums are unhealthy or if the bone holding your teeth in place has deteriorated, grinding your teeth could even cause your teeth to become loose.

Your dentist can identify the signs that you’re grinding your teeth at night, and can prescribe a mouth guard to help. See the dentist after the holidays get to get help, and keep your teeth protected. For more information about making a dental appointment after the holidays, call Dentists of Hinsdale Lake today.

A Look at the Not-So-Known Culprits Behind Sensitive Teeth

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Surveys have shown that about one in eight people have teeth that they feel are overly sensitive. Even though teeth sensitivity is a common problem, most people have no idea how many factors could contribute to the problem. Take a look at some common problems to blame for dental sensitivity you may not know.

1. Gum Recession

Receding gums can leave the lower, nerve-ridden areas of a tooth exposed. Therefore, if you have issues with receding gum lines, you could see problems with teeth sensitivity as well. Receding gums can come along with age for some, but the problem is most often associated with gum disease. So, if you do spot a receding gum line, be sure to talk to your dentist.

2. Sinus Infection

This culprit may come as a surprise, but sometimes, if you have issues with your sinuses, you may have heightened sensitivity in your mouth. The excess pressure on nerves in the sinus cavity can affect the nerves leading to your teeth.

3. Unseen Tooth Decay

While tooth decay is oftentimes obvious, some people develop decay in between their teeth, on the posterior side of their teeth, or just beneath the gum line. This decay can make your teeth more sensitive, so it is a good idea to discuss any sensitivity problems with the dentist to rule out decay.

4. Bruxism

Bruxism is a medical term for grinding your teeth, which some people do while they are asleep or even when they feel stressed. Bruxism puts a great deal of stress on the nerves in your jawline and can lead to dental sensitivity as well.

5. Gum Infection

Infection in your gums creates inflammation around your teeth, which can mean you are more prone to oral pain. With an infection of the gums, you may also notice swelling, redness, or tenderness.

Find Help for Tooth Sensitivity in Willowbrook, IL

Problems with tooth sensitivity should never be ignored. In many cases, the sensations you feel are a sign of a bigger problem that could be a threat to your dental or overall health. If you have issues with tooth sensitivity, reach out to us at the Dentists of Hinsdale Lake in Willowbrook to schedule an appointment.

Burning Mouth Syndrome – What Is It, How Is It Treated, and More  

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Burning, itching, redness, and discomfort in your mouth is never a good sign. However, these kinds of symptoms are usually related to some kind of short-term exposure to an irritant that landed in your sensitive mouth. If you have prolonged issues with symptoms such as these, you could have an uncommon condition referred to as burning mouth syndrome. What is burning mouth syndrome, what causes it, and can it be treated? Let’s take a closer look.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Explained

Burning mouth syndrome is an ongoing issue with certain levels of discomfort in your mouth. Some would explain that the sensation is similar to what happens when you drink a beverage that is too hot. Some other symptoms can include:

  • Tingling or numbness of the tongue
  • Difficulty with swallowing
  • Sore throat
  • Experiencing a bad taste in your mouth, such as a metal taste
  • Burning of gums, cheeks, and throat
  • Dry mouth
  • Sensitivity to certain types of food, such as salty food

What Causes Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome can have a number of underlying causes, some of which may have seemingly little to do with your mouth at all. Some common issues to blame include:

  • Acid reflux
  • Hormonal changes
  • Allergic reaction to oral appliances or treatments, such as dentures
  • Lack of certain vitamins
  • Thrush
  • Allergic reaction to oral hygiene products

How Burning Mouth Syndrome Is Treated

The dentist may initially recommend certain tests to determine the root cause of the problem. Treatment will be dependent upon what the suspected cause may be. For example, if you are having an allergic reaction to oral hygiene products, the dentist may simply recommend different products. If the issue is not related to dental care or oral health, the dentist may recommend that you seek care from your primary physician.

Find a Willowbrook, IL Dentist to Help

If you have been dealing with issues of discomfort in your mouth, it is critical that you have a medical professional take a look. While burning mouth syndrome may not always be to blame, making sure you don’t have something serious affecting your oral health is important. Reach out to us at the Dentists of Hinsdale Lake to schedule an appointment today.

What to Look For in a Dentist

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When looking for a dentist in Willowbrook, IL, there are certain things you want to consider. Not all dentists are the same. It’s important that you choose a dentist that suits your personal health needs. Here are the most important things that you should look for in a dentist.

Proximity

The first thing you’ll want to consider is proximity. Make sure that your dentist’s office is located close enough to your home or work that it will be easy to get to. Doing so will ensure that when you do have dentist appointments, getting there won’t be problematic for you. Having said that, if you find a dentist that you particularly like, it’s sometimes worth it to drive the extra mile to get there.

Demeanor

You don’t have to be best friends with your dentist, but you should feel that your dentist has a good demeanor. Your dentist should be easy to be around and not make you tense or uncomfortable in any way. Some people automatically feel tense around a dentist, but a good dentist will make you feel relaxed very quickly.

Informative

You should look for a dentist who is willing to explain things to you. Remember, it’s your oral health. You have a right to be fully informed as to the condition of your oral health and what treatments the dentist is suggesting for you. Choose a dentist that is patient with your questions and will take the time to ensure you understand what’s going on.

Gentle

The dentist in Willowbrook that you choose should have a gentle touch. You don’t need to be treated in a rough manner. Dentists are trained to be sensitive to patients’ comfort. Make sure that any dentist you use is gentle enough so that you don’t feel they are being brusque.

Available

It’s no good finding the perfect dentist only to discover that it’s difficult to get an appointment. You need a dentist that has available dates and times so you can be seen on a regular basis and when you need to get critical treatments done.

Most people have the same dentist for many years, so it’s important that you choose one with all the best possible qualities. To book an appointment with the Dentists of Hinsdale Lake, please contact us today.

 

Why Do Some People Have More Teeth Problems?

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Discrepancies and statistical anomalies occur in every pocket of our society, not withstanding dental health. Across any given population, some people tend to be more prone to tooth problems, but what makes the difference between people like this and those who never seem to get a cavity?. These differences often lead some to wonder why that is the case. One of the most common reasons for why there is a large discrepancy in dental health is diet.

The Modern Diet May be Partial to Blame

Historically, when humans lived as hunter-gatherers, our ancestors survived on a natural diet. Back then, there were no processed foods, and our ancestors had wonderful teeth, based on findings. Today there are still older tribes that exist, and to prove the point, explorers went there and discovered the great condition of their molars, despite not brushing at all. These findings show that our modern diet is at least part of the cause of our dental woes.

The Role of Genetics

Genetics also contributes a lot to whether one will have a lot of tooth problems. Everyone has a slightly unique biome that exists in their bodies, including the mouth. Some people inherit a biome that is heavy with the kind of bacteria that destroy teeth. But how can you tell who will have teeth problems and who will not? Well, you can’t. All you can do is take care of your teeth as best you can and visit the dentist on a regular basis. If you develop teeth problems for one reason or another, at least your dentist will be able to treat the problems in their early stages.

Pollution and the Environment

And then there’s also modern pollution. Individuals that live in industrial sectors may just end up being a victim to lifelong pollution that exacerbates certain illnesses and disease. Those who also live in areas with heavy industrial pollution with no fluoride in the water might experience osteoporosis or brittle teeth and end up having to go to the dentist many times during their life.

All these factors add up to a general picture of the differences in people’s dental problems. The only thing you can really do is ensure that you choose a good dentist and visit the dentist on a regular basis.

 

4 Ways to Make Your Dentist Visits Enjoyable

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If you don’t exactly look forward to going to the dentist, chances are you may have a little bit of dental anxiety. This may stem from a fear of what the dentist will find out or a fear that you’ll get bad news. Here are some ways to make your dentist visits more enjoyable.

1. Go Regularly

The more often you go to the dentist, the more comfortable you’ll feel in the days and weeks leading up to your appointment. When you go regularly to the dentist, you’ll get to know the office staff, become more familiar with the office environment and develop a nice rapport with your dentist. Experts suggest going to the dentist at least once a month, but talk to your own dentist about a schedule that meets your particular dental needs.

2. Keep Up Home Dental Hygiene

If you keep up your home dental hygiene regimen, then you’ll have very little to fear about going to the dentist. As long as you’re flossing, brushing and rinsing with fluoride products daily, you and your dentist will know that you’re doing everything within your power to maintain your dental health.

3. Don’t Put Off Problem Visits

If you do feel like you have a dental health issue—no matter how small—book an appointment right away with your dentist to have it checked out. Small dental issues have a way of quickly turning into serious problems if they are left untreated. Things you should have checked out include:

  • tooth sensitivity
  • chipped tooth
  • visible gaps that suddenly appear between teeth
  • loose tooth
  • change in bite
  • bleeding gums
  • chronic bad breath

4. Bring a Comfort Item

Consider bringing something familiar and comforting from home on your dentist visits. This could be something like a favorite sweater, a shawl, a lucky keychain or something similar. This can help you to feel more relaxed as you hold it during your dentist visits.

These four ways to make your dentist visits more enjoyable are easy to implement. The better you feel about upcoming dental visits, the more likely you are to keep them. To book a dentist visit now, please contact us today.

Dental Anxiety 101: FAQs About Handling Dental Fears

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Between 9 and 15 percent of individuals do not get the dental care they need because of fear of the dentist, which goes to show just how common it is to have dental anxiety. If you are well aware of dental treatment anxiety because you deal with it yourself, you may have a few questions. Take a look at some things you likely want to know about your dental anxiety and fear and the answers you can rely on.

Should you discuss your fears with your dentist?

Absolutely! Your dentist can’t help you out if they have no idea what you’re feeling. Of course, most dentists can recognize the signs of dental anxiety. But the more you open up and communicate, the easier it will be to establish a plan of action that can keep you at ease. For instance, if you let the dentist know that you have anxiety because you are claustrophobic and don’t like feeling crowded near your face, they can take more frequent breaks, make sure your airway is not crowded, etcetera.

How can you handle dental anxiety without sedation?

Dental anxiety can sometimes be helped through basic relaxation techniques. For example, Harvard Health offers a nice list of relaxation techniques during stressful moments, such as:

  • Breathing focus, which involves taking long, deep breaths and focusing on the breathing process
  • Guided imagery, which involves mindfully focusing on pleasant imagery
  • Body scan, which involves tightening and relaxing certain muscle groups

When do you know sedation dentistry is the best solution if you have dental anxiety?

If your dental anxiety is so severe that nothing your dentist does or changes helps to combat the anxiety, you may need to consider getting treatments while sedated. Nitrous oxide gas, which is often referred to as laughing gas, can sometimes be used to curb anxiety. Your dentist may also be able to give you a mild oral sedative just before your treatment. Some dentists even offer full sedation dentistry, which is treatment performed while you are completely sedated.

It is perfectly normal to get nervous at the dentist, but some people have more problems with dental anxiety than others. Reach out to us at Dentists of Hinsdale Lake in Illinois for an appointment.

woman smiling white teeth

3 Ways to Prevent Tooth Enamel Loss

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As the erosion of your tooth enamel occurs, it loses its ability to protect against tooth decay. Although fluoride can help rebuild enamel, it is better to keep it from eroding in the first place. Luckily, there are many ways to accomplish this goal and preserve your dental health. Check out these three methods to find your ideal way to prevent tooth enamel loss.

Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages

Tooth enamel already withstands an onslaught of acids from the waste released by plaque bacteria. Adding more in the form of acidic food and beverages only serves to wear the enamel down even more. So, to avoid making this problem worse, avoid excessive consumption of:

  • Soda
  • Fruit juice
  • Citrus
  • Tomatoes
  • Sour candy

As you limit these substances, you give fluoride a chance to halt tooth enamel loss and start to rebuild the lost minerals.

woman smiling white teeth

Keep Gastric Acid Under Control

Like acidic food and beverages, gastric acid can wreak havoc on tooth enamel. As the acid comes up the esophagus, it often contacts the molars and backsides of the teeth, causing visible damage in those areas. You can keep this problem at bay by controlling your acid reflux symptoms with help from your doctor. They can prescribe medications and help you make lifestyle changes that make a big difference in your health.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum Everyday

By washing away bacteria and their acidic waste, saliva plays an important role in preventing enamel loss. Your salivary glands may not always produce the optimal amount of saliva on their own, but you can help them along by chewing sugar-free gum. As you chew the gum, your salivary glands amp up their production of saliva, washing the tooth enamel clean.

How Your Dentist Can Help Prevent Tooth Enamel Loss

If you would like to receive help preventing tooth enamel loss, your dentist at is always available to help you create an effective care plan. With their assistance, you can establish beneficial professional teeth cleaning schedule and perfect your at-home oral care routines. We welcome you to give us a call at 630-323-5333 to set up an appointment with your dentist to receive the support you need to prevent tooth enamel loss.

Four Common Causes of Tooth Pain

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Good at-home oral hygiene habits paired with regular dental exams can help prevent most causes of tooth pain. But even with the most rigorous dental care regimen, it’s possible to experience severe discomfort in a tooth. Following are four common causes of tooth pain.

Sensitive teeth

If you notice a sharp, temporary pain in a tooth while brushing, eating, or drinking, it could be caused by worn tooth enamel. Your dentist might recommend an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste to help block pain associated with sensitive teeth. He might also apply fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain in the sensitive areas.

Impacted tooth

When teeth are prevented from moving into their proper position in the mouth by other teeth, gums, or bone, you’ve got an impaction. This commonly happens with wisdom teeth since they are the last to erupt, typically between ages 17-21. The jawbone can’t accommodate the extra teeth, so they stay trapped under the gum, causing pressure and pain. Many people have their wisdom teeth, or “third molars,” extracted in their teens before they undergo orthodontic work, such as braces.

Cracked tooth

The pressure from biting, chewing, and grinding can weaken teeth over time. A tooth can crack suddenly and noticeably when you bite down hard on an object, or it can be a more subtle fracture you might not notice for a while. Sensitivity to hot, cold, air, and pressure are all signs of a cracked tooth. If left untreated, bacteria can build up inside the pulp chamber, leading to a very painful infection and severe swelling in the form of an abscess.

Sinus infection

This non-dental cause of tooth pain is common in people who suffer from allergies or frequent colds. The cavities around the nasal passages become swollen and inflamed, causing pain in the teeth located in the upper back corners of your mouth. Your dentist may suggest decongestants or other medications to relieve sinus pressure.

If you’re suffering from tooth pain, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Many conditions worsen over time. Call us at (630) 323-5333, or use our online contact form to send us an appointment request message. We look forward to hearing from you!