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.

It May Be Wise to Think Before You Chew

A good diet is not only good for your body, but good for your smile as well. Steering clear of foods that are not so good for your teeth and gums will keep your mouth healthy and you out of the dentist’s chair. Of course, you will need regular checkups with your Dentist in Chicago, but if you pay close attention to the foods you eat, your dentist may not detect tooth decay giving you a clean bill of health.

According to the American Dental Association and Dr. Romo, a diet that is rich in tooth healthy foods is just as important as regular checkups, brushing and flossing. Sugary and sticky foods are extremely bad for your teeth, as they will stay on your teeth for longer periods. Those gummy bears and caramels that you enjoyed at your daughter’s birthday party could have caused damage to the enamel on your teeth.

Drinks that are acidic and loaded with sugar will cause twice as much trouble for your teeth. Drinking soft drinks can stall saliva activity in your mouth, which helps to clear away food particles.  

Dried fruits may be good for your waistline, but not so good for your teeth. Those processed fruit snacks are loaded with sugar and incredibly sticky. This means that they will adhere to your teeth while the sugar quietly feeds on the bacteria in your mouth promoting dental erosion.

Those hard candies that you enjoy may be curbing your appetite, but they will wreck havoc on your teeth as the sweetness lingers in your mouth while dissolving long after they have been gone. If you do enjoy the occasional hard candy, be sure and rinse your mouth after eating.

Most people know that red wine can stain teeth, but all kinds of alcohol can hurt your teeth as it causes a decrease in your natural saliva production stopping the food particles from washing away. Alcohol can also damage the inside of your cheeks and gums, as it is very corrosive. People who drink more tend to be more susceptible to gum disease and dental problems.

Starchy foods such as white bread, potato chips, and those yummy crackers that you enjoy are not so good for your teeth either as starchy foods can become trapped in between your teeth. If you do not rinse after consuming starchy foods you will be feeding the bacteria in your mouth, which could cause plaque or even tartar.

Avoiding your favorite foods does not have to be a problem if you brush, rinse, or floss after eating something that could affect your teeth and gums. According to your Dentist in Chicago, it might be wise to think before you chew. 

Dental Veneers to Improve Your Smile

Porcelain Veneers, or Dental Veneers, are custom made wafer thin shells that fit and cover the front surface of your tooth or teeth. Talk to your Cosmetic Dentist in Chicago, Dr. Genaro Romo, who will be able to determine if you are good candidate for Dental Veneers.

Dental Veneers can be made from resin or porcelain, resin Veneers are thinner and do not resist stains they way that porcelain veneers do. Porcelain veneers also look more natural as they reflect light much in the say way that your natural teeth do. Resin veneers are thinner and do not require your Dentist in Chicago to remove as much of the surface of your tooth. As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of Veneers, but your Chicago Cosmetic Dentist will be able to advise you on the best choice for your particular situation.

Dental Veneers can fix teeth that are discolored from stains or root canal treatment, from tetracycline or excessive fluoride use. Talk to your Cosmetic Dentist in Chicago about discolored resin fillings, teeth that are broken or chipped or teeth that are uneven, misaligned, or irregularly shaped as Dental Veneers can help fix those problems as well.

Dental Veneers usually require three visits to your Chicago Cosmetic Dentist with the first appointment involving your treatment planning and diagnosis. During your first appointment with Dr. Romo, it is important to let him know what results you want. Your Dentist in Chicago will examine your teeth to make sure you are a good candidate for Dental Veneers. Dr. Romo may also take x-rays.

Your second appointment involves the tooth preparation for the Dental Veneers. A small amount of enamel is removed from the surface of your tooth, which is about equal to your Dental Veneer. Your Dentist in Chicago may recommend a local anesthetic before trimming, to relieve any discomfort. After trimming, your Chicago Cosmetic Dentist will make an impression or model that will be sent to the dental laboratory in order to make your Dental Veneers.

After a couple of weeks, your Dental Veneers will be ready to be bonded to your teeth, which constitutes your third and final appointment. Before your tooth or teeth are cemented permanently, your dentist will temporarily place for color and fit. Once adjusted, Dr. Romo will prepare your tooth or teeth by cleaning, polishing, and etching. This actually roughens the tooth for stronger bonding. A special adhesive is applied to your tooth and the Dental Veneer and once placed is cured with a laser or light beam that hardens the cement.

If Dental Veneers sound like something that you would like to consider, schedule a no obligation consultation with your Chicago Cosmetic Dentist who will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for Dental Veneers.

Ancient Cosmetic Dentistry Techniques that Will Surprise You

Thanks to the wonders of Modern Cosmetic Dentistry in Chicago, you no longer have to resort to ancient cosmetic dental procedures that were less than pleasant.

Thousands of years ago, the Romans and Greeks would use urine to whiten their teeth, while other civilizations would mix pumice with vinegar to brighten their pearly whites.

Barbers started to get into the act back in 1130 when they began to assist with dental procedures. In 1210, Barbers formed a guild that consisted of dental hygienists and dental surgeons. Oral surgery performed by barbers was discontinued in the 1400’s but they still performed oral hygiene services including tooth whitening. Barbers would file down a patients tooth before coating it with acid. Of course, this method of tooth whitening worked quite well, but it eventually destroyed the tooth’s enamel.

Dental Implants are the second oldest form of cosmetic dentistry with oral surgery topping the list. According to your Cosmetic Dentist in Chicago, root form implants were used over 4000 years ago with the Chinese tapping pegs made from carved bamboo into the bone. Archaeologists have uncovered Ancient Egyptian mummies that have transplanted teeth made from precious metals, ivory and human teeth.

When Cosmetic Dentists tried to use human teeth for dental implants in the 1700s, they soon discovered that the body would reject any such implant almost immediately. Dentists decided to put metal into the tooth sockets to replace missing teeth, but unfortunately, that didn’t work too well either.

2,500 years ago, Native Americans were very sophisticated when it came to dentistry. The Mayans and other tribes in southern North America would go to early cosmetic dentists to have grooves and notches put into their teeth in order to show off semiprecious stones such as jade, obsidian and turquoise. According to anthropologist Jose Concepcion Jimenez, the men sported the fancy grills from all walks of life. Meant for decoration they did not mark any social class. In fact, the Red Queen, a Mayan mummy discovered in the Palenque Temple did not have any tooth decorations at all.

Thanks to your Cosmetic Dentist in Chicago you do not have to resort to such barbaric practices when it comes to a beautiful smile. Schedule a no obligation consultation today with Romo Dental.

Smoking and Oral Health

Most people are aware of the health problems that can occur if you smoke or chew tobacco, but your lungs and heart are not the only things that can be affected if you light up.

According to your Dentist in Chicago, Dr. Genaro Romo, smoking can have a lasting and distinctive impact on your oral health and can lead to some serious dental issues including, but not limited to: 

• Tooth discoloration
• Halitosis
• Salivary gland inflammation on the roof of your mouth
• Bone loss in your jaw
• Build up of tartar and plaque
• Increased risk of white patches, or leukoplakia on the inside of your mouth
• Gum disease
• Delayed healing after periodontal treatment or extractions
• Lower dental implant success rate
• Higher risk of oral cancer

Smoking, even with pipes and cigars, can lead to gum disease as it affects the soft tissue around your teeth. According to your Chicago Dentist, smoking will interfere with normal gum tissue cell function making you much more susceptible to infections. Smoking can also impair the blood flow to your gums.

Just like cigarettes, cigar and pipe smoking can cause dental problems. A study conducted by the American Dental Association, showed that cigar smokers experience bone loss and tooth loss at the same rate as cigarette smokers. Pipe smokers and cigar smokers are also susceptible to throat cancers even though they do not inhale.

If you chew tobacco, you are not safe either. Snuff contains at least 30 chemicals that can increase your risk of throat and oral cancer. Your Dentist in Chicago will tell you that chewing tobacco products contain more nicotine than cigarettes making it more difficult to quit. Most people have no idea that one can of chewing tobacco has as much, if not more, nicotine than sixty cigarettes. Smokeless tobacco will irritate your gum tissue. This causes your gums to pull away or recede. Once this occurs the exposed roots become more sensitive to irritants making drinking and eating uncomfortable.

If that isn’t enough, your Dr. Romo will tell you that flavors are added to some brands of chewing tobacco in order to improve the taste. Those flavors contain sugar that can drastically increase tooth decay. In fact, a study by the ADA has shown that those who chew tobacco are four times more likely to develop tooth decay.

Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation and don’t forget to schedule an appointment with the best Dentist in Chicago, Dr. Romo. 

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.