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Don’t Try This at Home | Chicago Dentist

During this pandemic, many of us have tried new DIY options of living life. Some have learned to bake bread, others various Tiktok dances with their children. But whatever you tried to do during this pandemic, it was something homemade and hit-or-miss.

A popular trend that has slipped its way into our culture is DIY dentistry, but it has progressed further than tying a loose tooth to a door with string. No, now patients are forgoing their dentist and trying to straighten their teeth. The patient takes their own molds or goes to a local facility to have scans taken by non-dental personnel, who then produce clear aligners for their teeth.

Although it may seem like going to the dentist or orthodontist is a thing of the past, take a minute to really think about what is actually going on – it may not be what you think…

Because you do not consult a dentist or orthodontist, you may actually cause more damage because you are unaware of how teeth move. Moving teeth is a slow process and should never be rushed. If moved too quickly, your teeth’s roots may not be able to support biting pressure, in addition to loosened teeth, joint problems and headaches. And though your teeth straighten, if pushed outside of the bone, the result can be extensive gum recession and eventual tooth loss.

It may seem too good to be true, and that’s because it is. Your smile is important and should be taken seriously. Seek competent help and guidance from a well-trained dentist or orthodontist. It may seem like a shortcut but may end up being more costly than the immediate benefits.

If you would like more information about cold weather health tips, call Dr. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Peter O. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Staying Healthy in this Cold Weather | Chicago Dentist

During the winter months, it is easy to catch a cold if we aren’t careful. I know – it sounds crazy to think about the common cold after everything we’ve just gone through. But just the same, we need to prepare for flu season, especially for a family with little ones that love to share everything, even germs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children can catch a cold as soon as 6 months old. This is why it is important to take extra precautions during this time of year to keep the entire family happy and healthy. So, as continue to bundle up and wear our masks, continue to keep these health tips in mind. After all, taking proactive measures is the key to prevention.

Eat and stay hydrated. Feed a cold, starve a fever is a general rule we all seem to follow, but saliva is one of our best defenses against bacteria. Staying hydrated will cause saliva production to rinse our mouths of these bad bacteria. Eating lots of crunchy foods like apples and carrots also keep our mouths bacteria-free because it produces saliva, and saliva is our mouth’s version of mouthwash.

No medications before bed. Lots of cold medicines and cough syrups are very sugary and thick in order to coat and soothe our throats. Avoid taking these remedies before bed as the sugar and acids will remain in your mouth, making homes in our teeth’s crevices and causing cavities and other dental issues as we sleep. Instead, opt for a pill form of medication during these times so there is no sugary residue left in your mouth to wreak havoc.

If you would like more information about cold weather health tips, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Do You Grind Your Teeth While You Sleep? | Chicago Dentist

Have you noticed that your jaw is sore when you wake up? Does your significant other notice that you are grinding your teeth? It is estimated that 30-40 million Americans are affected by what is known as bruxism. Clenching causes pressure on the muscles, tissues, and other surrounding structures of the jaw, which can cause jaw joint disorders, headaches, neck pain, jaw pain, ear pain, tense muscles, and excessive wear on the teeth. The cause of bruxism is not completely known, but many agree that stress and anxiety play a major role. Bruxism can cause damage to the temporomandibular joint (the hinge that connects the lower jaw to the upper jaw) if not properly treated. 

So, what is the treatment? Stress reduction and anxiety management are methods used to treat bruxism and reduce the symptoms, but a dental night guard is the most commonly used treatment method. A night guard is a horseshoe-shaped, retainer-like, plastic appliance with shallow borders that can be worn on either the top or the bottom teeth. It is intended to protect the teeth from the pressure of clenching and grinding by having a protective cushion between the upper and lower teeth. A nightguard is a simple and affordable decision for protecting your teeth and jaws from the damaging effects of bruxism. When properly made by your dentist, it can help reduce clenching, grinding, and TMJ problems by helping to relax the muscles in the jaw.

If you would like more information about bruxism, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Tis the Season for Festive Sweets | Chicago Dentist

When it comes to indulging in holiday treats, what is your favorite go-to? Are you a chocoholic? Is it a stick of gum or a chewy gumdrop? Do you prefer a candy cane instead? Since sweet confections are in abundance during the holidays, let’s take a look at which candy is best:

Chocolate. There is hope for all chocolate fans out there – chocolate is actually a great option if you are looking for a bit of sweet. Not only does it have health benefits included in its design, but chocolate is easy to clean off your teeth, making it more difficult for cavity-causing bacteria to thrive.

Caramel. If sticky candy is your favorite, you should be aware that your mouth may not share the same sentiment. Not only does the sticky texture that make up your favorite caramels stick to your teeth’s surface and deep into your teeth’s grooves, but if you have dental work done, it could damage them.

Hard candy. Who doesn’t love a candy cane? If you have a habit of biting these colorful candies, they can wreak havoc on your teeth and any dental work you may have. But if you tend to suck on them, you allow for the sugars to linger around in your mouth, giving those cavity creeps plenty of time to find the perfect hiding spot in your mouth.

Candy is a fun way to enjoy a bit of sugar when you crave a sugar fix but may not be the best option for your dental health. Enjoy them in moderation and make sure to brush or rinse afterwards.

If you would like more information about holiday sweets, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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What You Need to Know About Diabetes and Your Smile | Chicago Dentist

Let’s face it – diabetes is a disease that runs rampant through our great country. So much so, over 29 million Americans suffer from diabetes – and that’s just counting those that have been diagnosed. Who knows the extent of those who haven’t been? But did you know that diabetes is directly affected by our oral health, and vice versa? It’s true. Diabetes is a disease focused on sugar levels, and sugar is terrible for our oral health. Our mouths are the main line of defense to many of our illnesses, so if it becomes compromised, our overall health is affected.

November is National Diabetes Month, so to celebrate, let’s take a look at just how closely diabetes and our oral health is linked. One symptom of diabetes is being excessively thirsty. If you are thirsty, you are not producing saliva, the main defense against bacteria. These bacteria are left to create cavities and other dental issues like gum disease. Bleeding and inflamed gums are common symptoms of gum disease and because diabetes make it harder for wounds to heal, you are more susceptible to more issues if left untreated.

Thankfully, your periodontist will be able to help with this cyclical predicament, but it starts with an appointment. By treating gum disease, you are going to help keep your blood sugar levels in check much easier, as gum disease increases these levels but is rarely taken into account. Proper dental hygiene (including dentures), changing bad habits like smoking and poor diet, and in-office deep cleanings will keep your smiles healthy and diabetes in check.

If you would like more information about diabetes and your dental health, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Halloween and Your Braces | Chicago Dentist

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and coincidentally, Halloween. (I know…How did that happen?) So, in honor of these two fantastic occasions, let’s do a quick run-down of what to expect from this scary holiday if you do decide to not look after your braces, because the consequences will be more frightening than the holiday itself. When we get our braces put on, we are warned that there are certain foods we will have to forgo while our braces are fixing our smile. Popcorn, nuts, gum and all hard, sticky or chewy candies are pure evil on your mouth’s delicate appliances.

Hard candy, like lollypops or Jolly Rancher, are a favorite because they last a while if we suck on them. Having the sugar linger around in your mouth as the candy dissolves makes it easier for cavities to form. And if you chomp on them, you can run the risk of breaking off one of your brackets or chipping an actual tooth. Chewy candies, like a gummy bear or a jellybean, have similar results but have a tendency to get stuck in the crevices of your molars, making a perfect hideout for cavities. Sticky candy, like caramels or chewing gum, are some of the worst treats of all. Not only can they pull off a bracket from your tooth, but they can burrow within your molars as well, making them basically a sweet combination of the two others. There are also candies on the market that are sour than they are sweet and are an absolute favorite with all kids today. The sourness is actually acidic and can break down your tooth’s enamel, making them more prone to decay, so try to limit these candies the most. Have a happy Halloween!

If you would like more information about caring for your braces, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Protecting Our Patients in Our Office | Chicago Dentist

We have enhanced our already strict infection control protocols. The most obvious will be limiting the number of people in the office by intentionally spacing appointments to minimize patient-to-patient contact. Team members will have enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical grade air purifiers have been placed throughout the office.

Please be advised that for the next few weeks, we will need to prioritize patients with the greatest needs. We will do our best to accommodate everyone, but many appointments will need to be rearranged in order to resume operations safely.

For everyone’s safety, we have instituted the following protocol:

Pre-screening. At this time, patients who have been diagnosed, been around anyone that has been diagnosed, been out of the country in the past six weeks or are experiencing respiratory illness, fever, body aches, loss of smell or taste will not be able to be seen until cleared.

Upon arrival. Appointments should be attended alone. If you need a driver, please have them wait in the parking garage to minimize people in our offices. The following will be required prior to being seen:

  • Your temperature will be taken
  • Use of hand sanitizer
  • Your written consent

All doctors and staff will be wearing enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE). All surfaces will be disinfected on an increased frequency with medical grade disinfectants after each appointment. For all patients undergoing surgical procedures or other procedures where anesthetic is required, we are now assessing a fee of $35 per visit charge. All other visits required a $15 per visit charge.

Upon exiting. You will again use hand sanitizer and replace your personal facial covering. Payment arrangements will have been made beforehand. Receipts and next appointment information will be forwarded to you.

If you would like more information about COVID precautions, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Pulling a Fast One on Your Dentist | Chicago Dentist

While cavities and plaque build-up may be what’s on your mind before a teeth cleaning, your dentist is looking for a whole lot more. Often, diseases like cancer, anemia and diabetes will first be identified by the dentist in a regular examination, and this can save lives. Take a look at things they can see:

You don’t floss regularly. Sorry, but you can’t fool your dentist into thinking you floss daily by doing so the night before or morning of your visit.

You’re pregnant. Nearly 40% of women will develop gingivitis during their pregnancy. This is caused by increased progesterone, which facilitates the growth of bacteria, causing gingivitis.

Thumb sucking. Most children who sucked their thumbs past the age of seven or eight may show significant changes to their bite or the position of their teeth.

You have bad breath. General bad breath is categorized as halitosis. But fruity breath could indicate uncontrolled diabetes or a dietary fast that has gone too far, while fishy breath could be a sign of kidney or liver failure.

Eating disorders. Many patients are surprised that their dentist is the first one to ask about eating disorders. Bulimia exhibits a very distinct pattern of tooth wear that your dentist can easily identify.

Oral cancer. The first signs of oral cancer can be seen from the following: unexplained bleeding in the mouth, white, red, or speckled patches in the mouth, a change in the way your teeth fit together, swellings, thickenings, lumps or bumps or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth.

You love soda and energy drinks. That teeth can be softened by sodas, energy drinks and other sugary beverages over time, which may make a tooth enamel more susceptible to chipping.

If you would like more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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Reasons You May Have Gum Disease | Chicago Dentist

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is typically painless, you may not even know you have it. But what causes gum disease? Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease, including:

  • Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop.
  • Various illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or HIV, because they interfere with the immune system. Diabetes’ effects on the body’s ability to use blood sugar makes patients with this disease at a higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease and cavities.
  • Medications can affect oral health, because some lessen the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums.
  • Bad habits such as smoking make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
  • Poor oral hygiene habits such as not brushing and flossing on a daily basis, make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
  • Family history of dental disease can be a contributing factor for the development of gingivitis.

Gum disease may progress without producing obvious signs, even in the late stages of the disease. Although the symptoms of periodontal disease can often be subtle, it can present some warning signs. But even if you don’t notice any symptoms, you may still have some degree of gum disease. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Only a dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the progression of gum disease.

If you would like more information about gum disease, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

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What Are Gums Anyway? | Chicago Dentist

We all know our smile is basically composed of lips, teeth and gums. A set of bright white teeth and a pouty lip, and you’ve got yourself a great smile. But what are our gums? Today we will discuss the basics of what our gums do and how we can keep them nice and healthy our entire lives.

Gum tissue serves two main purposes: it provides a seal around teeth, keeping bacteria away from the tooth root, and it provides physical support for the tooth, helping keep the tooth firmly in its socket. One of the most significant risks of periodontal disease is loss of gum tissue – as bacteria from plaque and tartar spreads beneath the gums, it damages bone and gum tissue, leading to a number of problems.

Dentists and periodontists will advise patients to have professional cleanings to help minimize the likelihood of developing periodontal disease. If they determine that periodontal disease is becoming a problem, they’ll likely advise corrective action such as scaling and root planning, where plaque and tartar is physically removed from the roots of the teeth beneath the gum-line, removing the damaging bacteria and giving the gums an opportunity to heal. In some cases, however, the gum tissue will recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. In these cases, periodontists will recommend a procedure to replace gum tissue over the tooth root (such as gum grafting) to help restore the barrier around the tooth root and protecting the tooth’s long-term health.

If you’re experiencing bleeding, sore, inflamed gums, be sure to speak to a dentist or periodontist soon, so that you can minimize the risk of damage to gum tissue.

If you would like more information about gum recession, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.