These Milestone Events Deserve a More Beautiful Smile

March 13, 2019

A beautiful, bright smile is important for building confidence in your every day life, but sometimes, an especially important or landmark life event marks the perfect time to improve your smile aesthetics. Aesthetic dentistry services from The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry can help you create whiter, brighter, and straighter teeth before you smile for the camera for one of these important life events!

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in the Skokie, IL or Chicago area? Trust your smile to Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Our practices offers professional whitening, dental bonding and veneers to help you look—and feel—your best. Call us today at (847)676-3500.

Graduation

If you have recently graduated from college or a graduate program, what better way to celebrate your achievements, and prepare for a new career, than with an aesthetic smile solution such as teeth whitening. With our professional whitening treatments, teeth can become eight shades lighter than the natural enamel color, while maintaining a natural look. There’s so much to smile about after a graduation, so be sure you are confident in the look of yours. Also, a professional whitening treatment can be a great gift for a graduate (and one that they will be able to use every day!).

Engagement

Are you thinking of popping the question? Or maybe you know an engagement is not far off. With a new engagement comes a flurry of photos and celebrations. You’ll be smiling more than normal during this happy stage of life. If you are self-conscious or chipped teeth, dull or discolored teeth, or misshapen or small teeth, dental bonding treatment can help. This affordable cosmetic treatment can camoflauge imperfections in teeth quickly and painlessly. With proper care and hygiene, your results can last for up to five or even 10 years.

Your Wedding

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments in your life. If you’re unhappy with the look of your smile, you may find yourself hiding your smile. Don’t let cosmetic imperfections keep you from smiling freely during this happy occasion! Porcelain veneers offer dramatic results, combining the effects of dental bonding, orthodontics, and professional whitening into one. A new smile with veneers can also come together in as little as two appointments. If you’re ready to start married life with a beautiful smile that enhances your appearance and gives you a new boost of confidence, consider porcelain veneer treatment from Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss.

A New Job

If you are looking to start a new career, want to land a promotion, or have just secured an important new role, a confident smile can have a big impact on your first impressions down the road. Meetings, sales calls, presentations, and performance reviews require face-to-face communication and a smile to brighten the room. If you are embarrassed about your smile, it can negatively affect these events, or lead to a negative first impression with clients or a new boss. Restore a beautiful smile so you can focus on your job. Let Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss help you improve a dull, discolored, misshapen, or failing restoration with a new porcelain dental crown. A crown will not only protect and strengthen your natural tooth, but will cover imperfections with the glossy finish of porcelain.

Add The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry to Your To-Do List

If you’re planning for one of these events, congratulations! We would love to help you achieve the perfect smile for your engagement photos, wedding, or new job with a cosmetic consultation with either Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss. Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful smile. Celebrate today by booking your next appointment at our Skokie practice.

Your Guide to Choosing a Prosthodontist

March 6, 2019

Did you know that there are over 3,500 practicing prosthodontists in the United States? These dental specialists hold advanced training in dental restoration, so whether you are needing a crown, bridge, implant, or dentures, prosthodontists can help ensure your restoration is as strong and cosmetically beautiful as possible. If you are needing advanced restorative work, beyond a simple filling, a prosthodontist can offer guidance or more insight on the procedure. But how do you choose which prosthodontist to see? Below, discover our tips on finding the right prosthodontist for you—and your smile!

If you are in the greater Chicago area and are searching for a “prosthodontist near me,” look no further than The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Abraham Stein is a leader in the field of prosthodontics, and has developed an implant identification tool that has been used by dentists throughout the world. If you’re looking for the highest level of care in prosthodontics, trust your smile to the experts; schedule your consultation with Dr. Abraham Stein.

Selecting a Prosthodontist

The wellbeing of your mouth and smile is critical to your physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you thoroughly research “prosthodontists near me” before selecting a provider. If your general dentist recommends you to see a prosthodontic specialist, he or she will most likely offer a referral. However, it never hurts to conduct your own research to decide who you would be most comfortable seeing. Check out the following criteria to review when selecting a prosthodontist provider near you.

Online Reviews

Though individual online reviews and patient testimonials can sometimes be dubious, the overall sentiment of reviews can help indicate what a typical patient experience is like. Additionally, reputable providers will often offer a response to negative reviews in a professional, compassionate manner. Any negative response, or a lack of response, could be a red flag.

Educational Background

Discover where the prosthodontist received their training. This information should be freely available on their website. This can help you understand what advanced training they completed, and if they have any areas of specialty or focus within the umbrella of prosthodontics (for instance, some providers focus heavily on implant placement or implant-supported dentures).

Certifications and Industry Affiliations

You should always look for “board-certified” prosthodontists. This identification means that the doctor has passed a rigorous competency test, after completing an advanced training program after dental school, that is administered by the American Board of Prosthodontics. Board-certified prosthodontists practice at a level that is set by a national board of leading dental professionals, and gives you peace of mind that your doctor is knowledgeable in all areas of prosthodontics which could be a part of your own smile restoration. Prosthodontists must re-take the exam every eight years to maintain certification. In addition, a prosthodontist should list any associations or industry affiliations they are a part of on their website bio. Maintaining membership in these organizations shows that the prosthodontist is committed to staying on top of the latest technology, best practices, and research in the field.

Patient Results

Prosthodontists should share photos of previous patients on their website and/or social media. Review their work and see real-life examples of how they transformed smiles. This can be one of the best ways to determine whether you feel comfortable entrusting your smile to them.

Searching for a “Prosthodontist Near Me”?

Researching and reviewing several prosthodontist providers can help you feel more confident in your decision, and help you have confidence during your restorative procedures. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Stein or our practice’s patient-centered approach to advanced dentistry, contact our Skokie, IL practice today.

Fixed vs. Removable: Comparing Implant-Supported Denture Treatments

February 27, 2019

Here’s some good news: thanks to the latest dental innovations, Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss can offer more natural and secure smiles than ever before for patients who have lost most or all their teeth. With the added support and stability of dental implants, implant-supported dentures are some of the most popular ways to restore functional, beautiful smiles. When it comes to implant-supported dentures, patients in Skokie, IL, have options. Below, we’re going over some of the key benefits of both removable implant-supported dentures, and fixed implant-supported dentures, such as All-on-4®. Depending on your lifestyle and desires, as well as your oral health, either may be a more attractive option.

If you’re looking for a dependable and aesthetic alternative to traditional dentures in the Skokie area, reach out to The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Drs. Stein or Weiss can provide you with a natural-looking, secure bite through implant-supported dentures. Contact our team now at (847) 676-3500 to schedule a consultation.

Similarities

Both fixed and removable implant-supported dentures use the strength of strategically placed dental implants to provide greater stability than traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures use a unique locking mechanism to fit dentures securely into place with implants, so that slipping and sliding dentures, as well as denture adhesives and pastes, are a thing of the past.

Each method also requires all remaining teeth to be extracted. Four dental implants are then placed into both the top and bottom jaw. These implants are the foundation which creates the stable base for both removable and fixed implant-supported dentures. Both solutions also involve your general dentist or prosthodontist fabricating prosthetic teeth that achieve the most natural look and feel for your smile. With either option, patients can avoid most dietary restrictions that traditional dentures require and gain back the freedom to confidently and comfortably eat, drink, and smile.

Differences

While initial treatment procedures for both types are largely the same, both differ in the types of dentures that are placed and the timeline of treatment. Note that with either implant-supported denture treatment, candidates must be in good health without history of autoimmune diseases, diabetes, or related conditions that could affect healing. Drs. Stein or Weiss can help you determine if you are a good candidate for treatment at your initial consultation.

With removable implant-supported dentures, patients are given temporary dentures the day dental implants are placed. These temporary dentures must be worn for 8 to 12 weeks during the crucial osseointegration period, where dental implants assimilate with the natural jaw bone tissues. During this period, a custom-fitted and designed set of dentures are fabricated by a dental lab. Once completed, these final dentures tightly secure onto four posts attached to each implant on the top and bottom jaw. While these dentures can be removed for at-home cleanings, they are designed to be worn while eating, drinking, and sleeping.

With fixed implant-supported dentures, temporary, non-removable dentures are provided the same day implants are placed. (You may be familiar with the concept “Teeth-In-A-Day®,” which is associated with the popular All-on-4® technique.) These temporary dentures are securely attached to the implants in each jaw, creating a permanent teeth replacement. After the osseointegration period, patients receive the final set of permanent, custom-fabricated dentures from the dental lab. These dentures are not removable; therefore, patients must schedule quarterly or bi-annual cleanings with Drs. Stein or Weiss to maintain optimal oral health.

It’s important to note that non-removable dentures can pose more of an issue for people who are susceptible to periodontal disease or previously suffered bone loss from periodontal disease.

A Denture Alternative That Works For You

Is a removable implant-supported denture or fixed implant supported denture, such as All-on-4®, right for you? Our team can walk you each technique in greater detail, and discuss treatment options with you based on your health history and current lifestyle, history of periodontal disease, and the structure and health of your jaw. At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we always communicates and collaborate directly with any participating dental specialists, such as prosthodontists or oral surgeons, to ensure the fit, look, and feel of your permanent dentures is natural and comfortable.

Let Drs. Stein and Weiss and our staff at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry help you achieve the secure bite and beautiful smile you desire! Call us today.

What is the cost of a full mouth restoration?

February 19, 2019

Are you are living with extensive tooth loss, decay, or periodontal disease? If so, you know full well that a damaged and unhealthy smile can negatively impact many areas of your life. For patients who need a multi-step approach to treating widespread oral health issues, our Skokie, IL practices offers full mouth restoration. However, many patients worry about the costs that a full mouth restoration includes. While this treatment can be more costly, due to the multiple treatments that are involved, learning about the estimated costs, benefits, and timeline options that this treatment entails can help you as you make decisions regarding the future of your smile. Remember: your health and wellbeing is worth investing in!

If you have further questions about full mouth restoration, or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors, contact us at (847) 676-3500.

What does a full mouth restoration cost?

There is no single cost for a full mouth restoration; costs for this treatment varies because each treatment plan is uniquely designed by Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss to fit your specific needs.

Note that because this treatment is focused on restoring the mouth, dental insurance typically covers some percentage of the costs.

In addition, you may qualify for one of our practice’s medical financing options which can offer manageable monthly payments with little to no interest. During a consultation, our staff can go over your financing options, and answer questions you may have regarding the application process.

If you are concerned about the cost of treatment, please don’t hesitate to discuss this with our doctors. Our team may be able to stagger treatment to help distribute costs, or perform certain restorations that are more cost effective.

What factors influence the cost?

Since each case is unique, your full mouth restoration cost will be influenced by:

The restorative materials selected
Dental laboratory fees
How many procedures are performed
What type of procedures are performed included in the customized treatment plan
Sedative medication fees
Dental specialist fees from referred doctors

What can I expect to pay for individual treatments?

The following procedures are commonly included in full mouth restoration treatment plans. The costs included are simply estimates; actual costs can vary depending on your unique situation.

Dental implant restorations: $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced.
TMJ treatment: $2,000 to $3,500, depending on the level of treatment required.
Dental bridge placement: the cost can vary significantly, based on the material and type of bridge used. However, bridges may be substituted as a more cost-effective treatment compared to dental implants.
Dental crowns: $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on the materials used.
Composite fillings: $100 to $200

Contact The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry

Do not let your widespread oral health issues keep you from living a happy, healthy life. A healthy smile is important at every age; it is never too late for a more functional, beautiful smile. Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss can offer full mouth reconstruction to Skokie, IL patients who desire a pain-free, functional, and beautiful smile. It is never too late to improve your oral health; give us a call today at (847) 676-3500.

Partial vs. Full: Dentures for Every Smile

February 12, 2019

Anyone who has experienced tooth loss knows that teeth not only play an important role in our physical health, but in our social and emotional health, too. Dentures from The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry in Skokie, IL, offer teeth replacement options when patients suffer from tooth loss due to extraction, decay, or trauma. When discussing dentures, it is important to know the difference between the two most common types: partial vs. full dentures. Below, learn which option could help you restore a full, radiant smile in just a few appointments with Drs. Abraham Stein or Zachary Weiss.

Looking for dentures near Skokie, IL? We offer restorative treatment in a comfortable, high-tech practice located in central Skokie. Our team would love to meet you, and learn how we can help you achieve the firm bite and natural-looking smile you desire. Contact us to set up an appointment at (847) 676-3500.

Tooth Replacements to Fit Your Smile

For many people, the word “dentures” brings to mind poorly-fitted, over-sized plastic plates. However, awkward, slipping, and unnatural-looking dentures are a thing of the past. This tooth replacement treatment has dramatically changed over the years to provide a reliable, functional, and aesthetic teeth replacement treatment.

For patients with partial or complete teeth loss, full, partial, or implant-supported dentures make it possible to regain a full, beautiful smile. While implant dentures are a more stable restorative treatment option for select patients, we’ll be taking a closer look at the variances between two more traditional denture options offered at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry: partials and full dentures.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures, often called “partials,” are removable tooth replacement appliances that offer smile restoration for patients who have one or more missing adjacent teeth. Unlike full dentures, described below, partials require patients have at least one or more remaining teeth on the top and bottom jaws. The artificial teeth, built onto a gum-colored plastic plate, is firmly attached to one or more remaining teeth by metal or plastic connectors. Depending on a patient’s unique restoration needs, Drs. Stein or Weiss may choose one of several designs of partial dentures to offer the most comfortable and stable restoration. In some cases, the dentist increases the stability of remaining supportive teeth by placing a dental crown for added strength.

The Benefits of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are best for patients who have gum tissue or bone tissue loss from periodontal disease, and cannot easily receive dental implants. They also appeal to patients who want to be able to remove the appliance for easy at-home cleaning. However, partial dentures do not last long; on average, these appliances need to be replaced every five years. This can be a significant drawback for patients who are looking for a long-lasting solution.

Full Dentures

Full or “complete”, dentures traditionally have a pink-colored plastic plate (to match your natural gum tissues’ color) that fits comfortably over the surface of the top and bottom gums. Acrylic false teeth are firmly attached to each plate to mimic a natural row of teeth. When smiling and speaking, the smile is very natural-looking. Suction and dental adhesives keep dentures in place during use throughout the day. Most patients find they can eat and drink fairly normally with complete dentures, while simply avoiding certain tough or sticky foods.

The Benefits of Full Dentures

For patients desiring full teeth replacement who cannot support dental implants due to bone loss, full dentures are a great option. Full dentures can last anywhere five to 10 years, and restore much of a patient’s eating and chewing abilities after extensive tooth loss. This can greatly increase the patient’s confidence levels after the devastating effects of widespread tooth loss, and can improve digestion and speaking ability. Additionally, full dentures, like partials, offer easy cleaning; full dentures are removed at night for a deep clean, and can also be quickly cleaned after meals.

Custom-Fit Dentures in Skokie, IL

Whether you have suffered from partial or complete teeth loss, schedule your consultation with Dr. Abraham Stein or Dr. Zachary Weiss to receive custom-fit, genuine-looking dentures that restore your smile to its full potential. Do not let tooth loss keep you from eating or talking confidently. Call us today!

What’s the difference between a prosthodontist and a general dentist?

February 5, 2019

Not all dental professionals offer the same services or experience. Usually, patients don’t research the differences between dental specialists until it counts — when you need top-quality dental and oral care for you or a loved one. At the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Abraham Stein holds advanced training to practice dental prosthodontics as a board-certified prosthodontist. Learn more about this important dental specialty below.

If you are looking for advanced restorative care in the Skokie, IL, area, consider The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss offer comprehensive dental care with experience restoring the health and beauty of smiles in the greater Chicago area. Contact us today to schedule your consultation, and visit our New Patient page for additional information.

Understanding Dental Prosthodontics

Dental prosthodontics is one of the nine specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Dr. Stein’s experience in prosthodontics means that he is uniquely qualified to diagnose and plan treatment and maintenance for Skokie, IL patients suffering from missing or deteriorated teeth. He can improve the overall function, health and appearance of teeth.

Understanding prosthodontics starts with the name itself. “Prostho” means replacement and “dontist” refers to teeth. Prosthodontists are truly “architects of a smile” and can help restore and improve the appearance of not just the teeth, but the other soft or supportive tissues that play an important role in creating a naturally beautiful smile. Whether just one tooth or several teeth require restoration, prosthodontists are the recognized dental specialist experts.

Prosthodontist Training

General dentists must first complete a bachelor’s degree before advancing to dental school. Then, four years are spent at an accredited dental school, where candidates become qualified as a general dentist through a DMD or DDS degree. General dentists then begin practicing dental medicine while prosthodontist candidates continue with additional education. The prosthodontist candidates complete an additional three years of education and residency in an accredited prosthodontic graduate program. This three-year period focuses on the skillful reconstruction and cosmetic restoration of teeth and gums. After successfully completing the graduate program, candidates must pass an examination provided by the American Board of Prosthodontics before receiving board certification as a prosthodontist.

In short, prosthodontists are general dentists, with additional training and education. Because of this, they can also provide general dentistry services for patients in addition to more specific restorative care.

Dental Treatment Specialties

General dentists perform a variety of preventive, minor restorative, and cosmetic procedures. Typically, patients will see a general dentist for routine examinations and may be referred to a prosthodontist if complex restorative work is needed.

Common dental prosthodontic treatments include dental implants, dental crowns, dental bridges or dentures. It’s common for prosthodontists to work with other dentists and dental specialists such as periodontists or endodontists in orchestrating a complete smile restoration.

When to See a Prosthodontist

Patients who require restorative work beyond a simple filling should consider seeing a prosthodontist. They offer experience and training that can ensure your full mouth reconstruction or total smile makeover is as functional, beautiful, and natural-looking as possible.

Schedule a Consultation with Your Skokie, IL Prosthodontist

If you are looking for a skilled prosthodontist in the greater Chicago, IL area, consider Dr. Abraham Stein of the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Stein is a member of the Academy of Osseointegration, American College of Prosthodontists, American Dental Association, and the Chicago Dental Society and has completed over 1,500 All-On-4® immediate load implant cases during his career. He can help you rebuild a stronger smile you’ll be proud to show off. Request your appointment today!

4 Solutions for a More Aesthetic Smile

January 30, 2019

Your Skokie, IL, family dentist can do a lot more than fill cavities or provide bi-annual cleanings. Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss want to help you create a smile you love. Studies have shown that the more you smile, the happier you can actually feel. Smiling can reduce stress hormones and lower blood pressure which means not only will you be happier – but healthier, too![i]

If you find yourself holding back your smile because you are embarrassed or unhappy with its appearance, please schedule a consultation with our team. We can discuss the aesthetic dentistry treatment options available to you, and help you create a smile you’ll be proud to share. Contact our office at (847)676-3500.

Dental Bonding

Drs. Stein and Weiss can improve the appearance of your smile in just one appointment through cosmetic dental bonding. This non-invasive aesthetic procedure involves applying composite resin to the teeth — the same material that is commonly used in composite fillings for cavity treatment. This material is derived from hard, durable plastics that can withstand daily wear and tear from chewing or biting. Your dentist colors the composite to match your natural tooth’s shade, and then shapes the resin to fill in uneven spaces, correct small chips in enamel, or cover stains and discoloration. Slight imperfections can be camouflaged in less than one hour! Before leaving, your dentist will polish the composite material until it matches your tooth’s natural, glossy finish.

Professional Whitening

The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry offers professional teeth whitening treatments that fit your lifestyle. Whether through an at-home or in-office procedure, our treatments can help you achieve a smile that is up to eight shades lighter! Professional whitening works best on teeth that have “extrinsic” stains, or discoloration on the outer layers of enamel. “Intrinsic” stains, or stains occurring within the inner tooth structure, are usually best treated through porcelain veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are thin pieces of ceramic that are custom-fabricated to cover imperfections in teeth. While a costlier treatment upfront, porcelain veneers can last for 10 to 20 years before replacement is needed. Veneers cover the front, visible area of your smile, and can offer dramatic results similar to that of orthodontics, whitening and bonding combined! Patients should know that porcelain veneers are a permanent treatment; the amount of enamel removed during placement is significant enough that the tooth will require protection through veneers for a lifetime.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

Though dental crowns are used during restoration treatment for teeth, they can also provide aesthetic improvement for teeth that have faced deterioration through injury, trauma or decay. Crowns used in aesthetic dentistry are created with medical-grade ceramics, metals, zirconia, or from porcelain that has been fused to metal, and provide superior protection and natural-looking results. The crown serves as a cap that covers the visible area of the tooth, and can improve the color, size, and overall appearance of a tooth. The powerful dental bonding agents we use to secure dental crowns will keep your crown in place, so you can eat and drink normally. In addition, for teeth that are weakened from damage or decay, dental crowns will strengthen your smile and prevent additional infection or tooth decay from occurring in the future.

Schedule a Consultation with Drs. Stein or Weiss Today

At the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry in Skokie, IL, we are proud to offer not only restorative and preventive dentistry services, but aesthetic dentistry treatments as well. We believe your relationship with your smile and its appearance is important. When you’re ready to create the smile you’ve always wanted, schedule your consultation by calling (847)676-3500.

[i] https://www.forbes.com/sites/ericsavitz/2011/03/22/the-untapped-power-of-smiling/#ff18c507a67b

How can I close the gap between my teeth?

January 23, 2019

Did you know the technical term for “gapped teeth” is a diastema? Gaps between teeth can occur anywhere in the mouth, but are usually most noticeable when visible in your smile. If you have a gap in your smile, you’re not alone! Many famous celebrities have been recognized for their distinctive smiles and gapped teeth, such as model Lauren Hutton, singer Madonna and Elton John, and even former late-night show host David Letterman. Gapped teeth are quite normal, but for our patients who are looking to close the gap for a more even smile, we have cosmetic dentistry solutions for you.

Your Skokie, IL family cosmetic dentist, Dr. Abraham Stein or Dr. Zachary Weiss, can help you create the smile of your dreams at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Our safe yet dramatic treatments can visibly straighten and brighten your smile, hiding imperfections or irregularities: our Smile Gallery shows real results that past patients have achieved through a combination of treatments from Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss. When you’re ready to close the gap in your smile, or are looking for other ways to improve the look and feel of your teeth and gums, schedule a cosmetic consultation with our team at (847) 676-3500.

Determining if Cosmetic Dentistry is Right For You

The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry offers a group of services referred to as cosmetic dentistry. These are all procedures that help to improve the aesthetics and appearance of your smile.

It’s important to note that not all patients may qualify for cosmetic solutions right away. Our first priority is always the health of your teeth and gums, so before any cosmetic procedures are performed, a thorough examination ensures that your teeth are in good health and require no restorative care. If we do detect tooth decay, periodontal disease, or another health issue, that will be treated and completely resolved before moving forward with cosmetic services.

Two cosmetic treatments, dental bonding and porcelain veneers, can close the uneven spaces between your teeth and give you a more uniform, symmetrical smile. Learn more about each treatment below:

Dental Bonding

The resin-like material that dentists use to for composite fillings during a cavity treatment is the same material used for cosmetic bonding treatment. The pliable material, once hardened, closely resembles the texture and appearance of your natural tooth. It covers a multitude of imperfections, and can cover, fill, or even replace areas of tooth that have suffered discoloration or damage. Your family cosmetic dentist can reduce or completely eliminate the gap between teeth by applying dental composite material.

The good news, is that dental bonding is a reversible treatment, and preserves your teeth’s enamel: only a thin layer is removed to prep teeth for the procedure. Bonding is also a relatively affordable cosmetic treatment that is usually completed in just one hour. However, for patients looking for a long-term solution, dental bonding may not be the best option: treatment can last for about 5 to 10 years before needing replacement. In addition, the porous composite material is more susceptible to staining than porcelain or even your teeth’s natural enamel.

Porcelain Veneers

Crafted from very thin pieces of medical-grade ceramic, veneers act as a type of cover for your front teeth visible in your smile. These custom-made coverings can camouflage a host of cosmetic issues—such as uneven spacing— in otherwise healthy, functional teeth. Veneers are considered a permanent treatment, since a rather significant amount of enamel must be removed from teeth in order to place the thin veneer, therefore lifelong maintenance is necessary. In addition, the cost of veneers is much higher than dental bonding because of its custom fit for your mouth, and its long-lasting results: veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper dental hygiene and care.

Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

We know that a smile is so much more than healthy teeth—your smile says a lot about you, and can affect your confidence and self-esteem. We are proud to offer a range of treatments that help you put your best smile forward, close the gap between teeth, and fall in love with the look of your teeth and gums. If you are interested in dental bonding or porcelain veneers treatment, contact our practice today for more information!

Trends in Family Dentistry

January 22, 2019

If you are not in the dental profession, you may not know all the exciting trends in family dentistry. Read on to learn about some of the biggest changes in the dental world, some of which may surprise you. Live or work in the Skokie, IL area and looking for a family dentist? Contact Dr. Abraham Stein to schedule an initial appointment at our warm, welcoming office.

Dentists Are Helping Patients Tackle Dental Phobia

Did you know that fear of going to the dentist has a name? It is called dental phobia. Dentists from Chicago, IL to all areas of the world are helping patients with the condition. How? One of the many ways is with sedation dentistry treatment options. Sedation dentistry relies on the use of safe sedative medicines to relax patients. No more fear equals better healthcare!

Oral Cancer Screenings Are Leading to Early Diagnosis

Oral cancer takes far too many lives each year. Dentists and hygienists can often help patients find out if they have the warning signs of oral cancer. In fact, each six-month dental cleaning with Dr. Stein includes a routine oral cancer screening. The screening is fast and thorough, and can generally be completed in five minutes or less. If any lesions, bumps, or unusual spots are detected, the patient will be referred to his or her physician or oncologist.

Dentists Are Acting More Like Teachers

Why keep dental information and education to ourselves? Dentists and their teams are spreading the word about everything from gum disease to porcelain veneer placement. The more patients know about their oral health, the better they can take care of themselves at home between dental visits. From blogs to handouts to articles to websites, dentists are making sure they pass along key knowledge.

Patients Have Plenty of Straighter Smile Options

Many patients with crooked, gapped, or crowded teeth do not realize they may be able to get straighter smiles without braces. In some circumstances, dental bonding and porcelain veneers can be ideal treatment solutions. Always wanted straighter teeth? Talk to Dr. Stein about the many ways to either move your teeth into a more natural, straight position, or give the illusion of a straighter smile.

Patients Are Permanently Replacing Missing Teeth

Thanks to dental implants, patients with a missing tooth can consider a permanent replacement. Dental implants are the only fixed, stabilized solution to the problem of missing teeth. Most last at least 20 years with proper at-home and in-office care, making them as permanent a treatment as available. Plus, they look like natural teeth, enhancing smile appearance as well as function.

Dentists Are Actively Serving Their Communities

Dr. Stein and his colleague, Dr. Zachary Weiss, volunteer with several nonprofits. Not only is this important to them and the rest of our team, but it is a sign of advanced, caring dentists. Becoming more involved with mission-focused organizations helps dentists spread the benefits of good oral healthcare.

Patient Comfort Is a Number One Concern

Generations ago, patients had very few dentists they could go to in their areas. Now, patients have the opportunity to choose the best dentist in Skokie, IL they can. Dentists know this, which is why so many are very patient-centered. At our office, we have carefully designed an atmosphere where the patient comes first, no matter what.

Family Dentistry in Skokie, IL

Has it been a long time since you visited a family dentist? Whether you have dental insurance or not, please contact us at (847) 676-3500. We would welcome the chance to show you the exciting new techniques and equipment that illustrate how family dentistry has changed since your last check-up.

Answers to Your Dental Prosthodontics Questions

January 15, 2019

Have you considered dental prosthodontics as an avenue to restore your smile, boost your self-esteem, and improve your ability to confidently eat and speak? You probably have many questions to ask when you meet with Dr. Abraham Stein at his office in Skokie, IL. After you call to make your appointment, why not read through our answers to the most-asked prosthodontics questions?

Q: What is dental prosthodontics, anyway?

The easiest way to understand dental prosthodontics is to look at the roots that make up the word “prosthodontics.”

If “prostho-” reminds you of the word “prosthesis,” you are on the right track. A prosthesis is something attached, as in a prosthetic arm or leg. The second part of prosthodontics, “-dontics,” simply refers to the teeth. This means that dental prostheses are additions or attachments to the teeth. Therefore, prosthodontics is the field of dentistry dedicated to the fabrication and placement of artificial teeth.

Q: What are some examples of dental prosthodontics?

Dental prosthodontics is an umbrella term that encompasses several possible treatments. For instance, Dr. Stein regularly places dental implants, a safe, popular teeth replacement method. In fact, he has placed more than 1,500 implant-supported dentures during his career as a practicing prosthodontist.

Other treatments that fall under the category of dental prosthodontics include:

Dental crowns: Dental crowns cover damaged teeth. They provide stabilization, function, and aesthetic appeal.
Porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. They can last many years with proper care.
Dentures: All types of dentures, from full to dentures supported by dental implants, fall into the prosthodontics category. Today’s denture varieties can be truly beautiful and extremely lifelike. If you are missing a full arch and have uncomfortable dentures, discuss other denture types that might be more appropriate.
Dental Bridges: A dental bridge spans the smile gap created by one, two, or sometimes three missing teeth. At our office, Dr. Stein places traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges.

Q: Is a prosthodontist a dentist?

The short answer? All prosthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are prosthodontists. That’s because a dentist can only become a prosthodontist by undergoing additional education after graduating from dental school.

Dr. Stein is a great example. After receiving his dental degree, he completed specialized prosthodontic residency training. He has continued to stay on the leading edge of the field and has received honors from the American College of Prosthodontist Awards.

Q: How do I know what kind of dental treatment I need?

Without a thorough examination, you might not be sure if prosthodontic treatment right for you. Dr. Stein can help you understand which types of procedures make sense for your goals and unique case.

Q: Are dental prostheses available for patients of all ages?

Dental prostheses are most frequently considered by patients who have permanent adult teeth. However, some younger patients with tooth damage or severe decay may want to talk with Dr. Stein about certain treatments, such as dental crowns. If you aren’t sure if you’re a candidate for dental prosthodontics, Dr. Stein can help you decide.

Contact Us to Learn More

Our team would be pleased to talk with you further about the field of dental prosthodontics. Please call (847) 676-3500 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve your best smile!

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Q: What is dental prosthodontics, anyway?

Q: What are some examples of dental prosthodontics?

Q: Is a prosthodontist a dentist?

Q: How do I know what kind of dental treatment I need?

Q: Are dental prostheses available for patients of all ages?

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