Our team at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry are committed to helping each of our patients achieve a healthy smile. General dentistry is the foundation of any full-service dental practice. Through general dentistry, we can employ patient education services, routine dental check-ups, and regular exams and cleanings to helping our patients improve their oral health.
Most dentists recommend patients visit the dentists at least twice a year for routine dental exams and professional cleanings. If you have not scheduled one of your biannual dental exams, contact our Skokie, IL dentist office to schedule your appointment.
The Importance of Preventive Dentistry
Removing plaque and tartar is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When plaque and tartar are not adequately removed, the bacteria in these substances can attach to your teeth and gums. While regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque, they cannot remove tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dental hygienist or dentist during a professional dental cleaning. Dental cleanings can not only improve the health of your smile, but they can also brighten your tooth enamel.
We recommend patients visit our dental office in Skokie at least twice a year for their comprehensive dental exam, professional cleaning, and screenings. This visit allows our team to assess the condition of your dental health and make any treatment recommendations as we see fit. Taking a proactive approach to your dental health may save you time and money in the future. Visit our team can get a head start on your dental health.
General Dentistry Services
General dentistry services are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing more serious dental problems from developing. Our dentists provide routine check-ups, cleanings, and exams to identify and address any oral health issues early on.
Our team can treat oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral infections, and oral cancer. Timely diagnosis and treatment help prevent the progression of these conditions and save our patients from more complex and expensive procedures in the long run.
Furthermore, we can perform fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants to restore the function of your teeth that have decay, trauma, or other conditions. The general dentistry services we offer in our Skokie, IL, dental office also include:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Mouthguards
- Emergency Dentistry
- Tooth Extractions
- Periodontal Therapy
- Invisalign
- Fluoride Treatments
- Oral Cancer Screenings
- Comprehensive Oral Exam
- Dental Fillings
- Oral Hygiene Best Practices
- Dental Cleanings
Dental Care and Overall Health
Oral health is interdependent with overall health. This means that general dentistry services can help detect signs of certain systemic diseases and conditions that may manifest in the mouth, such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and even heart disease. By addressing oral health, general dentists contribute to the patient’s overall well-being.
The best general dentists play an important role in educating patients about oral health and its impact on overall health. They provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, diet and nutrition, and lifestyle habits that affect oral health. This education empowers patients to take control of their oral hygiene and make informed decisions about their dental care.
If you require specialized dental care, such as orthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, or periodontics, our dentists can refer you to the appropriate specialists. This collaboration ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated dental treatment.
Overall, general dentistry services are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, preventing dental problems, and addressing any issues promptly. Regular visits to our general dentists help our patients maintain a healthy smile and contribute to their overall well-being.
What to Expect During Your Visit
During your visit, Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss will perform a comprehensive evaluation to check the health and function of your teeth, gums, jaw, and mouth. In addition, you can expect:
- A thorough discussion of your oral hygiene routine: The way you care for your teeth can influence the health and function of your teeth and gums. Our team can recommend the best practices to ensure you are making the most of your oral hygiene routine.
- Perform a bite analysis: We will check for signs of bruxism and bite disorders during your evaluation. If we notice any signs of bruxism or a misaligned bite, we can recommend the best treatment options for your needs.
- Screen for oral cancer: Early diagnosis of oral cancer can allow patients to receive the treatment they need and improve their success rate. We perform routine oral cancer screenings at least once a year during your regular screening and oral exam.
- Check existing tooth restoration: Damaged or missing fillings can cause dental pain and tooth sensitivity. We will check the condition of your dental restorations and determine if further treatment is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of your most frequently asked questions concerning general and preventive dentistry.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes, adults can get dental sealants. Dentists often apply sealants to children’s teeth, but they benefit adults too. Sealants protect the grooves and pits of back teeth from plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities. If you have deep grooves in your molars or are prone to cavities, ask your dentist about getting sealants.
Does periodontal disease go away after deep cleaning?
Deep cleaning helps manage periodontal disease. It removes bacteria and calculus below the gumline. The process also reduces inflammation and allows gums to heal. However, it doesn’t cure the disease completely. Ongoing maintenance and good home care are crucial. We’ll create a long-term plan to keep your gums healthy.
How long do teeth stay straight after Invisalign?
Teeth can stay straight indefinitely after Invisalign if you wear your retainers as instructed. Retainers stop teeth from shifting back to their original positions. To maintain your results, it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s advice on retainer use. Regular check-ups help ensure your teeth stay properly aligned.
Will my teeth rot without fluoride treatment?
Teeth won’t necessarily rot without fluoride treatments. However, without fluoride, teeth are more susceptible to decay. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel. This makes it more resistant to attacks from plaque, bacteria, and sugars in your mouth. While good oral hygiene practices are essential, fluoride provides protection. If you live without fluoridated water, consider using fluoride toothpaste or rinses.
How often should I get an oral cancer screening?
You should get an oral cancer screening once a year during your regular dental exam. If you use tobacco or have a family history of cancer, your dentist might recommend more frequent screenings. Regular screenings help catch any signs of oral cancer early when treatment is most effective.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist examines your mouth for signs of cancer. They check your lips, gums, tongue, and throat. The dentist may also feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes. Sometimes, they use special lights or dyes to detect abnormal cells. Regular screenings help catch cancer early, improving treatment success.
Can I get a filling instead of a crown?
In some cases, you can get a filling instead of a crown, but it depends on the extent of the damage to your tooth. Fillings work well for small to moderate cavities or minor damage. However, if your tooth is severely decayed or fractured, a crown might be necessary to provide the strength and protection it needs. Your dentist will assess your tooth and recommend the best treatment option.
Visit Our Skokie, IL General Dentistry
If you are searching for a family dentist in Skokie, visit our team at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry. Dr. Zachary Weiss and Dr. Abraham Stein are highly skilled dentists who are committed to helping each of our patients improve the health and function of their smile. We offer an extensive range of dental treatments to meet the dental needs of each member of your family. To schedule an appointment, call 847-750-3125 or request an appointment online.