Recovering from Your Tooth Implant Procedure

July 10, 2019

A couple of months ago, we discussed what patients should expect during dental implant placement. If you are considering tooth implants to replace missing teeth, it’s also important to prepare for recovery. In most cases, individuals can return to routine activities within one to two days. However, there are a few things patients can do to foster a comfortable, successful recovery. Today, The Stein Center dental team offers a few tips and tricks so you can get back to normal life as quickly as possible.

If you have questions about dental implant treatment, reach out to a member of our Skokie, IL team. Contact us online or call us at (847) 676-3500.

Immediately after Your Tooth Implant

When your implant surgery is complete, your doctor will likely place a small piece of gauze over the site. This helps to slow bleeding and promote the formation of a blood clot. The gauze should be left in place for about 30 minutes, then removed gently. More gauze packs will be provided in case they are needed.

In most cases, patients will be able to drive themselves to and from their appointment. However, many individuals prefer to bring a trusted friend or family member with them for emotional support.

The First Few Days

The first 48 hours are the most important following tooth implant surgery. We recommend getting lots of rest during this time to give your body time to heal. Patients should steer clear of heavy lifting or strenuous activity, as this can result in increased swelling, bleeding, and discomfort. Those with sedentary office jobs can usually return to work the next day. However, if your job is physically demanding, you will need to take a couple more days off to recover.

Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Due to the surgical nature of tooth implant placement, it is normal for patients to experience some temporary side effects. Here are a few of the most common symptoms, along with some tips for how to mitigate them:

Bleeding: If bleeding continues after leaving our office, change out the current gauze pack for another one, and close down with continual pressure for 15 minutes. If this does not help, moisten a tea bag and close down on it for a few minutes. Tea contains tannic acid, which shrinks capillaries and blood vessels, thereby slowing bleeding. If the problem still persists, call us right away for further instruction.
Swelling: Some degree of swelling is normal following dental implant placement. This side effect generally subsides after the first 48 to 72 hours. However, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can reduce swelling. Additionally, use of a cold compress can help. Simply apply the compress to the outside jaw for 20 minutes, then remove it for 20 minutes. Repeat this process several times during the first 24 hours for optimal results.
Bruising: Not everyone has bruising after implant placement. However, if discoloration occurs, it should diminish within the first several days. Though there is nothing that can totally eliminate the risk of bruising, some individuals feel that taking bromelain supplements a few days before the procedure can help limit the effects.

When can I restore my implant?

Even though initial healing typically only takes a couple of days, a few months of healing are usually required before the restoration can be added. During this time, the natural bone tissue fuses to the surface of the tooth implant. This process, known as osseointegration, is essential for long-term stability and success.

Keep in mind, however, that each patient is unique. Some individuals may be able to have their implant restored immediately, while others may need to wait several months. Our doctors can discuss your treatment timeline with you during a visit at The Stein Center.

Contact Our Skokie Dental Practice Today

Tooth implants are widely regarded as the most successful, dependable tooth replacement option available today. If you would like to learn more about this procedure – or if you have further questions about recovery – contact us today by calling (847) 676-3500.

Are Dentures Affordable?

July 5, 2019

Teeth play an important role in our oral health and emotional wellbeing. If you have suffered tooth loss due to an extraction, advanced decay, or trauma, Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry in Skokie, IL offers dentures. Whether you are interested in either partial or full dentures, we welcome you to set an appointment with Dr. Abraham Stein or Dr. Zachary Weiss.

Dentures are an affordable treatment option for lost teeth. If you are ready to restore multiple missing teeth, contact us to set up an appointment at (847) 676-3500.

How Affordable Are Dentures?

Dentures are a common and affordable oral prosthetic. By 2020, an estimated 38 American adults will need dentures, according to the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. The cost of your dentures will depend on whether you require partial or full dentures. Partial dentures are a great option if you still have several natural teeth remaining. Full dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth.

During your consultation with either Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss, your budget and cosmetic goals will be discussed. You should not be embarrassed to discuss cost or your available budget. Affordability is on the minds of many of our patients. Our dentists and staff will explain which types of materials and denture options will meet your budget.

Dentures are one of lower cost restorative treatments offered at Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. If you do not need tooth extractions, we can start the treatment by making a mold of your smile. Alternative treatments like dental implants require an initial surgery to place the implant post. This step adds cost to the overall procedure. Certain dental bridges require that two natural teeth are “prepped” so they can support the dental bridge. Since dentures require minimal preparation, the restorative option is one of the more affordable choices that address missing teeth.

Once you have been fitted with your new dentures, you can enjoy your new prosthetic for several years. The costs associated with maintaining your new dentures will be minimal. One of our dentists will recommend a quality bonding agent and any cleaning products that will be needed.

Financing and Insurance Options

Many dental insurance plans include restorative coverage. Your deductible and co-pays will still apply, but a percentage of your dentures may be covered after those fees are accounted for. Depending on your insurance plan, there may be a waiting period before the treatment can be covered. When you begin your denture consultation, one of our staff members will guide you through the insurance process. Our office staff will be glad to file your claim for you.

Our experienced staff can provide you with an explanation of your benefits and potential financial obligations up front so there are no surprises along the way. Please bring any insurance coverage information with you to your first appointment.

We also offer multiple financing plans so you can receive the treatments you need. If you’d like to learn more about converting your bill into affordable monthly payments, please give us a call at (847) 676-3500.

Find Custom-Fit Dentures in Skokie, IL

Whether you have suffered from partial or complete tooth loss, Dr. Abraham Stein or Dr. Zachary Weiss can deliver you a custom-fitted denture to restore your smile. Dentures are an affordable treatment for tooth loss. If you are ready to enjoy the many benefits of this genuine-looking replacement for missing teeth, call us today!

Skokie Family Dentistry

July 3, 2019

The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry is proud to offer services for your entire family. With flexible scheduling, we can fill in a child’s cavities while his mom is getting her teeth cleaned and dad is getting that crown replaced. Our top-of-the-line doctors are prepared to give high-quality, compassionate care to each patient regardless of age.

Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss have the experience and passion to not only offer exceptional treatment to adults, but to teach their younger patients the best ways to care for their teeth and gums as well. If you are interested in getting to know us more, check out our website or call us at (847) 676-3500 to set up an appointment today.

Services for the Entire Family

Dental care is imperative for every life stage. Our goal is to help prevent future problems as well as fix ones that already exist. That is why we are happy to provide patients of all ages with the latest and greatest preventative, restorative, and cosmetic services.

Preventative Services

Because the health of our patients, young or old, is our number one priority, our doctors teach them the best ways to care for their teeth to prevent damage down the road. Brushing and flossing daily are two things that can be done at home to help prevent cavities, enamel wear, and more. We also offer these services to help ward off dental issues:

Restorative Services

Restorative dentistry helps improve the appearance of your smile when things like decay, trauma, or injury cause damage. Unfortunately, that damage can rarely be undone. However, we can help restore your teeth and your confidence with these procedures:

Cosmetic Services

Teeth that are stained, chipped, or spaced aren’t necessarily unhealthy, but they can cause insecurity. Taking family pictures, going to social events, and even smiling at strangers can be dreadful when you don’t like your smile. The dazzling new smile cosmetic dentistry offers will boost your confidence in every situation. Contact us to see how these non-intrusive, low-risk procedures can help:

Affordability

Don’t let the fear of excessive cost keep you from taking care of your family. The truth is, you can’t afford not to go to the dentist. Dental care is about more than just a pretty smile; the health of your mouth impacts your overall health. At the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we accept most major dental insurances and will provide you with information regarding your benefits and expenses up front.

No insurance? No problem. We work with many families to create a monthly financing plan that doesn’t break the bank. We believe you should never have to choose between health and finances, especially when it comes to children. For more information about paying for your visit, give us a call at (847) 676-3500.

Set Up an Appointment Today

Our Skokie family practice provides everything your family needs when it comes to their dental health. The highly skilled, highly trained team at the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry can’t wait to meet you and your family! Give us a call at (847) 676-3500 to set up your new patient visit today.

Cosmetic Treatments for All Stages of Life

June 14, 2019

When choosing a dentist, why not combine the benefits of family and cosmetic dentistry? Many of our Skokie, IL patients have done just that. Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss offer multiple cosmetic solutions for patients at all stages of their lives. We understand the time-restraining demands of raising a family. That’s one reason why our office practices family dentistry.

Our staff takes pride in educating children on good oral hygiene habits, and we are happy to block out enough time for the entire family to visit. At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, our family-friendly facilities and flexible scheduling allow children can have their teeth examined or cleaned while mom undergoes teeth whitening nearby, for example. By combining treatments, you can save precious time by avoiding multiple visits to our office.

Let us help you craft your family’s beautiful smile. Call us at (847) 676-3500 to schedule your cosmetic consultation.

Cosmetic Treatments We Offer Your Family

As we age, so do our dental needs. The five cosmetic treatments we offer include:

Porcelain veneers
Teeth whitening
Porcelain dental crowns
Dental implants
Dental bonding

For Children

We generally do not think of children as needing to undergo cosmetic treatment. Accidents can leave a child’s smile visibly blemished, though, which can lead to embarrassment or low self-esteem for the adolescent. To treat chips, cracks, and discoloration, our office offers two treatments.

Dental bonding: This straightforward procedure uses the same material used for composite fillings. Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss can cover multiple imperfections in your child’s teeth, including chips, fracture lines, or uneven gaps between teeth. Dental bonding is an affordable alternative to porcelain veneers. Bonding can last up to 10 years.
Porcelain veneers: Veneers are wafer-thin pieces of ceramic that cover the visible part of your smile. Porcelain veneers can address the same cosmetic issues as dental bonding. Veneers last longer than dental bonding but come at a higher cost. In some instances, one of our doctors may recommend bonding over a veneer to cover up discoloration.

For Adults

Adults are also potential candidates for dental bonding and porcelain veneers. As we age, our enamel often loses luster, leaving once white teeth yellow. The displeasing results can leave adults embarrassed to smile. Professional teeth whitening treatments can deliver drastic results, unlike store-bought kits. Our at-home treatments can lighten your smile by eight shades!

For Older Adults

Whether you have missing teeth or have a tooth that has undergone a root canal, we have the right treatments options to restore your smile with natural-looking results.

For missing teeth, we offer dental implants. Once placed, the titanium roots integrate into your jawbone tissue, preventing future jawbone loss. Once your implant has healed, one of our doctors will place a porcelain dental crown on top. The natural-looking cap restores oral function and feels like a natural tooth. Dental crowns can also be placed on top of teeth that have been damaged.

Benefits of Cosmetic Treatments

Members of your family can enjoy these benefits after undergoing cosmetic treatments at our office:

Improved self-esteem
A more beautiful smile
Improved oral health
Better bite balance

We understand that every smile is different. Our customized solutions are designed to fit your family’s individual needs.

Enhance Your Family’s Smiles at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry

At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, our goal is to give you the smile of your dreams. If you’re ready to stop hiding your teeth and receive the smile you’ve always wanted, contact us today. Call us at (847) 676-3500 to schedule your cosmetic consultation with Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss.

Tips for Preparing for Dental Implant Surgery

June 7, 2019

Dental implants restore lost tooth roots, strengthen/preserve jawbone density, and restore bite balance. These are just a few of the reasons Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss often recommend dental implants as a restorative treatment for missing teeth. If you are scheduled to undergo dental implant placement, there are several easy steps that should be taken before you arrive at our dental clinic.

If you are looking for a respected dentist who can place dental implants in Skokie, IL or the greater Chicago area, schedule a consultation at the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Stein is widely regarded as an expert in his field of prosthodontics. Trust your smile to the tooth implant expert; call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Stein!

Read on to discover tips for a healthy recovery.

How to Prepare a Recovery Room and Other Tips

During the first two days of recovery, your gums will be tender. Swelling and mild discomfort are to be expected. To ensure that you are able to fully relax through this period, we recommend that patients prepare a recovery room.

The purpose of a recovery room is to have all of the amenities and supplies that you need ready so that you do not have to leave the house. Recovery rooms also offer peace of mind and aid in the recovery process. Most patients use their bedroom for this purpose, although you can use a friend or relative’s home as well.

The first step is to clean your bedroom so that it is free of clutter. After your surgery, you will not want to have to search for important supplies. In the days and weeks before surgery, make a list of supplies that you think you will need and write them down. Your recovery room should be fully stocked by the time you have your implants placed.

The days before surgery are a great opportunity to prepare meals for after surgery. Prepare soft foods like pasta, soups, and smoothies. You will want to avoid hard foods in the first few days after surgery. Juicing is another way to gain the benefits of a nutritious diet. You can add protein powder to make your smoothies or juice blends more filling. Be sure to avoid anything that is crunchy, acidic, or spicy.

Common supplies our patients use to stock their recovery rooms include:

Prescription meds (which can be picked up before surgery)
Gauze
Loose clothing
Reading material or other forms of entertainment to pass the time
Bottles of water
Dr. Stein’s contact information
Hand sanitizer

Tell a small number of friends and relatives that you are having dental implants placed. That way, they will be ready to help if you need something picked up. Dr. Stein will provide you with detailed recovery guidelines. Make sure to follow these instructions very closely. Throughout your recovery, a member of our staff will be available to take your calls.

Don’t book the week after surgery with plans and commitments. You’ll be glad that you saved time for yourself and your healthy recovery. Finally, remember to get a good night’s rest before surgery.

Contact The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry

Preparing a recovery room is one small step that can bring peace of mind following your dental implant placement. If you are considering dental implant placement, a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Abraham Stein can help you understand if you are a candidate for the procedure. Contact our Chicago, IL clinic now to schedule your appointment; we look forward to speaking with you!

Full Mouth Restoration: Improve Your Quality of Life

May 28, 2019

Some patients dwell on the financial cost or potential discomfort of undergoing multiple restorative treatments at our Skokie, IL dental office. While it is completely normal to sometimes fixate on these aspects of dental care, it is important to not lose sight of the real reason you are undergoing treatment at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry — to restore your quality of life.

If you are experiencing difficulty chewing and speaking due to severe dental problems and/or tooth loss, a full mouth restoration can restore oral function while helping you regain the confidence to smile again. Here are just a few of the quality of life issues you can resolve by undergoing full mouth reconstruction under the skilled hands of Dr. Abraham Stein.

Regain Clarity of Speech

The teeth, especially our anterior teeth (incisors) are critical for speech function. The teeth help control airflow while we speak. When the tongue strikes the back of our teeth or the roof of the mouth, that contact aids with diction. If you have lost teeth, you probably have noticed that certain consonants are harder to enunciate. Over time, your palate may partly adjust, but there is no replacement for teeth or artificial teeth like dental implants.

Our Skokie clinic offers three speech-improving treatment options that can be included in your customized full mouth restoration plan.

Dental implants
Dentures
Bridges

All three of these prosthetics replace missing teeth. By providing a surface for your tongue to rest against while speaking, you can regain clarity of speech. Dr. Stein will help you decide which restoration will work best for you. In general, dental implants replace individual missing teeth, dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth, and bridges replace multiple neighboring teeth.

Regain Oral Function

Decayed, chipped, or missing teeth can seriously impede chewing function. For some individuals, eating may become frustrating or even painful. Individuals who have missing or damaged teeth on one side of their mouth tend to rely on the healthier half of their mouth when chewing. This can cause premature wear on the remaining natural teeth.

Individuals who have a full set of molars in correct alignment generally have what is referred to as a good bite balance. An even bite balance applies pressure evenly across the molars, thereby allowing for efficient chewing. When individuals have poor bite balance, they are at higher risk for choking and jaw pain.

Dr. Stein can perform any of the following procedures to restore proper oral function as part of your full mouth restoration.

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings
Dental crowns
Inlays
Onlays

Depending on your oral needs, you may require one or more of these treatments. Filings, inlays, and onlays “fill in” the areas vacated by decay. Often, the areas of decay are on the top of the molars. By removing decay and reinforcing the strength of your tooth using composite fillings, inlays, or onlays, you can enjoy restored chewing function. Dental crowns may be needed if your tooth is severely damaged or severely decayed. A dental crown (which can be used in conjunction with a dental implant) provides a strong chewing surface.

Regain Your Youthful Smile

The third quality of life benefit is often considered the most powerful. Individuals who seek the restorative benefits of a full mouth restoration often have noticeable dental blemishes, such as discolored, chipped, or missing teeth. When mapping out your customized treatment plan. Dr. Stein will keep your cosmetic goals in mind. While your friends and family may not notice that you are able to chew and speak with ease, they will be sure to complement the appearance of your new and youthful smile.

Schedule Your Full Mouth Reconstruction Consultation Today

Meet with Dr. Stein to discuss all of your restorative needs. He is welcoming new patients. Call the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry today: 847-676-3500.

Need Dental Implants? Choose a Prosthodontist

May 25, 2019

“Prosthodontist” may sound like a mouth-full, but these dental specialists get their name because of their unique training and skills. (Fun fact: “Prostho” essentially means replacement, and “dentist” means teeth, so these are the replacement teeth experts.) Prosthodontists attend at least three years of advanced education after completing dental school to learn more about restorative dentistry treatments for the mouth and jaw. They are highly accomplished in areas of cosmetic dentistry, dental crowns, bridges, dentures, and yes – dental implants! Today, we’re discussing why choosing a “prosthodontist near me” for dental implant treatment can give you increased peace of mind that you or your loved one will be in capable, experienced hands. Read on to learn more!

Dental implants are the gold standard in restoring lost or missing teeth, and prosthodontists are the experts in dental implants. By choosing Dr. Abraham Stein at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, you can rest assured that your dental implant procedure will be completed with a superior level of skill and precision. Dr. Stein has performed thousands of implant procedures and can help you restore the full, functional smile you deserve. For more information on our services, or to speak with Dr. Stein one-on-one, schedule a consultation by calling us at 847-676-3500.

So, what are the benefits of receiving treatment from a prosthodontist?

Prosthodontists have advanced training and experience.

Prosthodontists are recognized dental specialists focused on restorative eprocedures. While your general, family dentist is your key resource for minor restorative procedures such as fillings, or preventive care, prosthodontists have completed an advanced education to give them increased skill and knowledge when it comes to restoring damaged or lost teeth. It’s similar to visiting a dermatologist for a skin issue: they have advanced training and experience seeing many patients with skin issues. Though your primary care doctor could offer their own recommendations, you can gain peace of mind that you’re receiving an experienced perspective by seeing a specialist.

Prosthodontists use innovative dental technology.

Prosthodontists, like Dr. Stein, often have additional dental technology and tools that general dentists may not. At the Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we have a non-invasive tool that takes the guesswork out of analyzing a dental implant. The Osstell IDx can perform a quick scan to tell if your implant is fully integrated into the jaw bone, or if more time is needed before a crown or bridge can be attached. We also use cone beam imaging which allows us to quickly and comfortably create a 3D image of a patient’s face, mouth, and jaw structure. This aids our team during an implant procedure, and helps the dental lab technicians create the perfect crown, bridge, or dentures that will fit your smile.

Prosthodontists perform dental implant procedures regularly.

In addition, patients who may have complex oral health issues (such as bone loss in the jaw or other similar conditions) can benefit from seeing a prosthodontist who has successfully completed treatments in patients with similar issues.

How can I find a prosthodontist near me?

If you are facing tooth loss, choose a prosthodontist to help you recover your full, functional smile. If you’re looking for a “prosthodontist near me,” consider The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry! Dr. Stein can explain more about his approach to dental implant treatment and can determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Contact us today!

What to Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure

May 15, 2019

A tooth implant can offer unparalleled restoration in the event of tooth loss. While the benefits of dental implants are great, many patients may face worry or anxiety about the actual placement procedure. Today, we’re talking about common tooth implant placement steps, including preparation for the procedure, as well as healing and recovery. Read on to learn more about how our dentists, Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss, approach implant treatment in Skokie, IL.

Continue reading “What to Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure” »

Dr. Stein is Skokie’s All-on-4® Expert

May 7, 2019

Modern prosthodontics offers more natural and stable smiles than ever before for patients who have suffered extensive tooth loss. Our Skokie, IL practice offers All-on-4®, a full teeth replacement technique that utilizes the stability of titanium dental implants. Depending on your lifestyle and smile goals, as well as your oral health, All-on-4® may be a more attractive option than traditional dentures that rest on top of the gums. Our team, including Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss, help Chicago-area patients regain confidence in their smile after tooth loss. We can help you, too!

If you’re looking for full-mouth tooth replacement treatment in Chicago, IL, it’s important to choose a prosthodontist who can create not just functional dentures, but ones that make you proud to smile. When it comes to All-on-4® treatment, there’s no better choice than Dr. Abraham Stein. Dr. Stein has completed over 1,500 All-On-4® immediate load implant cases during his career. His extensive experience places Dr. Stein in the top 1% of dentists in the country for the All-On-Four® treatment option. Choose the best when it comes to your smile: choose The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Contact our practice today to schedule your All-on-4® consultation today.

A Closer Look at All-on-4®

All-on-4® is a full tooth replacement treatment similar to full dentures; however, All-on-4® utilizes the support and strength of dental implants to anchor replacement teeth on both the top and bottom jaws. Just like full dentures, qualifying patients must have no remaining teeth (or a dentist or oral surgeon must remove any remaining teeth. Dr. Stein then places four titanium implants into both jaws to provide permanent support that prevents slipping like traditional dentures. Once implant placement is complete and the mouth has healed, our team designs and places custom prosthetic teeth to mimic a very natural-looking and fully-functional smile.

Candidacy

All-on-4® is a popular option for those who are looking for a stronger alternative to traditional dentures. However, we want to make sure that every patient receives a successful treatment. Determining the right patients for this procedure includes examining each prospective candidate’s:

Oral health history
Medical history
List of prescribed medications
History of tobacco use

Poor gum health can lead to implant failure, so treating and eliminating any present gum disease is crucial before treatment can begin. Systemic health conditions that could alter your mouth’s ability to heal, such as diabetes, should also be discussed with Dr. Stein. Additionally, any past or upcoming radiation therapy near the jaw could be a barrier to receiving implants.

Benefits of All-on-4®

When it comes to teeth replacement, All-on-4® treatment provides so many aesthetic and restorative benefits, including:

No more “slipping” dentures
Immediate teeth replacement for qualified candidates
Fewer dietary restrictions when compared to traditional dentures
Confidence and comfort when eating and drinking
Improved digestion thanks to stronger chewing abilities
No more denture palate over the roof of the mouth which could alter speech

Overall, All-on-4® functions a lot more like your natural teeth than traditional dentures.

Contact Us for All-on-4® Treatment in Skokie, IL

If you’re ready for a dependable and aesthetic alternative to dentures in the Skokie area, reach out to The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry! Dr. Stein’s experience means you will be in capable, experienced hands, giving you greater peace of mind during your treatment. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your consultation.

Porcelain Veneers for a Full Smile Makeover

May 1, 2019

You may think that porcelain veneers are a treatment reserved for celebrities, but so patients of Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss are choosing porcelain veneers to create the smile of their dreams. The art of porcelain veneer design has improved drastically so that veneers no longer look opaque and overly-white but extremely life-like: your smile, but elevated! Below, learn more about this cosmetic dentistry treatment from The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry.

When opting for veneer treatment, choosing a skilled cosmetic dentist is incredibly important. Veneers are an investment; don’t trust just anyone to design your new smile! For the highest level of precision and care in the greater Chicago area, choose Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss. Our Skokie, IL practice is proud to serve patients from around the area and can give you peace of mind that you’ll love your new smile. Call us at (847) 676-3500.

Are veneers right for me?

Veneers are essentially a cover over your natural teeth. Made from medical-grade ceramic, veneers conceal a number of cosmetic flaws such as:

Chips in the enamel
Visible fracture lines
Gaps or uneven spacing
Crooked or crowded teeth
Deep discoloration
Misshapen and under-sized teeth

What can I expect?

Once you discuss treatment options with Dr. Weiss or Dr. Stein and determine that veneers are the best fit for you, our team will perform a thorough examination, looking for any signs of decay or gum disease. This is because teeth and gums must first be healthy before veneers can be placed. (This ensures that not only is your oral health taken care of, but that the effects of your new smile last as long as possible.)

Then, impressions and images will be taken of your smile to help our dental lab professionals create veneers that fit your mouth. A custom-shade analysis by your dentist allows you to control the color of your new smile. After a couple weeks, your new custom-made veneers should be ready to place.

Dr. Weiss or Dr. Stein will first prep each tooth to create a receptive surface for the permanent dental bonding agent. Each veneer is applied with the bonding and cured with a special dental light that instantly creates an extremely strong bond between the veneers and enamel.

Before beginning treatment, patients should understand that traditional porcelain veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic solution. The amount of enamel removed during the placement process is significant, and teeth are considered too vulnerable afterwards to not be protected by the veneer layer. (Because, unfortunately, once enamel is removed it cannot be replaced.) However, today, many minimal-prep and no-prep veneers require just a few millimeters of enamel removal: thinner than a fingernail! Some of these treatments are reversible, and are a great option for patients desiring to cover minimal cosmetic flaws.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers are not a forever treatment, but they do last a long time. Most patients discover that veneers hold up through day-to-day chewing, speaking and biting for up to 15 or 20 years. Routine dental cleanings and appointments, along with diligent at-home brushing, can help extend the lifetime of your treatment.

Where can I receive high-quality cosmetic dentistry care in Skokie, IL?

Pictures are worth a thousand words. To see case studies of some of our smile makeover patients, visit our Smile Gallery. Then, call The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry to schedule your cosmetic consultation. We can help you create a more beautiful smile through professional whitening, dental bonding, or porcelain veneers.

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