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!

5 Reasons Aesthetic Dentistry Is So Popular

January 7, 2019

There is little doubt that aesthetic dentistry treatments are on the upswing. In fact, many current and new patients of Drs. Abraham Stein and Zachary Weiss contact the office at (847) 676-3500 to specifically discuss cosmetically improving their smiles. Why? Although everyone’s case is unique, check out five of the top reasons that aesthetic dentistry has risen in popularity among individuals of all ages.

Boost in Social Media and Online Sharing

From seniors in high school to senior citizens, Americans love their social sharing. It is common to see individuals taking selfies or images with their friends wherever they go. Not only are they snapping pictures for their own benefits, but they are posting them immediately online, sending them via text, or uploading them through apps.

This type of constant social sharing has led men, women, and teens to think more about the way their teeth look when they smile. Plus, job seekers with professional social media accounts often want to ensure that their images look as attractive as possible. This leads many patients to their local dentist in Skokie, IL to talk about aesthetic dentistry treatments including teeth whitening and porcelain veneers.

Wide Range of Available Treatments

Cosmetic dentistry options run the gamut from single-visit procedures to long-term treatments that require extensive planning, as in the case of smile makeovers. Many patients are surprised by the expansive selection of aesthetic possibilities they can consider. Although not every individual will be a candidate for every procedure, most patients can work with a cosmetic dentist to find an appropriate treatment for their smile goals.

Myriad Professional Development Opportunities

Career-minded professionals seeking new job opportunities routinely ask their dentists about cosmetic treatments. Why? They know that having a more perfect, gleaming smile will boost their confidence. What could be better than a dash of improved self-esteem before a high-powered, important interview? It could mean the difference between hearing “You’re hired!” or “We’ll consider you for future roles.”

Even professionals who are satisfied with their current jobs may choose cosmetic dentistry as a way to feel better in general. This may be the first time in their lives that they can afford to take care of their teeth and gums the way they want.

Desired Confidence Infusion

Having higher confidence is linked to everything from being able to make better life choices to just walking taller in general. Simply undergoing a routine dental bonding procedure to fix a discolored or slightly imperfect tooth can have a major impact on a patient’s attitude. This type of confidence infusion can have wide-ranging positive effects, especially if an individual has lived for many years embarrassed about their smile.

Longer Life Expectancy

Thanks to significantly improved health and nutrition, men and women are enjoying an unprecedented life expectancy. Not surprisingly, many patients are treating themselves to cosmetic dentistry options when they are well into their 70s, 80s, and even beyond. No one is too old to discuss smile enhancement choices with their local dentist.

Affordable Aesthetic Dentistry in Skokie, IL

If you have considered aesthetic dentistry treatments in the past but were not sure how to get started, please contact Drs. Stein and Weiss. Appointments are available by calling (847) 676-3500. Our team is excited to welcome you to our practice and offer personalized care for your revitalized smile!

Teeth Whitening: Cosmetic Dentistry at Its Brightest

January 1, 2019

When you think of cosmetic dentistry treatments, you may immediately think of porcelain veneers and dental bonding. However, professional teeth whitening is perhaps one of the fastest growing, most requested types of cosmetic dentistry services requested by Skokie, IL patients. Find out if teeth whitening is suitable for your needs by contacting Drs. Abraham Stein and Zachary Weiss by calling our practice at (847) 676-3500.

Why Teeth Whitening?

What makes teeth whitening from a dentist such an attractive choice for patients who have fallen out of love with their smiles? Consider these following advantages:

Immediacy: Teeth whitening products that you receive from a dentist are much stronger and safer than the ones you can find at your local store. This means they offer faster results, which is perfect if you want a dazzling smile for an upcoming event.
Consistency: A big complaint about over-the-counter teeth whitening products is that they may provide highly inconsistent results. One tooth could be noticeably whiter than others, or all the teeth could wind up being different shades.
Safety: Most patients do not tell their dentists when they try over-the-counter teeth whitening solutions and products. They take a chance whenever they use a product because they do not have a dentist’s approval on their side. Worse yet, plenty of individuals try do-it-yourself teeth whitening “tricks” which can cause long-term problems. Dentists only use the safest teeth whitening treatments because they know the whiteners will not harm patients’ teeth.
Cost: Although over-the-counter teeth whitening boxes and strips cost less to purchase, their performance is typically subpar. Patients often try box after box before finally coming to their dentist for reliable, predictable results. In other words, they spend much more when they could have saved by coming to the dentist first.

Physical and Psychological Advantages to Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

Can having a whiter smile actually have practical, concrete advantages for a patient? Many patients who get teeth whitening through their dentists report numerous benefits, such as:

They feel more confident in social situations.
They worry less about the way they look in pictures.
They take better care of their teeth to maintain their new, bright smile.
They feel more attractive overall, especially during special events or at celebratory occasions.
They begin to consider other ways to improve their smiles, such as with restorative dental implants or dental crowns.

Candidacy for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is an ideal treatment solution for many patients, but it may not be the right choice for all candidates who have stained or discolored teeth. For instance, individuals whose teeth are stained brown or gray due to long-term use of antibiotics will not respond to teeth whitening. The same is true for patients whose teeth have “gone dark” after suffering a trauma. In those cases, a different cosmetic dentistry treatment such as placement of porcelain veneers may produce desired results.

However, patients whose teeth have yellowed because of normal aging and food or smoking stains may be prime candidates for teeth whitening. In all cases, underlying untreated conditions such as gum disease and tooth decay should be addressed before undergoing teeth whitening treatments.

Teeth Whitening and Cosmetic Dentistry in Skokie, IL

Interested in finding out if teeth whitening is the best cosmetic dentistry treatment for your oral health goals? Contact us at (847) 676-3500 to arrange for a visit with Drs. Stein and Weiss.

Is Full Mouth Restoration Right for You?

December 19, 2018

They say that a smile is a person’s best accessory, and we here at the Stein Center believe that to be 100 percent true. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a cavity-free, damage-free, and pain-free set of pearly whites. For some, a full mouth restoration is exactly what the dentist ordered. That’s where we come in.

What is Full Mouth Restoration?

A full mouth restoration involves a unique blend of dental treatments intended to recreate, restore, and improve your overall oral health and appearance of your smile. Thanks to the countless advances that have taken place in the dental arts over the years, we have a wide variety of procedures available to tackle each patient’s unique dental needs and treat any and all teeth-related imperfections.

So, who’s the best candidate for this type of treatment? If you suffer from any kind dental damage, no matter the severity, you may be an ideal candidate. Full mouth restoration may be necessary if your smile is affected by any or all of the following:

Tooth decay– Mild to severe tooth decay occurs when both the internal and external structure of the tooth is damaged. If left untreated, a cavity, or hole in the tooth, can form. Typically, we use tooth-colored fillings or dental crowns to reduce the appearance of the cavity.
Tooth discoloration– Tooth discoloration can be attributed to a variety of factors, from inadequate brushing and flossing to stain-producing foods and drinks, these things can leave your smile looking dull and yellowed. Oftentimes, patients with dental discoloration choose to use dental crowns, veneers, or profession teeth whitening treatments to mask the stains.
Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth– Large cavities, teeth grinding, biting hard foods, and trauma can all cause a tooth to break. Minor chips can be treated with veneers, while teeth with larger fractures may require more complex treatments like dental crowns.
Missing teeth– Gum disease, tooth decay, injury, and genetics are common causes of tooth loss. A mouth full of missing teeth can result in difficulty eating and speaking, ultimately impacting your quality of life. Luckily, we offer a multitude of treatment options, including dental implants, for restoring one or more missing teeth.

What Does Full Mouth Restoration Entail?

Based on your own distinct dental needs, our team of highly trained professionals will recommend certain processes as part of your full mouth restoration process. These procedures include the following:

Bridges– Involves cementing or “fixing” dental restoration in the mouth
Crowns– Cap that is placed over a tooth
Dental implants– Artificial teeth implanted with metal posts
Composite fillings– Natural tooth-colored fillings
Dentures or partials– Prosthetic replacements for missing teeth
Inlays/Onlays– Fillings designed to bond to a tooth
Veneers– Thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth

Let Us Give You a Reason to Smile

Life is too short to be overcome with self-consciousness every time you smile. You owe it to yourself to do whatever’s necessary to get the smileyou know you deserve. If you’re ready to stop living with the daily trials and tribulations of poor dental health and low self-confidence, it’s time to invest in yourself and undergo full mouth reconstruction. Let us here at Stein Centerin Skokie, IL help you restore the look of your teeth and improve your oral health. Contactour office anytime to schedule your next dental appointment.

Your Questions Answered about All-On-Four Dental Implants

December 13, 2018

If you’re someone who hates smiling for pictures because you’re embarrassed about your teeth, All-On-Four® dental implants may be an option. These innovative implants provide a solution for people who have experienced issues with dentures or bridges. Our doctors at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry can discuss the possibility of All-On-Four dental implants, as well as other types of restorative dental work.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small threaded posts, which are surgically implanted into the jawbone below the gum line. Replacement teeth are then mounted onto them. Dental implants can be restored by crowns and bridges. Additionally, they can help stabilize dentures and keep them from slipping, a common complaint for those who wear these types of prostheses. According to Colgate, “For some people, ordinary bridges and dentures are simply not comfortable or even possible, due to sore spots, poor ridges or gagging.”[1]

Patients who choose implant-supported restorations can also forgo preparing or grinding down adjacent teeth – a step that is necessary to support traditional restorations, such as dental bridges. As one of the most versatile treatments in dentistry, implants can achieve single, multiple, or full-mouth teeth replacement.

What are All-On-Four dental implants?

With All-On-Four implants, the doctor can attach an entire row of upper or lower teeth using only four precisely placed implants. They are also referred to as full-arch fixed implant bridges.

To perform this treatment, your doctor will place two implants vertically near the front of the jaw and two angled implants near the back of the jaw. This balances forces evenly across the bite for optimal stability. Once in place, a fixed full-arch bridge is attached to the implant posts, providing patients with a beautiful, functional, natural-looking smile.

How are All-On-Four dental implants different?

Individuals seeking standard dental implants require sufficient bone density to support the posts. With All-On-Four, patients who were once ineligible for implants can now qualify for this type of treatment. Additionally, All-On-Four dental implants do not typically require bone grafting. All you need is four implants to hold the bridge in place.

One of the biggest advantages of All-On-Four is that you can often have a fixed prosthesis placed on the same day. In contrast, standard dental implants usually require several months of healing before the final restoration can be attached.

What are the benefits of All-On-Four dental implants?

Along with helping to stop dentures from slipping, there are other benefits from choosing All-On-Four dental implants:

Eliminate the need for bone grafting, which is invasive, uncomfortable and expensive
Help with speech issues caused by dentures
Help those who have a hard time adapting to bridge thickness
Increased proprioception – The ability of an implant to sense the force of a bite (much like natural teeth)

Who should consider All-On-Four dental implants?

We often recommend All-On-Four dental implants for patients who need to replace all or the majority of their teeth. It may also be a good option if you have low bone volume or are unable to have a bone graft due to another health condition like diabetes or osteoporosis. If you have previously been told you do not qualify for dental implants due to bone loss, ask your dentist about the All-On-Four technique. It could be a solution for you.

All-On-Four dental implants could be your solution to a smile you will be proud to show off. Contact our Skokie, IL office to schedule an appointment for restorative dental services today.

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