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Saturday, July 9, 2011 1:12:46 AM

Many patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth and gums consult with a cosmetic dentist in Naperville for aesthetic improvements. Fortunately, these patients can take a number of steps in order to get the sparkling smile that they long for.

In some cases, the fixes are relatively minor. A cosmetic dentist may only need to give the patient a whitening treatment to have a dramatic effect. Whitening treatments, which involve applying a bleaching gel to the teeth, can change the teeth’s coloring by as many as 10 shades in some patients. If the rest of the patient’s smile is structurally sound and well-aligned, the whitening may be the sole treatment necessary to achieve aesthetic goals.

Other patients need a cosmetic dentist to perform major work to attain their ideal smiles. They may have crooked or missing teeth, a misaligned bite, or an unsightly gum line, and a cosmetic dentist can perform a variety of procedures to help these patients, as well.

A dentist can correct significant flaws through veneers, which are thin layers of porcelain that sit atop the natural teeth. Veneers can address a number of issues, as they can cover up chips or cracks in teeth. They can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth or straighten out a stretch of slightly misaligned teeth. Dental crowns can also be useful in covering up misshapen or broken teeth.

Missing teeth are also detrimental to the smile’s appearance. Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular method for replacing missing teeth. The tiny screw-like structures are inserted into the jaw and then topped with an artificial tooth-shaped cap.

In cases of severe problems that require surgery or additional specialty care, a cosmetic dentist may also collaborate with other experts in those particular fields. For example, if your teeth are so crooked that veneers alone will be insufficient, your cosmetic dentist may refer you to an orthodontist and then follow up with you for additional treatments that can give your new smile an extra boost.

The procedures listed above are just some examples of the techniques used in cosmetic dentistry. If you have a specific problem you’d like to address, call the office of Dr. Kevin P. Ryan at 630-355-1940 and schedule a consultation to begin developing a plan that will lead you to your ideal smile!

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 7/8/2011 6:12:46 PM



Tuesday, June 28, 2011 10:42:50 PM

dental implants NapervillePatients who need to replace a single tooth have two main choices: a dental implant or a bridge. The two methods may differ significantly in terms of aesthetics, function and outcomes, so it’s important to understand how each process works.

Dental implants present an excellent option for a single tooth’s replacement. The implant is a small screw made of titanium, which is highly compatible with the biology of the human body and bonds readily with the jaw bone. That latter characteristic is very important, as the implant’s ability to bond, or osseointegrate, is essential to its success. The implant is topped with a small post, on which the implant dentist places the artificial tooth cap.

Dental implants offer a number of advantages in comparison to other tooth replacement alternatives. Implants help to preserve surrounding teeth in the long run, because they hold the underlying bone in place. Implants act as an anchor that takes on the function of a tooth’s root, preventing additional bone disintegration that can put other nearby teeth at risk. Implants also fit in well with the natural smile, which benefits both form and function. It’s difficult to pick an implant out of a smile, and with an implant, patients can continue to enjoy all of their favorite foods. Patients also can brush and floss normally around an implant, helping to keep the mouth clean.

A dental bridge is another option for patients who need to replace a missing tooth. In a bridge, an artificial tooth is affixed in the gap by porcelain crowns on the adjoining teeth. Because those teeth must be shaved down to accommodate the crowns, this method requires the sacrifice of healthy tooth material. It also can be challenging to brush and floss effectively enough to keep the gumline clean in the area surrounding a bridge. Lastly, the bridge offers no structure to stabilize the jaw bone in the same way that an implant does.

If you need to replace a single missing tooth, explore dental implants in Naperville as a solution. Implants are the best choice, and they’re appropriate in almost all cases.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 6/28/2011 3:42:50 PM



Wednesday, June 15, 2011 10:36:15 PM

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular for Aurora patients in need of a tooth replacement. They’re durable, long-lasting, and natural in appearance. Implants also do a good job of replicating the function of a natural tooth.

People in nearly all age groups can suffer tooth loss, whether it occurs due to disease, trauma and decay. Fortunately, people of nearly all age groups are also candidates for implants, as long as they have an adequate amount of bone to hold the devices in place.

The only age group that may not be eligible for dental implants is children, because their jaw bones are still growing. As a child’s jaw bone continues to grow and evolve, it could affect the implant, as well. However, if the tooth replacement is needed in conjunction with a broader treatment, such as orthodontics, an implant may be included in the plan.

There is no upper age limit for dental implants. An implant dentist can place implants in older patients as long as there is sufficient bone structure to allow the implant to integrate with the bone. If the bone has receded significantly—which may happen in long-term denture wearers, for example—implants may still be an option if the dentist can perform a graft to supplement the quantity of jaw bone available for the implant.

Although age is not necessarily a factor in an implant’s success, certain conditions may need to be addressed before implants can be placed.  A patient must be in good health overall. For example, a patient who has uncontrolled diabetes may not be a candidate for implants. Any serious issues regarding oral health, such as advanced periodontal disease, must also be treated before the implant surgery can be scheduled. Lastly, implant candidates who smoke should seriously consider trying to quit before they get implants.

If you need to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, consider consulting with Dr. Kevin Ryan, a dental implant dentist near Aurora, regardless of your age.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 6/15/2011 3:36:15 PM



Friday, June 3, 2011 10:29:28 PM

implant dentist Downers GroveIf you’ve lost a tooth, it’s likely that you’ll want to replace it as quickly as possible. Missing teeth can have a negative impact on your appearance, your speech and even your diet. When planning for tooth replacement, though, it’s important to consider all of your options and consult with our implant dentist serving Downers Grove to see which one is most appropriate for your particular case.

Dental implants are considered the preferred tooth replacement option available in modern dentistry, and they’re quickly becoming an industry standard. Implants fuse with the jaw bone, providing additional support to the bone structure in addition to replacing the missing teeth. Implants are the only tooth replacement technique that restores the function of the missing tooth’s root in addition to its crown. Implants also have the most natural appearance of the tooth replacement options.

The implant process is a straightforward one. An implant dentist will place the implants in an outpatient setting. Implants are suitable for replacing a single missing tooth or multiple teeth in the same area. Dental implants can even be used to anchor an entire arch of artificial teeth, which means no more embarrassing slip-ups for former denture wearers.

Some patients choose fixed permanent bridges instead of implants. However, these appliances are not as durable as implants, and they require healthy neighboring teeth to be shaved down so that crowns can be placed to secure the bridge. It can also be challenging to keep the gumline clean in the vicinity of a fixed permanent bridge, as it is difficult to floss thoroughly under the device.

Dentures, both full arch and partials, are alternatives to implants for patients who are missing multiple teeth. However, dentures have a downside, too. Bone loss can occur with either partial or full dentures, as the jawbone begins to recede when tooth roots are no longer present to hold it in place.

Patients with missing teeth have a number of options to replace them. If you need to fill in the gap left by a missing tooth, do your research and consult with our implant dentistry team to see which approach will best meet your needs.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 6/3/2011 3:29:28 PM



Friday, May 27, 2011 9:28:23 PM

Tooth loss can be devastating. The way that you eat and smile are immediately affected, and your self-esteem is significantly influenced. Living with an ill-fitting denture or partial can have an equally destructive impact on the quality of your life.

It is no secret that bone loss typically follows tooth loss. With a denture or partial, because the missing chewing surface is replaced, but not the missing tooth root, bone loss can progress rapidly. The fit and feel of the denture becomes compromised due to a lack of underlying bone support.

Ill-fitting dentures can restrict your speech and reduce your chewing capacity. Few social interactions are as embarrassing as an unstable denture. The use of denture pastes and creams is generally only effective for a short period of time before they have to be reapplied. When bone loss becomes severe, these topical solutions become less and less effective.

Generally, the denture is not viewed as a permanent solution for tooth replacement. As the mouth and bone structure changes, it may become necessary to replace the denture. Pay close attention to the performance of your denture:

  • Is the denture unstable as you chew and speak?
  • Is the shape of your facial profile changing due to bone loss?
  • Are denture creams and pastes no longer effective?
  • Are you interested in a more permanent alternative to the denture?
  • Do you desire a more custom and aesthetically pleasing smile?

All of the previously mentioned concerns are valid reasons to consider replacing your denture. Fortunately, implant dentistry has become a useful adjunct to the traditional denture. Your implant dentist can design a tooth replacement solution utilizing dental implant technology to anchor and stabilize your denture. As an added benefit, the implants will preserve the bone level in the jaw, for a more natural and youthful appearance.

If you believe that your existing denture is no longer satisfying your needs and/or reflecting the real you, schedule a consultation to discuss dental implants in Plainfield. You’ll discover that the smile of your dreams is still within your reach.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 5/27/2011 2:28:23 PM



Monday, May 16, 2011 9:15:06 PM

Oak Brook Dental ImplantsThe loss of even a single tooth can have a dramatic impact on the aesthetics of your smile and the efficiency of your chewing. When you are missing all of the teeth in your upper or lower jaw, the impact of the loss is even greater. The method that you choose to replace the missing teeth can also have a tremendous impact on your quality of life.

Today, adults who live active and healthy lifestyles are unsatisfied with traditional dentures and partials. More often, patients demand a tooth replacement option that is natural looking, comfortable, durable and discreet. The use of denture pastes and creams is unacceptable, and sagging jowls or sunken facial profiles are unappealing.

Dental implants have gained recognition and respect as the ultimate option for tooth replacement. The success of the implant is not a trend or a fad. The clinical and scientific evidence have been well-tested. Generally, when a tooth is lost, the bone that supports the tooth shrinks and disappears over time. Because the implant fuses to the jaw bone, it serves as an artificial tooth root, preserving and stopping bone loss. The implant also provides the opportunity for a very natural and comfortable looking replacement tooth.

In the early phases of implant dentistry, totally edentulous patients were not suitable candidates for the implant procedure. The procedure to replace all of the teeth with dental implants was costly and aggressive.  Today, the All-on-Four technique has translated all of the success of implant dentistry into an equally satisfactory solution for completely edentulous patients. By using a minimum number of titanium implants (usually four), your Oak Brook implant dentist can create a non-removable, natural looking smile in just one visit. Candidates for this procedure include:

  • Complete loss of teeth in upper or lower jaw
  • Patients with severe bone loss
  • Patients who have been advised to undergo bone grafting
  • Patients who are unhappy with their existing bridges or dentures
  • Adults (jaw bone has stopped growing)

Of course, a complete examination by your dental implant specialist in Oak Brook is necessary to predict the success of your All-on-Four procedure. Why not schedule your appointment today?

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 5/16/2011 2:15:06 PM



Thursday, May 5, 2011 9:03:51 PM

Titanium dental implants are the most sophisticated, high quality solution currently available for replacing missing teeth. There are numerous reasons why a person may lose one or more teeth. As people live longer and more active lifestyles, losing teeth can be considerably upsetting. Although the decision to replace teeth is a high priority, choosing the very best replacement option can have far-reaching benefits.

You may already be familiar with some of the advantages of dental implants. They are designed to be a permanent or long term solution to tooth loss. The implant is made from titanium which has the unique property of fusing extremely well to the bone. The material promotes healing and a stable foundation for the final restoration. Bone loss virtually ceases in the presence of the implant.

The procedure is so conservative that the neighboring teeth are completely unaffected. There is no need to modify the adjacent teeth in order to support the replacement tooth. The resulting restoration is a beautifully natural tooth replacement that you can feel confident about. By considering all the facts, you can make the most knowledgeable decision about a choice that will affect you every day.

Your implant dentist can assure you that the implant is a low-maintenance tooth replacement solution. Caring for your implants is as simple as caring for your natural teeth. Controlling plaque by brushing and flossing is vitally important for the prevention of periodontal disease. Choose a soft bristled tooth brush for gentle cleaning at the gum line around your implant.

A unique feature of the dental implant is the design. As the implant is anchored to the bone and not the neighboring teeth, the dental floss can slide smoothly down the sides of the implant crown without the use of special flossing equipment. Brushing after each meal and flossing daily are essential for maintaining healthy teeth as well as implants.

Your implant dentist in Aurora will recommend regularly scheduled appointments for professional cleanings and examinations. These visits are great opportunities to monitor the success of your implants as you enjoy the smile of your dreams.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 5/5/2011 2:03:51 PM



Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:32:49 AM

implant dentist Plainfield ILWith dental implants, you have chosen the highest available standard in tooth replacement. A beautiful, healthy smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Even with missing teeth, you deserve the opportunity to display a smile that makes you feel your best.

There are many options for replacing missing teeth, but for the most natural looking result, dental implants typically earn the highest marks. Partnering with an experienced implant dentist will ensure that you receive an implant that looks and feels most like your natural tooth.

The actual implant consists of a high quality titanium post or screw that is inserted into the bone. The bone will naturally integrate or fuse with the implant, resulting in a stable and sturdy anchor for a crown. This bond will help to preserve the bone and prevent deterioration.  Although you may not have considered the bone to be an important component of your smile, the shape and integrity of your face are determined by the presence of the bone.

The next step in creating natural looking replacement teeth is crown selection. There are several variables to consider for your crown, including shape, length, and shade. These variables are influenced by your unique attributes: gender, race, face shape, and the quality of your natural teeth. The crown will not depend on neighboring teeth for support, enabling you to floss between the teeth and brush near the gum line. Keeping the gum tissue clean and healthy around your implant will help preserve the natural appearance of your smile.

With advanced technology and artistic ability, your replacement teeth will look and feel as natural as your original teeth. Take the time to discuss your options with Dr. Kevin P. Ryan, an implant dentist serving Plainfield and the surrounding areas. There’s a naturally beautiful smile in store for you!

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 4/29/2011 10:32:49 PM



Saturday, April 16, 2011 5:28:06 AM

In order to give your smile a second chance, you’ll want to make a choice that feels right. Your teeth are with you every day, and choosing dental implants will provide you with a natural look and feel you can depend on. Compared to other tooth replacement options, dental implants offer more benefits in terms of function, esthetics, and comfort.

The first step towards your new smile involves a consultation with a qualified implant dentist. After discussing your particular needs and interests, the implant dentist will develop a treatment plan. Implants are typically made from surgical grade titanium or titanium zirconium. The implant is inserted into the jawbone, and eventually integrated or bonded with the bone. Once healing has occurred, the implant will provide a stable base or anchor for a permanent restoration.

The benefits of dental implants are numerous:

  • Gum and bone are less likely to deteriorate because the implant is bonded to the actual bone
  • High level of stability and durability allows you to eat certain foods comfortably
  • Attachment to the bone provides more comfort and stability than removable dentures
  • Virtually stops bone loss
  • Helps to maintain the shape and structure of the face
  • Doesn’t cover the roof or floor of the mouth like dentures and partials
  • Does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. No need to grind down adjacent teeth
  • Replaces both the tooth and the root

Dental implants look and function like a natural tooth. With this permanent and proven solution, you will enjoy a level of comfort and confidence not possible with other restorations. Your implant can be customized to blend in with your remaining teeth. Options such as the shade and shape of the final restoration can be adjusted to your unique specifications. No one will suspect that the tooth is not your own, even in intimate social settings.

Smiling and laughing with confidence are simple pleasures in life. Chewing and biting should be pleasurable as well. If missing teeth are preventing your from enjoying all that life has to offer, you may possibly benefit from implants. For dental implants in Naperville, contact our office to schedule your consultation right away.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 4/15/2011 10:28:06 PM



Saturday, April 2, 2011 5:15:34 AM

implant dentist Oak BrookDealing with a missing tooth is not simply a cosmetic concern. Just as if you were missing any other body part, a missing tooth has a huge impact on the quality of your life. It can lead to feelings of insecurity and embarrassment. The lost tooth (or teeth) can also pose a functional obstacle. The lost tooth surface reduces chewing efficiency, and changes the way your remaining teeth fit together.

There is no question, for esthetics, function, and personal comfort, it is best to replace a missing tooth rather than ignore it. But, with so many options available, what is the best choice? The best way to replace a tooth is to simulate it as closely as possible. A dental implant is a restoration placed by an implant dentist that replaces the tooth root as well as the biting surface. Compared to removable dentures and fixed bridges, implants can look and feel most like your natural teeth.

A dental implant is a safe and permanent option for tooth replacement. An implant dentist will surgically place the titanium post into the jawbone. The implant will serve as an anchor or base for a crown or other restoration. The implant is biocompatible, meaning it will eventually fuse to the jawbone to produce a natural-looking, well-integrated tooth.

Since an implant is a permanent tooth replacement, it does not have to be taken in and out like a denture or partial. There is no need for relines and repairs, and because the implant is firmly attached to the bone, you will enjoy a more natural biting and chewing pattern. In comparison to a fixed bridge, the implant does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Because the implant replaces both the tooth and the root, the jawbone is preserved, preventing bone resorption. The implant will stand alone, just as a natural tooth does, requiring no special consideration in terms of brushing and flossing.

A full set of teeth is critical for your confidence and a healthy self-image. Your implant dentist serving Oak Brook and the surrounding areas is the best resource to determine which implant option is best for you.

Posted by dentalimplantsnaperville | 4/1/2011 10:15:34 PM



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