Cosmetic Dentistry in Chicago, Illinois

A porcelain veneer is a hand-crafted sheath of porcelain that is layered on the front of the tooth. Veneers are made from a restorative material that is usually composed of either composite or dental porcelain. Nowadays, more dental offices are making use of this technology to help many of their patients.

Charles Pincus, a dentist from California, first created veneers in the 1930s. These early veneers were glued on to the teeth using dental adhesive. However, they did not last long and would frequently fall off. Still, the procedure was popular among many Hollywood actors who wanted to change or improve the appearance of their smiles. Research in the 1980s revealed that porcelain could be etched with hydrofluoric acid, a solution of hydrogen fluoride in water, and the porcelain veneers could be bonded to the teeth using composite resins. Today, improvements in bonding agents have made it possible for veneers to last between 10 and 30 years.

There are many benefits to getting porcelain veneers. According to Dr. Jasmine Sandhu, a cosmetic dentist in Chicago, IL, “The benefits of porcelain veneers include correcting any flaws in the teeth caused by chipping, cracking, gaps, misalignment and odd shape or size.”  The first step in getting porcelain veneers is to consult with your dentist. After talking with him or her about all of the problems and possible solutions, you will be able to schedule your first appointment. At this time your dentist will begin to prepare your teeth by scraping away a very thin layer of the tooth’s enamel, usually .5 to .7 millimeters, depending on the type of correction being administered. This minimally invasive procedure is typically painless. This is done to make room for the veneer so that it feels less bulky and more comfortable in your mouth. Your dentist will then make a dental impression of your teeth to prepare for the next step.

The next step in getting porcelain veneers is the placement. This is usually done in about two visits, depending on how many teeth you are having done and the condition they are in. In most cases, there is very little pain. If you do feel pain, a local anesthetic is usually enough.
You may feel sensitivity to very hot or cold foods, and your teeth might be more susceptible to staining during the week or two between the time your teeth are sharpened and your veneers are placed. Therefore, be sure to brush and floss regularly. Once your veneers have been placed, they will probably feel very natural. However, you must remember that they are not indestructible, so take care not to chew on fingernails and pencils. Also, be careful not to bite too hard into foods such as apples.
If you are interested in porcelain veneers, consider going to Dr. Jasmine Sandhu in Chicago. Dr. Sandhu is a graduate of the School of Dentistry of the prestigious University of Illinois. She excels in all phases and aspects of general dentistry. She enjoys working with both children and adults with an emphasis on dental education, prevention, and minimally invasive dentistry. As a dentist who gives value to her profession, Dr. Sandhu keeps up to date with the latest advances in the dental field by attending many continuing education courses throughout the country. She has advanced training in cosmetic procedures, as she believes a confident smile can transform a patient’s self esteem. Dr. Sandhu can perform complete smile makeovers with the use of Invisalign and porcelain veneers. She is a member of the Chicago Dental Society and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Sandhu speaks English, Spanish, Hindi and Punjabi.
If you would like to learn more about Dr. Sandhu, or to schedule an appointment, please feel free to visit her website at www.jasminesandhudental.com. You will be greeted by a friendly member of the staff who will be more than happy to serve you.

Link between Periodontal Disease and Systemic Diseases

Periodontal disease plays a key role in the interplay between oral health and systemic disease. Gum and bone infection can initiate a series of inflammatory and immunologic changes leading to the destruction of connective tissue and bone. Periodontal disease was always considered a localized infection however, now links to a variety of systemic diseases.

Researchers have found a relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, diabetes and pre-term low birth weight babies. The use of tobacco, side effects of medications, hormonal changes, diabetes, heart disease and genetics can increase the risk for infection and determine the rapid onset.  The bacteria present with periodontal disease can spread into the blood stream and pose a threat to other parts of the body.

People with periodontal disease are at a higher risk to suffer from coronary artery disease than those with healthy gums. Coronary artery disease is caused by thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries due to fatty proteins.  Blood clots can form and restrict the amount of nutrients and oxygen needed for the heart to function properly, thus leading to a heart attack.

Diabetic patients are more likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes, probably because diabetics are more susceptible to contracting infections. Periodontal disease is often considered the sixth complication of diabetes. If diabetes is uncontrolled then you are at even higher risk.

Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.  Periodontal disease causes increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor.  Women whose periodontal condition worsens during pregnancy have an even higher risk of having a premature baby.  Any infection the mother carriers can pose risk to the health of the baby.

A critical role in half of the cases with periodontal disease are caused by genetic factors.   Up to 30% of the population may have some genetic susceptibility to periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease often occurs in members of the same family. Studies have found that children of parents with periodontal disease are 12 times more likely to have the bacteria thought to be responsible for causing plaque and, eventually, periodontal disease.