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All Is Not Lost for Lost Teeth | Chicago Dentist

Because our smile is the first thing a stranger sees upon meeting us, it is a real bummer when we have a tooth that has become rotted, broken or lost. It becomes an issue, not only socially, but it can also cause issues speaking and other daily activities. To be fair, it doesn’t matter how you lost your teeth, the important issue is getting it fixed as soon as possible in order to deflect any further dental issues, like an increased risk for gum disease, malocclusions, jaw pain, etc. But how does a flawed tooth get repaired? There are actually quite a few options, depending on your individual set of circumstances. Here’s a quick review:

Dental implants. Because they’re surgically implanted, dental implants offer a long-term and durable solution to those who have a few missing teeth. The typical process of getting an implant involves three stages that take place over several weeks and even months. The implant is surgically buried, the implant is checked for proper integration and the dentist installs the prosthetic tooth with new teeth.

Bridges. Dental bridges are, basically, dental appliances used to bridge the gap left by missing teeth by relying on the adjacent teeth for support. The effect on the adjacent teeth is something worth taking note of if you plan to get a dental bridge to replace your missing teeth.

Dentures. For those who are missing more than a couple of teeth, dentures may be your only hope. Dentures are removable appliances with artificial teeth and come in as partial dentures and full dentures.

If you would like more information about options for missing teeth, 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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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.