Popular Smile Makeover Procedures
When a person has discolored, uneven, chipped, or otherwise flawed teeth, they tend to feel self-conscious about their appearance. When we see patients that are unhappy with their teeth, we find that they avoid opening their mouths when they smile and cover their mouths with their hands when they laugh.
Dental Fillings and Pain – What to Expect
Many patients get extremely nervous prior to dental filling treatment appointments. For many, they dislike the feeling of being numb, the sound of the dental drill, and the possibility of pain. Fortunately, modern dentistry practices have made the treatment process more comfortable for patients. Most of our patients report little to no discomfort during treatment. This is because Normal, Il cosmetic dentists Jay W. Chrisman and David D. Wyse use the latest dental tools, which minimize pain and trauma to the teeth. Learn more about the dental filling procedure, and what we can do to make your appointment as pleasant as possible.
The Link Between Poor Dental Care and Pneumonia
It’s important that you take your dental health seriously. As it turns out, more than the appearance of your smile may be at stake. Cavities and gum disease can both become major health issues, affecting not just the appearance of your smile but your overall well being as well. It’s for these reasons that it’s important to meet with a skilled Normal, IL cosmetic dentist in your area if you experience any sort of dental problem.
Porcelain Veneers vs. Invisalign®
Porcelain veneers and Invisalign® are two incredibly popular treatment options that many patients ask us about. Both are effective at giving people the smiles that they’ve always wanted, but we find that some patients are better served by one option rather than another. When you visit a Normal, IL cosmetic dentistry center like our own, we’ll be sure to perform a comprehensive screening so that we can help you make the best decision about the health and appearance of your smile.
Am I a Candidate for Implant Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative Dentistry Patient
What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry is the rebuilding and rejuvenation of the health and esthetics of your smile. Restorative dentists diagnose and treat deisease of the mouth as well as repairing and restore damaged teeth and gums. The word “restorative” refers to the reproduction and repair of the teeth and supprting tissue using specifically designed dental materials. IN the dental field there are many options as to materials to us in the treating teeth. Drs. Chrisman and Wyse pride themselves on the excellent alboratories and materials they are able to use when restoring their patient’s smiles.
Restorative dentistry procedures
What dental procedures are considered restorative? Here Dr. Jay and Dr. David list and define the different restorative procedures:
Implant Dentistry
When there is a loss of a tooth, in many cases the placement of an implant and crown is the standard of care and best restorative option. An implant crown allows the dentist to replace a tooth without damaging any adjacent teeth. When restoring a patient’s smile with a dental implant, Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse work as a team with the local oral surgeons. In a very simple procedure the oral surgeons are able to place the dental implant in the mouth. Then, Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse can restore the implant with a functional and esthetically pleasing crown.
Another existing way in which implants can be used is to anchor dentures. An “overdenture” is a denture that uses implants to help with its retnetnion in the mouth. An overdenture is an excellent option to improve the quality of life of denture patients.
Bridges
Dental bridges are natural looking artificial teeth that fill the gap left by missing teeth. The dental bridge is custom fit to the individual patient and uses the theeth adjacent to the missing tooth in the mouth for support. Dental bridges are permantely cemented into the mouth, and Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse create natural looking, indistinguishable bridges for their patients.
Dental Crowns & Veneers
Dental crowns and veneers are custom shaped protective coverings for damaged, decayed, or esthetically misshaped teeth. Crowns and veneers restore the look, shape, size and strength of the tooth. This option for restoring your smile is permantely cemented or bonded to the teeth. A professionally shaped dental crown will add to the esthietic of your smile and align perfectly with your gums to create a completely natural look. Please visit our gallery of before and after smiles on our website of patient who have chosen this option.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Dental fillings are commonly used to replace the removed decayed protion of the tooth after a cavity. The dentist will literally fill the area of the tooth removed from a cavity with the filling material. Fillings are also used to repair broken, cracked, and worn down teeth. Historically, dentists used metal to restore teeth. Fortunatley with advances in dentistry, top dentists use a durable material called composite resin. Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse use only metal-free dental fillings.
Inlays and Onlays
Simlar to dental fillings, in lays and onlyas fill areas of dental decay. Inlays and onlays differ from tooth-colored fillings in the materials used to custom shape and place on the tooth. Just as with an implant crown, bridge, or veneer an inlay/onlay is fabricated at the laboratory and permantly cemmented in the mouth by the doctor.
Dr. Chrisma & Dr. Wyse’s experience with restorative dentistry
If you would like to learn more about restorative dentistry Dr. Jay Chrisman and Dr. David Wyse in Bloomington IL have been helping patients for many years. Chrisman and Wyse Dental provide exceptional dental restoration options, including dental implants, tooth colored fillings, porcelain veneers, dental crowns and dental bridges. Chrisman and Wyse Dental also offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Post a comment in the comments section below. If you have a question or would like to schedule an appointment with Drs. Chrisman and Wyse contact us today. (309) 663-6393 or visit our website www.chrismandental.com
References
- WebMD.com. Oral Health Center. Dental Crowns http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-crowns February 08, 2009
- WebMD.com. Oral Health Center. Dental Health and Tooth Fillings http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-fillings February 08, 2009
- The New Nash Institute for Dental Learning. Procedures http://www.nashinstitute.com/practice/procedures.html 2007
- DocShop. Restorative Dentistry. http://www.docshop.com/education/dental/general-dentistry
How To Choose The Right Dentist?
Choosing the right dentist for you and your family can be difficult. Drs. Jay Chrisman & David Wyse of Bloomington, IL know first hand the risks of choosing a bad dentist. With studies proving the direct link between oral health and overall health, finding a dental professional you trust is very important. In addition, if you’re considering cosmetic dentistry the difference between a good dentist and a bad dentist can mean a beautiful and natural looking smile or one that looks blatantly fake. So, how do you choose the right dentist? Below Dr. Jay Chrisman and Dr. David Wyse provide some resources and tips to aid you in your search.
What kind of dentist do you need? The American Dental Associate recognizes nine dental specialties. The majority of the time people use the word ‘dentist’ to reference all oral health doctors. Here is a list of the different dental specialties.
General Dentist:
A dentist also known as a 'dental surgeon’ is a doctor that specializes in the diagnosis prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. A general dentist should be the first person you call for dental care.
Endodontist:
An endodontist specializes in the internal soft tissue of the tooth. Endodontists perform a variety of procedures including root canal therapy, endodontic retreatment, surgery, treating cracked teeth, and treating dental trauma.
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology:
These specialists help diagnose a wide variety of diseases in the head and neck through the use of X-rays, CT Scans, MRIs and imaging technology.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon:
An oral surgeon diagnoses and operates on disease, injuries and defects in the mouth, jaw and face, generally through surgical extraction and reconstruction.
Oral Pathologist:
An oral pathologist deals with the identification and management of diseases that affect your mouth and face. These specialists rely on clinical, radiographic, microscopic and biochemical examinations for diagnosis.
Orthodontist:
Orthodontists focus on the alignment of the teeth, both for cosmetic reasons and health issues such as impacted teeth, overbites and underbites.
Pediatric Dentist:
A pediatric dentist specializes in providing comprehensive dental treatment to children, adolescents and young adults. The developing mouth is different than that of an adult and requires specialized attention.
Periodontist:
Periodontists treat disease or infection that may seriously damage your gums, bone or other tissues that support your teeth.
Prosthodontist:
Prosthodontist specialize in missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues. If you have missing teeth a prosthodontist will diagnose and provide oral structure replacements.
In most cases you will first see a general dentist. Once the dentist examines your oral health her or she may consult one of the specialists above. Nowadays many dentists can specialize in more than one area or partner with a specialist in the same practice.
Education and Experience
The doctor’s education and experience are two very important criteria to consider when choosing the right dentist for you. Not all dentists are created equal. There are many different academic distinctions within the dental community that differentiate dentists. Do your research when searching for a dentist. Always check their credentials. Use the practice website and third party sources for their academic accomplishments and continuing education. A simple Google search for the doctor by name can reveal a lot. Dentists like other doctors are required to obtain up to 20 hours of continuing education every year. There is no substitution for experience and education. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; such as how many years have they been practicing? Where did they get their training? What organizations do they belong to? A qualified dentist will appreciate you asking these question, it lets them know you’re an educated patient and not basing your decision solely on cost or convenience.
For example, Dr. Jay Chrisman is one of less than 350 dentists in the world to have earned accreditation status from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Chrisman has been practicing dentistry for over 30 years. Dr. David Wyse attends continuing education courses exceeding the requirements of his state licensure board. He is a member of the local, state, and national dental societies.
Testimonials & Before and After Cases
Before and After Cases such as those in Drs. Chrisman & Wyse’s Gallery can show you a lot about the skills of the doctor. Testimonials from patients can attest not only to the quality of work, but also to the doctor’s chairside manner. Does the dentist make you feel comfortable and relaxed? Does the dentist answer your questions effectively so that you understand your oral health? Does the staff make you feel welcomed? Many people suffer from dental anxiety and these characteristic traits of the doctor can help ease your anxiety. With modern technology and improved skills there is absolutely no reason why you should fear going to the dentist. If you feel uncomfortable asking for referrals you can use websites like Facebook, Yelp and HealthGrades to read reviews and information that has been posted by the patients.
Insurance Acceptance and Payment Options
Dentistry is not a commodity and the dentist you choose will ultimately determine the success of your oral health. With that said, dentistry can become expensive so considering the financial part of your decision in choosing the right dentist is important. Most practices have a staff member dedicated to answering specific questions about dental costs. They will be able to advise you regarding what your insurance covers, payment options and possible financing if necessary.
Schedule A Consultation
As you start to narrow down your choices Dr. Jay Chrisman and Dr. David Wyse always recommend scheduling a consultation. There is not substitute to meeting your potential dentist one-on-one. This is your time to feel out the staff and ask any important questions you were unable to answer during your research. During your consultation your dentist will also be able to assess your dental needs and make recommendations. Many consultations only take a few minutes but will provide great insight into your compatibility with the doctor. Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, so take your time in making the right decision.
Other things to consider
Inquire about additional services. It’s always a good idea to ask about what additional services are available from your dentist. Why not choose a dentist that will meet yours and your family’s potential needs through out the years.
Ask how Long it takes to schedule a consultation. Now that you have chosen a dentist, one of the most frustrating things at many places can be trying to get an appointment. Wait times typically range from 2 months to a year in some cases and for most people that’s just too long. After all, you wouldn’t be looking for a dentist in most cases if you didn’t need one right away.
About Chrisman & Wyse Cosmetic and General Dentistry, located in Bloomington, Illinois, truly have a love for dentistry and helping their patients that exceed the normal dental practice. The entire dental team at Chrisman & Wyse looks forward to meeting new patients, getting to know them, and helping them improve the health and aesthetics of their smiles. Drs. Chrisman & Wyse are always available to answer of your questions at make you feel at ease about your dental needs. Join the conversation and post a comment below or contact the practice directly at www.chrismandental.com - 309.663.6393
References
- American Dental Association. Dental Specialties. http://www.ada.org/104.aspx
- University of Buffalo School of Dentistry. CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS OF STATE DENTAL BOARDS FOR DENTISTS AND AUXILIARIES. http://www.buffaloce.org/pdfs/continuing_ed.pdf Accessed April 29, 2004
Dental Bridges & Dentures – Are they right for you?
Tooth decay and tooth loss are common problems affecting many people. Restorative dentistry is the process of rehabilitating an individual’s teeth to function properly and look naturally beautiful. Missing teeth can cause a series of health issues including: temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), periodontal disease, difficulty chewing and changes in occlusion (bite). A beautiful smile is one of the most important contributors to your overall appearance. Missing teeth and unhealthy teeth post health risks.
Restorative dentistry encompasses the dental specialties of general dentistry, implant dentistry, and root canal therapy. Each case may require a multifaceted approach to restoring the oral health and cosmetic appearance of the patient’s smile. Drs. Jay Chrisman & David Wyse are experts in restorative dentistry in Bloomington, IL. Treatment may include the participation of an endodontist, periodontist and/or prosthodontist.
What restorative dentistry options are available?
Dental bridges, dentures or dental implants are all available options to restore your smile. Depending upon the state of oral health and the condition of the remaining teeth Drs. Chrisman & Wyse will help chose the right option for you. The information below outlines the different procedures available.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges, like removable dentures and dental implants, are commonly used to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge is a permanent partial denture joining to adjacent healthy teeth. There are many different types of dental bridges depending upon how the dentist fabricates the bridge and the manner in which they are fixed to the mouth. It is the health teeth adjacent to the missing teeth that are used as anchors and support for the dental bridge. For example a five-unit bridge requires three adjacent healthy teeth for adequate support. If there are not sufficiently healthy teeth available to support the dental bridge your dentist can also place the bridge over dental implants.
Dental Bridge Procedure
During your first visit to Chrisman & Wyse Cosmetic and General Dentistry, Dr. Jay Chrisman or Dr. David Wyse will examine the health of your teeth and gums to determine if a dental bridge is the right fit for you. Your dentist will pay close attention to health of the adjacent teeth to determine if they can support a dental bridge. If you are a good candidate for a dental bridge your dentist will take an impression of your bite with a putty-like material. This will create a perfect mold of your mouth. If the adjacent teeth that will support the bridge are badly broken or decaying your dentist will have to repair them before a dental bridge can be placed.
Next, your bridge is fabricated based on the model of your teeth. A skilled lab technician will fabricate the bridge so that it fits precisely in place. It is important that your restoration fit perfectly so that you feel completely comfortable and avoid any additional oral health problems. While your bridge is being fabricated, your dentist fits you with a temporary bridge so the teeth and gums can be protected from damage until your permanent bridge is ready. Next a local anesthetic is applied to make the procedure completely painless. To complete the dental bridge procedure, Drs. Chrisman or Wyse gently place the fitted bridge and cement it in place.
To learn more about dental bridges we strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with your dentist.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices for missing teeth and gum tissue. Unlike a dental bridge a denture is not permantely fixed to your mouth. This can lead to difficulty chewing and biting. Dental bridges and dental implants are typically more ideal and comfortable for the patient. Sometime dentures are the most feasible procedure for missing many teeth. Dentures are also commonly used as a temporary solution to a more permanent dental implant treatment. Traditional dentures are made from plastic or metal and grip onto the mouth and gums with a denture adhesive. There are different designs for the upper and lower mouth.
There are different types of Dentures that suit each patient. Complete dentures replace all the teeth, while a partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevents other teeth from changing position. Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of their teeth. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some healthy natural teeth remaining. A denture improves chewing ability, speech and provides support for facial muscles. It will greatly enhance the facial appearance and smile.
View our Before and After Gallery to see amazing transformations for our patient’s smiles.
As your trusted, lifelong dental partners, Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse in Bloomington, Illinois want to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible. Let us know if you have any other questions about your oral health. And share this information with someone you know by clicking on one of the links below. Staying informed helps us all stay healthier.
3 Tips to Prevent Periodontal Disease
In our first blog post we discussed the “Link Between your Mouth and your Heart.” We defined periodontal disease, also know as gum disease, as an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria affecting the tissue surrounding the roots of the teeth. The blog post concluded that there is a conclusive link between your teeth and your heart health. Periodontal disease can lead to systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease. In this blog post we will be discussing three tips to prevent periodontal disease.
The good news is that periodontal disease is completely preventable and reversible. Regular and effective tooth brushing and mouth washing, however, are effective only above and slightly below the gum line. Once periodontal disease develops, more intensive treatments are needed. With these three easy tips to prevent periodontal disease, we hope to help you combat this serious health issue or avoid it entirely. But what exactly should you include in your daily oral health routine to make sure you’re not at risk? Here are the answers provided to you from the experienced dental team at Chrisman & Wyse Dental.
Fact: If brushing after each meal is not possible, rinsing the mouth with water after eating can reduce bacteria by 30%.
Number 1: Daily Dental Routine
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. This is probably the easiest thing that you can do to prevent gum disease. Brush your teeth once in the morning after breakfast, and once before bedtime.
- Flossing once daily is important as well, as flossing helps to remove any food particles or plaque that may remain in between teeth after brushing. Correct tooth brushing, mouth cleansing, and flossing should be everyone's defense against periodontal disease.
- Brush your tongue. Did you know that plaque on the tongue can cause bad breath and is an ideal environment for bacteria? In fact, there are even products available called tongue scrapers right next to the toothbrushes at your local drug store.
Not only will your body thank you for this needed maintenance but your loved ones will thank you for not having bad breath. Don’t you just love the feeling of a sparkling clean mouth?
Products to go above and beyond: Fluoride toothpaste, sugar-free gum with xylitol, electronic toothbrush from Sonicare and tongue scraper.
Number 2: Regular Dental Visits
Schedule regular dental checkups and deep cleanings every 6 months. There are limitations to what you can do on your own to prevent periodontal disease. Drs. Jay Chrisman and David Wyse have sophisticated technologies that allow them to provide deep cleaning and diagnose problems early. Your dentist will be able to remove plaque that hardens into tartar and clean around your gums in those hard to reach areas. Getting regular treatment will prevent plaque buildup, receding gums, cavities and tooth loss, all of which are associated with periodontal disease. You should have your teeth cleaned professionally at least twice every year.
Gum Disease is relatively painless, and people may not be aware of the problem. That is why a professional examination by your general dentist is very important. If the condition is severe, it may lead to bone loss in the upper and lower jaw. So don’t let it get to that point, see your dentist.
Number 3: Eating Healthy Foods
Eating healthy foods and making well-balanced dietary decisions affect your oral health just as they affect the rest of your body’s health. You have heard for many years that it is important to avoid snacks and drinks with sugar. It is equally important to eat healthy foods that include whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy can boost the body’s immune system, allowing it to fight bacteria formed in the mouth. Look for foods that are high in vitamins C, A and E, along with other key antioxidants like bioflavonoid and zinc, in your diet. Drinking plenty of water increases the production of saliva, reducing the chances for the bacteria that cause gum disease to thrive. Good nutrition is important for adult and is vital for children. For more information on making healthy food decisions ask Dr. Jay Chrisman or Dr. David Wyse during your oral health exam.
Tasty treats that are also healthy: Mozzarella and other cheeses, peanuts, yogurt, and milk are good for your teeth. They help clear the mouth of harmful sugars and protect against plaque.
Periodontal disease is a serious condition. Drs. Jay Chrisman and David Wyse are experts in diagnosing and preventing gum disease. We hope these three easy tips to preventing periodontal disease are helpful. In addition avoid smoking to help prevent gum disease. Smoking causes dryness in the mouth, creating a favorable environment for bacteria to grow and do damage. Since more than one half of the cases of periodontal disease affecting American adults can be attributed to cigarette smoking, researchers now believe that smoking may be the major preventable risk factor for the disease.
As your trusted, lifelong dental partners, Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse in Bloomington, Illinois want to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible. Let us know if you have any other questions about your oral health. And share this information with someone you know by clicking on one of the links below. Staying informed helps us all stay healthier.
The Link Between your Mouth & your Heart
Did you know that there is a direct link between your teeth and your heart? The Journal of Periodontology conducted a study that confirms people with periodontal disease are at a greater risk of systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease.
The study found that diseased gums are significantly more likely to release high levels of bacteria and harmful endotoxins. These endotoxins, which are produced by bacteria, can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body to organs such as the heart. Thus, there is a direct link between your teeth and your heart.
Let’s take a quick step back and explain what is Periodontal Disease? Periodontal diseases, sometimes-called gum disease or pyorrhea, is an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria affecting the tissue surrounding the roots of the teeth. It is the principle cause of tooth loss in adults throughout the world and is preventable with proper care of your teeth.
Listed below are the symptoms of periodontal disease according to the National Institute of Health:
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bad breath that won't go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Receding gums or longer appearing teeth
The American Heart Association estimates that almost eighty million people suffer from heart disease and almost one million people die every year from heart disease. A person can easily spend thousands of dollars each year trying to prevent this disease with expensive prescription medications, shelves of healthy cookbooks, fitness machines for your home, and gym memberships. Dr. Jay Chrisman & Dr. David Wyse suggests investing in a good toothbrush, floss and biannual teeth cleanings.
Brushing your teeth and flossing just got a whole lot more important. Check out this fun video about How to Floss Your Teeth.
And of course, it goes without saying, the best defense against heart disease is to consult your trusted physician to advise you about reducing your risks. So keep those regularly scheduled cleaning appointments and screenings. Doing so greatly increases the likelihood that any problems will be detected early. As your trusted, lifelong dental partners, Dr. Chrisman and Dr. Wyse want to keep you and your loved ones as healthy as possible. Let us know if you have any other questions about your oral health. And share this information with someone you know by clicking on one of the links below. Staying informed helps us all stay healthier.