The team at Advanced Family Dental Associates had a special visitor today – Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot! Mayor Lightfoot was in the area to visit businesses, so we gave her a tour of our office. She was impressed by the protocols we have in place to provide safe visits for Chicagoans. We were honored to meet Mayor Lightfoot and give her our biggest smiles 😁
ADVANCEDCHICAGODENTIST.COM
West Lawn, Chicago, IL Dentists | Advanced Family Dental
As #pregnancy alters hormones, the body responds to oral bacteria differently. Some pregnant women report having sore teeth and gums, which may be a result of increased blood flow or gingivitis. You can reduce oral discomfort during pregnancy by taking the following precautions:
• Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t irritate your sore teeth or gums.
• Avoid foods that trigger discomfort, including hard foods, hot foods and very cold foods.
• See your dentist to make sure your soreness isn’t stemming from periodontal disease.
Thanks to advancements in modern technology, x-ray devices are much safer than they used to be. Dental x-rays are generally considered to be safe during #pregnancy, but your dentist will likely take steps to safeguard you and your baby. This may include using extra protection to shield your abdomen and thyroid from radiation.
While routine dental care can be performed any time during #pregnancy, you should tell your dentist you’re expecting and provide the names and dosages of any medications you’re taking, including fish oils, prenatal vitamins or other supplements.
Urgent dental procedures can still be scheduled during your pregnancy, but we recommend postponing elective dental procedures until after delivery. You should check with your obstetrician before scheduling a dental appointment to see if he or she has any special instructions or precautions for your particular situation. Make sure to relay this information to your dentist, so he or she can make any necessary alterations or exceptions when performing oral treatments.
Whatever you do, it’s important not to skip your dental checkup appointment because of your pregnancy. And, be sure to maintain a strict brushing and flossing routine to prevent or reduce #OralHealth problems.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing information about #pregnancy and #OralHealth. During the first trimester of pregnancy, a woman experiences significant hormonal changes that affect multiple parts of her body. In addition to altering immune function, these hormones are known to change the way the body deals with oral bacteria and inflammation. For this reason, it’s important to pay special attention to your oral health, from the moment you begin planning your pregnancy to the moment you give birth.
#TeethWhitening is all the rage these days. Who doesn't want a blinding smile? It’s always a good idea to talk with your dentist about the process before whitening your teeth at home.
Thank you for making our day with your ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, Jeanne! We’re so happy to learn you and your kids have had such a pleasant experience at our office. And you’re right – we’ve been sanitizing, sanitizing, sanitizing! Patient and employee safety is our highest priority.
In a contributed article for The New York Times, Dr. Tammy Chen, a prosthodontist and the owner of Central Park Dental Aesthetics in Midtown Manhattan, recounted how she has seen an uptick in the number of patients with cracked teeth since early June. As Dr. Chen shares, one obvious answer is stress. From COVID-induced nightmares to “doomsurfing” to “coronaphobia,” it’s no secret that pandemic-related anxiety is affecting our collective mental health. That stress, in turn, leads to clenching and grinding, which can damage the teeth.
Click open the article linked below to learn why more patients are fracturing their teeth and how to prevent this from happening. If you haven’t already done so, make an appointment with your dentist to stay up on your six-month screening and cleaning schedule.
NYTIMES.COM
A Dentist Sees More Cracked Teeth. What’s Going On?
If you don’t take proper care of your gums, your inaction may lead to gum disease. As we mentioned in our previous gum care post, gum disease occurs when bacteria and plaque buildup around the tooth, damaging the supporting soft tissue and bone. Swollen and bright red gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing teeth, and bad breath are tell-tale signs of gum disease. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Gum disease begins with bacterial growth in your mouth and, if not properly treated, may end with tooth loss due to destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. In extreme cases, the disease’s bacteria can travel into the bloodstream and increase your risk for heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and other complications.
Luckily, gum disease is preventable by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash and visiting your dentist regularly. Though it may feel like a chore, the upkeep is worth it to ensure a beautiful smile and healthy gums!
In addition to #flossing, another way to keep your gums in tip-top shape is with a #HealthyDiet. Do your best to avoid starchy and sugary foods like candy, which are common culprits of plaque. Instead, opt for a healthy, balanced meal plan that includes a range of colors and nutrients. Did you know eating crisp fruits and raw vegetables, such as apples and carrots, help clean plaque from teeth? You get a snack and a polish all in one!
Dental hygiene means more than just a pretty smile – it also means pretty gums! In honor of National Gum Care Month, we’ll be sharing information over the next few days on how to keep your gums healthy.
We’re kicking things off by highlighting the importance of #flossing. Flossing is central to healthy gums because it removes plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach, helping you avoid cavities and gum disease. Make sure to clean around your gums as well as between your teeth to remove all particles.
You may be surprised to learn that your diet directly impacts your oral health. Hygienist Kim Zolezzi regularly explains to her patients how eating healthy encourages strong teeth and gums, and recommends eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as a diet low in refined sugar.
You may also be surprised to learn that your mouth may show the first signs of a systemic or underlying issue, such as diabetes, heart disease or a blood disorder, so ensuring your diet is filled with nutrients is of the utmost importance. For your health and safety, we routinely screen for oral cancer, sleep apnea, acid reflux and eating disorders during your regular dental hygiene visit.
Thank you for your ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, Stacy! We’re so happy you had a quick and pain-free experience. 😊
It’s National Orthodontic Health Month! This October, we’re celebrating healthy smiles, the benefits of orthodontic treatment and the importance of consistent oral health. Orthodontic treatment, which most commonly includes braces and invisible aligners, moves teeth to improve their appearance, function and health.
Talk to your dentist today about the best orthodontic treatment for you.
Sponsored by the American Dental Hygienists' Association, the month-long National Hygiene Month campaign aims to stress the fact that good oral health goes a long way in supporting one’s overall well-being.
As Hygienist Kim Zolezzi shares, flossing is another important step to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. You should floss once each day for optimal health, as flossing reduces and removes the plaque between the teeth and promotes an overall healthier mouth. Flossing also prevents gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease where the gums are swollen and bleed easily. Healthy gums don't bleed when you brush or floss. When flossing, be sure to wrap the floss in a "C" shape to remove the bacteria in between the tooth and the line angle of the tooth. If you find flossing to be difficult, your hygienist can help you with the proper technique.
October is National Dental Hygiene Month, an annual reminder for the nation to practice the daily habits that promote healthy teeth and gums. Over the course of the month, Hygienist Kim Zolezzi will cover the key habits to ensure optimal oral health. First up, brushing:
Brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes with a soft toothbrush is one the most important steps you can take to diminish the accumulation of plaque and the potential for other oral problems, such as cavities, bad breath, gingivitis or periodontal disease. You should replace your toothbrush every three months and when you’re sick, as bristles get worn down and microbes grow on the bristles. Proper brushing is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and using a fluoride toothpaste helps with decreasing cavities and tooth sensitivity.
Here’s the 411 on receding gums: Healthy gums fit snugly around the visible part, or the “crown,” of the teeth. Gum recession occurs when the gums pull away or recede, exposing the roots below. Once the gum tissue has receded from the teeth, it can’t grow back. However, some treatments can help restore gum tissue around the teeth.
Visit the Medical News Today article linked below to learn about the various treatments for receding gums, including tips on how to slow and stop its progression:
MEDICALNEWSTODAY.COM
Do receding gums grow back? Treatments and prevention
Our offices remain open during the current stay-at-home advisory. Dental clinics are included under the umbrella of essential medical care.
When it comes to our current protocols, we want to reassure you that we’re constantly monitoring the latest updates and recommendations from the CDC, ADA and our state and local governments to ensure we’re providing patients with a safe and comfortable dental visit. Your safety is our top priority, which is why our office continues to implement the following protocols:
• Pre-screenings before entering our clinic
• Reinforced infection control
• Ongoing staff training
• PPE for all staff
• Masks required for dental staff and patients
We take the responsibility of supporting your dental needs and protecting our patients, staff and community very seriously. We look forward to seeing you – and your mask – soon!
But what is TMJ disorder, exactly? It’s a painful condition caused by inflammation of the jaw joint. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint where your jaw connects to your skull. It functions as a sliding hinge to keep the movement of your jaw nice and smooth while avoiding collision with the bones in your skull. TMJ disorders (TMD) can occur if the joint cartilage is inflamed, erodes or becomes misaligned due to injury or overuse.
Here are some things you can try at home to prevent and relieve the symptoms of TMJ disorder:
• Avoid overworking the jaw joint by limiting hard foods and chewing gum.
• Gently massage the muscles to release tension.
• Implement stress-reducing techniques like a daily exercise routine.
• If you’re in front of a computer all day, maintain good posture by taking short breaks to rest your arms and loosen up your back and neck muscles.
Did you know you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by using your dental benefits before the end of 2020? Every year you receive a maximum amount from your dental insurance company, and in most cases the unused portion is lost when the new insurance year starts. These are benefits you’ve already paid for!
Your dental care is important to us, and we want to make sure you get the care you need without overpaying for it. If you’ve been postponing dental treatment or are overdue for a routine exam and cleaning, now is a great time to come in. Give our office a call and we’ll get you scheduled before your benefits run out!
While there aren’t any proven ways to prevent mouth cancer, here’s what you can do to reduce your risk and keep your mouth and body healthy:
• Refrain from using tobacco: Tobacco use is considered the main cause of mouth cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), up to 50% of current smokers will die of a tobacco-related illness, including mouth cancer.
• Drink alcohol in moderation: Chronic excessive alcohol use can irritate the cells in your mouth, making them vulnerable to mouth cancer. In fact, drinking to excess can increase the risk of mouth cancer by four times.
• Limit sun exposure: Protect the skin on your lips by staying in the shade, wearing a hat that shades your whole face and applying a lip product with SPF.
Thanks for the ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, Bella! We’re so happy to hear your girls enjoy visiting our office. Learning the benefits of regular check-ups at a young age is so important for a lifelong healthy mouth.
November marks TMJ Awareness Month, a national movement to help understand this excruciating ailment that affects millions of Americans, especially women between the ages of 20 and 40. If you endure throbbing tension headaches, unexplained soreness in your neck and shoulders, or discomfort from normal activities like chewing or speaking, you may be experiencing the painful effects of TMJ disorder.
If you’re dealing with some or all of these symptoms and haven’t found a permanent solution, call our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained dentists. Let us help you relieve your pain and improve your quality of life!
Just because we’re wearing masks doesn’t mean your smile isn’t important. Keeping up your oral hygiene is still essential even if fewer people are seeing your mouth nowadays. 😷 Remember to brush twice per day, and floss and use mouthwash daily. Think of it as preparation for a dazzling smile when it’s safe to socialize mask-free.
If you’re thinking of skipping your New Year dental checkup, we advise you to reconsider. Now, more than ever, it’s critical to make sure you’re engaging in routine dental wellness to maintain your overall health, including coming in for regular dental cleanings and check-ups at least twice per year. Here are our top 5 reasons why you should make your next check-up and cleaning appointment (if you haven’t already!):
New year, new smile! Now is the time to address the aspects of your smile you’d like to improve. Whether you want to brighten your teeth, fix a chip or crack, or get rid of that pesky toothache, we’re here to help you. You know what to do – give us a call to schedule an appointment and get closer to your dream smile.
We continue to monitor the latest updates and recommendations from the CDC, American Dental Association and our state and local governments to ensure our protocols support you having a safe and comfortable dental visit. We’ve put the following safety features in place to protect our patients, doctors, staff and community:
• Pre-screenings before entering our clinic
• Reinforced infection control
• Ongoing staff training
• PPE for all staff
• Masks required for dental staff and patients
The good news is that these protocols are working! The CDC recently reported that there hasn’t been a single documented transmission of COVID-19 in a clinical dental setting anywhere in the country. We look forward to safely seeing you – and your mask – in our office soon!
Regular dental appointments are an important part of taking care of your overall health. While it can be tempting to put off your checkup until things feel more “normal” again, we advise against it. Routine appointments give us an opportunity to check for a number of health conditions and catch them early. Some conditions, like tooth decay, can be more difficult, painful and expensive to treat if left undetected.
Your health and safety is, and has always been, our top priority. Please know, our office is taking every precaution to limit the risk of COVID-19 transmission at your visit.