Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Would you like to know more about the dental services that we provide? Below, we've included answers to some of the questions that we hear most often. Of course, we're always happy to answer any other questions you have during your visits to our office.
General Information
How do the doctors keep up to date on current techniques, technology, and materials in dentistry?
Our dentists - and our team - take more than the state's requirement for continuing education each year. We also read trade journals, attend professional association meetings, and do everything we can to keep in tune with the latest developments in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry, as well as dental technology. We're passionate about our careers, so we enjoy soaking up new information on our profession, then sharing it with you!
Do you accept referrals?
Yes, we welcome referrals from other dentists and from our patients. Many of our patients come to us because they've been referred by a relative, friend or neighbor.
What payment methods do you accept?
We work very hard to help you fit the dental care you want and need into your budget. Our office accepts cash, checks, and all major credit cards. We also offer extended payment plans through CareCredit and Chase Health Advance. Please see their websites for details and to complete an application online. If you have dental insurance, we'll gladly file any paperwork required for predetermination or reimbursement.
A Beautiful New Smile
Can you show me ahead of time what my smile can look like?
Yes, we can! When you come in for an appointment, we can integrate your photo into the computer. Then, right in front of your eyes, we'll use digital imaging software to transform your image and give you a glimpse of your new look.
What is smile design?
Once you've made the commitment to a new smile, we'll start the smile design process. It involves taking complete dental records on you, including diagnostic wax models of your mouth. We work from these models and from more detailed computer images to show you how we can achieve your beautiful new smile.
Crowns, veneers, onlays and inlays-where can I get more information about these procedures?
Our Dental Services Page is a great resource for learning about dental procedures. If you have questions about these or other dental procedures, don't hesitate to call our Chicago dental office. We would be happy to explain any aspect of your dental care or our service offerings.
I have a temporary crown in my mouth. What should I do if it comes off or breaks?
First, call us. If the office is closed, simply use a dab of toothpaste to reattach the temporary, then visit us for a replacement when the office opens. You can also find dental adhesive in your local drug store, if you prefer not to use toothpaste.
Periodontal Disease
Why do I have gum disease?
It's not necessarily because you didn't brush and floss enough. There's a strong hereditary component in gum disease; although it's a very common infection, some people get it and others don't. There are some risk factors for gum disease that you can control, however. If you smoke, stop. If you have diabetes, keep it under control.
Will periodontal treatment hurt?
Most people experience minimal discomfort during and after procedures. Our patients usually tell us that it wasn't nearly as bad as they expected! In addition, the benefits of periodontal treatment far outweigh whatever discomfort you might experience. You may be a candidate for laser periodontal therapy, a non-invasive treatment that alleviates symptoms and supports periodontal health.
How long will the treatment take?
Periodontal therapy is ongoing care. We can alleviate your symptoms and provide appropriate therapy throughout your life, depending on your needs.
Why wasn't I aware that I had periodontal disease?
There's often no pain associated with periodontal disease in the early stage. You may notice bleeding gums, a bad taste in your mouth, or a foul odor coming from your mouth. But, in the absence of pain, periodontal disease can go undiagnosed or under-treated.
Dental Implants
Why should I replace missing teeth?
When you're missing teeth, it's harder for you to eat and speak properly. You put an increased burden on your remaining teeth, which begin shifting to fill the space. This causes problems with your bite, making it hard for you to chew properly. Additionally, people with missing teeth may experience jaw or muscle pain.
Missing teeth can affect your appearance, as well. Not only will you have unsightly gaps in your smile, you'll begin to lose the bone mass in your jaw, which can make you look older.
Replacing missing teeth is the best way to maintain long-term oral health. Fortunately, modern implant dentistry provides an effective way to replace lost teeth.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a tiny titanium post or screw that is surgically inserted into your jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or prosthetic. Once they are in place, your jawbone fuses with the metal to provide a secure and stable anchor for your replacement teeth. A dental implant functions like a natural tooth root, allowing your replacement teeth to look and feel natural.
Dental implants also help prevent jawbone loss, which can help you maintain a more youthful appearance.
What if I'm missing all of my upper and lower teeth?
Your dentist may suggest dental implants to comfortably and securely anchor upper and/or lower dentures. There are several implant options available. We would be glad to review them with you.
What will I do for teeth while I'm waiting for my dental implants to heal?
We'll do everything possible to make sure that you don't go without a complete smile. Our dentists may suggest several options, including temporary removable teeth (a bridge) or a transitional implant. If you're missing all your teeth, your current dentures may be modified, or we can create temporary dentures for you.
The best choice will depend on your particular situation. We'll be glad to discuss the various options with you.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most of our patients report that they don't experience significant pain following dental implant surgery. We'll prescribe appropriate medications to help you manage any pain that you may experience after your procedure.
How long will dental implants last?
With proper care and periodic dental exams, your dental implants may last a lifetime.
Long-term success rates are very high - 95 to 98%.
How much does dental implant treatment cost?
Before you begin your dental implant treatment, we'll make every effort to give you an accurate estimate of your costs. There's an initial charge for your diagnostic workup, as well as charges for the cost of the implant surgery, any soft-tissue or bone grafting procedures needed, the support posts, and replacement teeth (permanent or temporary). If you need additional work before your implant surgery, and you have to see different doctors within our practice, you will be charged for the visits to each doctor separately.
We strive to make dental implants affordable for all of our patients, including determining any benefits you may have under third-party insurance plans. We also offer third-party financing through CareCredit and Chase Health Advance. Please see their websites for details and to complete an application online.
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