Dental Crowns for Kids and Adults

According to Wikipedia, Dental Crowns are used to cover a tooth in order to improve its appearance, strength, size, and shape. Dental Crowns are like caps that are cemented on top of the tooth fully encasing the visible part of your tooth just above your gum line.

Your dentist may suggest a Dental Crown if you have a weak tooth. Teeth that are broken or badly decayed may need Dental Crowns in order to hold the pieces of the cracked tooth together.

Dental Crowns are also used to restore broken teeth and to cover a tooth that has worn down. Your dentist may also recommend Dental Crowns if you have large fillings and not enough tooth to support it. Dental Crowns are also used to hold dental bridges in place and to cover Dental Implants.

Children may also require Dental Crowns on baby teeth if a tooth has a deep cavity. Your family dentist may also suggest Dental Crowns to protect kids who have a higher risk of tooth decay.

There are several types of Dental Crowns available. Stainless steel, all metal, such as alloy or gold, all resin, all ceramic, and porcelain fused to metal.

Stainless steel crowns are normally used on a temporary basis while your permanent crown is being made. Stainless steel crowns are prefabricated and make an ideal choice for children’s teeth, as less dental appointments are required.

Gold alloy, alloy, chromium or nickel are also used for Dental Crowns and compared to other materials require less tooth structure removal. Metal crowns hold up better to chewing and biting and rarely break or chip. According to your dentist, the only drawback to metal is the color. Metal Dental Crowns are best for back teeth and molars that are not seen.

Porcelain fused to metal Dental Crowns can be matched to the teeth surrounding the restoration; however, there will be more wear to the surrounding tooth than resin or metal Dental Crowns. The porcelain part of the crown can also break off or chip. Another drawback to these types of crowns is the dark lines that can sometimes appear at your gum line, and even more so if your gums begin to recede. These crowns are appropriate for both back and front teeth.  

All resin crowns wear over time, but cost less than other Dental Crown types. All resin crowns are prone to fractures as well.

All ceramic or all porcelain Dental Crowns will give you the most natural looking smile as they can be matched to the rest of your natural teeth. People who suffer from metal allergies may also be more suited to all ceramic or all porcelain Dental Crowns as well. Although not as strong as porcelain fused to metal and metal Dental Crowns, they make an excellent choice for front teeth.  

If you would like more information regarding Dental Crowns, schedule an appointment with your dentist who will be able to determine what type is the most appropriate for your needs.

Your Dentist May Be Able to Help with TMJ Disorders

That constant headache that you’ve been having could be cause for concern, and if everything has checked out with your physician, you may need to schedule an appointment with your dentist who can determine if you are suffering from a TMJ disorder.

TMJ, or Temporal-Mandibular Joint disorders are cause by problems that occur where the head and jaw meet. Your Dentist will tell you that TMJ disorders can cause all sorts of problems including earaches, constant popping or clicking when you open your mouth and trouble opening and closing your mouth.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ causes dysfunction and pain in the muscles that control the movement in your jaw. Recent research has indicated that more than 10 million people in the United Stated are affected with TMJ disorders.

Although men suffer from TMJ disorders, it is more common in women. For the majority of people dealing with TMJ disorders the discomfort is temporary and only happens on occasion. For some, a TMJ disorder may disappear without treatment, for others however, the pain is significant with symptoms that could last a lifetime.  

If you think you may be suffering from a TMJ disorder, there are some things you can do to alleviate the symptoms. These include the application of ice packs and eating soft foods. According to your Dentist, other things you can do to ease your pain include relaxation techniques and gentle jaw stretching. Try avoiding wide yawning and chewing gum as it may cause more problems.

Schedule an appointment with you doctor or Dentist who can help if over the counter medications have not helped relieve your pain and discomfort. Your Dentist may prescribe muscle relaxants, anti depressants or anti-inflammatory medications to help ease your TMJ symptoms.

Talk to your Dentist who may recommend stabilization splints. Widely used to help TMJ disorders, stabilization splints can help with pain and discomfort. Depending on your particular situation, your Dentist may also recommend replacing missing teeth or adjusting your bite. If you have gaps between your teeth or need to have your teeth moved, talk to your Dentist as these could all be causing TMJ problems. If clenching or teeth grinding is the problem, your Dentist may suggest a custom-made mouthpiece.

For more information regarding TMJ disorders, schedule an appointment with your Dentist who can help you decide what steps to take according to your needs.

Keep Your Teeth Clean or Risk the Inevitable

If you cannot remember the last time you had your teeth cleaned professionally, it is definitely time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.

When you put off regular teeth cleaning appointments, you are putting your teeth and gums at risk. Without regular dental cleanings, you can develop cavities and gingivitis.

According to Oral B, regularly scheduled dental cleanings with Romo Dental can help prevent plaque buildup. Plaque is that colorless, sticky film that remains on your teeth. If you do not have regular cleanings with your dentist in Chicago that plaque can turn to tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. Plaque and tartar produce nasty toxins that will irritate your gums and eventually destroy the gum tissue leading to bone damage and eventually tooth loss.

Once the gum disease advances to the more dangerous periodontal disease, the pockets between your teeth and gums will grow deeper and travel further down the root of your tooth. Once it gets to this point, the bone will become destroyed. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss, especially in adults. By scheduling regular appointments with your dentist, you can prevent gum disease and tooth loss.

Of course, good oral hygiene is also vital when it comes to the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist recommends that you brush twice and floss once each day. If you like to snack, make sure that your rinse after eating to get rid of food particles and promote saliva. Saliva actually helps to wash away bacteria and acids that can cause plaque.

If you enjoy coffee, tea or red wine, your teeth will pay the price. Using tobacco products can also stain your teeth. External stains can be removed if you have your teeth cleaned regularly.

Having your teeth cleaned regularly can also prevent bad breath. There is nothing worse than having to avoid someone because of his or her halitosis.

Healthy teeth and gums can help your body as well. Recent research indicates that there is a connection between overall health and the health of your teeth and gums. Scheduling a dental cleaning every six months can help prevent heart disease and stroke, which has been linked to gum disease.

If you cannot remember the last time that you had your teeth cleaned, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.

Foods that are good for Your Teeth

A few weeks back, your dentist talked about foods that were bad for your teeth, but all is not lost, as there are some foods that are actually good for you and your pearly whites.

According to Web MD, how often and when you eat is just as important as the foods you put in your mouth. If you enjoy snacking, be sure to rinse after you eat and try to stay away from sugars and carbohydrates. These types of foods will convert to acids eroding the enamel on your teeth.

Your dentist recommends that you include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Pears, apples and carrots not only add crunch but will also help rinse away some of the food particles. Crunchy fruits and vegetables also have a high water content, which helps the saliva clear the bacteria from your teeth. Crunchy fruits and vegetables also dilute the natural sugars that are contained in the pear or apple you had before you went to bed. Snack on celery and you will be clearing the food in between your teeth. Celery is known as nature’s dental floss. Try to avoid citrus fruits on their own and include tomatoes, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges with a meal to help minimize the acids.

Believe it or not, your dentist understands that meats such as pork, poultry, beef, and fish are actually good for your teeth and gums. Loaded with iron, that hamburger that you had for lunch is actually strengthening your bones and your teeth.

Peanuts, walnuts, pistachios, cashews and other types of nuts provide phosphorus. This is needed in order to remineralize your teeth.

Milk, sugar-free yogurt and other dairy products are a must if you want healthy teeth and gums. Calcium protects the enamel on your teeth and can actually provide a protective coating even if you didn’t brush after enjoying that big cheese plate for dinner.

Unsweetened tea, milk, and water are the best beverages to consume. If you must have a soda go for the diet variety, as they will not feed the bacteria as much as the sugary laden varieties do. If you enjoy sipping through a straw cut back. Excessive all day sipping will expose your teeth to sugar eroding the enamel on your teeth.

For more healthy food options for your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment with your dentist who can help you make the right choices for oral health.

How to Find a Bi-lingual Family Dentist in Chicago

Finding the perfect dentist can be daunting, especially if you had to move quickly and were unable to get referrals from your Family Dentist in Chicago. Even if you have just moved across town, it can be difficult to locate a dentist whether you are a single person relocating for a new job or a family man moving across country with six kids and another one on the way, finding a dentist for your needs can be tough. Calling and scheduling an appointment with a dentist that you have never met before isn't the best idea in the world, and if you want to make sure that you and your family have the best care, there are some things you can do. 

If you didn’t get the chance to talk to your own dentist before you moved, go online and check with the American Dental Association who can help you locate a local dentist. If you are lucky enough to be moving to a place where you know people you can trust, ask. If you are Social Media savvy, go online and post a comment to your Twitter friends. Do your research, and don’t forget to use Google. Check online review sites. Yelp isn’t just for restaurants.

Explore a couple of dentists that have been recommended or who you found on the ADA website and check out the dental offices website. Go through the gallery and take a photo tour. You want to feel welcomed the moment you walk through the door. If the environment is stale and uninviting, you may want to look for a dentist elsewhere. Up to date magazines, a TV, and some kid’s toys make all the difference in the world. If the office looks inviting and the equipment is modern and clean you could be on the right track.

Read about the dentist and his staff. Make sure that both the Chicago Dentist and his team of practitioners are continuing dental education by attending seminars, classes, and workshops.

Most dental practices will tell you what type of equipment is used and what to expect when you visit the office. Don’t be afraid to ask what anesthetic is used and if your new dentist practices Sedative Dentistry. If you have a dental phobia and are seeing this particular dentist for the first time, it is important to have a dentist who can put you at ease.

Call the office and talk to the receptionist. The person is question is your first contact with your soon to be dentist, if you are bi-lingual make sure that the receptionist is as well. If he or she is friendly and able to answer your questions, schedule an appointment.

If you are searching for a new bi-lingual dentist in the Chicago area, call Romo Dental today and put your mind at ease.

Chicago Dental Bonding To Give You Your Smile Back

Dental Bonding is very affordable, and if you have been hiding your smile because of that gap in-between your teeth, schedule an appointment with a Dentist in Chicago who can repair that chipped tooth or replace your silver amalgam fillings with tooth colored restorations.

Web MD will tell you that Dental Bonding is a 21^st century modern dental procedure using a durable plastic resin that is applied directly to the problem area. Once your Chicago Dentist applies the Dental Bonding it will be hardened using a light that bonds the restoration to the area.

Dr. Romo will recommend bonding if your teeth are discolored or stained or if you want to close that gap in-between your teeth. Chipped teeth can also be repaired as well as the shape of your teeth. That front tooth that is a bit farther back than the other can be repaired with dental bonding in a single appointment.

One of the most popular dental procedures is also the most affordable and easiest. The tooth colored resin is normally used for cosmetic reasons, but can also be used to fill that cavity in your front tooth. Other reasons that your Chicago Dentist may recommend Dental Bonding is to protect part of the root of your tooth that has receded because of gum disease. In nearly all cases anesthetic is not required for cosmetic Dental Bonding, but may be necessary if you are having a filling replaced or need your dentist to repair a cavity. 

Dental Bonding is different to veneers in that Dental Bonding only requires a single 30-minute visit. Veneers require a couple of visits as your Dentist in Chicago will need to make a mold to insure proper fit.

When you schedule an appointment for Dental Bonding, your dentist will of course make sure that you are a good candidate giving you a clean bill of health when it comes to your teeth and gums. Once given the all clear, your dentist will choose a resin color from a shade guide that best matches your natural tooth color. Once the color has been chosen, your Chicago Dentist will lightly etch the surface of the tooth in order to roughen it up a bit. One the abrasion is complete; your dentist will coat the area with conditioning liquid helping the bonding material adhere properly.

After the preparation, your dentist will apply that resin that is much like putty, before smoothing and modeling to the proper shape. After Dr. Romo is happy with the look, the area will be hardened with a laser or ultraviolet light. Once hardened he will shape, trim and polish.

Dental Bonding will not last forever. Don’t bite your nails and never chew on ice as it can chip the Dental Bonding. Try avoiding smoking, tea coffee or red wine, which can stain the Dental Bonding.

If you would like more information about Dental Bonding, schedule an appointment with your Chicago Dentist today. 

Those Old Fillings Could Be Causing Problems

With all of the media attention that silver amalgam fillings are getting these days, you may be considering swapping out your old mercury fillings for tooth colored restorations.  

Although you may be proud of those fillings that you have had for five, ten, or even fifteen years, the American Dental Association recommends that you schedule an appointment as there may be new cavities lurking beneath your old silver amalgam fillings.

Resin, or bonded fillings, will reduce the chance of leakage meaning dental caries will have a hard time invading the area beneath your filling. Bacteria and plaque can seep under an existing filling if your tooth is cracked, and because it is difficult to detect could be quite extensive, especially if you are not in pain. Scheduling regular appointments with your Dentist in Chicago will be able to detect any problems before they get worse.

Your fillings can fall out if you bite too hard as the material that was used for the tooth is unable to withstand the force. Unfortunately, if a large portion of your tooth is broken, you are inviting additional cavities. If the area is too large, Dr. Romo may recommend a dental crown.

Both resin and amalgam fillings will crack over time and will need to be replaced. Smaller cracks can occur around the edges of your filling causing additional tooth decay.

When you schedule an appointment with Dr. Romo’s office, your dentist will be able to determine if your existing fillings need to replaced. He will do this by taking x-rays and performing several tests including tapping on your teeth. If your fillings are worn, they will need to be replaced.

According to your dentist, silver amalgam fillings have a lifespan of about 12 years, with composite fillings having a shorter life span. Schedule an appointment if you cannot remember how old your fillings are, whether they are resin or amalgam. Some signs to watch for include sensitive teeth, cracks or if you notice that part of your filling is missing.

If your dentist has determined that you need to replace your old fillings, he will discuss your options, which could include repairing or replacing. Schedule an appointment with your Hispanic Dentist in Chicago who will be able to select the best material for your particular situation.

Store Bought Mouth Guards Are Not Always the Best

If your kids are involved in sports, you know how important proper protection is, but knee and elbow pads are not the only things you need if your kids play contact sports.

Talk to your Romo Dental about mouth guards and night guards that cannot only be used for sports, but also sleeping if you or your family tends to grind their teeth during the night.

Mouth guards are made from flexible plastic designed to be worn over your teeth and can be custom made by your Hispanic Dentist, or found in major sporting good stores. However, according to Dr. Romo, those store bought mouth guards could cause more damage as they are bulky, not made to fit, and provide little if any protection. In fact, most Chicago Dentists do not recommend using stock mouth guards.

Boil and bite is another type of mouth guard that you can purchase from your local sporting goods store, and just may give a better fit than standard mouth guards may. Easy to use, you just place your mouth guard in warm water, place it inside your mouth, and shape it around your teeth.

When it comes to sports guards and mouth guards, your Chicago Dentist recommends that you schedule and appointment for a custom fitted sports guard or mouth guard.

During your scheduled appointment, Dr. Romo and his professional team will fit you with a mouth guard by making an impression. Each custom fitted sports guard is designed especially for you and is made to fit. Once the lab has received your impression, a specially fitted mouth guard will be molded over the top of your impression. Custom made sports guards and mouth guards may cost a bit more, but the extra money is well worth it for protection and comfort. Check with your insurance company and your Dentist in Chicago as your policy might cover the use of sports guards and mouth guards.  

When you make an appointment for a sports guard or mouth guard fitting, Dr. Roma will suggest the best option for your particular needs. Your dentist will choose a product that will not restrict your speech or breathing, is easy to clean, and most importantly, durable.

Accidents happen, and if you want to avoid potential disaster when it comes to your kid’s teeth, schedule an appointment for a new sports guard or mouth guard with your Chicago Dentist, Dr. Romo. 

Push Your Fears Aside with Romo Dental

Being afraid of your Dentist in Chicago isn’t just for kids. Teens, adults, and even senior citizens have a genuine fear when it comes to sprawling out in the dentist’s chair. However, with the advancement of dentistry in the 21^st century and Romo Dental, you can put your fears aside and relax.

Avoiding that toothache because you cannot tolerate that dentist drill will only make things worse. If you had gone in for a filling, which is virtually painless, when you first noticed the cavity, you would not have to endure a root canal. Scheduling regular appointments with your dentist is vital if you want to have healthy teeth and gums.

Even folks who endure the drill, regular cleanings, and deep cleanings have had to overcome their fear of the dentist, but thanks to the friendly team of professionals from Romo Dental, patients leave the office pain free and grinning from ear to ear.

If your fear of the dentist has more to do with your bank account than actual physical pain, talk to the knowledgeable staff from Romo Dental who will be able to help you decide on the best payment options for your particular needs. Of course, should a dental emergency arise and you are unable to cover the costs on the spot, Romo Dental may be able to work with you making suitable payment arrangements providing the lines of communication are left open.

With the latest technologies and friendly and knowledgeable staff, you will feel confident knowing that you can trust Romo Dental to help you overcome your fear of the dentist.

Sometimes all it takes is a gentle hand and a kind word to make you feel right at home, and that is exactly what you will get when you see Chicago’s friendliest and most well-equipped dentist in Chicago.

Push your fears aside and schedule that long overdue appointment with the best Dentist in Chicago, Dr. Romo. Open six days a week for your convenience, you will finally be able to relax and maybe even enjoy your dental appointments. 

Running Away from a Root Canal is Downright Dangerous

When the word, “Root Canal,” is uttered most people shudder with fear, but according to the Best Dentist in Chicago, root canals sound much worse than they actually are.

A root canal, also called endodontic therapy or root canal therapy, is something that becomes necessary if a cavity becomes too large for a filling and the decay travels all the way down to the pulp of the tooth. This usually occurs when people neglect their teeth and let things go a little bit too far. Other possible causes for root canal therapy include tooth trauma and nerve damage.

Once the pulp of your tooth becomes damaged, your Chicago Dentist may recommend a root canal. If left untreated a dangerous and painful abscess could form. Abscesses are dangerous because the infection can spread to your jawbone, or other parts of your body.

If the abscess is allowed to spread through your blood vessels, it could lead to a brain abscess, which could send you straight to the hospital. Tooth abscesses can also affect your sinuses. If the dental abscess reaches your heart, you could be asking for trouble as it could lead to bacterial endocarditis. All of these issues are serious, but quite possibly the most dangerous is a condition called Ludwig’s Angina. This potentially deadly infection affects the lower jaw and face. If this happens, it is imperative that you see your Chicago Dentist immediately as Ludwig’s Angina can cause suffocation and even death.

Of course, not all cavities will lead to abscesses, especially if you schedule regular check-ups with Romo Dental. Other ways to avoid tooth decay and possible abscesses include brushing twice and flossing once a day.

You might need a root canal if you suffer from: 

• Throbbing pain when you chew
• Red and swollen gums
• A horrible, sometimes salty taste
• Swelling
• Fever
• A bump in your mouth that is red or swollen
• A tooth that is sore and tender when touched 

Over time, that infection will spread and if you do not schedule an appointment with your dentist, your jawbone could eventually dissolve. If this occurs, it may be necessary to remove the tooth.  

In order to determine if a root canal is necessary your dentist will look for signs of infection. Dr. Romo may also tap your tooth or apply cold or heat to check for infection or abscess.

If an abscess is indicated treatment will begin as soon as possible with Dr. Romo giving you antibiotics in order to kill the infection. Depending on the severity of the situation your Dentist in Chicago may perform a root canal or extract the tooth.

Even if you are not experiencing symptoms, you could have tooth decay, and the best way to avoid a root canal is to schedule an appointment with Romo Dental.