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The Importance of Visiting a Dentist for Preventative Care

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:02:53 GMT

Visiting a dentist is essential for maintaining a radiant, healthy smile and preventing future oral health problems. Are you worried about dental issues but unsure how to avoid them? At Silver Lake Family Dental, we help patients take proactive steps toward lasting dental wellness. Discover how regular preventative care can save you time, money, and discomfort by catching problems early and keeping your smile bright. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of seeing your dentist regularly and share expert tips for maintaining optimal oral health.

Preventative Dentistry: More Than Just a Cleaning

Preventative dental care is the foundation of a healthy smile and overall well-being. By visiting your dentist's office regularly, you protect your teeth and gums from decay, disease, and other complications that can affect your entire body. Preventative dentistry is more than just cleanings; it’s a proactive approach to maintaining oral health, avoiding invasive treatments, and improving quality of life. Whether you’re searching for a new dentist or want to enhance your current routine, understanding the benefits of preventative visits can motivate you to prioritize your oral health today.

Regular visits to your dentist in Orland Park, IL, allow for early detection of potential issues before they become serious problems. This proactive approach not only saves you from discomfort and expensive procedures but also helps you maintain a confident, beautiful smile for years to come. Embracing preventative dentistry empowers you to take control of your oral health and overall wellness, making it an essential part of your healthcare routine.

Unlocking the Benefits of Preventative Dentistry

Visiting a dentist’s office routinely offers numerous benefits beyond just a clean smile. Regular checkups and professional cleanings remove harmful plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Early detection through exams allows your dentist to identify and address problems before they escalate, saving you from extensive procedures, discomfort, and high costs. Additionally, preventative care supports overall health because oral conditions can impact the heart, lungs, and digestive systems. Investing in prevention ensures fewer emergencies and happier smiles.

Beyond protecting your teeth and gums, preventative dentistry fosters better long-term health by creating habits that support oral hygiene and wellness. These routine visits provide an opportunity for personalized guidance and specialized treatments, such as fluoride applications and sealants, that further reduce the risk of future dental issues. By making preventative care a priority, you’re not only preserving your smile but also enhancing your overall quality of life.

Orland Park Dentist’s Guide to a Healthier Smile

Brush and floss daily with proper techniques: Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of oral hygiene. Your dentist can demonstrate optimal brushing angles and flossing styles to remove plaque effectively without damaging your gums . Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and replacing it every three to four months is also important for maintaining healthy gums and teeth.

Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth, producing acids that erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Incorporate a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide essential nutrients supporting healthy teeth and gums. Limiting snacks between meals also helps prevent constant acid attacks on your enamel.

Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings: Visiting your dentist's office twice a year (or as recommended) ensures that plaque and tartar are professionally removed, areas prone to decay are closely monitored, and any early signs of gum disease or other issues are promptly treated. These routine vi sits are vital for long-term dental health and peace of mind.

Avoid tobacco products and limit staining foods/ drinks: Tobacco increases the risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth discoloration. Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco greatly improves oral and overall health. Additionally, staining agents in coffee, tea, and red wine can dull your smile; drinking water after such beverages and regular cleanings at your dentist's office will help maintain a bright appearance.

Use fluoride treatments or dental sealants if recommended: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay, while dental sealants create a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of back teeth. These treatments are especially beneficial for children, teenagers, and patients prone to cavities. Your dentist will assess whether these preventive measures are right for your dental profile.

Discover the Silver Lake Family Dental Difference

Selecting a trusted dentist's office in Orland Park, IL, like Silver Lake Family Dental, means partnering with a team dedicated to personalized, gentle care. Our friendly staff focuses on educating patients and tailoring treatments to individual needs. We’re proud to serve the Orland Park community with expertise and compassion, making every dental visit comfortable and rewarding. From our modern facilities to the welcoming atmosphere, we strive to make prevention easy and effective for all ages.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile Today

Taking action toward preventative dental care today can safeguard your smile for years to come. Don’t wait for dental problems to find you— call to schedule your appointment with Silver Lake Family Dental in Orland Park, IL, now to experience comprehensive, patient-centered care focused on prevention and wellness. Your healthier smile starts here!

What You Should Know About Dentist in Orland Park, IL

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:41:00 GMT

Maintaining regular visits with a trusted dentist in Orland Park, IL , is essential for both oral and overall health. A qualified dentist not only helps prevent common dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay but also detects potential problems early, reducing the risk of more serious complications. Regular dental checkups promote proper oral hygiene, ensure healthy teeth and gums, and can even impact overall wellness by identifying signs of systemic health issues like diabetes or heart disease. Choosing a reliable dentist in Orland Park, IL, ensures that you and your family receive personalized care, professional advice, and the latest treatments to keep your smile healthy and confident for years to come.

Essential Benefits of a Dentist in Orland Park, IL

Visiting a professional dentist in Orland Park, IL, comes with numerous advantages that go beyond just maintaining a bright smile.

Here are some of the essential benefits:

Preventive Care: Regular check-ups and cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Early Detection: Dentists can identify potential dental problems early, reducing the need for more invasive treatments later.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored dental care ensures that your specific oral health needs are addressed effectively.
Cosmetic Enhancements: From teeth whitening to smile makeovers, dentists can help improve your overall appearance and confidence.
Emergency Care: Immediate attention for unexpected dental issues helps protect your teeth and relieve pain quickly.

A trusted dentist in Orland Park, IL, provides these benefits while creating a comfortable, safe, and professional environment for patients of all ages.

What to Expect When Visiting a Dentist in Orland Park, IL

Visiting a dentist in Orland Park, IL, for the first time can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect can make the experience smooth and comfortable.

Here’s what most patients can anticipate:

Warm Welcome: Friendly staff will greet you, review your medical history, and answer any questions.
Comprehensive Examination: The dentist will perform a thorough check-up of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues to assess your overall dental health.
Professional Cleaning: A hygienist will clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup to maintain a healthy smile.
Treatment Discussion: If any issues are detected, your dentist will explain treatment options, timelines, and costs.
Follow-Up Care: You’ll receive guidance on oral hygiene practices and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments.

By understanding the process, patients can feel confident that their visit to a dentist in Orland Park, IL, is both professional and personalized to meet their unique needs.

Signs You Need a Dentist in Orland Park, IL

Knowing when to visit a dentist in Orland Park, IL, is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Recognizing the warning signs early can prevent minor issues from turning into major dental problems.

Here are common indicators that you should schedule an appointment:

Persistent Tooth Pain: Ongoing discomfort or sensitivity may signal cavities, infections, or other dental issues.
Bleeding Gums: Gum bleeding during brushing or flossing could indicate gum disease or inflammation.
Loose or Shifting Teeth: Changes in tooth alignment may require professional evaluation.
Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of infection or decay.
Visible Damage: Chips, cracks, or discoloration in teeth should be examined promptly.

If you notice any of these signs, visiting a trusted dentist in Orland Park, IL, can help address the problem early and protect your long-term oral health.

What to Look For Before Selecting a Dentist in Orland Park, IL

Choosing the right dentist in Orland Park, IL, is essential to ensure quality care and a positive dental experience.

Here are key factors to consider before making your decision:

Credentials and Experience: Ensure the dentist is licensed and has experience in the treatments you may need.
Range of Services: Look for a practice that offers comprehensive care, from preventive to cosmetic and emergency services.
Patient Reviews: Read testimonials and reviews to gauge the quality of care and patient satisfaction.
Comfort and Environment: A welcoming, clean, and well-equipped office can make visits more pleasant.
Insurance and Payment Options: Verify that the practice accepts your insurance and offers flexible payment plans if needed.

Why Choose Silver Lake Family Dental?

Choosing the right dental practice is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy smile, and Silver Lake Family Dental stands out as a trusted choice in Orland Park. Their team of experienced professionals provides personalized care in a welcoming and comfortable environment. From preventive cleanings to advanced restorative and cosmetic treatments, Silver Lake Family Dental combines modern technology with compassionate service to meet the unique needs of every patient. With flexible scheduling, a focus on patient education, and a commitment to excellence, Silver Lake Family Dental ensures that every visit is efficient, effective, and stress-free. For anyone seeking a reliable dentist in Orland Park, IL, Silver Lake Family Dental delivers exceptional care that prioritizes both oral health and overall well-being.

Don’t wait to take care of your smile! Contact us to schedule your visit with a trusted dentist in Orland Park, IL. Whether you need a routine check-up, cosmetic treatment, or emergency care, our friendly team is ready to provide personalized dental care for you and your family.

How Emergency Dental Services in Orland Park, IL, Can Save Your Smile

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:48:19 GMT

A sudden toothache, a cracked tooth, or a knocked-out tooth can turn an ordinary day into a painful ordeal, leaving you in discomfort and uncertainty. In these moments, knowing where to turn for urgent care can make all the difference. Emergency dental services in Orland Park, IL, provide immediate relief, preventing further complications and preserving your oral health. Whether it’s a late-night toothache or an unexpected injury, timely intervention can help you avoid long-term damage. If you’re searching for an emergency dentist in Orland Park, IL, getting prompt treatment is crucial to saving your smile. With expert care available at Silver Lake Family Dental, you can get the treatment you need when you need it most. In this guide, we’ll explore common dental emergencies, how to handle them, and why seeking prompt professional help is essential.

Urgent Dental Problems? Here’s How to Take Action Fast

Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, and knowing how to respond can minimize damage before you reach the dentist. Here are some of the most common situations that require an emergency dentist in Orland Park, IL:

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth is completely knocked out, try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and seek immediate care.

2. Severe Toothache

Rinse your mouth with warm water and floss gently to remove any trapped debris. Avoid aspirin directly on the gums, as it may cause burns.

3. Cracked or Broken Tooth

Rinse with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and avoid chewing on the affected side.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth tissue. Until you can visit an emergency dentist in Orland Park, IL, use dental cement or sugar-free gum to cover the area temporarily.

Why Choose Silver Lake Family Dental for Emergency Care?

When a dental emergency strikes in Orland Park, IL, you need a provider who offers not just speed but also expertise and care. Silver Lake Family Dental is your go-to for emergency dental services in Orland Park, IL, because we understand the urgency and importance of getting you back to feeling your best. Here’s why we stand out:

Immediate Appointments: Quick access to urgent dental care.
Experienced Team: Skilled professionals who handle emergencies with care and precision.
Comprehensive Services: From tooth extractions to root canals, we provide the right solutions for your dental emergency.
Comfort-Focused Approach: We prioritize your comfort and work to relieve pain quickly.

Keep Your Smile Safe: How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

Avoiding a painful and unexpected dental issue starts with smart prevention. Many emergency dental services in Orland Park, IL, can be avoided with proper care and precaution. Stay on top of your oral health by scheduling regular checkups, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and never using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles. Taking these simple steps today can help protect your smile and keep you out of the dentist’s chair for emergency care.

Get Emergency Dental Care Today

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, but fast, professional treatment can make all the difference in saving your smile. Whether you're dealing with severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or another urgent issue, immediate care is essential to prevent further damage. Don't wait for a dental emergency to get the care you need. Contact Silver Lake Family Dental today for fast, reliable emergency dental services in Orland Park, IL.

Dentist | Orland Park, IL | Silver Lake Family Dental

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 02:01:16 GMT

Maintaining Oral Health With a Dentist in Orland Park, IL

A bright and healthy smile starts with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Seeing a dentist in Orland Park, IL ensures that your teeth and gums stay in optimal condition, preventing potential issues before they develop into major concerns. Routine care, combined with healthy habits at home, plays a vital role in maintaining long-term oral health.

Preventative Care: The Key to a Healthy Smile

Taking proactive steps to maintain your oral health can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. A dentist in Orland Park, IL can provide essential preventative services, such as:

Regular dental exams to detect early signs of decay or disease
Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup
Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
Dental sealants for added protection against cavities

By staying ahead with preventative care, patients can reduce their risk of costly and invasive treatments in the future.

Expert Restorative Treatments With a Dentist in Orland Park

Even with the best care, dental issues can arise. A dentist in Orland Park, IL offers restorative treatments to repair and enhance your smile. Some common procedures include:

Fillings to restore teeth affected by cavities
Crowns to protect and strengthen weakened teeth
Root canals to save infected teeth
Dental bridges and implants to replace missing teeth

Seeking prompt treatment for dental concerns can prevent further complications and improve overall oral function.

The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Practicing proper oral hygiene daily is crucial in maintaining a healthy smile. The National Institute on Aging emphasizes the importance of brushing, flossing, and making smart dietary choices to protect teeth and gums. Consider these essential habits:

Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
Floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque
Limit sugary foods and beverages that can contribute to cavities
Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth and bacterial buildup
Visit a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams

By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can keep your teeth strong and your gums healthy for years to come.

Why Regular Visits to a Dentist Matter

Seeing a dentist in Orland Park, IL regularly is essential for maintaining oral health. Routine visits allow for early detection of dental problems, preventing minor concerns from becoming major issues. Professional cleanings help eliminate plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing may miss, ensuring a healthier and brighter smile.

Ready for a Healthier Smile? Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Your journey to better oral health starts with a visit to a dentist in Orland Park, IL. Let Silver Lake Family Dental provide you with expert, compassionate care. Call (708) 403-0071 or contact us online to book your appointment today. A healthy, radiant smile is just a call away!

Need a Dentist in Orland Park? Check out Silver Lake Family Dental - A Top Orland Park Dentist Office

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 21:59:16 GMT

Top Rated Orland Park Dentist

Our Orland Park IL Dentists are ready to care for all your Dental Care needs from cleanings to crowns and everything in between. Also ask us about our botox services.

Call us for your next Orland Park dental care appointment now.

Best Dentists Orland Park IL

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 18:22:55 GMT

Are you looking for a dentist in Orland Park IL? Our Dental Office in Orland Park is accepting new patients.

We strive to be one of the best dentist offices in Orland Park IL and the entire South Suburbs. If you are in need of any dental work here in Orland Park, give our Orland Park dental office a call today at 708-403-0071.
We help our patients of all ages with all types of dentistry care including:

Family Dentists Orland Park, IL
Cosmetic Dentists Orland Park, IL
Botox Services Orland Park, IL
General Denists Orland Park, IL
Pediatric Dentistry Orland Park, IL
Root Canals Orland Park, IL
Teeth Whitening Orland Park, IL
Crowns Orland Park, IL
Smile Makeovers in Orland Park, IL

We are excited to add you to our list of happy patients so schedule your denists appointment today by calling 708-403-0071.

Botox Injections in Orland Park, IL

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 21:08:11 GMT

Did you know your dentist could be one of the most qualified people to go to for Botox Injections?

Our Orland Park dentist is acutely aware of the nerves and muscles in your face. Dentists know the head and neck anatomy and are taught how to give anesthesia. Our dentist is certified for Botox.

Botox has many uses including being an alternative to help treat TMJ disorder & the corresponding jaw discomfort & pain. Botox can help relieve the jaw tension and pain and help with TMJ.

If you’re looking for Botox in Orland Park, IL, give our office a call today to schedule an appointment at 708-403-0071

Orland Park - Advantages of Attending Dental Appointments Every 6 Months

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 14:12:44 GMT

With a busy work schedule and responsibilities at home, many patients might be tempted to forgo their routine dental appointments. However,
skipping biannual dental services can be risky for your oral health. Discover a few advantages of attending your dental appointments every six
months.

Healthier Gums in Orland Park IL

The health of your gingival tissues often affects the overall health of your mouth. The gums, like the teeth, are affected by the acidic waste of oral bacteria.

When you eat, the bacteria in your mouth feed on leftover simple carbohydrates from the particles of food that remain on your teeth after you
swallow. As the microbes digest their meals, they release acidic byproducts that corrode the tooth enamel and inflame the gums. Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque deposits, which are leftover food, oral bacteria, and biofilm.

Still, even though you may brush or floss away much of the plaque, some of the sticky material may become trapped along the gumline, between the teeth, and on other dental surfaces long enough to harden into place. Once the plaque hardens or calcifies, it becomes tartar.

Tartar, which is also called calculus, is not removable with a toothbrush and floss. Instead, a dental professional must scrape the hardened material from your teeth using a scaling tool.

Removing calculus and the additional bacteria that can become trapped within its pores helps prevent gum disease. Although a minor bout of
gingivitis with gums that only bleed when you brush your teeth may seem unimportant, gum disease can quickly progress. Periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease, may lead to gingival infections that result in bone and tooth loss.

Regular dental cleanings can help protect the health of your gums.

Whiter Teeth in Orland Park IL

Cosmetic applications, such as teeth-whitening sessions, can improve the color of your teeth. However, preventive treatments, such as dental
cleanings, also affect your tooth color.

Tartar is not white. Instead, the calcified material has a dull yellow hue. When large amounts of tartar accumulate on the teeth, the yellow substance may cover the white enamel, making your teeth appear discolored.

As a dentist professional cleans your teeth, the dental provider removes the tartar to reveal the tooth enamel underneath it. Additionally, they polish your teeth, making them appear even brighter.

Cancer Detection in Orland Park IL

Although oral cancer is relatively uncommon, if the disease does happen, the prognosis is often better if the cancer is discovered in the early stages.

During your routine visits, the dentist examines the health of your teeth as well as the condition of your mouth's soft tissues.

Even though you see your mouth regularly, you are often unable to view all the areas of your mouth that a dental professional can see. Dental
providers use small mirrors and tools to thoroughly review your oral cavity.

A dentist can spot irregularities in tissue color, texture, and size. If they suspect cancer, they may biopsy the tissue, and you may need to go to a
physician for further testing.

Healthier Teeth in Orland Park IL

Routine checkups not only help your teeth remain whiter, but they also help your teeth stay healthier. Small cavities may cause no discomfort and be difficult to notice to the casual observer. However, when a dental provider examines your teeth during a biannual exam, they look for areas of decay that others may easily miss.

A small cavity, if left untreated, could deepen and spread. Cavities can become so severe that they require a root canal or extraction to alleviate the associated discomfort.

To assess the condition of your teeth, your dentist does not rely solely on a visual examination. Instead, they also x-ray the teeth to review the
condition of the dental roots and find areas of decay that they may miss with a visual inspection.

If you have not visited a dentist within the past six months, contact Silver Lake Family Dental to schedule an appointment.

The Keto Diet and Oral Issues

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 21:20:39 GMT

Can the popular keto diet affect your dental health? The ketogenic (more commonly known as keto) diet is a low carb, high diet that can help you to lose weight. Even though eating keto can lead to a slimmer figure, it can also impact your oral health. If you're a keto eater, take a look at what you need to know about your healthy mouth.

Will the Keto Diet Cause Bad Breath?

Does the possibility of keto breath give you pause? Halitosis (or bad breath) is one of the most well-known complaints some keto eaters have. While halitosis doesn't impact every person who tries this type of diet, it's possible you may notice keto breath after you change your eating habits. Unlike the odor you may smell after eating a garlic-filled meal or the scent poor oral care can cause, keto breath has a distinct fruit-like or acetone-ish smell.

What Causes Keto Breath?

To understand the process behind keto breath, you need to learn more about how this diet works. When you restrict or limit the amount of carbohydrates (sugars) you eat, your body starts to use stored fat for energy. After your body goes through stored glucose (sugar), it begins to break down fat—leading to ketosis and weight loss.

The ketosis process happens when the body converts fatty acids into ketones. Acetone, acetoacetate, and hydroxybutyrate are ketones, all natural chemicals. Your body will produce these chemicals (ketones) as you burn fat through the keto diet.

As ketones build up in the body, you need to release them. This happens through the natural processes of exhalation and urination. When you exhale ketones, you may notice the acetone smell or a similar nail polish remover-like taste in your mouth.

Is Keto Breath an Oral Hygiene Issue?

You can't brush keto breath away. Even though it is a form of halitosis, it doesn't have the same cause as other forms of bad breath. Halitosis has several possible causes. Gum disease, dry mouth, dental decay, oral infections, throat infections, acid reflux, and some types of foods can cause bad breath.

Periodontal (gum) issues and decay-related halitosis require oral care changes to eliminate. While brushing and flossing can significantly impact this type of bad breath, the same isn't true for keto odors. Minty toothpastes, mouthwashes, and sugar-free mints/gum can mask the taste or odor. But these products won't remove the cause.

Some keto dieters who experience bad breath notice an improvement over time. As your body gets used to the low carb diet, you may notice better breath. Other ways to decrease the odor include increased water intake or eating more carbs. Even though adding carbs to your diet can eliminate keto breath, this strategy may counteract the weight loss effects of your new meal plan.

If your bad breath doesn't resolve on its own or you're not sure whether the keto diet or something else is at fault, talk to your dentist. The dentist can examine your mouth and look for other potential oral issues.

Can the Keto Diet Help Your Mouth's Health?

Do you have significant dental decay or gum disease? Keto eating won't eliminate these issues—but the diet can work as part of a healthy oral care routine.

Dental decay and periodontal disease don't happen on their own. The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar/starch and produce acids. The acids erode the enamel, or the outer layer of the tooth. This results in decay.

Even though the keto diet can cause temporary bad breath, it may have healthy mouth benefits. The lower carbohydrate intake the diet requires limits the amount of sugar in your mouth. Without a steady bath of sugary carbs feeding the bacteria in your mouth, you may notice decreased decay or increased gum health.

Do you have concerns about how the keto diet will affect your mouth? Contact Silver Lake Family Dental for more information.

4 Dental Treatments to Help Teeth Sensitive to Cold

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 15:56:40 GMT

When you eat or drink cold items, the last thing you want to experience is a shock through your teeth, gums, and jaw. When you become sensitive to cold foods, the way you eat and plan meals may dramatically change.

Thankfully, sensitivity to the cold does not have to be a permanent problem. Dentists have multiple procedures to help reduce the sensitivity and allow you to enjoy cold items again.

1. Dental Sealant & Fluoride Treatments

Your teeth may feel sensitive to cold temperatures due to enamel wear. Acids and sugars break down the enamel in your mouth over time and result in the sensitivity to cold. A dentist provides multiple ways to help prevent enamel wear and protect your teeth.

A dentist may perform fluoride treatment while at the office. Fluoride is an essential element to protect and strengthen the enamel in your mouth. Along with fluoride toothpaste at home, an in-office treatment will add extra protection to your teeth.

A dentist may also apply a sealant to your back molars. The sealant goes over the top of the teeth and helps prevent sensitivity as you bite or chew cold foods. The procedure is typically painless as the sealant is literally painted on the top of a tooth.

2. Gum Treatments

Your gums may factor into cold food sensitivity. If you have brushed away your gums, the exposed nerves and tooth may be more sensitive to the area. Gum disease and built-up plaque could also cause gum issues. Gum health is just as important as tooth health when you take care of your mouth.

A hygienist or dentist will perform a deep cleaning of your mouth. The deep cleaning eliminates harmful bacteria and build-up found directly in the gums. Reversing any signs of gum disease like gingivitis will be the first step to reducing the sensitivity to cold food.

After a deep clean, follow up with self-care that includes healthy brushing habits and flossing. Over time, you will notice the sensitivity disappear as the gums return to a healthy state. Every mouth is different. The process could take weeks or months depending on the severity of the problem.

3. Tooth Protection

If you grind your teeth, you could wear down the tooth and expose nerve endings. When you expose the nerves, the teeth become extremely sensitive to cold items and may send jolts through your whole mouth.

Along with treatments to help repair worn teeth, a dentist will help you prevent future issues. A custom mouth guard will protect your teeth while you sleep. You will prevent the exposure of nerves and enjoy more cold foods without any problems. The mouth guard also helps prevent jaw pains or heads associated with tooth grinding.

4. Cracked Tooth Treatment

If your sensitivity to cold food has appeared suddenly, you may have a cracked tooth. The cracked tooth exposes a lot of nerves within the teeth and the cold temperatures will be almost unbearable as you eat or drink.

A dentist has multiple treatment options for a cracked tooth, but the treatment depends on the location of the crack. A small crack that has not reached the root of the tooth is typically treated through a root canal. If the crack goes deep, you may need the tooth extracted and replaced with a dental implant.

A dentist performs x-rays to determine the location and cause of the crack. Once fully treated and healed, the sensitivity to cold should dissipate.

Consult with our dentists at Silver Lake Family Dental to set up an appointment and evaluation for your sensitive teeth. In the long run, our professionals will strive to provide you with treatment that changes the way you enjoy foods for the better.

What You Need to Know About Severe Bruxism

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 19:58:51 GMT

Bruxism (nighttime tooth grinding) may not sound like a big deal at first, but it can permanently damage your dental health if you end up with a severe case.

Here's what you need to know about severe bruxism.

What Is Bruxism?

Unlike daytime jaw clenching, bruxism is a completely unconscious habit that you can't simply control by thinking about it. So if your dentist finds evidence of bruxism, you'll need to have it treated as a medical condition rather than simply trying to break yourself of the habit.

Symptoms

Bruxism can have many symptoms, such as:

Sensitive teeth
Flattened or worn down chewing surfaces
Headaches
Tight facial and jaw muscles
Chips or fractures in teeth

A few of these symptoms could be caused by something else, but if you have severe bruxism, you're likely to have many symptoms, and possibly severe ones.

Co-Occurring Issues

In many cases, bruxism can co-occur with issues such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and daytime jaw clenching. Your dentist may not always know which issue came first, and they may treat each issue separately. For instance, you may need therapy for your temporomandibular joint in addition to bruxism treatment.

Why Do You Have Bruxism?

In order to understand the condition, you'll want to get a complete picture of which parts of your life could be affecting your bruxism and vice versa. Here are some things you'll want to know about what causes bruxism.

Causes

Not every case of bruxism has a clear cause, but several factors may precipitate the issue or increase your risk of developing bruxism. These can include a misaligned bite, sleep apnea, or stress that causes you to clench your jaw throughout the day.

Exacerbating or Worsening Factors

You may be wondering why your case is worse than most. Some factors that could make bruxism worse include:

A habit of chewing gum throughout the day
Increased stress in your daily life (including emotional stress such as anxiety)
Drinking alcohol and smoking

If these factors sound familiar, you may be able to address them and reduce the severity of your bruxism.

What's the Prognosis?

A diagnosis of severe bruxism isn't the end of the journey. Now that you know what's wrong, you need to treat it immediately before it can cause any further damage to your oral health. Fortunately, several treatments are available.

Typical Treatments

Your dentist will likely want you to wear a professionally fitted nightguard (a mouth guard used at night), effective immediately. Although it doesn't stop you from grinding, a mouth guard will lessen the shock to your enamel.

Your dentist will want to get to the root of the problem too by treating any possible causes. For example, if you have bite misalignment, you'll likely need orthodontic work. And if you have suspected sleep apnea, you may be referred for a sleep study. Your dentist may also recommend relaxation practices before bed to avoid worsening your bruxism due to stress.

Effects if Untreated

Extreme bruxism can severely damage your oral health. In addition to any symptoms you already have, such as jaw pain, headaches, and worn enamel, severe bruxism can cause much worse damage over time. You can expect issues such as:

Chipped, cracked, and broken teeth
Completely lost enamel on chewing surfaces
Receding gums
Damaged periodontal ligaments, leading to loose teeth
Bone loss in jaw, potentially leading to tooth loss
Cavities due to enamel loss and exposed dentin

As you can see, severe bruxism is no light matter. Unlike a milder form of this problem, a severe case can destroy the health of both your teeth and your gums over time. So be sure to follow any treatments your dentist prescribes in order to stave off worsening damage.

Bruxism can come in several levels of severity. If you suspect you have bruxism, you need to get a professional diagnosis right away so you can commence treatment. Schedule an appointment with your friendly local dentists at Silver Lake Family Dental today.

Considerations When Choosing a Night Guard

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 19:13:46 GMT

Many dental patients need to wear a night guard at night to avoid damage from clenching their jaw and grinding their teeth. Whether you're choosing a custom-fitted one you send away in the mail, a basic boil-and-bite guard, or a professional night guard fitted in person by your dentist, a night guard can be an essential part of your dental care.

Here are some considerations for helping you choose between the many night guard options available to you.

1. Texture of the Guard

Some night guards are made of soft and cushion-like plastic. This may sound positive, since the material will be able to soften the shock of clenching your teeth together. However, these chewy-textured guards may actually encourage a chewing motion and could actually increase grinding in some cases.

Increased grinding could mean that symptoms such as jaw and muscle soreness, headaches, and gum irritation increase. These symptoms can still occur even if you're using a night guard, so you can see why choosing a guard that doesn't increase grinding is important. A less squishy, comparatively hard-textured night guard may work better.

2. Comfort and Convenience

Before you decide on a night guard, think about the process of wearing it. If you have a sensitive gag reflex or jaw joint issues (such as temporomandibular problems, which may accompany nighttime grinding), you may not be comfortable holding a thick, bulky guard in your mouth.

An uncomfortable night guard is not only less pleasant to wear, but may keep you awake at night, reducing sleep duration or quality. Or you may even find yourself removing it in your sleep, eliminating its effectiveness. So comfort is a big deal here. A guard that's made of an extra-stiff material or one that's not quite the right shape and size could also be uncomfortable.

3. Sturdiness and Longevity

Before comparing prices on different styles of night guard, don't forget to consider the monthly or yearly price based on the product's expected lifespan. Check the product information to see how long the product typically lasts.

And don't forget to factor in the possibility of chewing through the guard. If your nighttime grinding is bad enough that your dentist has told you to wear a night guard, you may be at risk of wearing through your night guards on a regular basis. Talk to your dentist about how severe your problem is and whether you'll need to look for an extra-durable night guard.

4. Price

For many patients, price is a big factor. If you can afford it, you should consider investing in the professionally fitted night guard your dentist offers. Although expensive up front, these guards are likely to offer a long service life. They're also less likely to be bulky and uncomfortable.

However, for many dental patients, a professional guard is just not affordable, especially if you don't have dental insurance to cover it. In this scenario, you're likely better off looking for a mid-range price rather than a bottom basement product that's made as cheaply as possible.

Some patients use a sports mouthguard as a night guard, because sports guards are widely available and affordable. However, this option is not optimal because a sports guard is likely to be thicker and more cushioning, yet less hard and therefore less able to stand up to grinding. Also, these guards may be quite difficult to sleep with since they're so bulky.

5. Possible Side Effects

In some cases, a poorly made night guard could interfere with your bite by changing how your teeth fit together all night, every night. Your dentist's professionally fitted night guard is less likely to interfere with your bite. It's a thin material that won't force your jaw into an open position or keep your teeth from fitting together normally.

These considerations can help you choose a night guard that's likely to work for your situation. If you find that you struggle with the first night guard you try, don't give up. Talk to your dentist about which option you should try next. Schedule an appointment with Silver Lake Family Dental today to discuss your dental needs with your friendly local dentist.