The Glen Ellyn Illinois Dentist

What is the average lifespan of porcelain veneers?

2011-05-30T10:07:18-05:00

Today we welcome a guest blog with a leading cosmetic dentist, Dr. Bruce W. Hartley from the Los Altos area in California. His insights on cosmetic dentistry and procelain veneers are appreciated! He discussed how to have your smile with porcelain veneers last the longest. Here is Dr. Hartley:

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer.

Maintenance of porcelain veneers is similar to care for your normal teeth. As always, make sure to floss & brush regularly, and see your hygienist 2-3 times per year for a professional cleaning. Although the porcelain itself is well immune to tooth decay, the portion of the tooth under the veneer is still susceptible to cavities. Daily fluoride rinses can protect the susceptible areas of the tooth-porcelain junction.

Over brushing can have a negative effect on the longevity of your veneers. Aggressive brushing or using anything harder than a "soft" bristle brush can cause gum recession. The resulting root exposure doesn't effect the veneer, but it can ruin the esthetic beauty of the overall case. Furthermore, it is recommended to use a non-whitening & non-abrasive tooth paste.

Be careful what you put between your teeth because whatever might crack a normal tooth could also crack a veneer (porcelain can fracture!). Don’t bite fingernails, fast food ketchup or hot sauce packets, metal, pens or any other hard object. It is recommended to use a mouth guard if playing any high intensity sports. Your dentist should provide you a protective night guard to wear while sleeping to prevent damage from night time grinding. The rule of thumb is, you can eat and bite into any and all foods as you would with natural teeth, but always avoid using your veneered teeth as a tool for non-food items!

Apart from proper care, expert installation is very important. Make sure to choose a cosmetic dentist with many years of experience

If you follow all of the above advice, your veneers should enjoy a healthy lifespan!

Bruce W. Hartley, D.D.S. http://www.pccd.net Peninsula Center of Cosmetic Dentistry Los Altos, CA

Dental Health, Gum Disease, & Cognitive (dementia) disorders--Glen Ellyn Wheaton Dentist Reports

2011-02-27T10:20:22-06:00

I was at the Chicago Midwinter meeting this last weekend--It's winter in Chicago and what else should be doing but sitting in meetings! Anyway--it's a great time and place to get caught up with some of the latest information on dental health. Some of the meetings centered around the impact of dental health and general. One article I wanted to share with you is the relation between dental health and "cognitive health"--the likes of dementia and possibly Alzheimer's disease. It is somewhat technical--but you'll see the research behind the conclusions I pulled it from the dentaliq.com site and it was called "Periodontal disease and impaired cognition."
Some excerpts: "Progressive inflammation of tissues in the central nervous system, resulting in degeneration of nerve cells, is thought to play a role in the development of dementia.1 Epidemiologic studies suggest that persons with high levels of systemic inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines, are at higher risk of dementia than those with lower levels. In addition, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may lower the risk of dementia. There are many potential sources of chronic inflammation, including periodontal diseases. Periodontal diseases are among the most prevalent diseases affecting the population. Among adults, 75% have a mild form (gingivitis), and approximately 40% have moderate or severe periodontitis

and:

"The association between periodontal disease and cognitive impairment may also reflect an indirect biologic mechanism in which periodontitis and dementia are two separate disease outcomes that arise from an underlying chronic inflammation. Both diseases have several common risk factors that can influence the immune system and enhance inflammation, including smoking, depression, and diabetes. In both periodontitis and dementia, specific genotypes of the interleukin family of cytokines have been associated with increased disease risk and led to the hypothesis that some individuals have a hyper-inflammatory response phenotype. A number of diseases with an inflammatory component — cardiovascular disease, diabetes, periodontal disease, and dementia — might then tend to cluster in individuals with such a phenotype and ."

The research, done by Dr. Elizabeth (Krall) Kaye professor and director of the epidemiology division in the Department of Health Policy & Health Services Research at Boston University shows how the inflammation caused by dental gem disease can be related to cognitive diseases, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease

Dr. Gibbs shares this information for his patient and people in the Glen Ellyn, Wheation area (Chicago area). He may be located contacted at 603-858-8800, or at his website or Google page for Glen Ellyn Wheaton dentist.

Dental implants and pain--Man from Wheaton reports

2010-03-29T08:09:11-05:00

So what is it like to have a dental implant placed? This short video shows a man from Wheaton describing how it was to have the dental implant surgically placed, ant the subsequent crown placed. His dental implants were placed using the more modern “flapless” approach, vs. the older method where the gums had to be “pulled back” to place the dental implants. Most patients report that they “just took a couple of asprin that night,” or “their dental implants were painless.” Better methods of pain control and surgical technique have greatly diminished pain and discomfort in dental implant surgery. This case was for a single dental implant crown to avoid having a dental bridge. More involved cases now utilize complex CT scans and imaging software to use this “flapless” approach.

Moderate Dental Sedation--New State Regulations-Pt. 2

2010-03-28T01:57:00-05:00

The next pertinent definition changed in the new State of Illinois regulations (April 2010) on dental sedation is:

"Moderate Sedation" or "Conscious Sedation" means a pharmacologically
induced depressed state of consciousness …under which an individual retains
the ability to independently and continuously maintain an airway and respond
appropriately to light tactile physical stimulation and oral verbal commands….
Moderate sedation (conscious sedation) must be administered by an individual
qualified under this Section…. The drugs and/or techniques used must carry a
margin of safety wide enough to render unintended loss of consciousness
unlikely.”

The educational requirements, staffing, equipment, and safety requirement are much more stringent. The dentist must have his Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) designation, and maintain a log of his training updates. Currently about 1 to 2% of Illinois restorative dentist have this extra sedation Certificate (Sedation Permit A).
The majority of the cases are performed using IV, or intravenous, dental sedation methods. Pills, IM intramuscular medications, or gas is sometimes also used as an adjunct (often for anxiety control prior to starting the IV).

The primary advantages of this over the minimal dental sedation is:
1) Fast adjusting of the level of sedation for the patient’s comfort
is possible(30 sec, vs. 30-60 min. with pills)
2) Higher educational requirements
3) Higher safety requirement with monitoring, equipment, and training
4) Greater levels of comfort and amnesia
5) Pain medication in addition to sedative can be administer via the IV in place
6) If needed antiemetics (anti-nausea) medication can be administered via the
IV if needed.

Minimal Dental Sedation--New State Regulations-Pt. 1

2010-03-27T14:32:55-05:00

The State of Illinois has just adapted new guidelines on dental sedation. For the most part, they mirror the guidelines on dental sedation set forth by the American Dental Society about a year ago and change the educational requirements and even definitions e used describing dental office sedation.
Let’s look at the first pertinent definition-minimal sedation. According to the state’s new published guidelines:

“Minimal Sedation “or "Anxiolysis or Mood Altering Sedation" means a
Pharmacologically induced, altered state of consciousness (altered mood; reduced
anxiety) where an individual is awake but has decreased anxiety to facilitate
coping skills, retaining interaction ability.”

A general dentist may do minimal dental sedation, but only with extra education, staff training, and monitoring equipment.
Let’s look at the elements of the definition. First “minimal sedation” means that the effect is minimal. Gas nitrous oxide or sedative pills are used. Onset of these agents is 30 to 60 with pills, although incremental dosing is now permitted (April 2010). (Please be aware that if a person requires more sedation it will take this 30-60 min. time for effect!). “Anxiolysis” from Latin literally means the “dissolving of anxiety.”
The definition of minimal sedation also states that the “an individual is awake but has decreased anxiety.” This means that the person is aware at all times, but usually has less anxiety.
If a patient goes to a dentist who promises “pill sedation” it is minimal sedation. They may have decreased of no memory of the procedure, but by legal definition of their limitations, will be aware during the procedure. Nowhere is the definitions is “painless dental visit” or “painless dentistry” mentioned.
The next level of dental sedation is moderate sedation—see next blog or our website for information on dental sedation options, methods, and associated technology for dental comfort.

Dental Cleaning--Glen Ellyn Dentist, Wheaton Dentist

2010-03-10T19:40:26-06:00

Ten Great Reasons Not to Dodge Your Dental Cleaning Appointment!

Sure, regular cleanings with our office promote good oral hygiene, but did you know they can also prevent a multitude of diseases? That two o’clock chair-side rendezvous may not seem nearly as exciting as a late lunch with a friend, but it will be well worth it in the end. Here are 10 really great reasons to stick with your regular cleaning schedule!

1. It Prevents Oral Cancer. You may or may not realize that you’re screened for oral cancer during your regular dental cleaning. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, an American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day. It’s a sad proposition, especially when you consider that it is highly curable with early diagnosis.
2. It Wards off Gum Disease. Gum disease (an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place) is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. It can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. Unfortunately, not receiving treatment will lead to a more serious and advanced state of gum disease. Regular cleanings and check-ups and daily brushing and flossing are key weapons in the fight against these conditions.
3. It’s about More than Your Mouth. Sure, not getting regular check-ups may make you less kissable, but did you know that studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease associated with poor oral hygiene? A trip to our office every six months could reduce your risk of serious health problems.
4. You Want to Preserve Your Smile. As mentioned, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. To keep your pearly whites intact, stick with your cleaning schedule.
5. It’s Best to Detect Dental Problems Early. We’ve already touched upon early detection of gum disease and oral cancer, but don’t overlook more basic dental problems. Cavities and broken fillings are easy to treat. Without regular trips to the dentist, these problems can lead to root canals, gum surgery and tooth extraction. Which sounds worse: a 30-minute cleaning or an hour under the knife?
6. You Want to Know You’re Doing It Right. Maybe you bought a fancy new electric toothbrush, or aren’t keeping up with what current research has to say about caring for your teeth. Either way, check-ups allow us to examine your mouth and keep you on the right path.
7. You Have Dental Insurance. Consider how much money you put into your insurance plan. Take advantage of it and save a lot of money in the long run by avoiding costly procedures that result from poor dental habits.
8. You Want to Upgrade Your Smile. If you’re already suffering from tooth decay or gum problems, regular appointments will allow our office to create a personalized treatment plan that will give you the best smile possible.
9. You Want to Dazzle. Regular cleanings remove most tobacco, coffee and tea stains, polishing your teeth to a beautiful shine!
10. You Need Some Time Alone. Okay, maybe not completely alone, but the time you spend in our waiting room and in our chair is really your time. You can forget about the office or the stresses of family life. Read a magazine or work through a crossword if you want. Take advantage of the time you’re given, rather than worrying about how to fit it in your tight schedule. Your health and well-being should never take a back seat to your daily planner.
11. For those patients lucky enough to be in out "White Forever" tooth whitening program, you get a FREE touch-up tube of whitening gel. Fantastic!--you can keep your smile white and bright! (We also have a great White Forever program for
).

Are Dental Implants Painful?--Patient from Glen Ellyn

2010-02-21T12:21:27-06:00

Is having dental implant placed surgically a painful procedure. You might find this short patient feedback video useful. It is from one on my favorite patients, Jesse “pain-free” Abrahams, a patient for over 10 years now. He does answer the question of “Are dental implants painful?”
Jesse will talk about his cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and his "painless dentistry. " He had a couple of dental implants with dental sedation, and has been a pleasure to work with!

Fearful Dental Paitient from Chicago and Glen Ellyn--Pain Free Experience

2010-02-19T12:33:28-06:00

So what do actual patients say about their dental experiences? This short video is from one of our favorite patients who had cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers and dental sedation. Hope you enjoy it!

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Easy Steps to Control Your Fear of the Dentist

2010-02-05T15:45:21-06:00

Consider these facts (according to Dr. Milgram of the Dental Fears Dental Fears Research Clinic at the University of Washington in Seattle):

1) 8% have a fear sufficient to prevent them from going at any time
2) About 20 % have enough dental anxiety that they will visit the dentist ONLY when EXTREMELY necessary
3) Many would rather visit the hospital emergency room to get pain drugs than face the dentist
Regardless of what caused your dental fears, it is important realize that YOU ARE ALONE! We have probably far worse dental problems. You have NO need to embarrassed —we have seen many people just like you and are VERY understanding and WILL work with you. Your comfort and clinical OPTIONS will discussed to find the solution that is best for you.

Is there a “Cookie-Cutter” Solution for Dental Fear & Anxiety?

2009-10-23T23:23:23-05:00

Of course not! Here is an example; Marsha V. from Naperville came in about 2 months ago. Her dental needs were extensive and had significant with difficulty sleeping last for over 3 months before coming into the office. We discussed all alternatives for both treatment and dental comfort. Marsha needed 8 crowns, 2 roots canals, 2 extractions, and several filling immediately.
She had delayed treatment for many many years with a high fear quotient. She wanted to try oral pill sedation.
Here’s the problem. After the traditional protocol of oral sedation was started, Marsha did NOT feel comfortable with starting the appointment. Her response was “I wanted to be less aware than this—can you give me more medicine?” The problem with being insufficiently comfortable with oral sedation is it takes 45-60 minutes for next dose to take effect. Then there is too little time to complete the treatment.
We decided to start IV sedation. The effect was immediate and we were able to complete treatment as planned. What would have been adequate oral medicine for many patients was completely insufficient for her.
But that was for extensive treatment. For her next cementation visit, we were able to finish with simple oral sedation. So here is another story of different protocols for different visits. EVERY PATIENT AND EVERY APPOINTMENT MUST BE CALIBRATED FOR INDIVIVUAL NEEDS AT ALL TIMES. Having all options is the key to providing this option.

Bio of Dr. Thomas R. Gibbs, DDS, FAGD, FDOCS, FICOI
Dr. Gibbs graduated at the University of Illinois School of Dentistry in 1980. He holds memberships in the: American Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
He is one of the earliest members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has had training at some of the most prestigious training institutes such as the L.D. Panky Institute for Advanced Education, California Implant Institute, Misch International Implant Institute, and the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI).
He also has earned honorary fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI). In 2007 Dr. Gibbs achieved another honorary designation by receiving his certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). This, along with substantial advanced education and case submission for pier review, has earned him an additional fellowship in the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (FDOCS).
He provides general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, sedation services, and dental implants.

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