As the parent of a baby, you’re probably eager to get everything right and ensure your baby is fit and healthy in every way possible. That will no doubt include their oral hygiene. So, when should you start brushing your baby’s gums? It’s a question that many new parents ask, and it’s an important one. You definitely should brush your baby’s gums. To find out how to do this effectively, read on.

When to Start

Knowing the right time to start brushing your baby’s gums might be confusing, but it’s not too difficult. You can start cleaning their gums from a very early age. It won’t be as important very early on, but there’s nothing wrong with getting into the habit of cleaning them gently. Your routine will change as you start also brushing their teeth as they come through.

How To Do It

When cleaning your baby’s gums, you obviously shouldn’t use a regular toothbrush because this would be far too harsh. Instead, use a soft, damp cloth. You could also use a silicone finger brush that slips onto the end of your finger and allows you to clean your baby’s gums that way. It’s comfortable for them, and it’s straightforward for you as well, so everyone wins!

The Right Times To Clean Their Gums

It makes the most sense to clean your baby’s gums after eating. This makes sure that no debris is left and that bacteria can’t start to grow on their gums. If you clean them after each time they eat, that’ll be all you need to do for the time being. You can start to establish different teeth cleaning routines as they get a bit older, and their oral health and care needs change.

What To Do If They Hate It

If your baby really hates the process of having their gums cleaned, you might be unsure what to do about it. Of course, it’s crucial that you can clean them, but you don’t want to cause baby discomfort. Go slowly and be gentle when cleaning them. Make it into a fun game and sing a song too because that often works. Anything that turns it into a fun game will make it more enjoyable for them.

Teaching Them To Brush Their Teeth And Gums

Teaching them how to brush their own teeth and gums will be an essential step as well. This is something that you can start doing early on. Show them what you’re doing and how it’s done, even if they’re not old enough to understand why it’s happening. They can then get familiar with the process and what needs to be done. This will help them develop good dental care habits when they grow up.

Schedule An Appointment Today

If you have any other questions or you’d like to arrange an appointment for your baby at Sherman Oaks, we’d be more than happy to help you with that. Get in touch, and a member of our team will arrange a time for you and your baby to visit that suits your schedule.

A child’s first set of teeth, their baby teeth, play a significant part in their development. These teeth start to develop when before birth, when the child is still a fetus. It is for this reason that it is essential to start thinking about the dental health of your child before they are born. Looking after a baby’s teeth before birth means ensuring that they can draw the correct nutrients during the mother’s pregnancy. This means that the mother needs a diet that provides adequate calcium, vitamin C, vitamin D, and phosphorus. 

Although the teeth will start forming in the fetus at around 6 weeks, the baby teeth will not begin to come through and protrude the baby’s gums until they are a few months old. Baby teeth can appear at anything from around four months of age, until about a year old. These teeth usually start breaking through on the bottom of the mouth first.

When Do You Start Losing Your Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth serve as a place marker for adult teeth. While we are young, we have many growth spurts as we age. A full set of baby teeth will contain just 20 teeth. This leaves plenty of room around them for the permanent teeth to start to erupt when the time is right. As the adult teeth begin to erupt, so the baby teeth will start shedding.

Baby teeth will start to naturally fall out from around the age of six years old. The first teeth to go are usually the central incisors. The last of the baby teeth are generally shed around about the age of 12, with the cuspid and the second molar being among the last to go. 

Why It Is Important To Care For Baby Teeth

There are many reasons why a child should adopt a healthy oral care routine at the earliest age possible. Firstly, while baby teeth fall out, and are replaced by adult teeth, they are still relevant and need to be looked after. Losing teeth through tooth decay at a young age could cause problems with the later development of the adult teeth. 

Another primary reason for teaching children to brush their teeth as early as possible is that you are getting into habits that will last them a lifetime. If you can instill a strong oral hygiene habit in your child at a very young age, they will hopefully continue this throughout their life. 

Taking Care Of Children’s Teeth

Even before the teeth start to break through in a baby’s mouth, their gums must be cleaned regularly. Bacteria will cling to their mouths, and this must be cleaned away. As your baby starts to grow teeth, these will need brushing. 

Once your child is old enough to brush their teeth themselves, it is important to teach them the importance of thorough brushing twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Making brushing a fun family exercise will mean that it becomes an enjoyable experience and not a chore. 

Schedule An Appointment Today

Schedule an appointment with Sherman Oaks today for you and your family. Dr. Weyneth can help ensure all of your smiles are healthy and happy! We look forward to meeting you and helping you improve your smile.

Find your family dentist in Naperville at Sherman Oaks Dental.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we are proud to offer an all-round dental health service for people of all ages. Our team takes responsibility for your entire family’s dental health, providing you with all the treatment and information you could need in an easy-to-understand way. 

We understand the need for comfortable dentistry; our patients like to know that they are in good hands. The right dentist for your family is a good start for a secure relationship in the years to come. It’s essential to consider a few things before you choose your dentist, so let us help you out with a few of those!

Things To Consider When Choosing A Naperville Family Dentist

The Atmosphere

There is something to be said about bedside manner, and even dentists need to have one – though ours is more “chair-side!” When you make an appointment here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we will invite you in for a consultation, and it’s here you’ll see how much we care! You’ll feel welcomed by our team when you arrive, who are happy to do whatever they can to help you feel comfortable. We will answer all questions that you have as thoroughly as possible, and discuss all your options with you.

It’s also lovely to come to an office that is clean and bright, where there are friendly faces to greet you and your family.

Experience & Knowledge

Here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we believe in transparency, which is why we will always be open about our education, expertise, and the treatments we perform and recommend. If we think you could benefit from treatment, you can feel confident in our ability to provide it. You should feel secure when you visit a family dentist, and so should your children. Our knowledge and experience when it comes to children’s dental care are just as important to us as adult dentistry. We will put your children at ease and explain things in a way that makes sense to them.

The Familiarity

Choosing to see a family dentist for all of your oral health needs is a smart decision. The familiarity of visiting our team is going to help your children to feel confident about seeing the dentist. The office will become a familiar place to be, and they will be comfortable here. You’ll be able to be with them through every moment, and they will learn to trust that coming to the dentist is going to be a pleasant experience.

The Routine Service

It takes time to get to know new dentists and doctors, and we aim to ensure that you know you can contact us at any point if you are having issues. Taking proper care of your teeth is so important, and we’ll help you maintain your routine visit schedule. Of course, you must call us with a toothache or any other issues that crop up at any time. Regular checkups can keep your oral health in check, and it can ensure that your children’s teeth are monitored and healthy as they grow.

The Honesty

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we are honest about all charges before you have any treatments. As you become more familiar with our philosophies, our methods, and discussions, you’ll find that you will never be in the dark. We explain thoroughly, happy to answer all your questions. We will always provide you with a treatment plan that includes costs. We will never recommend a treatment that isn’t necessary, and welcome all questions and concerns.

The Efficiency

The most significant consideration with a family dentist is in the efficiency we apply to every appointment. When you arrive for your appointment, you will be greeted and taken to the open chair, waiting for you. We strive to maintain our daily schedules so our patients aren’t kept waiting and can get back to work and their family’s day.

Choosing Sherman Oaks Dental

You will see the same dental team every time you visit us, and we are proud to offer all of our patients a service like no other. We are committed to providing exceptional service, and we are honored to be the family dentist of choice for you and your family. Our friendly personalities and our expert skills put together make for one of the most popular family dentists in the area. We are more than ready to be the trusted family dentist that you and your children need. Please contact us to schedule an appointment today.

Invisalign has become one of the most popular orthodontic treatments out there today. This is mostly because you can barely see the aligners, as they are clear. Plus, you can take them out when you are eating, so they do not get in the way. However, you may already know about the benefits of Invisalign, and you may be wondering how long it actually takes for this type of dental treatment to work and straighten your teeth.

There is no set amount of time, as it will depend on your particular situation and needs. For some, treatment time can be as short as six months. For others, it can take as long as 18 months for your teeth to be straightened, so you should expect anything between six and 18 months with standard cases. Of course, you are going to see Dr. Weyneth to set out your treatment plan. He will be with you along the way, and keep you informed regarding the progress of your teeth and will provide you with a realistic timeline. 

Why Does Invisalign Treatment Length Differ?

The length of time it takes for the treatment to work is going to depend on a number of different factors, and this is why it varies so much. Some different things that will impact the treatment length include:

• How complex your case is – the more complex, the longer it will take.
• The speed of teeth movement, which differs from person to person.
• The greater the distance that your teeth must move, the longer the treatment is going to take.
• How far your teeth are going to need to move in order for the desired outcome to be achieved. 

Crowded teeth are a prime example of when the treatment may take longer than usual. It is not unusual for the treatment time to be around 24 months or sometimes it can be a little longer. In some cases, Invisalign may novt be an effective treatment at all. However, should this be the case, Dr. Weyneth will have other options for you. The first step is to set up an appointment for a consultation today! We look forward to help straighten your smile

The majority of American children don’t start going to the dentist until well after the age of two, according to the findings of a 2009 study by Morpace. But is 2 years old too late for their first visit?

Dentists agree that children should start attending the dentist at around one year of age. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says that children should visit the dentist twelve months into their lives, or around six months after their first tooth erupts.

Why Should Kids Go To The Dentist At Age One? 

There are many reasons why children need to go to the dentist from an early age. Many parents believe that children under the age of two are “too young” to need the help of a dental professional, but Dr. Weyneth stresses that this isn’t true. 

Going to the dentist from an early age, for instance, helps to normalize the experience for children. Attending the dentist from the first year of life helps avoid the fear and anxiety that can accompany dental visits if they begin later on.

Second, going to the dentist from an early age helps to preserve baby teeth, keeping them in place until they fall out naturally when the child’s adult teeth come through. 

Unlike what some parents believe, baby teeth are absolutely vital. Their main benefit is in speech development. Kids rely on their baby teeth to give their mouths the structure that they need to pronounce particular words. Baby teeth are also important for saving space for when adult teeth come through and help kids chew properly to maintain healthy nutrition.

Finally, coming to the dentist at an early age helps to teach young children about the importance of good oral hygiene habits. We can stop the development of plaque and decay in its tracks and show kids how they should brush to keep their teeth healthy. Visits like these can provide your child with the foundation to maintain good oral health practices for life. 

How To Prepare Older Children For The Dentist

What if you have an older child who has never been to the dentist before? How do you prepare them for it?

Dr. Weyneth recommends that parents educate their children about what happens at the dentist and why it is so important to visit us regularly. When children hear the noises heard at the office and see strange-looking instruments, it can worry them. It’s important to point out that going to the dentist is a way to protect against tooth decay and tooth loss and reduce the chance of having bad teeth in the future. Getting them used to being in the office, sometimes even bringing them in for a practice run, will ease their anxiety.

Children should also be well-rested before their first visit to the dentist. A tired, anxious child will likely have a less positive experience of the dentist’s chair compared to one who is feeling energetic. 

Finally, parents can also play at being a dentist, looking inside children’s mouths and examining their teeth to prepare them for the real thing and show that it is not scary. 

Call us if you have questions about the development and care of your baby’s teeth and to schedule an appointment. We look forward to having you and your children come to our Naperville family dental practice!

Are you interested in making sure that your teeth look white and beautiful? If so, then you might be interested in a full teeth whitening treatment here at Sherman Oaks Dental. Teeth whitening is becoming more popular every year. Patients are constantly interested in ensuring that their teeth look beautiful and this cosmetic treatment is one of the most attractive possibilities available. 

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

If you do opt for a professional treatment, you will be pleased to hear that the impact of teeth whitening can last for quite some time. It is possible for the effect to still be apparent after three years. However, it’s worth noting that the effect and longevity will often differ depending on the individual.

For instance, there are lifestyle factors that can come into play here. You might smoke, or drink wine, or eat certain foods, which can stain teeth. If that’s the case, then you are going to notice that the whiteness starts to fade sooner. 

It’s also important to make sure that you are brushing your teeth regularly and that you are also flossing. Good oral hygiene is essential for ensuring that you see the longest benefits of teeth whitening. This will help you maintain that beautiful shade that you love. We can assist you and ensure that you are getting the advice you need to see the greatest benefits here. 

Some of the many substances that cause teeth staining include:

• Tea
• Coffee
• Red wine
• Cigarettes

While all these are certainly issues, it’s the cigarettes are the greatest issue. However, dark carbonated drinks such as coke can also have an impact. If you want to avoid the issue here, then you should make sure that you are using a straw when consuming these drinks. 

Of course, the best way to make sure that your teeth stay white for longer is to come into Sherman Oaks Dental for touch-ups and teeth cleaning. This will ensure that any stains that are starting to develop can be quickly removed. 

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

You might be curious about whether teeth whitening is going to have any negative impacts on your oral health. Some people believe that whitening your teeth is going to impact the strength of the enamel. However, this is certainly not the case. Instead,  teeth whitening will only remove surface stains off your teeth. It will not impact the inner surface of your teeth and as such can be considered to be perfectly safe. However, you do need to make sure that you are choosing the right service. 

We hope this helps you understand how long teeth whitening treatment lasts and whether it could be the right solution for you.

If you are ready to whiten your smile even more and build more self-confidence then schedule an appointment with us today!

Are you in need of dental work but find yourself hesitating to make an appointment because of anxiety? If so, you are not alone. Crucially, sedation dentistry may be the solution to all of your concerns. And if you’ve been searching for “a sedation dentist near me,” Dr. Bryan Weyneth at Sherman Oaks Family Dental is here to help.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

As the name suggests, sedation dentistry refers to the sedation options available to you so you can receive the dental treatment you need. Sedation will lay your anxieties to rest, allowing you to relax and be comfortable during your visit.

While it is primarily designed with significant dental treatments in mind, individuals with severe anxiety can opt to use it for simple cleaning and scaling procedures.

If you are in need of dental treatment and feel any level of apprehension, you are a worthy candidate for sedation dentistry. 

What Level Of Sedation May Be Used?

No two patients are the same, and the type and level of medication used during the process will be tailored around your individual circumstances. Sedation usually falls under one of three categories, which are;

• Minimal sedation – this is where you remain fully awake but relaxed so that anxiety doesn’t take over.
• Conscious sedation – also known as moderate sedation, you may slur your speech and probably won’t remember the treatment.
• Deep sedation – you are conscious and can be awakened when needed, but won’t notice much about the treatment.

In some cases, it may also be possible to be put under a general anesthetic, which will leave you unconscious.

How Will You Be Sedated?

As well as the different levels of sedation, there are several methods that may be used depending on your situation as well as the type of treatment being used. The most common forms of sedation that may be used are;

• Laughing gas – a nitrous oxide gas that is inhaled through the nose via a mask. Dr. Weyneth can control the dosage levels at all times.
• Oral sedation – used for minimal to moderate sedation, you will be given a pill roughly an hour before the procedure.
• IV sedation – used for moderate sedation, the drip is administered through a vein so that it can get to work quickly.
• Deep sedation – this is a general anesthetic that will put you in an unconscious state until Dr. Weyneth slowly awakens you.

All of the sedation types are safe, and usually combined with a local anesthetic to numb the area in which you are being treated.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

If you’re considering the prospect of sedation dental treatment, learn more about the different treatments and what to expect from your visit by scheduling an appointment today. Remember, you don’t have to go without dental care because of anxiety. We will do all we can to make you feel comfortable and safe at our Naperville family dental practice.

Surprisingly, a lot of patients think that baby teeth aren’t as important as adult teeth. However, baby teeth play a vital roles in the health of your children. They are required for smiling, speaking, and eating. They also help prepare your child’s mouth for adult teeth to come in when they are older. Additionally, keeping your child’s teeth health will help them develop confidence, and improve their speech development. Working with your Naperville family dentist to take good care of a child’s baby teeth will teach them how to care for their adult teeth as well. 

How Do I Take Care of Baby Teeth?

There are a number of different things you can do to ensure your child’s baby teeth are healthy. This includes the following: 

• Make Sure Your Child Visits The Dentist Regularly: Once your child’s first tooth comes in, an appointment with Dr. Weyneth should be scheduled. He can give you guidance on how to care for your child’s baby teeth as they come in. You’ll learn when to expect the next baby teeth, and if there are any concerns to be aware of in their mouth as they continue to develop.
  
• Be Mindful Of What Your Child Drinks And Eats: Sugary foods and drinks can hurt baby teeth. Almost all sodas and fruit juice are usually high in sugar or acid which can create a higher risk of cavities. Acid and sugar can weaken the enamel, which is the outer shell of your child’s teeth. It is important to monitor not only what your child drinks, but also what they eat. Many foods geared towards children have high levels of sugar which can also cause damage to your child’s teeth. Sweets are ok every once in a while, but should not be eaten in excess.

• Brush Your Child’s Teeth Two Times Per Day: Brushing your child’s teeth in the morning and night, will help immensely stop cavities from forming. Look to find fluoride toothpaste which can help not only stop cavities from developing, but also can strengthen the enamel of their developing teeth. Children younger than three-years-old, should use the amount of toothpaste equivalent of the size of a grain of rice. You can then progress to toothpaste the amount equivalent of the size of a pea once they reach three-years-old.
  For newborns, wiping their gums with a wet pad or cloth is a good idea after breast feeding or drinking formula to keep their mouth clean and healthy. Keep in mind that as infants grow and their baby teeth come in you don’t want to put your child to sleep with a bottle of milk. The milk will pool around the baby teeth which can damage the tooth and also can cause gum disease.

• Once You Notice Two Teeth That Touch, Clean In-Between Their Teeth Daily: This will help to prevent any food from going under the gums and getting stuck between teeth. Helping your child to floss their teeth on a daily basis will help to stop cavities from forming in-between their teeth. Teach and assist your child with flossing until they are able to do it effectively by themselves. 

If you have more questions about caring properly for your child’s teeth, or have concerns about how their teeth are developing, please schedule an appointment with Sherman Oaks today. 

Schedule An Appointment Today

Dr. Weyneth and his team at Sherman Oaks look forward to taking care of your entire family’s teeth. As a Naperville family dentist Dr. Weyneth will be able to help the entire family from babies, youth, teens, and adults. Now is the time to schedule an appointment with us, so we can help your children start healthy oral habits now. These habits will keep their teeth healthy for the rest of their lives!

There is no denying that snoring is common! In some cases, it can be serious, yet most of the time it is simply annoying. If you have found that your other half doesn’t want to stay in the same bed as you anymore because of your snoring habits, you should definitely consider talking to Dr. Weyneth about getting custom snore guards here at Sherman Oaks Dental. 

Common Causes of Snoring

You are more likely to snore if the following applies to you:

• You have sleep apnea, which is when your airway becomes temporarily blocked while sleeping.
• You are overweight.
• You smoke.
• You drink too much alcohol.
• You sleep on your back. 

Snore Guards – Effective Way To Stop Snoring

Snore guards are designed to counteract your natural tendency for your tongue to slide back into your mouth and jaw while you are asleep. The effectiveness of these devices is proven. This is because they work to prevent snoring in a number of different ways. Many people believe that snore guards are going to be horrible to wear, making it impossible to fall asleep. That’s not the case, especially if you choose custom snore guards,  which have been made to suit you. 

• They will push or advance the jaw slightly forward, which will open the airway naturally.
• They will depress your tongue, meaning it will not fall to the back of your throat and block your breathing.
• They will make certain that the passageway is not impeded by soft palate tissue.
• If you have a receding jaw, they will help to stabilize this. 

Why You Should Come To See Sherman Oaks For Your Snore Guard?

While you can purchase a generic snore guard online or at a local store it is not going to be as effective as a custom snore guard. When you have a custom snore guard, created by Dr. Weyneth, it will suit your own particular physiology and address your own individual sleep issues.  Not to mention that custom snore guards are not only much more effective in alleviating your snoring, they are also much more comfortable to wear while sleeping. 

Factors To Consider When Having A Snore Guard Created

When a snore guard is made there are many factors to be considered by Dr. Weyneth which includes the following:

• Some jaw movement is allowed
• Breathing vents
• Quality of material that is used
• The lifespan of the snore guard
• Slim design
• Adjustability 

Please make an appointment to come in and see Dr. Weyneth if you have more questions about snore guards. We’ll be happy to address your concerns and consult with you to see if a custom snore guard is the right choice for you. 

We’ve treated many patients who come to us with intense fears about dentistry. The thought of sitting in a dental chair makes them incredibly anxious, to the point where they’ve avoided the dentist for years. This is most common in children and teenagers, who are often forced to go to the dentist by their parents. However, dental anxiety can affect anyone. 

Of course, you must visit the dentist at least two times per year for regular checkups. This allows Dr. Weyneth to discover any problems as they develop, meaning we can take action and stop massive issues from happening in your mouth. So, those of you with dental anxiety will be pleased to know there’s a way to make your experience more bearable; sedation dentistry. 

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Put simply, sedation dentistry involves using different medications to help patients feel more relaxed in the dental chair. This can range from mild to more extreme sedatives that let you drift off and forget you’re even at the dentist! 

We offer sedation dentistry in Naperville for anyone that needs it. Over the years, we’ve seen patients that only need a slight bit of sedation and ones that require general anesthetic to completely knock them out during a procedure. It all depends on the level of fear and the procedure in question. 

How Is Sedation Dentistry Performed?

Different dentists may call upon different techniques to perform sedation dentistry. Some use IV sedation, which involves injecting the drug through a vein. It works quickly, and the level of sedation can be adjusted throughout the treatment. 

At our practice, we commonly use nitrous oxide – also known as laughing gas. You will be given a mask that covers your nose and lets you inhale the gas. The properties of nitrous oxide make it perfect for sedation as it relaxes the patient almost right away. But, it also has the benefit of not lasting very long. We can adjust the amount given to ensure it lasts the whole appointment, but then it will wear off after a while when you’re done. So, you can often drive home even after you’ve been sedated with laughing gas. 

What Are The Benefits of Sedation Dentistry?

We find sedation dentistry highly beneficial as it takes the fear factor away from dentistry. You’ll no longer be afraid to visit the dentist, which means you get the treatment you need. We’ve seen loads of patients who have gone years without any treatment or checkups. The result is a mouth full of tooth decay and other oral health issues. The same goes for anybody with children who are scared of the dentist; we can use sedation dentistry to ensure they still get checkups and receive treatment. 

Contact Sherman Oaks To Learn More About Sedation Dentistry In Naperville

If you’re interested in sedation dentistry – either for yourself or a family member – then feel free to schedule an appointment with us today, and you can receive anxiety-free dental treatment at last!

If you are looking for a Naperville family dentist you want to make sure that they are educated and equipped to deal with all your needs and those of your family.  Going to a family dentist as opposed to a general dentist, therefore, might be beneficial for both you and your children. 

What’s The Difference Between Family Dentistry And General Dentistry? 

The differences between general dentistry and family dentistry are subtle but important. General dentists typically focus on treating dental conditions faced by the adults. General dentists learn how to perform tooth extractions, root canals, dental crowns, dental veneers, dental implants and a host of other procedures. General dentists can see children, but many often advertise services to those aged 16 or over. Treating adults is where their focus lies and where they feel most comfortable to offer a quality service. 

Family dentists, on the other hand, serve patients of all ages, from toddlers to elderly grandparents. Family dentists are, in a sense, more general than “general dentists” because they are willing to serve a broader demographic. Family dentists feel just as comfortable putting a filling in a baby tooth as they are placing dental implants into a senior mouth. 

Why Choose A Family Dentist? 

While general dentists are often able to provide many of the same treatments as family dentists, family dentists aim to support all your family’s oral health needs. Family dentists, like Dr. Weyneth, offer not only regular cleanings and fluoride treatment but also advice and consultation to keep your children’s teeth healthy. 

Family dentists can deliver comprehensive care to children of all ages and understand the difference between their teeth and adult teeth. The reason family dentists are so popular is that the entire family can see the same dentist when they visit. There’s no need to swap between different dentist, allowing you to build a relationship with a single trusted professional. 

Many patients prefer to have one point of contact who they can ask for dental advice. A family dentist provides that no matter their stage in your family’s life. 

Family dentists also have the additional advantage of working with the whole family group. By working with all members of your family, they can get a better sense of the types of oral problems that your children may face in the future. If, for instance, you have teeth prone to decay, then the dentist can help prevent similar scenarios for your kids. 

Schedule An Appointment Today

Family dentists also help to bring the whole family together. Children feel more relaxed and trust family dentists when they see them providing dental treatment for their parents. 

Are you looking for a family dentist? If so, then get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment with a Naperville family dentist for your whole family.

To ensure the proper health and protection of your kids’ teeth Dr. Weyneth, your Naperville family dentist, may recommend measures that are preventative, on top of those that are designed to identify and tackle already existing issues. Dental sealants are one preventative measure. The molars and premolars on their back teeth are more susceptible than others to tooth decay, and dental sealants can be placed on your child’s teeth to prevent decay.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin coatings made of plastic that are fitted on top of patient’s teeth. Primarily, they are placed on the surface of molars and premolars of children when they have first erupted beyond the gum. They are designed to offer a smooth cover for the teeth, without the tiny fissures that can become easy places for plaque and bacteria to lurk. These sealants are applied relatively easily, and it only takes a few minutes to apply them to each tooth.

Why Choose Dental Sealants?

Your family dentist will always recommend a thorough dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing to ensure the best care of all your kids’ teeth. It’s the most effective way to remove food residue and plaque at home. However, toothbrushes aren’t always able to hit all the grooves that are especially prevalent on the permanent back teeth. These fissures can become havens for plaque, which produces the acids that wear away at enamel and cause cavities. Dental sealants offer an extra protection for those areas.

What To Expect From A Tooth Sealant

As mentioned, it only takes a few minutes to fix the sealant on to each tooth. To start with, the patients’ teeth will be thoroughly cleaned, focusing extra attention on the teeth that are going to be sealed. The sealant is first in a liquid form and is painted onto the tooth, molding to the surface entirely before it starts to harden. With a curing light, your family dentist is able to speed up the amount of time it takes for it to harden. The treatment should involve no pain at all, and can take anywhere from five minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are going to be sealed at once.

How Long Does A Dental Sealant Last?

Despite being as thin as they are, dental sealants are incredibly resilient and should protect the tooth from decay for a long time. They can last for several years before you might need to arrange an appointment for a reapplication. Your family dentist will be able to check the condition of each sealant during your regular appointments, so they can let you know when it might be time to reapply them.

Is It Time To Consider Dental Sealants?

Children’s permanent teeth are most vulnerable to decay and cavities when they first erupt. If you want to learn more about how you can protect them or you want to schedule an appointment, get in touch with your family dentist in Naperville. We’ll be glad to answer any questions and ensure the best care for your kids.

There are all kinds of reasons why you would choose Sherman Oaks for cosmetic dentistry in Naperville. Our dental practice. Take a look at the following before you make your decision.

We Prioritize Comfort

We understand that dental anxiety is a significant issue for many patients. That’s why we take every precaution to ensure your comfort throughout your time with us. Dental procedures can be challenging and complex, but thanks to our friendly and informative team, you’ll be guided through every step of the process and always know what’s going on.

We Provide All Your Dental Needs From A Single Location

There’s nothing more annoying than going to the dentist only to find out that you need to get treatment elsewhere. A dental practice should offer everything from a single location. That’s why when you come to us, you’ll be able to get a range of treatments, both cosmetic and general, to suit your unique circumstances.

We Communicate With You In Helpful Ways

We communicate with you in helpful ways. If you have an appointment, we can send you reminders via email and text, and you can call us at any time if you have any questions about a procedure. We keep channels of communication open, providing you with the support you need to ask questions or raise concerns.

We Are Affordable

Too many dental practices are priced too high or have complicated pricing structures. Often, you don’t find out about the cost of your treatment until you’ve had the procedure, by which time, it’s too late.

We don’t think this is fair. That’s why we always keep you informed of prices, whether you’re insured or not. We’ll also guide you through what your dental plan covers and what it doesn’t so that you can make a decision about the kind of treatment you receive through our clinic.

We Are Honest

We will never recommend treatment that you don’t need or ask for. Our goal is to ensure that you have a healthy, beautiful smile. We provide you with options, and it’s ultimately you and Dr. Weyneth’s decision what procedures you have.

We Offer Personalized Service

When you come visit Sherman Oaks, you’re more than just another patient. We take the time to get to know you and your dental history individually. We believe that this approach helps the entire team not only make you feel appreciated, but also provides you with the most appropriate treatment. Each mouth is unique and should be treated as such.

If you’ve been having recurring issues with your oral health, come and speak with us today. We’ll take the time to listen to your story and then offer various solutions. Oral health needs can be complicated and evolve. Our goal is to listen to what you say, investigate the root cause of the problems you’re having and then provide the appropriate response.

We Are Committed To Your Oral Health

Your oral health is the reason we got into dentistry in the first place. We’re passionate about ensuring that people have excellent hygiene and can achieve the beautiful smiles they want. Schedule an appointment with us today to find out more.

Having a dentist that can take care of every single member of your family would be the ideal scenario for most of us. Children, teenagers, adults and the elderly all have different needs when it comes to dental care, but a family dentist has the knowledge to treat everybody. Having too many specialists to travel to can create confusion and wasted time in the family calendar, so choose a Naperville family dentist to provide you all with outstanding dental services. Here are some of that ways that Sherman Oaks Dental can help your family with their dental care.

Dentistry for Children

We can provide preventative dentistry and emergency dentistry for your children. Both of which are very important when it comes to keeping your kids’ teeth clean, healthy and free from disease.

Preventative dentistry includes routine dental exams, cleanings and fluoride varnishes. When your children get in the good habit of going to the dentist from a young age they will be more likely to develop healthy and strong teeth.

We also offer emergency dental treatment for those unexpected accidents. When you have see a family dentist you know you can go to them with any problem no matter how major or minor it may be. Whether they have chipped a tooth or knocked one out in the playground we can fix the problem and prevent any further damage.

Dentistry for Teenagers

Many teenagers go through an awkward stage with their teeth, so we are here to help them feel more confident and comfortable with their teeth. Invisalign treatments can help teenages who are living with crooked teeth and they are almost invisible to the naked eye. Allow your teenage to enjoy their stunning smile with just a couple of months of Invisalign treatment.

Dentistry for Adults

As you get older the general care of your mouth and teeth becomes more important, but you can also start to become more aware of the way you look. At Sherman Oaks Dental, we can assist you with any of your cosmetic requirements as well as your routine oral health. From teeth whitening treatments to gaps in your teeth, Dr. Weyneth will help you to resolve all of these ongoing issues.

We can also fit dental implants if you ever lose any teeth. Your false teeth with look very natural and will be permanently fitted into place with special dental posts. We will be able to advise you on the best treatment for your individual case.

Dentistry for Seniors

Gum disease prevention and treatments for those in the family who are over fifty are both very important. We will be able to provide the older members in your family with preventative care and unique dental problems associated with age.

With Sherman Oaks Dental you can be reassured that each one of your family members is receiving professional care during every visit. Whether you have little ones to worry about or grandparents to care for, a family dentist can truly do it all. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!

As vaping becomes a popular way to use tobacco, the concern for damaging effects on your health is also rising. Although overall smoking rates are steadily declining, the use of e-cigarettes is rapidly increasing. It is estimated that one in five high school students use tobacco products. From 2017 to 2018, e-cigarette use has increased 78% among high school students and 48% among middle school students. When it comes to oral health, the argument can be made that vaping could be as dangerous, if not more dangerous than traditional cigarettes.

What Is Vaping?

Vaping is use of an e-cigarette which typically contains either the drug tobacco or THC. Vaping works by heating a liquid which generates an aerosol that the user inhales, thus the term “vaping” comes from the vaporized liquid. The liquid is made up of propylene glycol, glycerin, flavorings, water and the drug nicotine or THC.

Why Is Vaping Harmful To Oral Health?

The first danger of vaping is its carrier ingredient; Propylene Glycol. PG is used primarily in the production of processed foods. It is colorless and odorless with a slightly sweet taste. When used orally, PG is toxic to enamel and soft tissue. PG also causes dry mouth, which we know can greatly increase the likelihood of cavity growth and gum disease.

Another hidden danger of vaping is the combination of vegetable glycerin with flavorings. Vegetable glycerin was once thought not to cause cavities, but studies have shown that when coupled with flavorings, vegetable glycerin can cause a fourfold increase of microbial adhesions on enamel and a twofold increase in forming a biofilm on teeth. In other words, e-liquid allows cavity-causing liquid to adhere to a softened tooth which can rapidly cause decay.

Nicotine is a very addictive, harmful component of e-cigarettes. Nicotine has long proven itself to be bad for oral health. Years of studies have shown nicotine to decrease gingival blood flow. Nicotine also negatively effects gum growth because of the way it impacts immune cells and tissue regeneration.

Lithium batteries used in vaping pens are also a concern. There have been reports of explosions causing extensive mouth damage and even death. Lithium batteries can over heat and explode, leaving one with severe disfigurations due to soft tissue injury.

Supporters of vaping believe e-cigarettes can be a helpful step for long-time traditional cigarette users in their quest to quit smoking. The concern lies in the amount of people who have never tried cigarettes or nicotine who are trying e-cigarettes, especially at a young age.

If you have used e-cigarettes and are concerned about your oral health please schedule an appointment with Sherman Oaks today.

It used to be that if you needed a filling, you had to get a silver filling. If you’re over the age of 35, you probably remember this, and you may even still have traditional metal fillings. These fillings can sometimes be problematic, because not only have some contained some mercury, but they’re also known for wearing down. They require a considerable portion of the tooth to be worn away so that they can be placed. They also can expand or contract, creating cracks and pain in your teeth. In the worst cases, they even could turn black. Bacteria can also sneak in through the cracks and put the tooth’s core at risk of suffering from decay and infection.

Tooth-colored fillings are white fillings that match the natural appearance of your teeth. When it comes to filling a cavity or making minor cosmetic changes, such as fixing a cracked tooth, we know you’ll agree that tooth-colored fillings are a great solution! Dr. Weyneth can fix up your smile to make it brighter and healthier!

When you get your tooth-colored fillings in Naperville, from cosmetic dentist Dr. Weyneth, the tough composite will look natural and provide a strong layer of defense against bacteria. Five additional benefits of our tooth colored fillings include:

1. They’re easy to repair! Unlike silver fillings, if something happens to go wrong with tooth-colored fillings, we don’t need to undo the whole treatment to remedy it. Fixes aren’t as time consuming and uncomfortable to the patient like it used to be with silver fillings.
2. The procedure causes only minimal dis-comfort. We go to a lot of effort to make you comfortable during your visit, and we’re confident in our ability to make this a positive experience for you. Mild dis-comfort is common which is why we encourage you to let us know how you feel while we work on your mouth.
3. Fillings attach to the teeth with a chemical reaction. They do not require any kind of complicated adhesives, screws or surgeries to be used. This is one of the main reasons that the procedure is so simple.
4. Now Wearing Down of Bone. Because tooth-colored fillings go on top of the teeth, no wearing down on the bone structure is necessary. The treatment is extremely non-invasive.
5. Creates A Beautiful Smile! And perhaps best of all, fixing up cracks or chips in your teeth with tooth-colored fillings can make your teeth look great! You’ll enjoy a boost of self-confidence as you start afresh with a clean, healthy-looking smile. No silver included!

If you need to replace your old fillings or perhaps have a cavity that needs to be repair then schedule an appointment today with Sherman Oaks Dental where we will help give you the smile you deserve!

“At Sherman Oaks Dental, I personally assess the patients facial structure, tooth size, smile plane and gum line.  The closer these are in harmony, the more successful the cosmetic result!

Considerations for treatment may include orthodontics, gum sculpting and change in tooth shape and color.  Discussions of the ideal on down to compromise will be clearly outlined.  Many improvements outside of ideal can make a dramatic improvement for individuals.  The most important aspect of your dental cosmetic enhancement is the planning prior to the actual treatment.  With proper planning, there should not be any surprises. 

Smile enhancements can be life changing.  Personnel attitudes and attitudes of others are greatly impacted as a result!”

As you can see Dr Weyneth aims for custom care with each patient he meets with.  Along with his staff we strive to give you and your family beautiful smiles! If you have any questions about any cosmetic procedure you are interested please let us know. 

If you are interested in setting up a cosmetic dental appointment with Dr. Weyneth,  please schedule an appointment here. We look forward to working with you and your family to improve your smiles!  

If you have misaligned, worn down, discolored or chipped teeth, Lumineers might be exactly what you’re looking for. Made of a tooth-colored composite, dental Lumineers provide a shell that fits over the tooth. Extremely thin and white, these shells imitate the appearance of enamel and do an amazing job of brightening a smile. Carefully designed exactly for the shape of your tooth, a lumineer fits perfectly over the tooth and corrects any chips, gaps, or tooth defects. They also whiten teeth that are discolored or stained. Remarkably, these shells usually last for about 20 years.

What’s it like to get the procedure?

This treatment usually takes two visits to be completed. The first time you come in we’ll consult with you to understand what you’re hoping to get out of the procedure. As your Naperville cosmetic dentist, we want you to feel 100% satisfied with your smile! For that reason we pay close attention to our patients’ concerns and try to help them understand their options. In this first visit we’ll also create an impression of your teeth. This impression, along with any other necessary records, gets sent to a laboratory where they craft the shells.

A couple weeks later, your Lumineers will have come back from the laboratory and we’ll call you to come in for your next appointment. We’ll make sure that they fit correctly, and once that has been confirmed, we’ll lightly etch the contours of your teeth so that the Lumineers can be placed. After that, we’ll bond the Lumineers to your teeth, you’ll be all done!

Benefits of Getting Lumineers:

1. No more chipped, cracked, or stained teeth! A bright, even smile does wonders for self-confidence.
2. Unlike other options, minimal tooth etching and reshaping is necessary in order to place Lumineers. This makes the procedure significantly less complicated, and it ensures that your visit will be an easy, comfortable experience.
3. Lumineers offer great durability. They’re extremely hard to crack or chip, and they typically last at least two decades! And in the case that you would like to have them redone or removed, they’re quite easy to take off since they don’t require any tooth-reshaping in order to be placed.

We hope that this article has helped you understand why we love Lumineers! Please know that if you have any other questions or concerns, we would be more than happy to speak with you. Schedule an appointment today!

Even if your kids haven’t already been reminding you every single day, you know how excited they are for that Halloween night. They’re so excited to go trick-or-treating, they can hardly stand it. And you know how it’s going to be trying to get them to sit down and eat dinner before – they’ll be so ready to put their costumes on and get going that pretty much nothing you say can persuade them to sit down and eat that lasagna. When the moment finally comes, you help them out the door and spend the night giving candy out to trick or treaters.

Later that night, the kids come home, pillow cases absolutely stuffed with candy. Only when they lay it out on the floor and want to show you do you realize just how much they’ve gotten – each one of their candy piles is practically a mountain on the carpet. And of course they’re so proud of themselves for having gotten it all for themselves.

And that is when you realize how incredibly hard it’s going to be to keep them from eating so much of it that they make themselves sick. What do you do?

You’ll find that this all goes best if it’s planned out before hand, before the emotional-charge and the sugar-rush of the night makes cooperating with your kids a battle. But also, Halloween comes only once a year, so why not let them have a little fun? Most parents who set reasonable expectations with their kids while also allowing them to enjoy the festivities find that it isn’t too much of a struggle.

There are a number of different rules you can use in this situation. The most obvious is perhaps just setting the expectation that they can only have four or 5 pieces of candy a day. You can also incentivize them to do the other things they need to do throughout the week by telling them that they can only have their candy after they’ve done their chores, or homework, or whatever it is you’re struggling to get them to do. Or perhaps, you explain to them from the beginning that half of whatever they bring home is going to go to the family “candy bowl” – a stash that you can easier control.

As a family dentist in Naperville, we also want to remind you to make sure that with all of this candy your kids are eating, you be sure to help you kids floss and brush their teeth frequently! Make sure the sugar doesn’t have the chance to create cavities! Sugar has a way of accelerating the growth of plaque and bacteria in the mouth, so the importance of oral hygiene becomes especially critical in the Halloween season.

Our goal to aid you in maintaining both health and harmony in your home. Schedule an appointment with us and your family to ensure you have a healthy happy smile. All of us hope you have a Happy Halloween!

Want straighter teeth but don’t like the idea of wearing braces with metal brackets? Consider Invisalign! As the name suggests, Invisalign is a practically invisible alignment method for your teeth. Whereas traditional braces rely on metal wires and brackets to hold things together and reshape your smile, Invisalign solves the same issue but with clear, plastic aligners that fit around the exterior of your teeth, arranging them to be straighter and straighter with each successive aligner.

Whether you’re planning on receiving this treatment or you’ve already received it, we hope that the following tips can make your experience as easy and pleasant as possible! We want to offer the some of the best experiences with Invisalign in Naperville.

• Clean your aligner regularly in order to prevent bacteria and mold from forming inside of it. As you can imagine, any place as dark, warm and moist as a mouth can make a great habitat for unwanted bacteria. For your own health (as well as to keep your retainer from smelling bad) make it a habit to wash it out regularly. Likely the easiest way to accomplish this is to buy some denture-cleaner from your local store and let the aligner soak in it for a few minutes each night as you get ready for bed.

• Carry a miniature toothbrush with you. This practice may sound strange, but trust us, when you’ve just eaten a meal and the time comes for you to put the aligner back on, you’re not going to be happy putting it in if you’ve got traces of food caked among your teeth. Storing random flecks and crumbs in your aligner all day will taste terrible and make your breath smell even worse.

• Update and change your aligners on time. We want you to get your smile straightened and the Invisalign process completed just as quickly as you do! In order to do this, make it a priority to schedule regular appointments and hold yourself to them. Depending on the condition of your teeth and your sensitivity, you may also consider speaking with your dentist to adjust the time you spend with each successive aligner. Because mouths tend to vary in their needs of different intensities of treatments, it may be worth it for you to customize the amount of time you spend with each aligner so that you obtain maximum efficiency and comfort.  

If you are interested in getting started with Invisalign liners to straighten your smile, contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Going to the dentist office for the first time can be a scary thing for a child. We know that you want the best for your child and we would like to offer some tips that may help ease the stress of going to the dentist.

• Start Young

The earlier a child visits the dentist, the better. It’s best that the first visit starts at age 1 or when the first tooth is visible. If you have already missed this age don’t worry about it at all. Getting them in early is what’s important, not necessarily the age. When they visit our family dentist in Naperville it will provide your child with a dental home where all of their dental needs can be met. They will be taken care of.

• Keep It Simple

Sometimes details are important especially when children get older. However on their first visit it’s a good idea to avoid too many details. Including too much information may raise some questions which can lead to other unknown things that may cause some worry. For example: giving them information about cavities may lead to them asking what happens to fix the cavity, which can then lead to talking about fillings, which might might make them scared. Maintaining a positive attitude, however, about an upcoming visit can be a great thing and help your child feel at ease. Keeping it simple is the way to go when your child is first starting out with regular dental checkups.

• Keep Calm

It is very normal for young children to cry, whine, and not want to be examined by a stranger. Stay calm and remember that we are used to working with children and have seen our share of tantrums and meltdowns. We can help guide you and it may even be helpful for you as their parent or guardian to stay at a distance or it might be better for you to hold their hand during the exam. We are here for you and your child and want this to be a pleasant experience. We will not make your child do something that is uncomfortable or unpleasant. Sometimes it takes a couple visits to be comfortable with the experience.

• Make It Fun

Sometimes all kids need is to see that going to the dentist can be a fun experience. Check out some books from the library or watch a show that talks about a child’s first visit to the dentist. Even role playing can be fun. You can pretend to check their teeth and let them do the same. Making it fun will also allow you to have some good memories with your kids.

• Good Example  

Being an example of practicing good dental hygiene is probably the most important on this list. When they watch you brush your teeth or eat healthy foods they will want to do it themselves. Talking about why dental hygiene is important can also go a long way with your children. They soak up more than we know.

Going to a family dentist will ensure that your child have a better experience than from a general dentist office. They are more specialized in children’s care and have more experience. Going to the dentist can be scary for children but with a few simple steps you can make it a happy experience for them. Give our office a call today.

Will Whitening My Teeth Damage Them?

As a leading cosmetic dentist in Naperville, one of the most the most frequently asked questions to Dr. Weyneth is: “Will whitening my teeth do more damage than good?” The short and simple answer to this question is, no. Teeth whitening gel will not cause damage to the enamel of your teeth or the overall health of your teeth.

Interestingly enough, enamel is the hardest tissue produced by our bodies!  Even though enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth, there are tiny tubules that allow stains to penetrate through the enamel to the dentin tissue layer below the enamel. A successful whitening product will be one that passes through the enamel and begins whitening the stained dentin layer below.

What Should You Expect During Whitenings?

Some whitening products are more intense than others and may cause sensitivity for a short amount of time. The whitening gel will undergo a natural process from inactive to active, and as it does, the tubules that make up your enamel are left in a dehydrated state where they sit open and exposed. The saliva produced by your mouth contains a rich mineral solution that will reseal the tubules very quickly. Because of the cleaning process, it’s important not to eat or drink any foods that could potentially stain your teeth. Your tooth will quickly absorb and colored food or drink it comes in contact with until the enamel has fully re-hydrated. Due to the exposed dentin, it’s also highly advisable to stay away from extremes in hot or cold fluids.  Contact with extremes in temperature could lead to undesirable discomfort. If you experience sensitivity while whitening, discontinue until sensitivity is no longer an issue.

How Do You Avoid Staining Your Teeth?

Tooth staining occurs any time the tooth is allowed to dehydrate. Whitening gels use the same process to whiten your teeth instead of staining them. As saliva flow is restricted your teeth begin to dehydrate. This can occur on a daily basis through a number of different means including; breathing through your mouth, smoking, certain medications, radiation treatments, autoimmune diseases and other underlying medical conditions. It’s important to be aware of this process since dehydration can occur in a matter of minutes but can take hours to re-hydrate them. If you’re not sure your teeth are being dehydrated, check for the telltale white spots on your teeth. As the tooth becomes, re-hydrated, the white spots will disappear.

Schedule Your New Smile Today!

If you’re looking for teeth whitening in the Naperville area come can visit our highly skilled staff at Sherman Dental. We’re proud to be the home of one of the best cosmetic dentists in Naperville! We can’t wait to show you how we can give you a smile you will absolutely love showing off!

Losing your first tooth (something we all do) can be scary for children, and parents too!  Most children begin losing teeth around age 6, although age can vary by child. While not usually very painful, it can be uncomfortable.

Contacting a family dentist and establishing a relationship with them long before the first loose tooth can soothe a lot of the worry. Routine exams like x-rays can help your dentist predict a general timeline for teething, and discussing the coming changes with a trusted Naperville family dentist like Dr. Weyneth can turn a child’s trepidation into excitement about reaching a new milestone.  

Establishing family traditions around losing teeth can help too. Special treats from parents (or perhaps a certain fairy?) can also help ease fears. When your child first feels a tooth begin to wiggle, encourage them to help the tooth root dissolve by wiggling it as much as they can. The more they wiggle, the faster the root will dissolve and the tooth will come out.  Be patient, it can take days or weeks for a tooth to finally come out. Good normal hygiene routines should be maintained, such as brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.

Once they’ve wiggle, wiggle, wiggled the tooth out there may be some completely normal, slight bleeding and tenderness at the loss sight. Have your child gently rise with warm water once the tooth is out.  They can also gently brush the site as it heals and the new tooth starts coming in. This is the perfect time to have your dentist or dental hygienist reinforce the importance of taking care of your teeth and gums. Letting your little one know that these are their “grown up” teeth and that they are going to keep them forever may help get them on board with regular brushing if they have been reluctant.  

They should show the dentist “how we brush and floss” to be sure they’re doing it properly. The new tooth can take several months to grow completely in, but shouldn’t take more than six months. If the new tooth isn’t in after 6 months call your dentist. The cycle of losing baby teeth and growing new, adult teeth continues until they lose their second molars at around twelve years old. In that time they’ll get 20 baby teeth, lose them, and grow 32 adult teeth; and you (or someone) will get plenty of practice silently slipping coins under pillows in the dark.

If you would like to know more on how to help your child when they start losing teeth, or would like to schedule an appointment for you or your child contact Sherman Oaks today!

There are a lot of “firsts” in a child’s first few years of life. Their first vaccines. Their first steps. The first time they stay in their bed without your assistance. The list could go on and on. Most of these “firsts” are harmless and are necessary for your child to grow and learn. Going to the dentist for the first time shouldn’t be any different. It is a necessary part of growth and the benefits of having your child see a dentist early on in life are many. Here are some ideas to help you prepare their first appointment at Sherman Oaks Dental your Naperville family dentist.

• Having a Dental Home. Life is full of chaos. We are always running around from activity to activity with our kids. Change happens and that is expected and good for us. However wouldn’t it be nice to be able to count on having a reliable dental home. This is especially important for your children. Going to the dentist can be scary for anyone, especially children who have no idea what to expect. Having a family dentist in Naperville in place can bring great comfort to your child. Knowing that they are visiting an office that is concerned with their needs can make a possible scary experience in to an excellent, positive one.

• Schedule Early. Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth. Tooth decay in those first teeth could mean a higher risk of decay in permanent teeth in adulthood. Tooth decay can be a result of children falling asleep with their bottles and needs to be addressed right away. It is very important to schedule your child’s first visit at an early age; between 1-3 years.

• Set a Good Example. Children are so impressionable. They watch us do everything and often form habits based on things we are teaching them through our example. It’s important for parents to set a good example for their children. When they see you brushing usually they want to as well. Make sure you have good dental habits in place for yourself. This will not only benefit you but your children as well. If you have dental fears it’s important to try and not relay these on to your children as they may also develop fears.

• Prepare at Home. Before your child’s first visit tell them what is coming up. Do not let the drive up to the dentist office be the first time they are hearing about it. They are smarter than we think and it helps them to know what to expect. Read books to them about going to the dentist. The library and bookstore has a great selection to help you with this. Another thing that could help is taking your child in to the office and let them meet the staff. If you have the courage to, you could even let them watch you get a dental check-up. Also talk to them about what to expect on their first visit, making sure to answer their questions in a loving way and staying positive.

What to expect on the first visit

Although each visit can be a little bit different based on the needs of each child, here is some general information of what you and your child can expect on the first visit.

You can expect Dr. Weyneth or a dental hygienist to:

• Review your child’s history
• Respond to your questions and concerns
• Talk with you and your child about their overall oral health
• A gentle teeth cleaning if the child permits it  
• Show you how to clean your child’s teeth
• Give specific advice about home dental care including diet and recommended toothpaste
• Tell you what to expect as your child grows
• Suggest a schedule for follow-up care

It is important that you ask any questions that you may have. If your child has a hard time on their first visit, don’t worry. This is perfectly normal. The important thing is to keep bringing them back regularly. Make the next appointment before you even leave the office. Eventually it will become easier and can even be a delightful experience for both of you.

The sooner children begin getting regular dental checkups, the healthier their mouths will stay throughout their lives. Early checkups help prevent cavities and tooth decay, which can lead to pain, trouble concentrating and other medical issues. Youngsters with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly and smile with confidence.

It is important to find a dental practice that is comfortable for you and your child. A friendly place that is familiar and has the needs of your little one in mind. At Sherman Oaks Family Dental we care about you and your family.

We can help to make the first dental visit a comfortable and pleasant one. We will happily answer any questions you may have and help you to make this a good experience for your little one. Call our friendly office today to schedule an appointment.

Some say your smile is the easiest thing you can change to look and feel more attractive! Many of us look at actors and their perfect, flawless teeth and wish we could borrow their smiles for a little while! In today’s modern world, getting a perfect, flawless smile is more accessible than we realize. Lumineers and veneers are gaining in popularity thanks to their ease and affordability over more invasive dental correction procedures. Both are made of thin material that looks like a natural tooth. They adhere to your teeth and can correct many cosmetic issues like cracks, gaps, chips, stains, and more.

Dr. Weyneth, our Naperville cosmetic dentist, has many years of experience placing veneers and lumineers, and can help you decide which is better for your needs.

Lumineers Vs. Veneers

Everyone has different teeth. Depending on your specific needs, either lumineers or veneers may be the best option for you. Let’s talk a little bit about what makes each option similar as well as unique.

Both Lumineers and Veneers

• Improve the look of crooked, misaligned teeth.
• Give you a whiter, brighter, cleaner smile.
• Cover a cracked or chipped tooth.
• Made of a layer of strong porcelain.
• Bridge gaps between teeth.
• Feel comfortable and look natural.
• Tough enough to handle daily use.
• Easy to maintain.
• Won’t stain or change color with time.
• Custom-made to create a seamless smile.
• Come with a similar price tag.

The Differences

Lumineers

Lumineers are similar in function to veneers. But, the procedure is less invasive. The original tooth is left unchanged, and the enamel undamaged. Generally, they’re about the thickness of a contact lens, but still strong and durable. This less invasive approach to correcting teeth is the reason many of our patients prefer it over veneers. They may look and feel slightly bulkier when compared to veneers. It’s essential that you find a dentist who has the experience necessary to give you a smile that looks good and feels good. Finally, Lumineers are quicker to apply than veneers because the teeth are not shaved down before applying the new layer.

Veneers

Veneers require some removal and reshaping of the original tooth (or teeth). Generally, your Naperville cosmetic dentist removes enamel to leave enough room for the veneer. As a long-term solution, this permanent removal of enamel may be concerning, but for specific scenarios, it can be precisely what the patient needs to restore their smile. Veneers can usually be applied in two or three visits. When applied by an experienced cosmetic dentist, they look and feel like your natural teeth, and can last for 10-15 years.

If you are looking for lumineers or cosmetic dentistry in Naperville, we would love to visit with you! Lumineers are an exciting part of what we do here, and we have some of the best lumineer and veneer options in Naperville. Call us now to schedule a consultation!

With all the options available for orthodontia, patients can straighten their teeth in a variety of ways. Visit a Naperville cosmetic dentist to discuss if braces or Invisalign will work best for your straightening needs. Both options have the goal of providing you with the outcome of straighter teeth. So which one will meet your needs? Here are some things you need to know about Invisalign and braces.

Braces

Braces are made of metal brackets that are glued to the teeth and use wires to tie them together with small rubber bands. Old models of braces used to be made of metal and had a reputation for being an embarrassing and painful part of childhood.

As technology progressed, material used to create braces have changed. Many of the modern braces are translucent, so only the wire and rubber bands are visible. A lot of younger patients enjoy braces as they can change the color of the rubber bands and express themselves through various colors. If you are seeking a solution for your crooked teeth, Naperville cosmetic dentistry can help!

Invisalign

Invisalign has grown in popularity for many patients as it allows you to straighten your teeth discreetly. When you smile, other people will not notice you are currently using Invisalign to straighten your teeth. There are aligner trays created to match the shape of your teeth and gently move your teeth. The aligner trays are smooth and comfortable and will slide over your teeth to subtly move them\ over time. Our Naperville cosmetic dentistry specialists will create precise images of your teeth to create perfect aligners to move your teeth. Sherman Oaks Dental will use x-rays, impressions, and pictures to create a 3D image of the teeth, allowing us to create precise trays to correctly align your teeth.

What’s the Difference?

Which one should you try? Both braces and invisalign have their pros and cons. Here are some final points to consider when you are debating between the two options.

Braces

• Colored silver or white to match your teeth
• Are permanantly attached to your teeth for 2 years
• Need to brush properly around the brackets to avoid staining the enamel
• Can get food stuck in brackets
• More affordable for families

Invisalign

• Clear and sculpted to match your teeth
• Require daily wear for 12-18 months
• Can remove to clean your teeth with ease
• Can remove to eat, but must wear for most of the day for good results
• More expensive than braces

Schedule your consultation with Sherman Oaks Dental today to find out which option is best for you, and how you can find affordable cosmetic dentistry in Naperville.

Do you have trouble with snoring and sleeping at night? Snoring and sleep disturbances are often signs of obstructive sleep apnea. If you are concerned with this and want to know more, here is a list of 10 symptoms that may help you take the next step in treating sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

1. Excessive Snoring

   Snoring does not always have to be linked with sleep apnea. However it is a very typical indicator. If you are experiencing snoring along with fatigue or any other symptoms discussed here, sleep apnea is likely the cause.

2. Sleep Disturbances or Insomnia

   Constant dreaming or waking up often or even experiencing insomnia (inability to sleep) is not common and often has an underlying cause. It is one of the most common signs of this disorder.

3. Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

   A poor night’s sleep can cause daytime drowsiness and many people experience it. But being excessively sleepy during the daytime is not as common and can be a symptom of different types of sleep apnea.

4. Sleep Deprivation

   Insomnia can lead to sleep deprivation and that can lead to unfocused and unproductive days. When this occurs a person is truly unable to feel like his or herself.

5. Episodes of No Breathing

   This is the most telling sign and the main characteristic of sleep apnea. Sometimes when an individual experiences this they asa partner or friend to monitor their sleep during the night to see if this is happening. Sleep studies are used to diagnose this.

6. Mouth Breathing

   The stress that sleep apnea produces will cause breathing through your open mouth during the night. It often become habitual because it is the brain’s attempt to gain as much oxygen as possible. This can happen sometimes during the day as well without even knowing it.

7. Dry Mouth and Throat

   Dry mouth and throat issues are also common with this disorder. Shortness of breath leads to mouth breathing which produces dryness in the mouth and throat area. This is extremely common.

8. Fatigue

   Many people experience fatigue but when combined with any of these other symptoms sleep apnea might be the diagnosis. Even those that have sleep apnea may report they had a good night’s sleep will still experience fatigue during the day. You may be experiencing brief interruptions of breathlessness in the night that you won’t even notice. This interrupts your sleep and can cause fatigue.

9. Headache

   Restless sleep can cause headaches during the day and is yet another indicator of this sleeping disorder. When the breathing is interrupted frequently during the night the brain is unable to receive as much oxygen.

10. Irritability

    Irritability is like a second generation symptom. Fatigue, lack of sleep, stress can all cause irritability in an individual. Alone, irritability is not necessarily an indicator but if you are experiencing this with any other symptoms then it can be cause for concern.

Why Treat Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea can potentially be very dangerous. So many of these symptoms if left undiagnosed and untreated will just get worse and could lead to an emergency situation causing even more stress and discomfort. It is important that if you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms that you contact us today in helping you to get started on the right treatment. Sherman Oaks Dental, your Naperville family dentist can help you in diagnosing your sleep apnea and help you to have a better nights sleep and a healthier life. Here we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. Why would you trust your health to someone other than a specialist? Let us be your sleep apnea treatment in Naperville. We will help you to get a good night’s sleep again!

What parent isn’t busy? We know that it takes time to schedule appointments for everyone in your family. It is hard to balance all of the places you and your kids need to be on a daily basis. You should not have to do the same for your dentist appointments. But what is the difference between a general and a family dentist? Learn here and why you should choose Sherman Oaks Dental as your Naperville family dentist.

General Care

A general dentist receives extensive training and education. General dentists have a primary goal: to maintain a healthy smile. While this is also the purpose of all dentists, general dentists may restrict their patients to a specific age group. This does not work if you have to make an appointment for yourself and your 5 and 9 year old children. You will be running all over town for dentist appointments and we know as a busy parent you do not have time for that.

Family Care

• “One Stop” Solution

  A family dental office has the convenience of a “one-stop” solution for all of your family’s dental health needs. Family care is unique because they provide a variety of treatments in the same office, whereas many practices are built around a specialty of some sort. They offer more than one specialized dentist in their practice. Whether you need a dentist that has experience with children or gum disease, you can find what your family needs in one office.

• Extensively Trained

  Similar to general dentist a family dentist is extensively trained. They must receive their undergraduate degree and attend dental school before they see any patients. The main difference between a general dentist and family dentist is that a family dentist performs dental procedures for all ages.

• Focus on Each Individual

  Family dentists focus on educating patients of all ages on teeth cleaning practices. Whether they’re teaching a toddler proper brushing techniques, or showing an elderly patient the correct way to clean their dentures, family dentists will ensure you and your family maintains excellent dental care habits outside of the dental office.

The family dentist you choose should focus on providing a positive and safe dental experience for your entire family. We love our patients of all ages and backgrounds and find joy in working with every family we come in contact with. In search of a Naperville family dentistry? Let Sherman Oaks Dental be your choice. Give our office a call today.

Being nervous at the dentist is a very common thing that most people experience. Dental anxiety is also common but a little different than just having the jitters. Those with dental anxiety have a sense of uneasiness when it’s time for their appointments. We know your fears are very real and understand the worries you have. When you experience this kind of dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can help keep you calm during your dental visit. Read on to learn about your Naperville family dentist’s techniques to keep you calm.

Sedation Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. There are different types of sedation dentistry, and your Naperville family and cosmetic dentist can help you decide what works best for you. We want to help you feel as comfortable as possible.

The levels of sedation include:

• Minimal sedation– you are aware and awake but relaxed.
• Moderate seation– your words may blend together and you may not remember much of the procedure.
• Deep Sedation– you are on the verge of consciousness but can wake up without assistance.
• General anesthesia– you are totally unconscious (in a deep sleep).

Types of Sedation

The following types of sedation are used in dentistry:

• Inhaled Minimal Sedation: You will breathe “laughing gas” combined with oxygen through a mask that is placed over your nose. It helps you to relax and the dentist can control the amount you will need. It wears off quickly and is the only form of sedation where you might be able to drive yourself home after the procedure.
• Oral Sedation: It can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation you will take a pill and is usually taken about an hour before the procedure. It makes you drowsy but you will still be fairly alert. A larger dose may be give to produce a moderate effect. This is the most common form of sedation. This may make you drowsy enough to actually fall asleep through the procedure but can still be awakened.
• IV Moderate Sedation: You will receive the sedation drug through a vein and will go to work more quickly. The dentist can easily adjust the level of sedation through this method.
• Deep Sedation and General Anesthesia: You will get medication that will make you almost or entirely unconscious (deeply asleep) during the procedure. You will not be easily awakened during this method until the anesthesia wears off.

There are many different ways that we can help with your dental anxiety and we are here to work with you to make your experience a good one. As your Naperville family dentist, we want you to have a pleasant experience and be as comfortable as possible. When you think of sedation dentistry in Naperville we hope you will choose us!

Call us today to learn more about our sedation dentistry and what could be best for you.

At Sherman Oaks dental, we’ve been taking care of smiles for over 20 years! We have a state-of-the-art dental office specializing in treatments like dental implants, dental crowns, and cosmetic dentistry in Naperville. Our professional and experienced team is committed to making sure you feel great about your smile again. Here are just a few things we want you to know about your dental health:

1. Dental Health Affects All Areas of Your Health

   Did you know that the state of your dental health says a whole lot about other areas of your health as well? If you commit to making sure your teeth and gums are healthy, you’ll have a healthier cardiovascular system, as well!

2. Bleeding Gums Can Mean Trouble

   Sure, everyone flosses (or brushes!) too hard on occasion resulting in bleeding or sensitive gums. However, if you notice that your gums are bleeding regularly, you should call our Naperville family dental office as soon as possible. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease.

3. Chewing Gum Can Help

   Seriously! Chewing gum with the ingredient xylitol after every meal is been proven to prevent cavities in patients of all ages!

4. Avoid Soft Drinks

   Soft drinks are known to erode tooth enamel, causing teeth to weaken. It can be tough to give up soda, so make sure you remember to brush after indulging in one to keep your teeth healthy.

5. Dental X-Rays are Not Harmful to Your Health

   One of the most common concerns of our patients is that dental X-rays give off a harmful dosage of radiation. In fact, dental x-rays provide such a low dosage of radiation that there is no need to be concerned. Dental x-rays often catch a variety of dental issues before it is too late for treatment, making them too important to skip!

6. Floss Every Day

   We know that flossing is a hard habit to form, but it’s an important one to pick up! Floss once a day (pick a time that is convenient for your schedule) and make it a habit. Flossing is important because it removes cavity-causing food and plaque particles from in between your teeth.

7. Regular Dental Care Goes a Long Way

   Visiting our Naperville office for regular dental cleanings and exams can keep your teeth healthy for years to come. Regular checkups allow us to pick up on any minor problems before they become major.

8. Eat Healthy!

   Your regular doctor stresses the importance of a healthy diet, and so does our Naperville team of cosmetic (and general!) dentistry. Eating whole-grain and fiber rich foods do a lot in making sure your teeth are strong and healthy.

9. Chipped Teeth are More Vulnerable to Decay

   Whether it happened playing your favorite sport, or while munching on some popcorn; if you have a chipped tooth, it becomes even more susceptible to cavities and decay. Visit our Naperville family dentist for a repair option that works best for you.

10. Teach Your Kids!

    Dental decay is an extremely common childhood illness. In fact, dental decay effects about five percent more children than asthma. Keep your kids protected and healthy by teaching them proper brushing and flossing techniques at a young age. Kids also need regular dental screenings to make sure they stay healthy! The earlier you teach your kids, the more likely it is to stick!

Make your dental care a top priority by calling Sherman Oaks family dental at (630) 369-5225. You can also schedule an appointment with us online. We’ll make sure you fall in love with your smile again!

What is your New Year’s resolution for 2018? For a resolution that will have lasting and beautiful results, add teeth whitening to your list.

The first thing people notice about others is their smile. If you do not have a white smile, you may not have as much confidence in your smile. Don’t let this happen to you! Call your Naperville cosmetic dentist today to discuss your teeth whitening options.

Why are my Teeth Yellow?

Years of drinking soda, coffee, teas, citrus, and other things can cause teeth to yellow. Smoking or using tobacco can lead to serious staining, which is hard to cover up. The aging process isn’t kind to teeth, either.

Unfortunately, far too many people neglect their teeth until they are too embarrassed to smile. As we age, our tooth enamel becomes thinner, which leads to the yellow appearance. The dentin layer is the inner layer of the tooth, and it too can yellow as you age.

Can I Use At-Home Teeth Whitening?

Should you consider at-home products for teeth whitening? The debate continues to rage with patients and dental offices. The best thing you can do is contact your dentist in Naperville to discuss teeth whitening. Certain at-home products do work, but it is best to speak to your dentist to ensure they will not damage your enamel. Over-the-counter kits sold in stores are not always effective for deep staining problems. But, most do a decent job handling slight soda staining.

Patients with gum disease, soft teeth enamel, or dental crowns will face different challenges when it comes to teeth whitening. Your Naperville cosmetic dentist can recommend teeth whitening kits that are designed for safe and effective treatment at home.

For Great Results, Get In-Office Teeth Whitening

If you need teeth whitening in Naperville, call our office to schedule an appointment. Our team will bring you in for a consultation to discuss the current state of your teeth and teeth whitening options. Some patients will see results in a couple of treatments, while others need to receive three or more treatments to start noticing a color change. If you have a lot of staining from smoking or drinking, we may need to use different treatment options to ensure your teeth will whiten.

Let the Sherman Oaks Dental team help you get your New Year off to a great start! Call us today to schedule a consultation and be proud to share your smile.

Happy Holidays! From your Naperville cosmetic dentist at Sherman Oaks Dental, to you! We are looking forward to the holiday season and to spending time with family and friends. We wish for all our patients joy, great food, and good times with those they care about. There are so many ways and so many things to celebrate during this time of year. No matter how you enjoy the season, we hope this one brings happiness and good feelings.

Stay safe and healthy this winter season!

We wouldn’t be your Naperville family dentist if we didn’t remind you to take care of your teeth during the holidays! There are often many yummy treats around such as chocolates and pies, and it’s important to maintain good brushing and flossing habits. This will keep your gums and teeth healthy even as you enjoy some of the goodies.

Also, we want to help our patients and community stay safe during the holiday season. There is a lot of travel that happens during this time of year as people visit loved ones, so…

Here are some tips for safe travel during the winter.

1. Keep tabs on your flight

   Winter weather can impact flights even to sunny destinations. It is a good idea to check in to ensure your flight hasn’t changed or delayed because of weather.

2. If you are driving, be aware of weather and travel warnings

   It’s always better to wait than to drive into a storm. If you’re aware of the weather, you can avoid driving into a bad situation. Even if you’re in a hurry, it is better to wait than drive on bad roads. In case of emergency or a big storm, keep jumper cables, a first aid kit, and cold-weather clothes in your car.

3. Keep snacks and water with you

   If you are driving, keep nonperishable snacks and water in your vehicle. For flights, be sure to bring some snacks and keep your water bottle filled after going through security. Delays might happen during this time of year and travel can take longer than expected, so it is always a good idea to have food on hand.

4. Keep your electronic devices, especially your phone, charged

   If driving in a car, it is always a good idea to bring a car charger. For airplane travel, make sure your phone is charged before arriving as it’s not always possible to use the charging stations at the airport. Also, portable chargers can keep your phone charged even during a delay.

Schedule an Appointment

Before the holidays start in earnest and you make your trips, come to your Naperville Family Dentist for a checkup. We offer teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services, so schedule an appointment to brighten your smile for the new year!

Snoring is a common condition that affects millions of people every night. If you get it every night and wake up tired every morning, you may have sleep apnea. What most of those people may not know is that sleep apnea treatment in Naperville is accessible through your dentist! While that may seem strange, let’s remember that oral health is connected to almost all aspects of our lives.

What does sleeping have to do with my dentist?

Since your Naperville family dentist is familiar with snoring, its causes, and the solutions, we can help you get a good night’s rest. Dr. Weyneth can help you determine the cause of your snoring based on the anatomy of your mouth, jaw, and throat. If you’ve already visited your ENT doctor for snoring, they may have referred you to your dentist to get mouthpieces fitted for snoring solutions.

How do I find the cause for my snoring?

There are several easy at-home tests you can try to determine what kind of snorer you are. Some snore through the nose, others through the mouth, and for some it’s the tongue that’s the problem.

• Test #1: Try sticking your tongue out as far as it can go, then clamp down on it with your teeth so that it can’t come back into your mouth. Try to snore. If you’re able to still make a snoring sound, your tongue isn’t the problem. But if you cannot make a snoring sound, your tongue may well be the problem!
• Test #2: This is the simplest test (and the least embarrassing). Place your finger on your nose and close one nostril. Can you still breathe through the other side? Do this on both sides and determine if one of your nostrils collapses, making it hard to breathe out one side.
• Test #3: Open wide and make your best snoring sound. Now try to replicate that sound with your mouth closed. Can you do it? If not, your snore may come from having an open mouth while sleeping.

If none of these three tests gives you a definitive answer, it could also be your soft palate or uvula that vibrate while breathing during sleep. No matter the cause, your Naperville family dentist can help you diagnose it and treat it. As one of the best dentists in Naperville, we look forward to helping you get the shut-eye you need to perform your best every day. Schedule an appointment to treat your sleep apnea today!

We don’t know about you, but, for us, one of our favorite parts of the year is here. The holiday season from November to the New Year is full of festivities and fun. There is also no shortage of food to be found during this time of year. Because there is so much food to go around, especially during Thanksgiving, it is important to think about ways to make good choices that will have positive impacts on your dental and overall health.

Pumpkin is a Healthy Food

One of the main ingredients used during Thanksgiving and autumn is pumpkin. Who doesn’t love a pumpkin pie or a warm loaf of pumpkin bread? Regardless of what your favorite pumpkin treat is, there is a lot of the ingredient to go around this time of the year.

Did you also know that pumpkin is good for your health in many ways? At Sherman Oaks Dental, we love to educate our patients on foods that are good for your oral hygiene. We want to help our patients make good choices related to their dental health. It’s great to know that pumpkin is a great health good that is also good for teeth. This is because pumpkin is nutrient-dense. Pumpkin has many vitamins and minerals that are great for you. This ingredient is also low in calories.

What are the specific ways pumpkin is good for your health?

The USDA National Nutrient Database has found that 1/2 cup of cooked pumpkin has many health benefits. It only has 40 calories and has 1.8g of protein. Also, 1/2 cup of cooked pumpkin has 3g of fiber.

Looking further at the vitamins and minerals in a cup of cooked pumpkin, they found that 100% of the daily intake for Vitamin A can be found in this food. Also, pumpkin contains potassium, manganese, copper, and calcium.

How is pumpkin good for your teeth?

Being full of calcium, pumpkin can help with healthy bones and teeth. Beyond this, pumpkin is full of magnesium which is really good for healthy tooth enamel. Magnesium works like calcium and helps grow enamel that resists tooth decay.

Of course, pumpkin spices and flavors do not give health benefits. So, sadly, that pumpkin spice latte isn’t going to do much for you health wise.

To get you started, here are some pumpkin recipes that your Naperville family dentist recommends:

• Pumpkin Pie Pancakes
• Pumpkin Shrimp Curry

As always, if you have a question for us or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today! Our Naperville family dentistry is taking new patients!

The team at Sherman Oaks Dental would like to wish all our patients a Happy Halloween! No matter how into the holiday you are or what way you celebrate it, we hope you enjoy this fun time of year and the excitement that comes with fall. Halloween is a time of year that leads to a lot of candy and sweets being around. Of course, everyone deserves to enjoy something sweet now and again. But with so much Halloween candy sitting around, it can be hard to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we like to provide our patients with educational tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the year. For Halloween, we have some ideas and tips for how you and your family can maintain healthy mouths and smiles even with all those Halloween sweets.

Here are Some Halloween Tips to Get You Started!

1. Remember that timing is important: Eating Halloween candy during meals or shortly after meals can reduce the risk of harm from eating sweets. Saliva productions increases during meals which can cancel out acids produced by bacteria when eating.
2. When snacking, stay away from sweets. Between, meals eat other snacks that won’t damage your teeth as much, such as apple slices or carrot sticks.
3. Pay attention to the kinds of candy you eat. Certain candies, such as hard candies, stay in your mouth longer which can lead to tooth decay. By choosing different sweets, or even sugar-free candies, you can avoid these problems.
4. Sticky candies can be harmful. Avoiding candies like taffy and gummy bears is a smart choice. These candies take longer to wash away with saliva which means they are more likely to cause tooth decay.
5. Having a plan is also really important. Keep the amount of candy that is around to a minimum. Limit your stash and only keep family favorites around the house.
6. Drink more water. Water that contains fluoride can lead to prevention of tooth decay.
7. Limit sugary beverages. Drinks like soda and sports drinks that are high in sugar can greatly increase the risk of tooth decay.
8. Maintain daily oral hygiene habits. It is important all times of the year to brush and floss daily, and this is of course true during Halloween season, too.
9. Keep up on routine check-ups and cleanings at the dentist. At Sherman Oaks Dental, we can screen for cavities as well as keep teeth from building up plaque by performing regular cleanings.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Give the team at Sherman Oaks Dental a call today to schedule your appointment. We are happy to work out a time that fits with your busy schedule. Happy Halloween, from your Naperville family dentistry!

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we commit to giving our patients the highest quality care possible. Part of this is providing education to our patients about how to make good oral hygiene choices. We also realize that coming to your Naperville family dentist is not everybody’s favorite activity. We want to give our patients tips on how to make their visit to the dentist more pleasant and easy for everyone involved.

Being prepared is also important for the visit to go well and for each patient to get the most out of their dental check-ups. Sometimes at your visit, you might forget about questions you might have. To get the most out of your visit and to feel prepared, we have outlined some tips of what to prepare before your visit with us. We also have some tips about things to remember to do at your visit.

As your Naperville family dentist, we want you to get the information and help you are looking for when you come to see us. We hope that by following this list, you will feel more prepared and have an even more enjoyable visit at Sherman Oaks Dental.

1. Make a List

   We recommend making a list of questions and issues you have about your oral health before coming in. This way you will have the list with you when you come for your visit, and you will not forget to ask these questions. Here are some ideas of things to ask about or discuss with us:

   Any pain or discomfort you are having. Remembering the location of this pain can be important.
   Any cosmetic dentistry concerns you might have such as teeth whitening.
   Teeth grinding issues.
   Questions you might have about brushing or flossing habits.
   Questions about brands, products, and tools to use such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc.

2. Confirm Your Appointment

   We will give you a reminder call. But, for peace of mind, it never hurts to call our Naperville dental office to confirm or to ask questions you might have about the appointment.

3. Insurance and Payment

   Remember to bring your insurance cards, forms, and types of payment with you to the appointment. This makes the whole process easier for everyone involved.

4. Bring Medical Information

   If you are new to Sherman Oaks Dental, we recommend you come ready to fill out a new patient form. It is important to know important details about your medical history when filling this form out.

Schedule Your Next Appointment

Give us a call to schedule your next appointment. We hope this list will help you feel more prepared for your next visit to Sherman Oaks Dental. Also, feel free to call us with any questions you have. As your Naperville family dentist, we care about your dental health and wellbeing.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we strive to provide our clients with high-quality dental services and individualized care. We listen to every one of our patients and what their concerns are. We offer many dental services including teeth whitening services. As your Naperville cosmetic dentist, we want to do everything we can to help you get the smile you want. We offer many teeth whitening services. We realize that there are many remedies out there when it comes to teeth whitening. But, the options we provide are much stronger, safer, and produce better results.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening involves applying a bleach solution to teeth. The bleach attacks the colored organic molecules and breaks them down. You usually leave this solution on for a half-hour to an hour. Teeth whitening procedures are generally safe as the chemicals do not attack the structure of the actual tooth. Having your teeth whitened at the dentist, or using materials your Naperville cosmetic dentist gives you, is much safer.

What Teeth Whitening Systems Are Out There?

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we can provide clients with individual advice that suits their needs and oral hygiene history. Dr. Weyneth will talk to you and figure out the best teeth whitening option for you. He can recommend the best and safest tooth whitening products. Or, we can provide in-office procedures that are even stronger and more effective. It is always safest to consult with your dentist before using any new product on your teeth.

Sherman Oaks Dental offers in-office whitening system and take-home whitening systems. In-office systems are highly-concentrated gels you wear for about an hour. You can also get take-home whitening systems after a we make a custom mouth tray in our office. Both of these options can achieve great results, and we are able to use more effective products with your safety and comfort in mind.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products contain lower concentrations of bleach and can take longer to see any results. They also are not administered or under advisement of a dentist which means there is a risk for improper use.

Contact Us to Learn More About Teeth Whitening

If you have any questions about teeth whitening systems, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are happy to inform you about the different options we provide. Also, our Sherman Oaks Dental front desk staff will be glad to schedule you an appointment for our teeth whitening services. Dr. Weyneth, one of the best dentsits in Naperville, can figure out the best solution for you to get a whiter, brighter smile.

When is the last time you flossed your teeth? Be honest. No one is going to know or tell on you. But seriously, we get it. Flossing teeth isn’t always the most fun thing to do in the world. It tends to be something that many people forget to do in their daily oral hygiene routine. Even people who diligently brush their teeth and never miss a morning or night of brushing might go days without flossing. While we know that this is a common thing to forget, at Sherman Oaks Dental, we encourage our patients to make flossing daily a habit. There are many reasons why it is so important to floss daily.

As a Statement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Explains,

“Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line. Professional cleaning, tooth brushing, and cleaning between teeth (flossing and the use of other tools such as interdental brushes) have been shown to disrupt and remove plaque.”

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we know that flossing is an essential part of keeping your gums and teeth clean. Flossing removes plaque that can lead to gum disease. If you don’t floss regularly, you might notice sensitive gums or even bleeding when you do floss. Buy regularly flossing you can avoid these issues. Flossing can also lead to better smelling breath.

Toothbrushes can’t reach the places on teeth and gums that flossing can. If you don’t like regular string floss, other interdental cleaning products work well. There are many products out there that make flossing simpler and more effective depending on the patient and their preference If you have any questions about the effectiveness of a flossing method, please feel free to ask us questions. We are happy to help!

We Issue a Flossing Challenge!

Our Naperville family dentist issues a challenge to each of our patients to floss each day. This simple, quick habit will lead healthier mouths and smiles. It’s a simple thing to do! It’s just a matter of making flossing a habit.

As your Naperville family dentist, we are here to provide central services to the whole family. Give us a call to schedule an appointment. Our front desk staff are professional and happy to help!

The foods you eat have a direct impact on your oral health. How can you make sure you are consuming foods that will reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay? Packing healthy lunches can go a long way toward keeping plaque and bacteria away. Our family dentist in Naperville has some excellent suggestions to help you pack healthier lunches for school or work!

Selecting Fruit

All fruit is good for you right? Wrong! Fruits are high in acid, which can start to eat away at your teeth’s enamel. If you aren’t rinsing your mouth with water or brushing soon after eating the fruit, those acids can lead to stains on the surface areas of the teeth over the years. Pack fruits that will not eat away at your teeth, and will promote healthy gums. Try eating bananas over grapes as they have less sugar and the potassium is more filling than sugary fruits. Apples are a great fruit to consider as their thicker texture you need to bite into can help to “scrub” the teeth. If you like applesauce, your Naperville family dentist recommends you opt for the kind that does not contain sugar to keep cavities at bay!

Finding Vegetables

All fruit is good for you right? Wrong! Fruits are high in acid, which can start to eat away at your teeth’s enamel. If you aren’t rinsing your mouth with water or brushing soon after eating the fruit, those acids can lead to stains on the surface areas of the teeth over the years. Pack fruits that will not eat away at your teeth, and will promote healthy gums. Try eating bananas over grapes as they have less sugar and the potassium is more filling than sugary fruits. Apples are a great fruit to consider as their thicker texture you need to bite into can help to “scrub” the teeth. If you like applesauce, your Naperville family dentist recommends you opt for the kind that does not contain sugar to keep cavities at bay!

Water

Avoid the soda and juice drinks and fill up with water. Water is not only great for your health, it helps to wash bacteria from the mouth, reducing plaque buildup. If you hate the taste of water, flavor it with some lemons, watermelon, raspberries, or mint leaves. Plus, water can help you avoid stains on your teeth from coffee, tea, and soda. If you would like to brighten your smile, however, you are welcome to visit your cosmetic dentist in Naperville.

Whole Grains

Stay healthy by eating 100% whole wheat for your sandwich options. Whole grains paired with healthy aged cheese can be good for your teeth. Dairy does have an impact on tooth development, which is why cheese is beneficial for children as their secondary teeth are still forming.

If you have stains, cracks, and other tooth decay problems, call your family dentist in Naperville today! At Sherman Oaks Family Dental, we are here to help solve all your tooth problems. Learn why Dr. Weyneth is known as one of the best dentists in Naperville. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey toward a healthier, happier smile!

Summer is almost over! It can be hard to face; the days of lounging in the sun by the pool should never have to end. But, like every year, summer ends, and it is time for school again. When school starts back up, it can be a great time to take inventory for your family of what they need to start off the school year.

Thinking about health and staying up to date on check-ups makes sense during this organizational time of year. Starting school is a great time to check if your family needs to come in to see your Naperville family dentist for checkups and teeth cleanings. Summer is a busy time but also a time with a lot of fun. It can be easy to forget things like going to the dentist with family vacations, summer camps, and the like going on.

See Your Naperville Family Dentist as Summer Wraps Up

We are one of the best dentists in Naperville, providing a variety of services. Along with regular cleanings and check-ups, we can also provide fillings, x-rays, and cosmetic dentistry to Naperville.

If you have a teen about to start high school who is thinking a lot about their appearance these days, we also offer Invisalign. This method of braces is transparent and doesn’t involve any metal wires or elastic bands. This can reduce embarrassment for preteens and teens who need braces and is a great option for both teenagers and adults.

Our Naperville family dentistry commits to giving each of our patients individualized care that they can rely on. We listen to each one of our patients and what their needs and concerns are, so they know they are getting the best dental care possible. All our staff do everything they can to make sure our office is comfortable and welcoming. We also make an environment that helps put kids at ease, and we will work with them to make their experience at our office a good one.

Contact Us To Schedule Your Family Appointments

Our friendly front desk staff are happy to schedule you and your family an appointment before school starts. We are also happy to answer any questions you might have about the services we provide and what to expect.

Everyone knows that you should brush your teeth twice a day and focus on flossing. Did you know that an important piece of the oral hygiene equation involves your tongue? With its bumpy texture and lots of microscopic places for bacteria to take shelter, it can harbor millions of microorganisms. If it isn’t cleaned, it can pave the way for problems like bad breath and ongoing periodontal disease. Some of the best dentists in Naperville will tell you why you should be brushing your tongue and what might happen if you don’t.

What Happens When You Don’t Brush Your Tongue

Research shows that one microgram of oral biomass contains around 100 million microbes. As these bacteria feast on the sugars in your mouth left behind after eating and drinking, they multiply and create bacterial acids. These lead to problems like worn enamel, cavities, abscesses, and even oral yeast infections. Unfortunately, bacteria can multiply faster than most people realize, about every five hours. In fact, if you ignore brushing for a full 24 hours, 20 billion oral microbes will become 100 billion microbes! Each emit smelly volatile organic compounds that give you bad breath, duller taste buds, and dental decay. For these reasons, Naperville family dentists recommend cleaning your tongue each time you brush your teeth.

How To Clean Your Tongue

There are two basic ways to clean your tongue to inhibit the growth or oral bacteria: brushing and tongue scraping. To brush, apply a small amount of your normal toothpaste to your toothbrush. Using gentle pressure, brush your tongue back to front. Since the majority of oral bacteria take harbor in the center section of your tongue, focus on that area. Tongue scrapers are also helpful in keeping the tongue clean. They remove the biofilm that develops in a single pass. Tongue scrapers are made from a thin, flexible plastic, and you gently run the scraper down the tongue. Be sure to rinse the scraper between passes.

Visit Sherman Oaks Dental

To make sure that your tongue looks clean and healthy, talk with your famiyl dentist during your routine checkups. Known as one of the best dentists in Naperville, Dr. Weyneth is completely committed to improving your oral health and making your teeth beautiful and healthy. Schedule your next checkup today!

We are sad to announce that Dr. Lydia Sosenko is leaving Sherman Oaks Dental. As one of the best sleep apnea dentists in Naperville, we are sad to see her go. Please wish her a fond farewell and luck for her next endeavors!

What Does This Mean For Me?

Nothing at all! Dr. Bryan Weyneth is more than happy to meet with you regarding your sleep apnea concerns, and he is also one of the best cosmetic dentists in Naperville! He offers teeth whitening, lumineers, Invisalign, and many more!

At Sherman Oaks, we are proud to offer family dentistry in Naperville as well. We love working with your whole family, from children to adults 50 and better! Schedule an appointment with us today! Our staff is friendly, informative, and excited to meet you.

Tis the season for that new workout plan that will finally get you into that bathing suit you once wore! Summer is the time to get fit, get tan, and love the photos you post to your social media accounts. While you’re setting your fitness goals, why not get that smile into picture-perfect condition, too? As some of the best cosmetic dentists in Naperville, we can help you hit your straightening, whitening, and general teeth-fixing goals!

Cosmetic dentistry doesn’t usually come with the same associations as cosmetic surgery. But, with our cosmetic dentists in Naperville, you have some very similar options. You can choose the size, shape, color, or alignment of your teeth! Not only are most oral cosmetic issues fixable, but they are also convenient and affordable. We know what an impact your smile has on your life. When you’re proud of your smile, you’ll love those family photos, nail that job interview, and be the fun date that unabashedly laughs at jokes. Check out some of the services we offer here in Naperville:

• Invisalign

  These are the 21st century’s answer to braces. Gone are the days of headgears and conspicuous metal. With Invisalign, your teeth will move to their intended positions with nearly invisible clear plastic trays. Much more discreet than the metal braces of yore, you will experience minimal discomfort, and no embarrassment. You need to wear these trays least 22 hours per day, but they are relatively low maintenance. Just be sure to keep up a regular oral hygiene routine.

• Teeth Whitening

  If too much coffee, wine, tobacco, or other foods and drinks have yellowed your teeth, let us help you get back those pearly whites that dazzle when you smile. You can choose between a simple in-office technique, or the take-home kit that helps you whiten in the comfort of your own home and at your convenience.

• Veneers and Lumineers

  Veneers are like the magic that transforms your mouth into that advertisement-worthy smile. When you have stains, gaps, breaks, chips, or misshapen teeth, veneers are the way to go. Your teeth will all look uniform, straight, beautifully shaped, and flawless. You’ll work with our cosmetic dentists here in Naperville to get the look you want.

Don’t wait any longer to get that smile you’ve been hoping for! Come to Sherman Oaks Dental to get your smile summer-ready.

The summer season and warmer temperatures are finally here! One of the best things to do on a hot summer day is grab a refreshing drink to beat the heat!

Don’t let summer drinks eat your teeth!

Lemonade, sweet tea, soda and fruit juices are a few of the most common refreshing summer drinks. They contain sugar and acid.  This means these summer drinks eat your teeth! Everything done in moderation is okay, but consuming too much of these tasty drinks can cause acid wear and tooth decay. Acid wear is a wearing of the enamel exposing softer parts of the tooth making you prone to tooth decay and tooth sensitivity!

Follow these 3 tips to protect your teeth while you enjoy your summer drinks:

1. Always rinse with water after drinking these summer drinks.
2. Always consume these drinks with food or a meal.
3. Never sip these beverages. Sipping is like bathing your teeth in sugar and acid!

We want you to enjoy the warm summer season and refreshing drinks that go well with its warm temperatures, but don’t let summer drinks eat your teeth! Call your Naperville Dentist today at (630) 369-5225 to schedule your summer hygiene or whitening appointments! We’d be happy to check your teeth for any signs of acid wear. 

Sherman Oaks Dental Naperville, Illinois has been providing family dental care for patients from Naperville, Wheaton, Lisle and surrounding Chicago areas for over two decades.

Summer is around the corner, and with it comes barbecues, lazy days by the pool, and of course, outdoor sports. While you are enjoying the warm summer sun, you might not be thinking of the effect the summer might have on your teeth. Read on to learn how to protect your teeth from damage this summer, as well as what to do in an emergency.

How To Protect Your Teeth

Wear a Mouth Guard

Whenever you play sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth. You can pick one up from the store, or you can have one custom made by your family dentist in Naperville. This will protect your teeth from getting chipped, cracked, or even knocked loose. It can also protect from potential injury due to clenching your jaw.

Brush Your Teeth

Summer picnics and hot days often lead to grazing on sugary and starchy foods such as ice cream, soda, and chips. Remember to brush your teeth even when you are out and about, especially after eating sugary foods. If you don’t have a toothbrush handy, rinse your mouth with water or swish some mouthwash around.

Minimize Munching

While you are out on your summertime picnics or barbecues, you may be tempted to munch the day away. Be cautious when snacking, as continuous eating exposes your teeth to decay and erosion. If you don’t take care of your teeth, you might need to make an emergency trip to the dentist.

Remember: Teeth are NOT Tools

Do NOT use your teeth as tools this summer. This includes opening bottles with your teeth, chewing on ice, opening packages, etc. This will damage your teeth over time.

What To Do in an Emergency

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, accidents do happen. If you have an emergency tooth situation this summer, such as a chipped or loose tooth, or even a lost tooth, don’t panic! Follow these simple steps:

1. Call your Naperville family dentist! They can help talk you through the necessary steps to save your tooth.
2. Retrieve the tooth or any pieces of the tooth as soon as possible.
3. Rinse off the tooth if it is dirty, but do not scrub it or remove any tissue.
4. If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket (make sure it is facing the right way). If this is not possible, keep the tooth’s root wet by immersing it in milk or water with a little bit of salt.
5. Stop any bleeding by holding gauze to the area.
6. Get to a cosmetic dentist in Naperville as soon as possible.

For more information about emergency dental services, check out our emergency services here.

If you have any questions or concerns about your teeth, schedule an appointment at Sherman Oaks Dental, one of the best dentists in Naperville, today!

When people think about their oral health and visiting the dentist, they think about tooth care. They think about cleanings, fillings, whitening, braces and so on. But, there is more to your mouth than teeth – good oral health includes taking care of your gums and your tongue as well!

Proper Gum Care

Brushing is the first step for healthy gums, as it can help remove food and bacteria on your teeth where they meet the gums. Brushing also stimulates health circulation in the gum tissue. Besides brushing, you should always floss. It’s not just to prevent tooth decay from debris caught under the gum line, but to prevent more serious issues with the gums themselves.

There are several conditions that can occur if you don’t take care of your gums.

• Gingivitis

  his condition comes from the bacteria found in plaque that attack the gums. If your gums a red and swollen and you often see blood when you spit after brushing, it is likely that you have gingivitis. The first step to fixing the problem is seeing one of the best dentists in Naperville as soon as possible.

• Periodontal Disease

  If problems from gingivitis persist, you may have more advanced gum disease. This is far from rare; in fact, most adults show signs of gum disease, and about 25 percent of 65- to 74-year-olds have severe cases. When you have periodontal disease, your gums begin to recede, pulling back from the teeth. If left untreated, this can lead to bacteria forming pockets between the teeth and gums. It weakens the bone and ultimately leading to tooth loss. The American Academy of Periodontology provides a wealth of information about periodontal disease.

The danger of tooth loss for elderly patients is very real, especially if they have oseoporosis. Dr. Weyneth and can help you figure out an adequate tooth and gum care regimen and help you keep your gums as healthy as possible.

Proper Tongue Care

Your tongue can be a haven for all kinds of bacteria, and you should give the same kind of care and attention as your teeth and gums.

Your tongue should look pink and healthy, with no red painful bumps or irritation. If your tongue has a white film that you can’t remove, it could be a fungal infection. You can ask your doctor or dentist about an anti-fungal to help clear it up. (This condition is often known as thrush.)

Use this regimen to ensure your tongue is as clean as possible:

1. Brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth. You don’t have to brush hard. You can use your regular brush for your tongue, or you can buy a toothbrush that has a tongue brushing surface on the reverse side.
2. You can also invest in a tongue cleaner. Use the tongue cleaner gently, and in a downward motion with your tongue stuck out. Draw the scraper down the center to the tip, then do the side of your tongue.
3. You can use toothpaste on your tongue, to kill bacteria and to make brushing or scraping easier. Try not to swallow excess toothpaste!
4. Always rinse your mouth completely after brushing and/or scraping your tongue. If there is any residual soreness, for example if you have bitten your tongue, use a mild salt water mixture to swish and spit.
5. You can use mouthwash for bad breath, but if you have chronic halitosis you should have it checked out, Constant use of mouthwash can dry your tongue out.

Talk With Your Dentist Today

By caring properly for your tongue and gums, you can lengthen the lifespan of your teeth! A healthy mouth leads to healthier teeth and bones. Dr. Bryan Weyneth & Dr. Lydia Sosenko, can give you more information on oral health care. Be sure to schedule an appointment with some of the best dentists in Naperville.

For decades, dental care has remained somewhat outside of the realm of the rest of health care in the USA. Health insurance doesn’t often include dental. This requires a separate plan to buy, and dental insurance doesn’t work in the same way that most health insurance plans do.

Confusion over dental plans (and an ignorance of the importance of oral health to full body health) leads many to disregard their teeth and gums until problems arise. At that point, dental care becomes expensive, and your teeth may be badly damaged.

Dental Insurance Isn’t Dental Care

Dental insurance is for healthy people to manage their dental care. Like health insurance, it covers most of the cost of preventive care. But, unlike health insurance, it doesn’t cover catastrophic care. If you break your leg, chances are your insurance will cover most of the cost of the bill. If you break a tooth, however, you are almost on your own!

Preventive Care Saves More Than Teeth

Whether you have dental insurance, making and keeping appointments for basic preventive care is a must when it comes to your teeth and gums. While the cost of an appointment in time and dollars may be an annoyance, it’s nothing compared to the pain and expense of a decayed tooth.

Besides, when your teeth and gums aren’t healthy, your health suffers as well. Gum disease links with increased risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Every tooth lost increases the chance of more tooth loss and bone loss.

All this means that you should be scheduling and visiting your local Naperville dentist regardless of whether you have insurance.

Choosing a Dentist

Selecting the right dentist should be another decision that is not driven by your dental insurance plan (or lack of one). If your teeth and gums are healthy and you are young, a general dentist can handle all your oral health needs. If you have the beginnings of gum disease, a periodontist can help treat your gums. If you have previous fillings, missing teeth or other issues, restorative dentistry may be a need. Dr. Bryan Weyneth one of the best Naperville dentists, provide exceptional dental care regardless of your insurance coverage.

Failure to take care of your teeth can lead to decay, bone loss, gum disease and infections. A cavity can turn into a root canal and a root canal can lead to an extraction. The loss of one tooth can lead to a loss of surrounding teeth. And, ooth loss can result in loss of confidence and social life and difficulty getting proper nutrition due to inability to chew.

Don’t let what dental coverage you may or may not have drive your dental care. Take control, and become proactive about your oral health today. Contact Sherman Oaks Dental, home to some of the best dentists in Naperville, and schedule a visit today!

Don’t Worry About Your Dental Anxiety

Have you ever realized that you had a dental problem, but hesitated to make an appointment out of fear? Although you might feel like a baby, millions of Americans suffer from serious dental anxiety. In fact, research has shown that between 5% and 8% of Americans avoid the dentist out of fear. They end up letting decay run rampant inside of their mouths. Here at Sherman Oaks Dentistry, we offer laughing gas to help our patients relax.

What is Laughing Gas?

Laughing gas is a mix of nitrous oxide and regular oxygen. We give this mixture of gases to patients through a comfortable, non-invasive nose mask while the dentist works on your teeth. The gas is odorless and colorless. This makes it palatable for small children and adults alike.

As you breathe laughing gas, the nitrous oxide enters your bloodstream. Then itt passes through the blood-brain barrier and acts on several different types of receptors. This reaction has many positive effects, including muscle relaxation, anesthesia, and sedation. It starts by reducing pain and making it easier for you to relax. Nitrous oxide can also reduce the gagging mechanism, which might improve your dental treatment and keep you safe.

Why You Should Ask Your Dentist About Nitrous Oxide

Here are a few other reasons you should ask your dentist about nitrous oxide during your next dental appointment:

• It’s SafeLaughing gas is very safe when administered by a professional dentist. Side effects are rare, but they are mild and include headache or nausea.
• It’s EffectiveThere is a reason that patients who have used laughing gas before usually swear by the stuff. It is effective at helping you relax, which can help you calm your dental fears. Also, since laughing gas can have a sedative effect, some patients even fall asleep during their visit and awake to a healthier smile.
• It’s FreeDon’t worry about paying an arm and a leg for laughing gas. Here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we don’t charge for this powerful sedative. Any dental visit can use nitrous oxide to ease your dental fears.
• It Doesn’t Have Lasting Side EffectsUnlike other sedatives, which can cause symptoms like nausea and dizziness for hours after taking them, laughing gas has no long-lasting side effects. As soon as we cut the flow of the gas, you are free to drive home and enjoy the rest of your day.

Stop Putting Off Your Dental Visits!

Don’t take our word for it; come on in and enjoy a calmer, more enjoyable dental appointment with the help of nitrous oxide. If you need to have a dental problem resolved or it has been awhile since your last checkup, call our office at 630-473-3843.

Springtime ushers in an overwhelming feeling to revamp, clean up, and refresh your home and habits. Beyond the basic vacuuming and dusting, here are some lesser-known tips to revitalize your living space and daily regimen.

• 1. De-Lint the Dryer

  You should be removing the fuzz from your dryer filter after every load, but if you haven’t done it in a while here’s your reminder. The National Fire Protection Association reports that over 10,000 home fires start in the laundry room annually. Simply pull off the debris and fluff or use the crevice tool on your vacuum cleaner.

• 2. Schedule a Dental Cleaning

  When is the last time a visit to your dentist was part of your spring cleaning to do list? Now is the perfect time to call Sherman Oaks Dental, a Naperville family dentistry practice. Ideally, dental cleanings should happen every six months. This appointments give your dentist the chance to preempt possible problems like gum disease or loose teeth. During your visit, the hygienists will clean, floss, and polish your teeth in addition to removing plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on teeth. If left to itself, it’s the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and can develop into larger dental health issues like gingivitis. A biannual dental check up may also include X-rays to determine if there are any unseen issues. Our family dentistry practice understands that dental health is closely connected to overall health and that regular dental cleanings are a vital part of those efforts.

• 3. Switch Up Your Fitness Routine

  As the weather warms and the days become longer with the start of spring, get outside! Hop off the stationary bike and take a jog around the local park or your neighborhood. The fresh air will do you good. Studies show that changing your fitness regimen will stop you from plateauing. Plus, it helps keep things interesting.

• 4. Wash All of Your Bedding

  Pillowcases and sheets should be regularly washed, but what about the pillows and comforter? These items only need to be washed about three times a year, which makes spring cleaning the perfect reminder. Strip the bed down and toss it all in the washer, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s label for cleaning instructions.

• 5. Clear Out the Clutter

  Look in your closet and ask yourself, “what haven’t I worn in the last three years?” You may be surprised by how much you don’t need or use. The solution? Toss it out, donate it to charity, or if it’s a unique piece or in excellent condition, sell it online. While you’re at it, clean out your junk drawer, spam folder, and recycle that stack of mail you keep meaning to throw away.

Spring cleaning extends far beyond sweeping and cleaning the bathroom. As part of your spring cleaning this season, remember to schedule an appointment for a dental cleaning with Sherman Oaks, practice to one of the best dentists in Naperville.

Let a golden smile double your happiness this St. Patrick’s Day! Cosmetic dentistry in Naperville will not only improve your smile but also enrich your overall quality of life. From enhancing your career prospects to removing jaw pain, the benefits of cosmetic dentistry procedures are vast and well researched. Studies continue to confirm that a whiter, straighter smile boosts self-confidence.

• Cosmetic dentistry can improve your career.The effects of a beautiful smile on self-confidence shouldn’t be underrated. Research shows that those with a straight, white smile are more likely to be offered a job promotion or a raise. Specifically, people with white teeth are viewed as more trustworthy, professional and successful.
• Cosmetic dentistry can help you be more outgoing.Socializing should be relaxing or exciting. If you have yellowing or crooked teeth, it may be difficult to feel comfortable in social settings where you are expected to interact. At Sherman Oaks Dental in Naperville, our cosmetic services will help you feel more at ease laughing, smiling, and talking.
• Cosmetic dentistry will improve aesthetic flawsUneven gum lines, misshapen teeth, gaps, stains, and chipped teeth can all be fixed by our cosmetic dentistry services in Naperville. Our cosmetic services include teeth whitening, Invisalign, and lumineers.
• Cosmetic dentistry can improve your overall health.Cosmetic dentistry provides more than superficial value. Not only will it give you a more attractive smile but also prevent future damage to teeth. If left unattended, dental flaws like uneven teeth, overbite, or tooth discoloration can lead to periodontal disease, jaw pain, or headaches.
• Cosmetic dentistry can make you look younger.Gum recession and yellowing teeth become more common as we age. Over time, medications, antibiotics, radiation treatment, or chemotherapy can contribute to tooth discoloration. At Sherman Oaks Dental, our cosmetic dentists can correct the effects of aging on your teeth, making your smile appear years younger.
• Cosmetic dentistry is quick.The field of cosmetic dentistry is constantly evolving. As a result, cosmetic dentistry procedures are generally shorter than other services. Industry research and advancements have quickened recovery time, allowing some cosmetic procedures to be completed in one dental office visit.

The impact of cosmetic dentistry goes far beyond a more brilliant smile. Increased confidence, sociality, and career prospects are just some of the many benefits. Call our office today for a consultation with one of the best dentists in Naperville. We look forward to discussing your cosmetic dental goals to help you achieve that lucky smile. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

If you are looking for a new dentist in Naperville, you might wonder whether you should schedule appointments with specialists in the area or visit a family dentist, such as Sherman Oaks Dental. Although it can be tempting to work with someone who has additional training in various specialties, the simple fact of the matter is that general dentists are trained across all of dentistry, offering a wide range of services for your family for a better price. Here are four great reasons you should use a family dentist, and why you won’t regret your decision.

• Easier SchedulingOne of the best things about working with a family dentist is that it allows you to schedule appointments for your entire family with a single phone call. Instead of calling several different offices and trying to schedule appointments, you can work with an office that knows your family, understands your children’s needs, and can schedule their visits accordingly.
• Treatment for the Entire FamilyIn addition to attending traditional dental school, family dentists typically work on continuing their education through seminars, educational conferences, and personalized training sessions with specialists from around the world. Because of this training, general dentists are qualified to offer a wide range of treatments for the entire family, including fillings, root canals, extractions, dental crowns, teeth whitening, dentures, partial bridges, and even wisdom teeth extractions. Some dentists also offer specialized treatments such as sleep apnea treatment and teeth-in-a-day.
• Kid-Friendly EnvironmentMany dental offices aren’t especially welcoming to kids, which can leave them with debilitating dental anxiety that they have to deal with for the rest of their lives. Fortunately, your Naperville family dentist is able to work with entire families, and they can provide your kids with the kind of treatment that they need to stay happy and comfortable.
• Billing and Records in One PlaceAnother huge benefit to working with a single family dentist is the fact that all of your billing and dental records will be in one place. This makes it much easier to work with insurance companies or sort out issues, since you won’t have to go hunting for paperwork.

Schedule an Appointment With Us

If you know that your family members need to be seen by a dentist, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your Naperville family dentist. Sherman Oaks Dental is known for their dedication to their patients and their warm and welcoming atmosphere, which is why residents throughout Illinois use this family dentistry practice in Naperville. To schedule an appointment, give them a call or request an appointment online.

Your oral health is a lot more important than you think. It goes beyond just making sure that your teeth are cavity free. From combating gum disease to keeping up the fight against tooth and jawbone decay, your oral health is a multifaceted project. Your oral health also dictates the health of the rest of your body. If you have infected gums or teeth, those bacteria can quickly travel from your mouth to other areas of your body, causing a host of problems that aren’t pleasant to deal with .

This makes using the best dentist possible a big imperative. When you’re looking for a dentist, you want to make sure that your choice puts you in the chair of one of the best dentists in Naperville. Your oral health is far too important to settle for anything less than that.

But how do you find the best dentist? Is there a secret formula to follow that ensures you’ll go to the best dentist Naperville has to offer? As a matter of fact, there is, and we’re going to show you how to ensure that your dentist is the best fit for you and your oral health needs.

First, you need to determine if your potential dentist is interested in the health of your entire body. As mentioned above, your oral health links directly to the health of the rest of your body. If your dentist in Naperville focuses solely on your oral health, you’ll end up at a disadvantage because he or she may not be able to see how certain oral health problems could cause long-term systemic issues as well. This is arguably one of the most important things you can consider when choosing a new dentist to whom you can entrust your oral health.

Next, you’ll want to see if this potential dentist is a member of any professional organizations. The most widely-known is the American Dental Association, and it requires monthly participation from its members to share insights on dentistry and hone their craft. Someone who continues to grow their skills regularly is the type of person you want handling your oral health.

It may seem like a bit of work to go through to find the best dentist in Naperville, but doing so is an activity that’ll pay huge dividends in the long run. You want the best, and you shouldn’t settle for less.

Each year, we make promises to ourselves. The most common New Year’s resolutions include losing weight, exercising more, and eating healthier. This year, why not focus on a different aspect of your health? This New Year, we encourage you to think about making dental health your resolution. Here are six possible goals involving your dental health.

• Brush and floss your teeth twice a day, morning and night. Preventative dental care is essential for a healthy smile. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily minimizes cavities and other problems. If you don’t already brush twice a day, make this your New Year’s resolution.
• Brush for a full 2 minutes at a time. If you already brush and floss your teeth regularly, make your goal to brush your teeth for a full two minutes. Set a timer on your phone, or better yet, download a tooth-brushing app that will give you rewards the more often you brush.
• Don’t use your teeth to open packages and hold things. We are all guilty of using our teeth as tools from time to time, but this puts unnecessary wear and tear on your teeth, and can even lead to chips and breaks! Teeth are strong, but not indestructible. Make your resolution to use the proper tools instead of your teeth.
• Cut back on sugar and eat more tooth-healthy foods. Foods high in sugar feed cavity causing bacteria. Cut back on sugar this New Year and switch to tooth-healthy snacks such as carrots, nuts, oranges, and cucumber. Aside from being good for your teeth, cutting back on sugar might help you in some of your other health-related resolutions.
• Quit using tobacco products. Smoking or chewing tobacco is harmful for your entire body, and it takes quite a toll on your oral health as well. This year, cut tobacco out of your routine.
• Visit the dentist within the first few weeks of the year. If you haven’t visited your Naperville dentist in a while, now is the time to go! Regular cleanings and checkups are much easier than restorative dental work. Contact us today to set up an appointment at Sherman Oaks Dental.

We at Sherman Oaks Dental would like to wish you a very merry holiday season. As we share in this time of joy and excitement, we want to express our deep gratitude for trusting us with your dental health. Without our wonderful patients, or practice wouldn’t be what it is today. We look forward to serving as your Naperville dentist into the new year and beyond!

We hope you all enjoy your holiday celebrations with family and friends. While you celebrate with holiday goodies, don’t forget to practice good dental care! The extra sugar and snacking we all indulge in during the holidays calls for extra attention to your dental hygiene routine. Where possible, be aware of foods that have the potential to cause dental issues. For instance, taffy, caramel, and gummy candies cling to the teeth, creating the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow. To avoid this, be sure to rinse or brush your teeth soon after consuming these types of candies. Meanwhile, strongly pigmented foods like red wine, cranberry sauce, and those bright red and green frosted cookies can contribute to teeth staining; be careful how you indulge, and brush and rinse often.

Don’t let dental mishaps spoil your holiday. If you have any questions for Dr. Weyneth or Dr. Sosenko, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!

May the joys of this season be with you and your family!

Dr. Bryan Weyneth,
Dr. Lydia Sosenko,
and the Sherman Oaks Dental staff

When it comes to modern orthodontic care, you don’t have to worry about having a mouth filled with metal if you choose Invisalign. The Invisalign system is personalized for each and every patient, relying on 3D renderings of your teeth to craft durable, clear retainers that work in succession to straighten your smile. Because Invisalign in Naperville is designed for each patient individually, the aligners typically work faster than traditional braces, usually offering full results in under a year.

Invisalign in Naperville isn’t just about looks. Here are some of the benefits of Invisalign–and of orthodontics in general.

Prevent Uneven Wear

Most people with crooked teeth don’t realize it, but those misaligned teeth are more susceptible to damage like uneven wear. When teeth sit at odd angles or are unevenly spaced, they can endure more bite force than straight teeth, which sit side by side to spread out impact. By getting your teeth straightened, you can prevent uneven wear, helping you to avoid other restorations down the road.

Straight Teeth Are Less Prone to Injury

Crooked teeth also create dangers for your neighboring lip, cheek, and gum tissues. When teeth are crooked, they make your mouth more prone to injury because impact to the face could cause lacerations in your oral tissue from your teeth. However, Invisalign can help you to prevent these injuries, especially since the retainers are smooth and comfortable.

Decreases Headaches and Muscle Strain

When teeth are crooked or the bite is off, it can hold the jaw at an uncomfortable angle, leading to muscle strain and tension headaches. Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign can help your cosmetic dentist in Naperville to prevent pain and discomfort in your head and neck.  

Easier to Clean

Invisalign retainers are completely removable, unlike traditional metal braces which are cemented in place. This means that you can pop out your retainers to eat, go on a date, or give that presentation at work. Removable retainers also mean that your teeth are easier to clean during treatment, since you can take the aligners out to brush and floss. After teeth are straightened, these benefits continue, since straight teeth are easier to keep clean and less susceptible to periodontal disease.

If the Invisalign system sounds like it would work for you, contact Sherman Oaks Dental. Our doctors would be more than happy to talk with you about  your orthodontic treatment options so that you can decide how to proceed.

Sleep apnea is a medical condition that causes you to stop breathing temporarily while you are asleep. There are different types of this condition, but the most common form is called obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, and it is caused when your airway is blocked, usually by collapsed soft tissue in the back of the throat. While it might seem like only a nuisance, it is a serious condition that can cause a number of health risks.

Some of the most common health risks associated with sleep apnea are heart failure and heart attacks, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, increased risk of stroke, and headaches. Additionally, it causes a lack of rest, and low-quality sleep when you do get some shut-eye, leading to difficulties performing regular, everyday activities like work, school, and hobbies.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Some of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea are insomnia, waking up continually during the night, snoring loudly, experiencing mood swings, having low energy levels during the day, headaches, waking up with a sore or dry throat, forgetfulness and restlessness at night. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit Sherman Oaks Dental for treatment.

Treatment

To diagnose sleep apnea, Dr. Bryan Weyneth, an expert in Naperville, may conduct a polysomnogram, more commonly called a sleep study, to determine if you have sleep apnea or another sleeping disorder. Once it has been determined that you have sleep apnea, there are several treatment options. In mild cases, it can be improved by making behavioral changes, such as changing sleeping positions to avoid sleeping on your back; losing weight; and breaking habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking sleeping pills. For more severe cases, you may have to rest with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine, commonly called CPAP, to help keep your airway open while sleeping. Dr. Weyneth can also provide a special mouthpiece designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep airways clear.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of treatments for curing your sleep apnea. In order to decide on the best decision for you and your condition, it is best to visit Dr. Weyneth at Sherman Oaks Dental. He is an extremely experienced dentist in Naperville, and He is anxious to help treat your sleeping disorders and get back to sweet dreams.

You’ve probably heard of dental veneers, but have you heard of Lumineers, an ultra-thin alternative that allows you to whiten and reshape your teeth without permanently altering your underlying enamel? Made of translucent porcelain, Lumineers mimic the look of real teeth, giving you a natural and glowing smile durable enough to last, and one you’ll love, for decades. It’s easy to see why Dr. Bryan Weyneth, your cosmetic dentist in Naperville, loves giving our patients beautiful smiles with Lumineers.

A Solution to Your Dental Problems

Lumineers are an extremely simple way to fix a myriad of dental problems. In only two visits, you could have the smile you’ve always wanted. Lumineers provide a way to brighten and whiten stained teeth permanently, fix chipped teeth, close unsightly gaps and spaces between teeth, and reshape teeth for an even and beautiful smile.

An Alternative to Braces

If you have crooked teeth, but don’t want to go through the time-intensive, uncomfortable, and pricey process of getting braces, Lumineers could be your solution. As long as the misalignment doesn’t affect your bite and is not too severe, Lumineers could give you straight, beautiful teeth painlessly and almost instantaneously.

A Comfortable Way to a Beautiful Smile

Traditional dental veneers require that some of your dental enamel be removed to make room for them. Lumineers, on the other hand, are about as thin as a contact lens. This means that to apply Lumineers to your teeth, Dr. Weyneth can apply them while removing little or none of your natural tooth. This ensures that your pearly whites are still strong and durable under the implants. The non-invasive procedure also ensures minimum tooth sensitivity, and getting used to having Lumineers takes almost no time all. You can be comfortable in your new smile as soon as you walk out the door.

Dr. Weyneth is ready and willing to give you a stunning smile with Lumineers. Contact Sherman Oaks Dental in Naperville, Illinois for more information about Lumineers.

Have you ever thought about what your daily indulgences are doing to your body? Although most people are quick to write off a sugary snack or two, too much sugar has some very real negative consequences for your body, including:

1. Increasing Your Obesity Risk

Sugar is exceptionally high in calories, and Americans eat a lot of the sweet stuff: around 22 teaspoons per day, in fact. In addition to filling your diet with extra calories, sugar also triggers an insulin response that blocks certain hormones in your body that make you feel full, which leads to eating more.

2. Causing “Sugar Crashes”

When sugar surges through your system, you might feel like you have more energy, but that feeling will soon fade. Research has shown that it only takes about thirty minutes to crash after experiencing a “sugar high,” leaving you feeling groggy and unproductive. These massive blood sugar spikes can also be tremendously hard on your body, eventually leading to insulin resistance and ultimately diabetes.

3. Fueling Oral Bacteria

Sugar is the main food source for oral bacteria, which work night and day to dissolve your dental enamel. Excessive sugar consumption can cause massive oral infections, problems with significant oral decay, and even periodontal disease. Contact your Naperville dentist today to find out how your teeth have been affected by sugar. As some of the best dentists in Naperville, our team can help your teeth to recover from sugar-related damage.

4. Leading to Dangerous Illnesses

Sugar consumption is so dangerous to your body’s delicate chemical balance that it can even put you at a higher risk for serious diseases, including kidney disease, cancer, and even liver failure.

5. Contributing to Cognitive Decline

More and more studies have shown that eating excessive sugar can cause brain fog and cognitive decline because of the body’s diminished ability to function properly.

Reducing Your Sugar Levels

To keep your sugar levels in check, try to track how much sugar you are eating on a daily basis. Experts recommend that women should consume no more than around 6 teaspoons of sugar a day, and that men shouldn’t eat more than 9 teaspoons worth of sugar daily. If you do indulge, swish your mouth with plenty of clean water to rinse away sticky residues and bacterial acids. Focus on filling your diet with plenty of crunchy fruits and vegetables, which can keep you full while fulfilling some of your sweets cravings. For more help and advice regulating your diet to preserve your dental health, contact Sherman Oaks Dental today!

How do you feel about your smile? If you have ever wanted to give yourself a dental makeover, now is the time to ask the clinicians at Sherman Oaks, your Naperville dentist, about cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry is the art of changing the way teeth look, so that patients can feel confident about their smiles. Smiles have been shown to affect first impressions because they are believed to be a powerful indicator of a person’s overall health and attention to detail. Fortunately, through the art and science of cosmetic dentistry, our clinicians can make your smile look brand new.

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Make A Big Difference

Here are just a few of the most common cosmetic dental concerns, and how your Naperville cosmetic dentist will address them.   

Tooth Discoloration

Eating certain foods, taking certain medications, smoking, or neglecting your teeth can cause embarrassing dental discoloration. To correct stains and yellowing, our dentists use a wide range of different techniques, including traditional dental bleaching, porcelain veneers, and even covering the entire tooth with a dental crown.

Chips or Misshapen Teeth

Chipped or misshapen teeth can be corrected by dental contouring or by the application of veneers or crowns.

Crooked Teeth

Crooked or gapped teeth can be corrected through orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign. The Invisalign system uses a series of clear retainers to gradually move the teeth into place. However, unlike traditional dental braces, Invisalign is removable and barely noticeable.

Missing Teeth

If you have missing teeth, they can be replaced with a dental implant. Dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw with durable titanium posts, which helps to recreate the natural stimulation your jaw needs to stay healthy and strong.

Sherman Oaks Dental Offers Full Smile Makeovers

Oftentimes, adults need more than one cosmetic procedure in order to enjoy an aesthetically pleasing smile. For these patients, our clinicians offer full smile makeovers. Before your makeover, our cosmetic dentists will meet with you to create a personalized treatment plan that will help you to meet your goals. Contact Sherman Oaks Dental today to make an appointment for a consultation!

We’ve all had bad breath days, and at the most inopportune moments: on a first date, during an interview, or at a wedding. Luckily, bad breath, or halitosis, does not need to haunt these moments, as it is treatable in most cases. However, in order to cure it, you have to first understand what causes it.

Causes of Bad Breath

Poor Dental Health

Not brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis allows food particles to hang out in your mouth, causing not only halitosis but other issues such as gingivitis, cavities, and yeast infections.

Food Choices

Eating foods with strong odors such as garlic or onions often cause bad breath. Additionally, if you let food sit on your teeth after eating, it will start to decompose, emitting an unpleasant odor. If you have an important event later in the day, avoid potent foods and brush your teeth immediately after eating.

Dehydration

One of the most common causes of bad breath is simple dehydration. Your mouth produces saliva to rinse the mouth, neutralize acids, and wash away dead cells. If you do not drink enough water, you mouth cannot produce the right amount of saliva. Unfortunately, there are some diseases that cause chronic dry mouth (know as xerostomia). It may be helpful to chew sugar free gum and drink plenty of water.

Treating Bad Breath

At-Home Methods

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Floss after eating and before bed
• Chew sugar free gum or suck on mints
• Use mouthwash as part of your daily routine
• Hydrate

Seek Professional Help

If at-home methods do not minimize or eliminate your bad breath, it may be due to infection or more serious conditions, in which case you should visit a Naperville dentist. At Sherman Oaks Dental, we can determine the root cause of your bad breath and treat it as necessary. If you’re looking for the best dentist in Naperville, start with Sherman Oaks for quality service. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Living with missing teeth can affect your ability to eat and speak, not to mention damage your self-esteem. Fortunately, dental implants are the next best thing, a realistic-looking dental crown that is anchored into your natural bone tissue with a tiny titanium post. If your Naperville dentist has recommended dental implants for your smile, don’t hesitate to get started. Dental implants offer a huge range of benefits over other alternatives, including:

Beautiful, Natural Appearance

You don’t realize it until you wear a prosthetic tooth, but people are more perceptive to small details than you might realize. People can often tell if your teeth are false because they are merely hovering above the gum line instead of continuing under it, or your gums are a different color than the rest of your natural tissue. But dental implants are designed to look and feel completely natural. Implants extend all the way into your gum tissue, just like the rest of your teeth, and they are created to match your smile. When installed properly by trained dentists and periodontists, dental implants are indistinguishable from your natural teeth.  

Easier to Keep Clean

Traditional dentures need to be removed several times a day, scrubbed, and stored in special antiseptic solution. Partial bridges can be held in place with brackets or wires that are difficult to keep clean, which can make it hard to brush and floss. However, since dental implants function just like your normal teeth, they are a breeze to brush and floss, which can improve your breath and your dental health.

Preserves Bone and Surrounding Teeth

Dental implants are also unique because they have been shown to ward off bone loss and surrounding tissue damage. Dental implants recreate natural stimulation that your jaw bone receives when you chew, helping you to maintain your face shape and prevent future dental problems tied to inadequate bone.

Durability

Last but not least, dental implants are made to last. Although they are more expensive upfront, dental implants have been shown to last a lifetime when properly cared for. On the other hand, dentures need to be adjusted or replaced every 5-7 years, so you may still spend more in the long run.

There is a reason that Dr. Weyneth and Dr. Sosenko are known as some of the best dentists in Naperville. With years of experience and an eye for detail, these clinicians can transform your teeth and give you the look you have always wanted.  Contact us today to make an appointment!

Your mouth contains far more than just your teeth, and does far more than just biting and chewing. From soft tissues to bones, your mouth is an integral part of your quality of life.

Unfortunately, there are instances in which your mouth will suffer major damage. The most common cause is gum disease, or periodontitis as it’s formally known. Gum disease can attack both the soft tissues and bones within your mouth. In other cases, the damage is due to a sudden injury or an ongoing illness. In all these cases, you’ll need more than one simple procedure to return your mouth to its best. Full-mouth reconstructions restore your mouth – and smile – to its former health and beauty.

Restorative dental treatments

A full mouth reconstruction is not just one procedure; rather, it is a treatment plan tailored to you which will involve multiple steps. Procedures such as crowns, bridges, inlays, and onlays are commonly seen here. These restore the look and function of your teeth, enabling you to use them to their full effect once more.

Dental implants

If your mouth’s health has gone to the point that some teeth can’t be saved, you may get a recommendation for dental implants. They’re a great option for replacing dead teeth, and they look, function, and feel just like real teeth. The only people who knows it’s an implant are Dr. Weyneth !

Oral surgery

In some cases, you may need gum and bone grafts. If the soft tissues in your mouth have been destroyed by gum disease, or your jaw bones are compromised due to the disease as well, you’ll need the affected tissues rebuilt to restore your mouth to its full health.

At the end of the day, prevention is the best practice possible. However, if you do have issues that require a full mouth reconstruction, we understand you’ll want to find the best dentist in Naperville to perform the procedures. It’s your mouth, after all – you want the best possible outcome. We hope a look at Dr. Weyneth will show you he’s a dentist you can trust. Contact us today for an appointment!

At Sherman Oaks, we are proud to offer family dental care. We enjoy getting to know our patients over time and watching them grow. Many of our patients have been visiting our Naperville dentist office since they were young kids; they continue to come back because of the individualized care that is tailored to their needs and preferences. These returning patients know they can trust us to take care of their teeth, no matter what phase of life they are in. Come join our family dentistry and see what personalized dental care can do for you.

One of the biggest benefits of visiting a family dental practice is that no one ages out of our care. We are able to help everybody from babies with brand new teeth to grandma and grandpa, and everyone in between. Our expertise allows us to serve each of these demographics, meeting the different needs that different ages require. Additionally, because we see our patients throughout their whole life, we know their teeth and any special circumstances they might face. Our long term relationship with patients allows us to give the best care available. Our entire team has the knowledge and experience to handle whatever dental need our patients might have during any phase of their life. As you work with us over the years, you’re sure to develop trust with our entire staff.  

Being a family practice can also make it convenient to get dental care for your whole family. Imagine, you can take your kids to the dentist while you also get your dental check-up. Our expertise allows you to simplify your life because you don’t have to worry about finding the right dentist for each member of your family. You can rest assured that everyone will enjoy coming to our office. We know how to make young children feel comfortable; they enjoy the fun atmosphere of our office. At the same time, adults will feel respected and listened to.

Schedule an appointment online for you or for the whole family, or just give us a call today. We can’t wait to get to know the family and earn your trust and loyalty. Explore our website to see why our family practice may be the best dentist in Naperville for you and your family.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve total mouth wellness, and one of the best ways to do that is to increase your understanding of the conditions which can affect your mouth. Gum disease is a serious problem, and if left untreated, it can permanently damage the supporting structures in your mouth. As we strive to be the best dentists in Naperville, we want to help you get the smile that you desire by preventing the destructive results of gum disease.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by plaque and tartar. Plaque is the sticky white substance that builds up on your teeth when you don’t brush. Over time, if left on your teeth, plaque turns into tartar, which can’t simply be brushed off. The bacteria in plaque and tartar negatively impact your gums, and as you body tries to fight the bacteria the problem only becomes worse. You body’s immune system repeatedly tries to get rid of the bacteria, but over time, this process also wears down your gums and bone.

Slowly, your gums become infected, and the infection moves down lower into your gums to create pockets against your teeth which are full of bacteria. A toothbrush can’t reach down into these deep pockets. Once gum disease has progressed this far, there are still treatment options, but it is important to get help as soon as possible. Your gums will swell, bleed, and hurt, and if you don’t get help your teeth may become loose and fall out.

Treatment Options

To remove tartar and to treat an infection at this stage, you’ll need a dentist’s help. At Sherman Oaks Dental, we can help you recover from gum disease. Our specially trained team will work to keep you comfortable during your treatment, and our state-of-the-art technology can quickly help to turn gum disease around.

In particular, we use the Odyssey Soft Tissue Laser to treat gum disease, an option which is efficient and can speed up both appointment time and healing time. It is also less invasive, less painful, and less risky than other methods. The Odyssey Laser works by selectively removing diseased or damaged tissue while leaving healthy gum tissue behind. The laser stops any bleeding as it goes, and even destroys bacteria, so you don’t have to worry about an infection after the treatment.

If you have sore or bleeding gums, contact us today for a visit with your Naperville dentists, Dr. Weyneth and Dr. Sosenko. Together, our team can help you to fight gum infection and get you back to your regular lifestyle in no time.

While it is true that there are several options out there when it comes to straightening your teeth, Invisalign® has been chosen over and over again because of its comfort, ease, and appearance. Here at Sherman Oaks in Naperville, our cosmetic dentist office offers this clear alternative to braces for a wide range of age groups and has seen effective results in almost every case.

Why Invisalign?

Invisalign is sweeping across the world of dentistry as one of dentists and patients favorite choices for cosmetic teeth straightening. Invisalign is named after its feeling and appearance of being invisible.  This, along with its flexibility and results, are only a part of what make it the top choice among dentists. Still need more convincing? Check out this list of the top 7 reasons people are choosing Invisalign:

• The aligners are virtually invisible, providing you with confidence in your smile at every stage.
• The aligners can be removed and cleaned easily and regularly
• There are little to no restrictions on what you can and cannot eat
• No poking of wires, tightening of brackets, and unattractive metal mouth pieces
• Brushing and flossing is as easy as ever with no special equipment needed
• Visits are only required every four to six weeks
• The smooth, clear plastic is molded specifically to your teeth, providing a comfortable, barely-there fit.

What does the Process look like?

The process of straightening your teeth with Invisalign is incredibly easy and can be summarized in six simple steps.

1. Meet with your dentist to discuss treatment: Our dentists at Sherman Oaks are fully trained and equipped to provide you with an Invisalign treatment. We will answer any questions you may have, discuss the outcomes of treatment, talk about cost, and prepare you to move forward with the process.
2. Examine your teeth: Through a series of pictures, impressions, and X-rays, we will examine your teeth–where they currently are and discuss your personal goals for your smile.
3. Create a plan for treatment: Using the information we have gathered through pictures and x-rays, we will be able to map out the exact movement of your teeth and the process of straightening. At this point we will be able to provide you with an estimate of the length of time required to meet your goal.
4. Receive your personalized aligners and start the treatment: Once we have established our steps, your comfortable, clear aligners will be created and ready for use. After just two weeks you will notice a shift in the alignment of your teeth, while others won’t even notice your aligners at all.
5. Every two weeks, advance onto the next stage of aligners: After approximately two weeks you will be able to move on to your next set and grow one step closer to the smile you desire.
6. All done! Complete the process and maintain your beautiful smile: After your treatment is complete and you are confident in your smile, it is important to protect and maintain it. Continue proper dental hygiene habits and talk to your doctor about your next steps, if any, in maintaining your beautiful set of teeth.

How do I get started?

If Invisalign seems like the right fit for you, call our Naperville Cosmetic Dentist Office or visit our website today! Here at Sherman Oaks, we make your comfort and confidence our priority and we believe that Invisalign will provide you with the beautiful smile you have always wanted. So what are you waiting for? If you desire a straight and striking smile, without the wires and brackets of braces, talk to your dentist about what Invisalign can do for you.

Sleep apnea can be incredibly frustrating. It disrupts your normal sleeping habits, and can leave you feeling as though you didn’t sleep well enough at all during the night. An estimated 20 million adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, but it’s thought that millions more suffer from sleep apnea without knowing it.

So how do you know when you should seek sleep apnea treatment from a dentist in Naperville? Let’s take a look at some warning signs that should prompt you to seek treatment.

Snoring

While it’s not always an iron-clad symptom, if your spouse tells you that you snore at night, there’s a chance you’re suffering from sleep apnea. Specifically, if your snoring is very loud and chronic, that’s almost a sure sign that you have sleep apnea. You can find more information on how to interpret your snores here.

Breaks in breathing

This is a surefire sign that some form of sleep apnea is affecting your nightly rest. At times during sleep, your airway can become blocked, which deprives your brain of oxygen. Then, your brain jerks you awake – but not all the way. This prevents the deep, restful sleep you need in order to achieve the best benefits from sleep.

Waking up with a headache

Do you wake up with headaches on a regular basis? That’s another sign of sleep apnea. Your brain isn’t fully rested when you spend a night with apnea disrupting your sleep, which results in a bad headache when you wake up.

High blood pressure

If your blood pressure is chronically high, then you know you’re at risk for developing sleep apnea. If you go in for an annual physical and your doctor doesn’t ask you how you’re sleeping after seeing that you have high blood pressure, that should be an immediate red flag. If you have high blood pressure and aren’t sleeping well, this is one of sleep apnea’s earliest signs.

Being overweight

The last common symptom of sleep apnea is manifested in those individuals who are overweight. Sleep apnea has been shown to cause weight gain, which causes a vicious cycle as fat can press on your throat while sleeping, contributing to more serious apnea.

Sleep apnea is incredibly disruptive and can turn you into a cranky person instead of your usual happy self. If you’re suffering from any of the above symptoms, call us today or visit our website to schedule a consultation so we can determine the best course of action to right your sleep apnea.

When you’re looking for the best dentist in Naperville, you’re faced with a pretty monumental task. There are a ton of results to sift through on Google, not to mention all the recommendations from friends and, sometimes, strangers. So how do you make sure that you choose the best dentist for you and your family? We have a few tips here to help you make that decision.

Read patient reviews

The best measure of whether a dentist is worth your time and trouble is what others say about their experiences with that dentist. Check patient reviews on places like Yelp and Google+ for honest feedback. However, you’ll want to bear in mind that both positive and negative reviews can be fake. Don’t base your opinion on a handful of comments; instead, look for a practice with a large number of positive reviews and only one or two negative ones.

Check recognition and awards

Another indicator of a dentist’s ability is whether or not they have national recognition or awards from organizations like the American Dental Association. These awards mean that the dentist has done significant work in their field and is nationally recognized as being a cut above the rest of the dentists you can visit. While it tells you little about their personality, it does establish a baseline of skill that is a big factor in choosing a dentist.

Community work

If a potential dentist you’re looking at is heavily involved in giving back to the community, that’s generally a sign that they’re good, upstanding individuals who want to show that they can be trusted with your business. After all, you’re trusting a dentist to properly take care of your teeth.

Rapport with office staff

During your initial visit, you’ll also want to take note of whether or not you and the office staff – and dental team – have a good rapport. If not, you’ll want to go somewhere you get along with the staff and people working on your teeth. Even the most skilled dentist can produce a bad experience if your personalities clash.

While there are at a lot of dentists in Naperville, and certainly quite a few good ones, we encourage you to come visit our practice here at Sherman Oaks. We’d love the chance to show you our quality, and are always excited to serve new members of our community. Contact us today to give us a try!

Discolored or stained teeth can really strike a blow to your confidence. And while whitening treatments are widely available, when it comes to your pearly whites, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are some of the top stain-makers to watch out for.

Coffee and tea

While many of us wake ourselves up with a steaming cup of coffee, this habit isn’t doing our teeth any favors. And experts say that tea stains teeth even worse than coffee does. If you enjoy that hot drink just a couple of times per week, though, your chances of seeing stains are much lower than if you enjoy several cups per day. If you’re worried about staining your teeth, try cutting back.

Wine

Red wine contains a triple threat to your teeth: it’s high in acid, tannins, and chromogens, all of which cause tooth discoloration. Even white wine, though it doesn’t stain teeth with its own color, contains tannins and acids that make teeth more susceptible to other stains.

Tobacco

When you smoke or chew tobacco, nicotine and tar find their way to your teeth, leaching into holes in the enamel and turning the teeth yellowish-brown. To preserve the health of your teeth as well as your whole body, stay away from the stuff. But if it’s too late, don’t worry—tobacco stains sit on the outer layer of the tooth and can usually be removed.

Tomato sauce

The tomatoes in pasta sauce are, of course, bright red and high in acid—a combination that doesn’t bode well for your white smile. But eating dark green vegetables beforehand can actually protect teeth by creating a protective film, so serve up a salad with your spaghetti.

Berries

While they might be good for your body, the deep coloring in berries makes them dangerous for your teeth. Blueberries, blackberries, and pomegranates are among the worst culprits. Make sure to brush your teeth soon after eating berries, or wash them down with a glass of milk, which can neutralize acid.

Soda

Dark-colored sodas contain chromogens that stick to your teeth and turn them yellow. Plus, soda’s combination of sugar and acidity makes it extra dangerous for your teeth, as it can also cause decay.

If you’ve already enjoyed a little too much of your favorite food and drink, there’s good news: Sherman Oaks offers cosmetic dentistry in Naperville that can undo years of damage to your teeth. Schedule a consultation today to discuss teeth whitening options.

Everyone knows that sugar can damage your teeth. But do you know how sugar does its damage? The actual culprit isn’t sugar itself, but the acid it produces. When you eat that sugary snack, bacteria in the mouth feed off of the sugars, creating acid that eats away tooth enamel.

Acid can come from a variety of foods besides sugary snacks and candy, including soft drinks (even diet soda), wine, fruit juice, and citrus fruits. Stomach acid entering the mouth, whether through vomiting or acid reflux, can also cause serious tooth damage. If you notice that your teeth are discolored, cracked, or translucent around the edges, you may be seeing signs of tooth erosion. Acid damaged teeth also may start to look rounded, “sand-blasted,” cupped, or dented.

The good news is that your mouth is constantly working to fight acid damage to your teeth. Your saliva contains minerals like calcium and phosphates that naturally help repair your teeth. However, your saliva can’t save your teeth singlehandedly. Here are some things you can do to minimize acid damage.

• Cut down on sugar and soda. Though it may be hard, reducing your intake of candy, sugary snacks, and soft drinks will pay off in the long run. Try replacing these with dairy products like milk, cheese, or yogurt, which contain calcium and phosphates that strengthen teeth.

• Use a straw. If you do have an acidic soda or other beverage, drink with a straw to prevent the drink from making contact with your teeth. Never swish the drink.

• Save acidic foods for mealtimes so you can eat them alongside other foods instead of alone as snacks. This can reduce their contact with your teeth, and other non-acidic foods can help neutralize the acidic ones, as well as encouraging saliva production.

• Wash your food down with water. Drinking water along with or after an acidic food can help wash it out of your mouth more quickly.

• Don’t brush right away. Though it might sound counterintuitive, brushing after eating acidic foods can actually increase tooth erosion, since acid softens your enamel and brushing can wear it away even further. Try waiting at least half an hour after consuming something acidic to brush your teeth.

• Stop stomach acid from entering the mouth. If you have acid reflux or an eating disorder that involves frequent vomiting, seek medical help so that these conditions can be cured and stop interfering with your health.

Regular dental checkups and cleaning are also essential to preventing and catching tooth decay before it progresses too far. For excellent preventive dentistry in Naperville, contact Sherman Oaks Dental and let us help you care for your teeth.

For a beautiful and healthy smile, it is important to take care of your entire mouth. While teeth definitely need attention too, the rest of the mouth is too often overlooked. Care of the gums and dental bones are important aspects of dental care because these are the structures which support the teeth. Without a strong network of support, even healthy teeth will become compromised over time, leading to degradation and eventually tooth loss. Neglect of the gum tissue in particular can lead to a myriad of dental problems, including periodontitis, or gum disease. The good news is, the earlier it is caught, the more easily it can be corrected.

What are the signs of gum disease?

• Halitosis, or persistently bad breath
• Teeth that are sensitive to hot, cold and/or sweets
• Pain when chewing
• Gums that appear red or puffy
• Gums which bleed easily (such as when brushing the teeth)
• Loose teeth
• Receding gum line

Why does it matter?

What starts out as simple tenderness in the gums can lead to far worse problems in the future if left untreated. As the gum tissue weakens, pockets appear surrounding the teeth, creating an environment for the growth of resilient bacteria. These pockets continue to degrade the gum tissue until the tissue gives way completely and the bone is exposed. But the bacteria don’t stop there. Once the bone is exposed, it too is at a risk of degradation and decay. The bone becomes weakened and deteriorates until there is no longer enough bone to support teeth and the teeth fall out. Once this occurs, it can be difficult to use even false teeth and extensive surgery may be needed in order to fully restore the teeth to functionality again.

If you feel you may be showing the early signs of gum disease, or if another dentist has recommended periodontic treatment, Naperville dental office Sherman Oaks dental has got you covered. Many of our patients agree that we are the best dentist in Naperville, and we have worked hard to earn the loyalty and trust of our patients. We offer many different procedures for the treatment of periodontitis, and would love to work with you to help you discover your particular dental needs.

From preventive measures to surgical procedures, we have the technology, equipment and experience you need to restore and maintain your beautiful smile. Give us a call or click here to schedule your appointment today!

When dental emergencies happen, it’s important to stay calm and take quick action. Even in the most alarming cases—like a knocked-out or loosened tooth—the tooth can often be saved if it is treated within one hour of the injury. Read on to learn what to do in some of the most common dental emergencies.

What if my tooth is knocked out?

• Don’t touch the root of the tooth (the part that is normally below the gumline). Handle it by the crown (the exposed part of the tooth). Touching the root can damage it and make it more difficult to reattach.
• Rinse the tooth in milk if possible or clean water, but don’t scrub it or rub it with a rag or shirt hem.
• Don’t let the tooth dry out. If possible, place it back in the socket to keep it moist. If that is not possible, place it in the mouth between the cheek and gum, or immerse it in a cup of milk.
• Visit us immediately.

What if my tooth is loosened or forced out of position?

• Try to gently push the tooth back into its normal alignment, but don’t force it into place.
• If you are able to get the tooth back in place, bite down gently to keep it from moving.
• Visit us immediately.

What if my tooth is fractured or chipped?

• Rinse with warm water to clean the area.
• Use a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling.
• Don’t use aspirin for pain; it is an anticoagulant and may cause excessive bleeding. Use ibuprofen instead.
• Visit us as soon as possible and ask about your options. It may cosmetically corrected.

What if I’ve lost a filling or crown?

• Usually this is not an emergency, though it can be painful because the exposed tooth is often sensitive.
• If you have lost a crown, put it in a safe place.
• Make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.

What if I have injured mouth tissue (such as puncture wounds or lacerations to my cheeks, lips, or tongue)?

• Clean the wound with warm water.
• Apply pressure to the wound with a moistened piece of gauze to reduce bleeding.
• If the bleeding does not stop, visit the emergency room. Apply pressure to the wound until you are treated.

Questions about an injured or damaged tooth? Contact your Naperville dentists at Sherman Oaks right away. Remember, immediate action is the key to saving a tooth.

When you go to brush your teeth, you’re actually brushing two different surfaces. Not only are you scrubbing the enamel of the teeth, which is the hardest substance in the human body; you’re also brushing gum tissue, which isn’t so tough. A good zealous brushing might seem like a smart way to keep your teeth clean, but in reality, overbrushing can lead to toothbrush abrasion, which can create any of the following problems.

Receding gums

When gums are overbrushed for a long period of time, they can begin to wear away, receding from the teeth and exposing more and more of the tooth. At first, this recession may expose a little “notch” at the top of the tooth where the enamel ends and the layer beneath the enamel, called dentin, is exposed. Because this exposed notch is not protected by enamel, it is more susceptible to collecting plaque and forming cavities. It’s also more sensitive and prone to pain. If receding gums progress to a more advanced stage, however, they can actually lose their grip on the root of the tooth and cause tooth loss. Unfortunately, even if overbrushing is corrected, receding gums don’t grow back—they can only be corrected with surgery.

Worn enamel

While it’s not as easy to harm the enamel of your teeth as it is to harm the gums or dentin, it is possible. Overbrushing can wear away the enamel, leading to greater tooth sensitivity, greater risk of tooth decay, and discoloration. And while vigorous brushing and too-hard toothbrushes can certainly be to blame, research also suggests that overuse of toothpaste may lead to increased wear on enamel.

Aesthetic concerns

As the dentin layer below the enamel is exposed—both by receding gums and by worn enamel—teeth begin to take on a yellowed look. This is because, while enamel is white, the dentin beneath it is yellow. So while you may think you’re brightening your pearly whites by brushing them vigorously and often with whitening toothpaste, you may be doing just the opposite.

The good news is that being just a little more conscious of your brushing style can stop toothbrush abrasion. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush lightly, and use a circular motion rather than a forceful horizontal scrubbing motion. And if you have concerns about abrasion, contact your Naperville dentists at Sherman Oaks Dental today.

Becoming the best dentist in Naperville, or any town for that matter, isn’t as easy as it may appear. The old joke that dentists are just med school dropouts couldn’t be further from the truth. Like all dentists, Dr. Bryan Weyneth has undergone intensive training and received years of training to ensure that he is competent in general, family, and cosmetic dentistry.

So what does it take to become a dentist? Let’s take a look at the requirements:

• Obtain an undergraduate degree in dentistry or pre-dental studies. Common courses found in these programs include chemistry, biology, statistics, and physics. Dentists must have a thorough understanding of human biology if they wish to be successful in their careers.
• Pass the Dental Acceptance Test. This is what will enable an aspiring dentist to attend a dental school. It’s essentially like the ACT or SAT for dentists and is taken while still working on their undergraduate degree.
• Earn a graduate degree in dentistry (with an emphasis on a chosen specialty, like pediatric or general practice dentistry).
• Pass national and state licensing exams.
• Pursue a specialty. Nine specialties are currently recognized by the American Dental Association. Those who wish to practice them are required to complete additional post-graduate training. That usually involves a residency and lasts one to two years.

After a residency is complete, a dentist is finally ready to go out on their own, either working in a practice with fellow dentists or opening their own practice. Throughout this process, the coursework is rigorous, and a halfhearted effort is not enough. The end result is a dentist who’s as capable and confident as any physician.

At the end of the day, much more goes into being a dentist than you may think. If you have any questions regarding the process, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Weyneth during your next appointment.

The foundation for healthy teeth and gums is regular brushing and flossing to eliminate plaque and prevent the formation of tartar. But even if you brush regularly, your oral hygiene regimen may not be as effective as you would expect. Brushing right is just as important as brushing often. Take a moment to review your brushing and flossing techniques, and make sure they live up to the following standards.

Brushing

• Use a soft-bristled brush. Hard bristles can wear down your enamel and leave your teeth susceptible to decay.
• Choose a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is essential to keeping your tooth enamel hard, and the small amount that you get in your diet is rarely enough. In addition to regular fluoride treatments from Sherman Oaks, you should ensure that your toothpaste is helping replenish this vital mineral.
• Hold your brush at a 45 degree angle to your gums. This helps the bristles reach underneath your gumline, where plaque is likely to accumulate.
• Brush in a circular motion rather than side to side. This causes less irritation to the gums, reducing the risk of infection and gum recession.
• Keep brushing for at least two minutes. Make sure to brush every tooth surface, paying special attention to the chewing surfaces of the molars, where food is most likely to be trapped.
• Don’t brush too hard. A little firmness is good, but too much force will damage your enamel and irritate your soft tissue.

Flossing

• Keep a length of dental floss taut between two hands. Loose floss is not as effective.
• Switch sections of the floss as you proceed so that the same used section is not transferring particles from one tooth to another.
• Floss between every pair of teeth in your mouth. Even where there are wide gaps, it’s better to be safe than to miss a bit of food or plaque.
• Clean both sides of each gap by holding the floss first against one tooth, then the other before you move on.
• Make a c-shape with the floss by pulling it tight against the tooth surface so that it curves.
• Run the floss up and down the length of the tooth, including sliding it under the gumline.
• Rinse your mouth after flossing to get rid of the plaque and food you have dislodged.

If you have questions or concerns about your dental health, feel free to schedule an appointment! Sherman Oaks is happy to care for your teeth and teach you to do the same.

There are two types of gum disease. Gingivitis is gum inflammation. The symptoms can include swollen, redgums that bleed easily during tooth brushing, bad taste in mouth, bad breath, pockets in your mouth due to gum recession and infection, and cold or canker sores. Gingivitis is uncomfortable, and usually precedes more serious gum disease, or periodontitis.

Periodontitis is a bacterial infection in your gum, especially in periodontal pockets around your teeth. Over time, it can spread to your jaw bone and cause irreversible damage. Periodontitis can even cause your teeth to fall out. The infections associated with periodontal disease can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health risks.

Risk Factors

You are at an increased risk of developing gum disease if you:

• Chew or smoke tobacco
• Have teeth that are hard to clean, overlapping or crooked
• Possess a genetic susceptibility to the infection
• Practice poor oral hygiene
• Have diabetes
• Are pregnant
• Take certain medications that cause dry mouth
• Take prescription drugs including steroids, cancer therapy, and birth control

Treatment

At Sherman Oaks Dental we have the Odyssey Laser which will provide fast relief for any soft tissue or gum problems you are experiencing. Treating gum disease is a preventative measure to keep you from developing serious periodontal disease.

How the Odyssey Laser Works

To repair the damage and infection you need to remove all of the infected tissue. This includes closing up the infection pockets. The Odyssey Laser is minimally-invasive and removes the harmful bacteria by passing its light between the gum and tooth. The laser will also stimulate your cells to grow. And all of this is done without an incision.

The Odyssey Laser Benefits

• Faster pain and discomfort relief
• Less recovery time
• Less bleeding, swelling and pain
• Less tissue removal
• Lasting results
• No needles– No injectable anesthetic agents are needed
• No X-rays–the diode is safe and radiation free
• No stitches– laser treated areas are self-sealing

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Weyneth and Dr. Sosenko to discuss how the Odyssey Laser can give you fast relief from your oral discomfort. Call us today at (630) 473-3843 to request an appointment and get the relief you need!

Good dental health is essential to overall health and well-being. But fear of dental work can be a major stumbling block to getting the dental work you need. Whether due to phobias or negative associations, many people are unwilling to visit a dentist’s office, even when it is absolutely necessary. If you suffer from dental fears and anxieties, you may have difficulty even making an appointment. Even sedation dentistry, which some find extremely helpful, can be frightening to others.

At Sherman Oaks, we want to make everyone feel as comfortable as possible in the chair, so that you can get the dental care you need to stay healthy. Dr. Weyneth is always ready and willing to address your fears. As much as possible, he and his staff will try to accommodate any requests you make to keep yourself comfortable and to feel in control. For example, we can:

• Talk to you about your fears and what is likely to aggravate them.
• Explain all the procedures and what we are about to do before we do it.
• Warn you of pain or discomfort.
• Establish a signal in case you want us to stop.
• Welcome a friend or family member who you may want to accompany you.
• Make room for comforting objects, music, or anything else you might bring to help you relax.
• Offer you nitrous oxide to help you stay calm.

No matter what your individual needs are, our primary goal is always to help you stay healthy and safe. Don’t be afraid to ask us for what you need. Every person in our office is ready and willing to help you so that you can have the easiest dental care experience possible.

If you have been living with missing teeth, you might be wondering what you can do to correct your smile. Although you might assume that you will have to live with dentures for the rest of your life or endure a gappy, unprofessional-looking smile, there is an innovative, highly effective alternative: dental implants.

Unlike bridges or partial dentures, which are held in place by your surrounding teeth or pressure-fitted to your jaw tissue, dental implants are actually anchored into your jawbone, just like your natural teeth. This means that dental implants look and function just like the teeth they were meant to replace.

Unfortunately, many patients are nervous about investing in dental implants, since they can cost a lot more than bridges or dentures. However, this investment is money well spent, since dental implants are the ideal solution for missing teeth. Here are a few reasons why.

Natural Appearance

If you have a dental bridge, it might be supported by the surrounding teeth and held in place with small metal brackets. Although these supportive structures are usually small and discreet, they can be a dead giveaway that your teeth are false. Fortunately, because dental implants are anchored into the jaw, they are fixed, freestanding, and have a completely natural appearance. Dental implants are also milled, shaped, and dyed to blend in with your existing smile.

Low Maintenance

Because dental implants are anchored independently, they are also easier to care for. Patients with implants can brush and floss their implants right along with their natural teeth without worrying about getting in between small wires or being gentle with supportive brackets. Dental implants are also designed with synthetic material, which means that the tooth itself will not get cavities. Also, since dental implants are designed with durable materials, they have an incredible lifespan. In fact, some studies have shown that implants that have been cared for properly can last over 30 years.

Prevent Bone Loss

The most important reason to invest in dental implants is to protect your surrounding jawbone. Believe it or not, your jawbone relies on stimulation from your teeth as you eat and chew. This stimulation helps to prompt cell regeneration that keeps the jaw strong. Unfortunately, when teeth go missing, the jawbone tissue can slowly melt away, changing your face shape and making it more difficult to get implants in the future. However, unlike bridges and dentures, which only provide a small amount of stimulation, dental implants recreate these natural stimuli, keeping your jawbone strong.

If you are interested in perfecting your smile with the help of dental implants, contact Sherman Oaks Dental today.

Sherman Oaks Dental offers all of the services you need to keep your smile strong and healthy. But did you know that we also offer cosmetic procedures? We have several options to beautify your smile. But perhaps the most innovative is Lumineers by Cerinate.

What are Lumineers?
You may have heard of porcelain veneers before. Porcelain veneers are synthetic coverings for your teeth, which can cover or fill in any imperfections or gaps you may have. Normally, these are only applied after the enamel of the teeth are removed or cut into. Since traditional veneers can be rather thick, they must replace the surface of the teeth in order to be worn. Lumineers are the latest technology in porcelain veneers. They are so thin—as thin as a contact lens!—that they can be placed on the surface of your teeth without the painful removal of your enamel. They are strong, and made to last for up to 20 years.

Are Lumineers right for you?
If you have stains on your teeth that just won’t come off, chips, cracks or gaps, Lumineers are right for you! Even gum lines that appear long can be visually corrected, so that your teeth look whole and beautiful. Not only are these defects corrected, but the teeth are permanently whitened. Do you have an aversion to dental pain? No problem! This procedure is simple and straight-forward. No drilling or cutting of the teeth is required, so that means that in most cases, no anesthesia is needed. It is virtually painless, and is a procedure that can be done in just a couple of visits. Once it is done, you can resume your regular eating and drinking habits without threatening the integrity of your porcelain Lumineers. It is important to maintain regular checkups to ensure that your teeth continue to be strong and healthy, and shine the way they should.

Every case is different. You may need only one surface done, or you might want each tooth covered. Whatever your needs, come in and discuss your options with Dr Weyneth. He will take the time to listen to you, and discuss what it will take for you to meet your goals. We will treat you with the greatest care and respect and help your smile to reach its most beautiful potential.
Visit our website to learn more about Lumineers, or give us a call at (630) 473-3843 to schedule a consultation!

Day after day, your teeth are subjected to foods and drinks that can cause significant staining. Beverages such as red wine and coffee and fruits like dark berries can make your teeth look dull and dingy after awhile, which is why teeth whitening is so important.

Teeth whitening uses gentle, non-toxic oral bleaches to gently remove stains and to restore your bright white smile. Depending on the severity of your dental discoloration, you might be able to achieve brighter teeth in as little as a single bleaching session in our office.

Benefits of Professional Dental Whitening

These days, you can find tooth whitening products on the same aisle as toothpaste in your local grocery store. Although it might seem tempting to save a little money and pick up a whitening kit, professional dental whitening has several key benefits over DIY methods.

Safer Whitening When you visit us for teeth whitening, we will start by examining your teeth for cavities, fractures, and chips. This step is crucial, since letting bleach seep into your teeth can be harmful and exceptionally painful. Also, Dr. Weneth will prescribe a bleach strength that is suitable for your teeth in order to minimize pain. Unfortunately, if you bleach your teeth at home with a kit, you run the risk of using a product that is too strong for your dental surfaces, or too weak to do the job properly. If you bleach damaged teeth, it can also disguise existing problems, making them more difficult to detect in the future.

Superior Products Working with our office to bleach your teeth has another powerful benefit—you have access to all of the best whitening products. Unlike those one-size-fits-all whitening trays, we will take molds of your mouth to create trays that fit your teeth perfectly. These trays help to keep bleach in contact with your teeth, so that they lighten evenly. Also, well-fitting trays can keep bleach from spilling out onto your gums and burning your oral tissues.

Better Results Because professional teeth whitening implements higher-quality products and careful dental exams, patients typically see better results than using at-home kits. Since we will follow up with you and evaluate your before and after pictures, we can alter your whitening treatment to attain optimal results. For example, if you receive a few in-office whitening treatments and you aren’t happy with the shade of your teeth, Dr. Weneth might opt for a higher concentration of bleach, or prescribe longer sessions to resolve the problem.

Fewer Side Effects Because dental bleach opens up the pores present in your enamel to let the bleach whiten the underlying dentin, some patients experience dental sensitivity. However, Dr. Weneth can introduce you to special toothpastes or mouth rinses to keep your teeth healthy, strong, and comfortable.

For more information about professional teeth whitening, call or contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Teeth require consistent daily care to stay in good health. Brushing and flossing are necessary to keep the plaque which constantly builds in your mouth from hardening into tartar. But personal dental hygiene alone can’t reliably keep teeth in their best shape. To maintain excellent dental health, you need to have regular dental exams and cleanings which will keep your teeth healthy and free of defects.

Thorough cleaning and polishing
However good your brushing technique, it is possible to miss small, difficult-to-reach areas of your teeth. Dr. Weyneth can see what you miss, and clean those areas of your mouth which you have overlooked. It is especially important to address any tartar that may have accumulated on your teeth, as this is too hard to be removed by brushing and can only be addressed in the dentist’s chair. After a thorough cleaning and polishing to remove plaque and tartar, your teeth will be at their brightest.

Treatment with fluoride
The bacteria that reside in your mouth are constantly absorbing fluoride and other minerals from your dental enamel. This allows them to form durable tartar—and also weakens your teeth. To stay healthy, teeth need a constant source of minerals to replenish themselves. While your diet provides many of these minerals, fluoride in particular tends to vanish over time. In order to keep your dental enamel strong, we offer fluoride treatment to replenish the stores that are lost. Regular professional fluoride treatment, in combination with a healthy diet and regular use of fluoride toothpaste, helps guard your teeth against decay and keeps them bright and strong.

Diagnosing unseen decay
Every cavity begins with damage too small and subtle to see. To keep bacteria from getting a foothold on your mouth, Dr. Weyneth uses a DIAGNOdent pen to detect the early stages of tooth decay and gum disease. The DIAGNOdent pen—a small, handheld laser imaging device—is more sensitive than the human eye, and can detect invisible decay to allow for the earliest possible treatment.

Don’t delay
Prompt, regular dental exams are key to keeping your teeth at optimal health. If you are due for an appointment, you can schedule one with us by phone or online. Don’t wait; the sooner we see you, the easier it will be to get you the cleaning and treatment you need.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, we know how uncomfortable anesthetic injections can be. The medicine that is supposed to prevent you from feeling pain, is so often painful to administer! Many people experience fear or anxiety when presented with needles, and even those who are most comfortable with the process rarely enjoy the sting. To help keep you comfortable and eliminate this anxiety, we use the CompuDent system to administer anesthesia without the sting of the traditional anesthetic injection.

How it works
Although the needle might seem like the problem, what causes the sting of an anesthetic injection is actually the large amount of medicine being forced into the tissue all at once. Rather than injecting anesthetic in one push, CompuDent administers the medicine slowly and gently, through a tiny needle that is much less intimidating than the traditional syringe. The system includes instruments to monitor the pressure of the injection, keeping the flow of anesthetic gentle and constant. Because this process is so much less painful, even patients with a deep fear of injections are able to use it comfortably, leading us to call it the “magic wand” of dental treatments.

A precise application
In addition to increased comfort, CompuDent allows us to use anesthetic on a smaller area, numbing only the tooth that we need to work on rather than the whole side of your face. At the same time, we are actually putting more anesthetic where it is needed, keeping your tooth reliably numb during the entire procedure. This reduction in unnecessary numbness combined with more effectiveness at the actual injection site was impossible using traditional syringes, and is only possible now using CompuDent’s computer-assisted delivery.

No need for fear
Anxiety around injections and dental visits is a very common problem. We are always committed to doing whatever we can to relieve any fear you might experience. The use of the CompuDent system is only one of the ways that we try to reduce your discomfort and anxiety. We are always willing to make accommodations for those who have bad experiences or who experience phobias around dental work. Please don’t hesitate to ask for whatever you need to feel more comfortable when you visit our office. Call Sherman Oaks Dental today or contact us online, and let us know how we can help you through your next dental visit.

If you are tired of dealing with crooked, uncomfortable teeth, but you aren’t excited about the idea of traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are an option you should consider. Here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we are proud to offer the procedure, which consists of a series of clear retainers.

The Invisalign system is tailored for each individual patient. Invisalign consists of between 18 to 30 retainers, depending on the alignment of your teeth. These clear aligners are nearly undetectable when worn, which means that you can straighten your teeth gradually without attracting a lot unwanted attention. This feature makes Invisalign perfect for adults who might be worried about maintaining a professional appearance, or teens who are concerned about dating.

Enjoy A More Comfortable Orthodontic Experience
Because Invisalign retainers aren’t affixed to your teeth with dental cement, wires, and brackets, these clear aligners provide a more comfortable orthodontic treatment experience. Also, because Invisalign retainers can be removed, you can eat, drink, or cuddle with your spouse without worrying about braces getting in the way. This means that you can enjoy more natural-looking family photos and simpler mealtimes, without affecting your results.

Avoid Oral Issue Damage
Since Invisalign systems are designed specifically for your teeth, they provide a tight, comfortable fit. This means that you won’t have to worry about oral tissue damage such as scraped cheeks and gouged gums. A safer experience also means that you won’t have to deal with oral scars that could inhibit normal eating or talking in the future.

Keep Your Teeth Cleaner
One of the big downsides of traditional metal braces is that they can make it difficult to keep your teeth clean and sanitary. Because wires and brackets have sharp edges, braces can snag food and particles can get left behind—even after brushing and flossing. Also, since brushing and flossing are inherently more difficult with braces, patients can be left with undetected oral decay or a stained smile.

However, because Invisalign retainers can be removed during meals, you can eat without worrying about large chunks of food being left behind. When you are done eating, you can even brush without your retainers. This opportunity makes it possible to keep your teeth clean, healthy, and white throughout your orthodontic treatment.

The Process of Getting Invisalign
After the doctor determines that you are a good candidate for Invisalign, he will take impressions of your teeth. These impressions are then sent to a lab where technicians create a 3D computerized model of your smile. The technicians use this model to simulate the natural progression of your orthodontic treatment, and your retainers are made accordingly. After your retainers come in, you will be asked to come into the office and the doctor will check the fit. Patients can expect to wear Invisalign retainers for between a year to a year and a half, depending on your smile.
If Invisalign sounds right for you, make an appointment with Dr. Weyneth today!

Many people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea depend on CPAP therapy just to function everyday. But many patients may not know there is a simpler, cheaper treatment for sleep apnea. Mandibular advancement devices (or just oral appliances) were shown in a recent study to relieve one symptom of obstructive sleep apnea as well as CPAP. Let us explain why we at Sherman Oaks Dental prefer oral appliances for our patients.

Equally Effective at Lowering Blood Pressure

Those who suffer with obstructive sleep apnea know the difficulty of trying to function without a good night’s sleep; and the problems their snoring causes those who sleep around them. But sleep apnea is also associated with high blood pressure, which can lead to higher risk for cardiovascular disease. So, how well a sleep apnea treatment decreases blood pressure for patients is obviously an essential question when choosing a therapy.

A recent article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association compared the effects of different therapies on the blood pressure of sleep apnea patients. The study looked at thousands of sleep apnea patients, some of whom were treated with CPAP, some with oral appliances, and some with placebo or no treatment. Patients who received oral appliance therapy saw comparable decreases in blood pressure to those who used CPAP machines. So if both therapies are effective, which is the best option for you?

Advantages of Treating Sleep Apnea with Oral Appliances

For years, the leading therapy for obstructive sleep apnea has been CPAP. With the CPAP machine, the patient wears a mask to bed that’s attached to a pump unit by a tube. Air is forced through the patient’s airway to keep it open. This solution works well for many people, but the machine is bulky, expensive, and for many patients it’s too invasive to get a good night’s sleep.

A mandibular advancement device is a simple mouthpiece that the patient puts in their mouth while they sleep. This appliance, customized for each patient, keeps the airway open by forcing the lower jaw forward. In our experience this solution is just as effective at treating sleep apnea without a lot of negatives we see with the CPAP machine. Here are the main benefits of the oral appliance over CPAP:

• The oral appliance doesn’t string you to anything while you sleep
• It doesn’t require space on a bedstand
• It’s small enough to fit in your pocket while you travel
• Many patients find the mouthpiece more comfortable than the CPAP mask
• The oral appliance is much, much, much less expensive

A Personal Decision

For patients who have been using CPAP to treat their obstructive sleep apnea, and they’re happy with it, stay with what is working. For patients who are still struggling with sleep apnea, we always recommend starting with the easier, more affordable option. Both therapies will take some getting used to, so why not put your effort into the solution that will give you the best overall experience. The primary goal of treatment is to manage your sleep apnea so you’re getting the sleep you need, you feel better, and you’re healthier. If you’d like to discuss your options with a sleep apnea dentist, we’re always happy to talk.

Happy holidays to all of our wonderful patients! We have had an excellent year here at Sherman Oaks Dental, and we just want to tell you how much we appreciate you.Your bright, shining faces and wonderful attitudes are the reason that we love dentistry so much. Thank you for being loyal customers. We will do our best to provide you all with the dental experience that you deserve!We also want to thank our excellent staff. Without our hardworking dental hygienists, office managers, and dental assistants, we wouldn’t be what we are today. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

With Love,

Dr. Weyneth and Dr. Sosenko

Contrary to popular belief, proper dental care is about more than simply brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist. Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and your diet and level of physical fitness are directly tied to the health of your teeth. Here are a few health conditions that have been proven to be related to dental decay, and how you can take care of your teeth from the inside out.

Decay

If you aren’t feeling well, your teeth might be at the root of the problem. Conversely, if your teeth are healthy, your body might be in better shape too. Here are a few problems you might find yourself with if you ignore your dental health:

• Cardiovascular Illnesses: The same dental bacteria that can erode away your oral enamel can seep into your blood and create an inflammatory response in your body. This inflammation can cause cardiovascular illnesses such as endocarditis and heart disease. In fact, some researchers have even found oral bacteria inside of the arterial plaque that causes heart attacks.
• Diabetes: Since diabetics have a difficult time controlling their blood sugars, and since oral bacteria feeds on these sugars, diabetes has been directly linked with periodontal disease.
• Cancer: The inflammation that dental disease can cause can harm you more than messing up your blood sugar levels and increasing your chances for a heart attack. Researchers have found that there is strong evidence to support a link between periodontal disease and cancer, since bacteria and inflammation can hurt your body’s ability to fight off other infections.

For these reasons, make your dental health an important part of your overall healthcare regimen. Schedule your dental checkups at the same time you schedule your annual doctor’s well exam.

Dental Care From the Inside-Out

As you go about your daily activities, remember that proper dental care starts from the inside. Your diet can drastically improve your overall health, and keep your teeth strong and beautiful. Here are a few things to remember:

• Eat A Wide Variety of Fruits and Vegetables: In addition to giving your body healthy doses of vitamins and minerals, crunchy fruits and veggies can also stimulate your dental sockets, which can keep your jawbone healthy and strong.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can improve circulation throughout your entire body, including your mouth—keeping necessary blood vessels working like they should.
• Drink Enough Water: In addition to rinsing your teeth clean, drinking enough water can also help your body to run more efficiently. Also, people who are dehydrated tend to suffer from bad breath and aggravated dental decay.

If you have questions about how your dental health could affect your physical health, make an appointment with us today!

Thank you for letting us provide for your dental needs. As Thanksgiving approaches, wonderful clients like you are what we’re thankful for this year. Please keep taking good care of your teeth, and let us help you keep them bright and healthy with exams, cleanings, and restorative dentistry.

It’s especially important during the holidays to pay extra attention to your teeth. Most of us consume more sugary foods from Thanksgiving to New Years than at any other time of the year. Thanksgiving is a big culprit, as the traditional meal includes sweet treats like pie and cranberry sauce. We want you to enjoy your meal—but afterwards, don’t forget to brush. Bacteria in your mouth will also be enjoying the feast.

Also, bear in mind that the wine and coffee that you may drink during and after the Thanksgiving meal can stain your teeth. Keep an eye out for staining. Sherman Oaks Dental offers teeth whitening to reverse staining and darkening caused by food and drinks. If you need our services, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. We’ll be available by phone during our scheduled hours after the holiday, or you can request an appointment online.

Once again, happy Thanksgiving from all your friends at Sherman Oaks Dental. We hope you have a joyful holiday filled with reasons to smile.

Sincerely,

The Sherman Oaks staff

Don’t Be Embarrassed About Your Dental Anxiety

Have you ever realized that you had a dental problem, but hesitated to make an appointment out of fear? Although you might feel like a baby, millions of Americans suffer from serious dental anxiety. In fact, research has shown that between 5% and 8% of Americans avoid the dentist out of fear, letting decay run rampant inside of their mouths. Fortunately, here at Sherman Oaks Dentistry, we offer laughing gas to help our patients to relax.

What is Laughing Gas?
Laughing gas is a mix of Nitrous oxide and regular oxygen. This mixture of gases is given to patients through a comfortable, non-invasive nose mask while the dentist works on your teeth. The gas is odorless and colorless, which makes it palatable for small children and adults alike.

As you breathe laughing gas, the Nitrous oxide enters your bloodstream, where it passes through the blood-brain barrier and acts on several different types of receptors. This reaction has multiple positive effects, including muscle relaxation, anesthesia, and sedation. In addition to reducing pain and making it easier for you to relax, Nitrous oxide has also been found to reduce the gagging mechanism, which might improve your dental treatment and keep you safe.

Why You Should Ask Your Dentist About Nitrous Oxide

Here are a few other reasons you should ask your dentist about Nitrous oxide during your next dental appointment:

• It’s Safe: Laughing gas is considered to be very safe when administered by a professional dentist. Side effects are incredibly rare, but they are normally mild and include headache or nausea.
• It’s Effective: There is a reason that patients who have used laughing gas before usually swear by the stuff. It is incredibly effective at helping you to relax, which can help you to calm your dental fears. Also, since laughing gas can have a sedative effect, some patients even fall asleep during their visit and awake to a healthier smile.
• It’s Free: Don’t worry about paying an arm and a leg for laughing gas. Here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we don’t charge for this powerful sedative. Nitrous oxide can be given in conjunction with any type of dental visit to calm your fears.
• It Doesn’t Have Lasting Side Effects: Unlike other sedatives, which can cause symptoms like nausea and dizziness for hours after taking them, laughing gas has no long-lasting side effects. As soon as we cut the flow of the gas, you are free to drive home and enjoy the rest of your day.

Stop Putting Off Your Dental Visits!

Don’t take our word for it; come on in and enjoy a calmer, more enjoyable dental appointment with the help of Nitrous oxide. If you need to have a dental problem resolved or it has been awhile since your last checkup.

An apnea is a halt in breathing that often occurs during sleep, usually alongside shallow breathing or infrequent breaths. Sleep apnea can interfere with your sleep and also with the sleep of others, as it causes loud snoring. The effects of lost sleep can seriously impact the rest of your life, causing fatigue and irritability that interferes with all other activities.

But sleep apnea does more than just keep people awake. Without treatment, it can lead to serious health problems including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and adult asthma, as well as contributing to weight gain. If you are losing sleep to sleep apnea, a solution is available. Sherman Oaks offers sleep apnea treatment, allowing you and your family to get the rest you need.

Identifying sleep apnea

Loud, heavy snoring is often the first symptom that sufferers of sleep apnea notice. It can be loud enough to wake others, or even to wake you. Along with snoring, most signs of the disorder occur while you sleep and can be hard to observe. An overnight sleep study is necessary for a conclusive diagnosis; but there are warning signs that you and/or a partner can watch for at home.

• Loud snoring
• Waking up with a dry mouth, a sore throat, or a headache
• Pauses in breathing during sleep (observed by another person)
• Waking up suddenly feeling short of breath
• Insomnia
• Sleepiness during the day (hypersomnia)
• Attention problems and irritability

Cause of sleep apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes blocked intermittently during sleep. Your tongue and soft palate can sag back into your airway, narrowing the passage to cause snoring and sometimes blocking the airflow entirely. This usually happens when there are problems with the size and tone of the tongue and soft palate, as seen below.

Sleep apnea can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to experience it than others. Risk factors for sleep apnea include:

• Being over 40
• Being male
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Large neck size

Sleep apnea treatment

If you suffer from sleep apnea, we can help. All the problems associated with this disorder, from snoring to interrupted sleep, are caused by the blocked airway. Sherman Oaks offers several comfortable dental appliances that can correct the positioning of your tongue and palate, allowing you to breathe naturally. After an exam, Dr. Weyneth will help you choose the appliance that will be most helpful for you. With the blockage removed, you will see an immediate improvement in the quality of your sleep, and you and your family will be able to sleep in peace.

Treatment is available immediately. Call our office to schedule your exam, or request an appointment online. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have about sleep apnea or any other issues relating to your dental health. Don’t live with interrupted sleep. Call us today.

Though braces have become almost synonymous with being a teenager, not everyone has had the chance to receive orthodontic correction. New cosmetic dentistry techniques develop and a beautiful smile gets easier to achieve now. So, adults who didn’t have the opportunity in childhood are seeking ways to fix crooked and misaligned teeth with adult orthodontics. Sherman Oaks Family Dental offers an alternative to traditional braces or even Invisalign:  lumineers.

Lumineers: An Alternative to Invisalign

We offer Lumineers as a faster, easier alternative to braces. We can correct visible flaws in your smile in two easy visits, and the results are instantaneous. You get an immediate improvement in the shape, alignment, and color of your teeth. You don’t have to worry about the many adjustments over a long period like braces. Their original purpose is to repair stains, wear, and damage to the teeth. But, properly shaped lumineers can visually straighten slightly crooked teeth. They can also eliminate gaps left by receding gums or too-small teeth. Your lumineers can close spaces which could take months or years for an orthodontist to fix. Although less suitable for children and adolescents, they can be the perfect solution for adults. Whether applied to one tooth or many, lumineers will immediately straighten and whiten your teeth, with little waiting and no additional work necessary.

How do they work?

After consulting with you to learn exactly what you want for your teeth and which parts of your smile you consider problem areas, Dr. Weyneth, our Naperville cosmetic dentist,  will prepare your teeth for application and take casts of your mouth to ensure a perfect fit. Your lumineers will then be individually shaped to ensure the highest quality and the best match for you. Each one we craft is made to imitate the color, shape, and polish of a healthy tooth, and is composed of naturally stain-resistant materials to protect the shine of your smile. At your final appointment, each custom-made shell will be permanently applied to the surface of your tooth, leaving your smile at its best.

At Sherman Oaks Family Dental, we offer the best in cosmetic dentistry, including lumineers. Call our office to schedule your consultation today, or request an appointment online. We’re ready any time to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

Toothaches can happen for a variety of reasons; we’ve all experienced the discomfort of one. If you are feeling severe pain from a toothache, it is recommended that you do something about it rather than hope it gets better. By ignoring tooth pain or oral pain, your condition can worsen and cause issues like infections or tooth loss.  Tooth pain is often a symptom of a much larger problem. To assist with pain relief, you can utilize Tylenol, warm salt water rinse, or a cold compress.

Other Types of Oral Pain:

1. Canker Sores: Whether short or long lasting, canker sores are one of the common forms of oral pain. We can assist you with temporary relief in the form of over-the-counter medications or laser treatment.
2. Bleeding: This can be a sign of gum disease, but if bleeding persists, we recommend the use of a tight gauze on the area. If it continues after the gauze is removed, please seek additional help at our offices.
3. Knocked Out or Broken Tooth: If it is a baby tooth, simply stem the bleeding and ensure that there is no bits of tooth remaining (if there are, contact us immediately) in the mouth. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, make sure that you recover the tooth, hold it by the crown, rinse it briefly, and try to reinsert into place with a gauze. If this doesn’t work, put the tooth in milk or water and contact us immediately for an emergency appointment in hopes of replacing the tooth.
4. Cut or Bitten Lip, Cheek, or Tongue: If simply bruised, an application of ice can help with the pain. If there is bleeding, utilize pressure with a gauze to stop it. If bleeding persists, seek out help at our office.

Now that you know the importance of never ignoring tooth pain, we hope that you’ll seek out dental help with one of the best dentists in Naperville immediately if you begin to experience oral discomfort. If you’re a new patient to Sherman Oaks, take a moment to see what we have to offer you. If you have questions regarding tooth pain, feel free to contact us for additional information. Those of you who are currently experiencing tooth pain, please get in touch with Sherman Oaks immediately to make an appointment so that we can help with relief from the pain. The dental team at Sherman Oaks is proud to help the Naperville, IL, area with all their dental needs!

When it comes to your daily routine, you might be more likely to schedule an oil change for your car than you are to book a dental exam. After all, who likes to be poked and prodded by a dentist? Failure to look after your teeth could cause big problems down the road. If you want to keep decay in check, Dr. Weyneth, one of the best dentists in Naperville, recommends going in for dental checkups every six months. Here are a few other benefits you might glean from regular exams:

1: Keep Small Problems From Getting Worse

That cavity might be tiny now, but how will it look after a few years? Before you know it, decay can spread, creating huge, painful crevices where a microscopic cavity once was. If decay travels deep enough, it might even irritate nerve endings inside of your tooth—causing immense pain. Before you know it, you might have to endure a root canal or even a tooth extraction, when a simple cavity a few months ago could have done the trick. However, by visiting Dr. Weyneth regularly, you can keep tabs on new and existing damage, so that you can address problems early.

2: Spread Out The Cost of Dental Repairs

Who likes to visit the dentist once every five years, only to encounter loads of problems that cost a lot of money to fix? Another great thing about going in for regular dental checkups is that you can spread out the cost of dental repairs over a long time period. In addition to reducing damage and mitigating the need for massive repairs, you might be able to budget more effectively. For example, if you know that you usually need one or two fillings per visit and you know that you have an exam coming up, you might be able to save that money ahead of time.

3: Learn Better Habits

You might feel like you know how to floss, but what if you are doing things the wrong way? During your dental exams, the dentist will talk about your oral health habits, so that you can perfect your technique.

4: Keep Your Smile Beautiful

If looks are important to you, you should make regular dental exams a priority. In addition to fending off cavities and dental fractures, checkups can also give you the opportunity to fine-tune your smile. You might be able to talk with the doctor about dental whitening, bonding together gaps, or rounding out that chipped tooth.

5: Take A Few Minutes For Yourself

Last but not least, dental exams give you the opportunity to take a few minutes for yourself. Instead of listening to your kids nag you or dealing with work, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the process.

What A Typical Dental Checkup Entails

Although dental checkups might sound scary, they are really nothing to be nervous about. After a dental hygienist takes a few x-rays of your teeth, they will clean and polish your teeth with a powered toothbrush. After your teeth are cleaned and rinsed, the hygienist will look for signs of decay. Afterwards, Dr. Weyneth will evaluate damaged areas and recommend treatment, which will take place at a later appointment.

If it’s time to come in for your regular exam, please contact our office today.

Don’t let an unsightly smile ruin your next round of family photos. Here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we specialize in cosmetic dentistry, so that you can keep your smile beautiful. Here are just a few of the cosmetic services that we offer:

Discolored, Stained, or Darkened teeth

Over time, your teeth can take quite a hit. Since the surface of dental enamel is slightly porous, dyes and stains can permeate your teeth, leaving behind discolorations. Fortunately, your cosmetic dentist can whiten the area by creating custom bleaching trays for you.

Teeth That Have Lost Enamel or Shine

Dental fractures can happen in an instant, leaving behind dull, sensitive, exposed dentin. However, cosmetic dentists can polish away divots, and fill cavities with tooth-colored resins.

Cracked, Chipped, Broken or Missing teeth

Dental resin, also called composite resin, can also be used to repair chipped, broken, or cracked teeth. If you have missing teeth, dentists can place an abutment, or an anchor, and then cement a permanent implant to cover the metal. Implants look natural, are comfortable, and last for years.

Gaps Between your Teeth or a Crowded Smile

We also offer orthodontic services in Naperville, so that we can correct crowded or gappy smiles. If you aren’t comfortable wearing traditional metal braces, we also offer Invisalign or overnight orthodontic appliances to correct misaligned teeth.

Recessed or Uneven Gum Lines

Those gums might seem unimportant, but they actually frame your smile. If you have a jagged gum line, it can make your smile look uneven or strange. Fortunately, here at Sherman Oaks Dental, we use special lasers to quickly and painlessly reshape your gum line. In under an hour, you might be able to enjoy an attractive smile with pink, healthy looking gums.

Unsightly Fillings

Is your mouth filled with older silver amalgam fillings? Although silver fillings are effective, they can make your mouth look dirty when you smile or laugh. Fortunately, we can replace those older fillings with new tooth-colored versions that blend in with your existing teeth. If you are worried about the repair looking obvious, you shouldn’t be. Composite resins can be dyed to match your teeth perfectly, so that you don’t have to worry about someone noticing the filling.

If you have a smile that could use a little help, make an appointment with our Naperville cosmetic dentist today! We would be happy to hear from you.

When you think about going to the best dentist in Naperville, you think about the usual steps it takes to fulfill your exam. You’re tense, and they start off relatively slow by taking your X-rays. You don’t worry about this part because it’s the easy part, but the one thing we never think about is the amount of radiation that we’re exposed to from these.

In the past, and with some current users, x-rays were developed with film. In order to develop these, there are a lot of chemicals involved to develop and tone the image. This usually leaves room for human error, because we’re not all perfect. The traditional method also may not show everything it needs to.

Now, coming back the topic of radiation exposure. There’s a yearly quota of radiation that you’ll usually meet due to your dental checkups and whatever problem might spring up in the rest of the body. Traditional dental x-rays usually only meets 1 percent of your annual exposure. Although with recent advancements, we have the digital age!

Digital x-rays offer a better outcome, and they’re better for you. Instead of the traditional bolt of radiation, the digital method uses an electronic sensor to capture the image and then sent and stored on a computer. This reduces your radiation exposure by 80-90 percent, but don’t let this be a reason to avoid the traditional method, as both methods maintain very low levels.

Having this new technology, means your new digital images can be easily and electronically transferred from one healthcare provider to another, unlike the traditional film that would be manually sent. This also means that the digital version is better for the environment, because there is no harmful waste or chemicals to be disposed of.

X-rays serve as both a preventative and diagnostic tool to help maintain a healthy mouth. Both methods show a variety of problems from cysts, tumors, abscesses, bone loss, decay, problems with teeth, root issues, developmental abnormalities, or trouble underneath the gum line. Everyone is encouraged to visit the dentist once, at the least if not, twice a year.

So in the end, what we’ve learned so far is that the traditional method always has and always will work but leaves room for human error, and the new digital version shows a little bit more detail due to the clarity, and offers a safer and faster alternative.

If you’re more interested in the new digital alternative, please contact us at Sherman Oaks Dental and schedule your yearly exam. We would be more than happy to discuss this option with you on your next routine exam.

If you have trouble sleeping  or wake up with headaches, you might have a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea. This condition, which is more common amongst overweight individuals, causes the sufferer to stop breathing as long as ten seconds at a time during sleep. Unfortunately, the symptoms of sleep apnea are vague enough that they can be hard to detect. Here are a few symptoms that you might suffer from this common condition:

• Loud Snoring: Because sleep apnea occurs when the muscles of your throat relax too much, sleep apnea sufferers typically report loud, uncontrollable snoring.
• Fatigue: Are you overly tired throughout the day? In addition to making it hard to focus, fatigue can also impact your ability to drive safely and invest in meaningful conversations.
• Morning Headaches: If you tend to wake up with painful headaches, it could be a sign that you aren’t getting enough oxygen to your brain because of sleep apnea.

If you have any of these symptoms, talk with your doctor about your sleep habits. Your physician might ask you to take part in a sleep study so that experts can analyze your breathing habits. If problems are found during your sleep study, your doctor might suggest these treatments:

Treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Don’t despair if you have sleep apnea. Here are a few ways you might be able to find relief, so that you can sleep soundly and safely:

• Continuous Positive Pressure Systems: To keep your airway open, some doctors prescribe continuous positive pressure systems, or CPAP machines. These devices continuously pump air into your throat through a mask while you sleep. Although these machines take a little while to get used to, they are highly effective and can help you to sleep without problems.
• Mouthguards: However, if you have a mild case of sleep apnea, you might be able to treat it effectively with something as simple as a mouthguard. These oral appliances change the way that your jaw closes, which keeps the muscles of your throat from collapsing. In addition to being comfortable, mouthguards are also easier to take on the road, making them perfect for frequent travelers. Also, since oral appliances are a more discreet treatment option, they are better for people who might be shy about wearing a mask overnight.

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and you think that oral appliance therapy would work for you, call our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Weyneth today.

A Soft Tissue Laser used in gum disease treatment.

For those of you who have dental implants or are considering them, you might wonder if oral hygiene is as important for your artificial teeth as it is for your natural ones. After all, the dental implants you’ll receive at Sherman Oaks Dental are of the highest quality and durability, and installed by one of the best dentists in Naperville. As it turns out, hygiene is still extremely important for dental implants, since gum disease can affect them just as much as it can affect natural teeth.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissue of the gums that surround and support the teeth. Even in mild cases, it can make gum tissue red, swollen and sensitive, the tissue bleeds easily and can pull away from the teeth. In more severe cases, it causes the degradation and loss of both gum and bone tissue, and as a result teeth can become loose and even fall out. In fact, gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. So how does this affect dental implants? Well, since tooth loss from gum disease is caused by the decay of gum tissue, dental implants are just as vulnerable as natural teeth, since they can become loosened if the gum tissue holding them in place is compromised. The same plaque that causes gum disease can also damage the crown surfaces of dental implants.

How to prevent gum disease

Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque, a thin film of bacteria and bacterial waste that coats the teeth and gums. Brushing your teeth twice a day for 60-90 seconds each time will help keep plaque at bay and limit the damage it can do to your mouth. Be sure when brushing to carefully clean all the exposed parts of your teeth, especially the hard-to-reach parts where plaque can easily build up. Flossing once a day helps clean plaque out from between the teeth, where gum disease often develops.

Often, gum disease is painless and reveals few symptoms, so regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist are essential for timely diagnosis and preventive measures. Though we do offer dental implant services and gum disease treatment from Sherman Oaks Dental, we prefer to prevent problems from developing in the first place, so come for a visit and let us treat you to our first-class preventive teeth cleaning services. Contact us today!

After your dental implant has healed, enjoy the beauty and function of your new smile!

So, you’ve made an appointment to get your dental implants fitted. What do you need to do in the days following the appointment to make sure that your dental implants bond correctly? In addition to following Dr. Weyneth’s specific advice, here are a few tips that will make sure your recovery is smooth and as painless as possible.

Bring Someone With You To Your Implant Procedure

During the implant procedure, Dr. Weyneth will administer a powerful anesthesia to put you under general anesthesia. After the procedure, you will awaken feeling groggy and disoriented. It is very important to bring a family member or close friend with you to the procedure to make sure that you make it home safely. Your family member or friend will:

• Get all the paperwork, including billing information and prescriptions, from the clinic staff.
• Pick up prescription medications and medical supplies from a local pharmacy.
• Make sure that you arrive home and are resting comfortably.

In the first few days, make sure that you have someone to stay in contact with if you need food or a prescription refill.

Diet and Rest

After your procedure, you will be susceptible to infection and pain during the first few days. Following these tips will help you immediately after your procedure.

• Only drink cold liquids in for the first 48 hours, especially while the anesthetic wears off. Avoid hot drinks and solid food. Most importantly, do not rinse the area with liquids.
• Avoid extended exercise during the first few days after the procedure. Make sure to get plenty of rest and elevate your head with a pillow.

Pain Management

Light bleeding, pain, and swelling are common following a dental implant procedure. Your pain will reach a climax within the first 48 hours, generally starting to subside within the first week. When managing your pain:

• Use an ice pack on your cheeks at ten-minute intervals, taking 20-30 minute breaks between ice treatments.
• Use a towel to hold the bag of ice.
• After the first 36 hours, start applying a gentle heat pack as the swelling starts to go down.
• Drink cold beverages to reduce irritation to the implant site.

Dr. Weyneth may provide different painkillers to help alleviate the pain. These may include narcotic-strength painkillers, ibuprofen, and gel-based treatments. Narcotic-strength painkillers can cause nausea, and you may get an additional batch of medications to help with this. Make sure that you start taking your painkillers as soon as the anesthesia has worn off. Generally, most of the pain should be gone within a week.

Post-Operative Bleeding

Generally, bleeding is quite common after a dental implant. This does not mean that your stitches, which dissolve within 2-3 weeks have failed. Simply apply gauze to the implant site if you notice small amounts of bleeding. Firmly bite down on the gauze pad and keep it in place for about sixty minutes. Bleeding should subside within a few days.

If, for any reason, you feel your bleeding is extreme, you should contact our office for emergency treatment right away.

Antibiotics

There is some general disagreement over whether or not antibiotics are necessary before and after a dental implant. Here are some tips for making sure that you stick to your antibiotics regimen:

• Take your antibiotics every day, as prescribed.
• Ask Dr. Weyneth about antibiotics and meals: some meals need to be taken anywhere from two-four hours before or after a meal.
• Abstain completely from alcohol, as it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and dehydration.

Most importantly, finish off your antibiotics. Even if you feel fine and notice no sign of infection, finishing your prescription of antibiotics will make sure that the medication can successfully prevent an infection.

Keeping the Implant Site Clean

After your implant procedure, follow Dr. Weyneth’s instructions for keeping your implant site clean. In the first few days, you will want to rinse the site with a light saline solution. You may also start using mouthwash as the pain subsides. If he prescribes a mouthwash, use it for the period subscribed. Continue to brush your other teeth as normal. You will want to avoid the implant site, as it may be painful during the first few days to week after the procedure.  Generally, you should use a saline solution 4-5 times per day in the initial days and week after the implant procedure.

Enjoy Your New Smile

Your implant procedure typically takes several months, as the different components of your implant are added. After the first implant visit, you will be fitted with temporary crowns to act as your teeth. Eventually, you will be able to enjoy your new smile to the fullest. Once your implants are fully fitted, make sure to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen, but, most importantly, enjoy your new smile! Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Weyneth.

It’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of different treatment options for dental care in order to pick the one that’s the best fit for you. If you are in the market for teeth replacement, you might ask yourself if dental implants are the best choice. They do, in fact, have many advantages over other types of treatment.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of dental implants is their immense convenience. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently anchored to the jaw bone, and these anchors are what support the prosthetic teeth. Since they are anchored, you won’t have to worry about what you eat or when you eat it, and you won’t have to endure the endless hassle of taking dentures out and putting them back in, over and over. The added security also means that your new teeth won’t slip when smiling or talking, helping you avoid the annoyance and embarrassment of having to adjust them.

Another important advantage of having dental implants permanently anchored to your jaw that might not be as apparent is the support and protection the implants give to your bone structure. When the dental implants bind to your jaw, that bond prevents the degradation of the bone that often accompanies tooth loss. The implants also support your other teeth, keeping them from shifting toward the empty space. The implants can even hold up the rest of your face – sagging of the lips and mouth is something that is often seen in denture users, but is prevented by dental implants.

Dental implants provide an excellent mix of security, convenience and support for your mouth that can’t be found in other treatments for missing teeth. They provide a strong, confident smile that won’t slip and won’t keep you from eating the foods you love. They do more than just replace teeth – they actively keep your remaining teeth and gums healthy. Finally, dental implants are considered simpler and more reliable than other treatments, such as bridgework and endodontic therapy.

Our own Dr. Brian Weyneth, one of the best dentists in Naperville, can offer you some of the best dental implant work you’ll ever get. Contact us today to see if dental implants are right for you!

In recent years, there have been tremendous advances in the field of dentistry. With these advances, it is possible to get better preventative care, painless anesthesia, and much, much more. Today, we explore the latest advances in our Naperville family dentistry that are driving us towards effective, efficient treatment.

DIAGNOdent Laser Detection

Sometimes, even the most skilled dentists cannot detect small cavities on traditional x-rays images. Often, when a cavity is detected on a regular imaging device, there is significant decay requiring drilling of the teeth. With a DIAGNOdent laser pen, your dentist can probe your teeth to see were there might be decay. Cavities can be detected at their earliest stages, indicated by the machine as an alarm and a number. Your dentist might be able to reverse early decay with fluoride treatments, but early decay will minimize drilling and amalgam filling requirements.

Single-Tooth Anesthesia

Gone are the days when dentists have to use a syringe and needle for local anesthesia. Single-tooth anesthesia, nowadays, usually involves the use of an anesthetic wand. A wand delivers a continuous stream of anesthetic solution that works almost instantaneously, without the pain of a needle-based injection.

Intraoral Digital Camera

Wouldn’t it be great if you could see what Dr. Weyneth is seeing? Gone are the days of dental mirrors, where he has to look at the interior of your mouth at odd angles with a dental mirror. Intraoral cameras let him see a large, magnified image of your teeth on a monitor. He can even position the monitor so that you can see the inside of your mouth, too. The wide range of intraoral cameras on the market help you make the best dental care decision, as you can see what Dr. Weyneth sees.

Laser Treatment for Gum Tissue

Lasers can also be used on your gum tissue, for either cosmetic or preventative purposes. Laser treatment can be an effective treatment for some types of gum disease, evaporating unhealthy gum tissue. At its best, laser therapy is a great cosmetic dental tool. If you want to perfect your smile in one perfect treatment, dental lasers can be used to:

• Reduce larger gums to give you a perfect smile.
• Remove excess gum tissue from a permanent tooth that has fully emerged.
• Make your gum line even along your prominent teeth.

Perfect-Fit Orthodontics

Whether it is dental implants or Invisalign treatments, dentistry advances can now guarantee a near-perfect fit. The latest imaging advances include CT scans and other digital imaging techniques. A CT scan helps orthodontists create a 3D impression of your mouth. This is combined with computer-aided design, which dentists can then use to directly create and implement your perfect-fit treatment.

Dental Imaging Technology

The latest trends in dentistry include improvements with digital imaging technology. These trends are both good for the patient and good for the environment. Like ours, most dental clinics are moving towards digital imaging technology. This reduces the number of X-ray exposures for a patient, which is ultimately safer. Here are the benefits of dental imaging technology:

• Shorter clinic visits because of X-ray developing.
• Decreased waste associated with the developing process of X-ray film.
• Easier storage and archival for the dental clinic.

Scheduling Your Next Appointment

Are you afraid of pain at your next dental visit, or do you simply think that you might have to miss work? Today’s dental technology makes it easy to get a procedure done with less pain and more quickly. It is also easier to schedule an appointment than ever before. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Weyneth!

The Lure Of Mouthwash

If you are like most people, you probably have your dental care regimen down pat. After brushing for the recommended two minutes and being careful about applying too much pressure, you might carefully navigate wax-covered floss through all of those tiny crevices. To polish your smile and to freshen your breath, you might end with minty mouthwash. After all, who doesn’t want to have a perfectly kissable pout seconds after they finish brushing their teeth? Unfortunately, some mouthwashes are more beneficial than others. However, before we get into the nitty-gritty details about all of your mouthwash options, you need to understand the importance of your spit.

The Role of Saliva

Believe it or not, saliva does a lot more than help you to moisten and swallow your food. In addition to making it possible to ingest those dry crackers, spit also helps to wash food particles away from your teeth and tongue. If you suffer from various medical conditions or take certain medications, those food particles can stay put where they can stink up your mouth. Saliva can also help your gums to stay hydrated and healthy, so they can continue to frame your smile and hold your teeth in place.

In fact, saliva even fights the oral bacteria present in your mouth to fend off decay. As oral bacteria feed off of food particles and multiply, they can release harmful acids that can slowly erode away the enamel of your teeth. When this bacteria makes its way into your tooth, it can burrow out a little crevice, also known as a cavity. If this decay is left unchecked, it can even develop into a full-fledged infection. However, saliva contains elements that can neutralize the acids that bacteria can cause, mitigating the damage.

Why You Should Avoid Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes

Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth. Although most people assume that this alcohol cuts through bacteria and destroys germs in a hurry, it is nearly impossible for a few simple swishes to obliterate all of the bacteria that your mouth contains. Those rogue pathogens left behind have the opportunity to enjoy an arid, spit-free zone where they can set up shop and destroy your teeth and gums.

To prevent gum disease and advanced stages of tooth decay, it is a good idea to shop around for an alcohol free mouthwash. If you have questions about which mouthwash is right for you, ask Dr. Weyneth, one of the best dentists in Naperville, for a recommendation. Call our office to set up an appointment today!

Has your Naperville family dentist ever asked about your medical history or overall health? You may wonder what your grandfather’s heart disease, a history of high blood pressure, or a past experience with gestational diabetes has to do with your dental cleaning.

The answer lies in how your oral and medical health affect each other. There are many health risk factors that increase when dental issues are added to the mix, and your dental health can likewise be affected by your medical history.

At Sherman Oaks Dental, Dr. Bryan Weyneth and Dr. Lydia Sosenko stress the importance of a full medical history from your very first visit, and you can expect staff to ask for updates on a regular basis. Here are just a few indicators that you might need to have a chat with your dentist about what is going on with the rest of your body!

• Personal or family history of heart attack or cardiovascular disease. If you need some type of extensive dental work, your dentist may decide extra antibiotics in advance of surgery are in order to prevent any kind of infection.
• Gestational, Type 2, or Type 1 diabetes can cause a variety of oral health issues, the most common being dry mouth. Ask your dentist about safe ways to increase saliva production, and remember to ask for early morning appointments if you cannot eat or drink before a procedure, to avoid a severe drop in blood sugar. Diabetes can also increase your chances of gum disease.
• Syncope (fainting) is one of the most common issues in the dental office. If you have a history of fainting, make certain your dentist knows so the staff can be aware that you may pass out.
• Hypertension is another red flag. If you have high blood pressure, inform your dentist, as pending dental procedures can often increase stress from anxiety or fear. Don’t be ashamed to ask for medication to take the edge off.

In the same way that your body’s health can affect your oral health, the reverse is also true. There are many ways in which your dental issues can end up causing problems for your overall health.

• Infection that starts in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body. This can be particularly dangerous if the bloodstream becomes affected. If you have an infection, it can also cause you to have to delay needed procedures. Taking care of your teeth and having regular cleanings and checkups is the best way to stave off this kind of problem – don’t wait until your tooth hurts to see your dentist!
• Losing a tooth can also negatively affect your health. Once a single tooth is lost, the structure of the arch is compromised, meaning that teeth on either side of the gap are much more prone to becoming lose and falling out. This can lead to a cascade of tooth loss, which can in turn lead to issues with eating, improper chewing and digestion, and self-esteem issues that go hand in hand with an imperfect smile.
• Gum disease has been linked to a number of health complications, including osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and even certain kinds of cancer – especially if you are already at risk. A periodontal treatment plan can help lower your risk.

Bottom line – no part of your body is an island, sufficient unto itself, but each is part of the main. Your oral health affects your overall health, and your overall health affects your oral health. Whether you are coming in for a new patient appointment or are an established patient, always keep your dentist informed of your recent and past medical history, and keep your doctor apprised of your dental and oral health issues as well. It’s the best way to keep the mouth/body connection in good shape!