When it comes to taking care of your oral health and the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, experienced dentists know best . Each patient has specific concerns, so it’s important to talk to your dentist before using any new product, especially if you have dentures or have had cosmetic work done. Most patients can benefit from these dentist-approved products.

Biotene
If you suffer from dry mouth or inadequate saliva, you are probably already familiar with the irritating and uncomfortable symptoms. Unfortunately, dry mouth can also cause a  whole host of health problems , from serious tooth decay to chronic bad breath and even infection. Biotene is the No. 1 dentist-recommended product to treat dry mouth symptoms. A great-tasting toothpaste, mouth spray, oral rinse, gel, and chewing gum all contain Biotene’s innovative moisturizing polymers so you can find immediate oral comfort and relief.

Sonicare Toothbrush
Dentists everywhere recommend Sonicare electric toothbrushes for patients of all ages. With an innovative design that is based on vibration, a Sonicare toothbrush allows you to brush as you normally would even as your teeth and soft gum tissues are cleaned more efficiently. For patients with heavy plaque or tartar buildup, dentists recommend Oral B toothbrushes.

Retainer Brite
When you visit your cosmetic dentist to get Invisalign aligners, a retainer, or a specially fitted athletic mouthguard, your dentist will most likely recommend Retainer Brite as the best cleaning solution. Retainer Brite helps keep your removable dental appliances stain-free and clear while providing essential disinfecting and cleaning aid.

For all your cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry needs, visit Chicago’s University Associates in Dentistry. Our dentists are proud to provide the very latest techniques and the most innovative dental procedures to all of our patients. Whether you want to learn more about dental implants or All on 4 permanent denture replacement or would like to chat with a dentist about Invisalign,  call us today  at (312) 704-5511. 

One of the most common causes of bad breath is a poor oral care routine. When food particles accumulate in your mouth, they encourage the buildup of bacteria, leading to bad breath. Additionally, certain foods can cause persistent bad breath even after you brush, such as onions and garlic. These foods stay in your bloodstream, affect your lungs, and seep into your breath.

If you experience persistent bad breath, see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning. Tell your dentist about any changes in your medical history; some medical conditions can contribute to bad breath, including diabetes and kidney failure. Bad breath can also be caused by oral infections, such as gum disease, mouth sores, or an infected surgical site. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your condition.

If your bad breath is caused by gum disease, schedule an appointment for scaling and root planing at University Associates in Dentistry. We invite Chicago-area residents to call our  cosmetic dentistry  practice at (312) 704-5511.

Although dry mouth syndrome, or xerostomia, may seem like a minor problem, it can greatly affect your oral health. When left untreated, dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay and cause problems with eating and speaking. When you visit your dentist , tell them of any new diagnoses you may have or medications you may be taking. Your dentist uses your medical history to determine the underlying causes of your dry mouth and develop a treatment plan.

Medications
Certain medications can cause dry mouth syndrome, including antidepressants, pain relievers, diuretics, and bronchodilators. During your visit, tell your dentist about any over-the-counter drugs or supplements you take. Cold medications, including antihistamines and decongestants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also lead to xerostomia.

Medical Conditions
There are a wide range of  medical conditions that can cause dry mouth ; inform your dentist of all other medical conditions you have, even if they may seem unrelated. For example, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and anxiety disorders may be to blame. Sometimes, a medical condition might cause you to feel as if your mouth is drier than usual, even when it isn’t. Examples include Alzheimer’s disease and a stroke.

Lifestyle Factors
Your dentist will likely ask you about your lifestyle habits. All types of tobacco products can cause dry mouth. Mouth breathing also prematurely dries out your mouth.

Treatment Options
Your treatment plan depends on the underlying causes of your dry mouth syndrome. If you use tobacco, talk to a doctor about assistance with smoking cessation. If you have a medical condition, work with your doctor to manage it. Additionally, your dentist might recommend chewing sugar-free gum, sipping water frequently throughout the day, and using saliva substitute products.

Keep your smile beautiful with regular dentist visits. Schedule your next dentist visit today with  University Associates in Dentistry . You can reach our Chicago practice at (312) 704-5511 or visit our website to learn more about our services, including dental implants.

Modern dentistry has come a long way since the days when people thought mouth worms were to blame for tooth pain! Today’s leaders in restorative and cosmetic dentistry have the very latest technology at their disposal, which means good things for your teeth and your overall health. Dentists now know that improving your oral health reduces your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and more. Find out how dentistry has evolved by exploring this infographic timeline from a Chicago restorative dentistry practice . Pass along this fascinating look at dental history by sharing it with your friends and family.