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What is Oral Cancer?

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Cancer. We’re sure you’ve heard of this unfortunate six-letter word. Cancer is a disease wherein your body creates, grows, and nourishes abnormal cells. These abnormal cells will invade and destroy your normal cells. One of the top forms of cancer in America is oral cancer. It starts with a sore in your mouth, but unlike other mouth sores, this one doesn’t go away. If oral cancer isn’t identified and treated early, the cancer cells can metastasize to other parts of your body. This can be caught early through regular Oak Park family dentistry appointments.

Dental checkups will allow your dentist to study and monitor your mouth for any signs of abnormalities.

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Important Facts About Oral Cancer

What Are the Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

The common symptoms of oral cancer include bumps or lumps in your mouth, thickenings and swellings, and rough spots on your gums or lips. It’s also common to find speckled, red, or whitish patches in your mouth.

If there is unexplained bleeding, numbness, or tenderness, you’re encouraged to see a dentist. Oral cancer is also manifested by persistent and bleeding sores that last for more than two weeks.

Other symptoms of oral cancer include dramatic weight loss, ear pain, chronic sore throat, and difficulty swallowing or chewing. When these symptoms become noticeable, don’t ignore them. We understand that you may be scared, but seeking treatment early can make all the difference.

Who Can Get Oral Cancer?

Studies done by the American Cancer Society reveal that men are more prone to develop oral cancer than women. Men who are over 50 years old are considered the greatest risk. According to surveys made in 2019, around 50 thousand people in America were diagnosed with oral cancer.

What are the risk factors for oral cancer? Smokers are susceptible to oral cancer. In fact, if you are a chronic smoker, you are six times more likely to get cancer compared to those who don’t smoke. Smokeless tobacco users are also 50 times more likely to develop cancer in the lips, gums, and cheeks. A family history of oral cancer also puts you at risk.

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Do You Need Oak Park Family Dentistry?

One way of preventing oral cancer is to regularly see your dentist for a checkup. These oral exams and oral cancer screenings will let you know whether or not you have it. These checkups are also an opportunity for you to learn about your oral health and what you can do to improve it.

You can help prevent oral cancer if you avoid smoking, eat a well-balanced and healthy diet, and visit your dentist yearly. At One Fine Smile, we strive to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit to our clinic.

We offer top-quality dental services at a price you can afford. We can guarantee that our staff is trained, skilled, and knowledgeable in diagnosing disease conditions. If you are looking to get out in front of cancer before it worsens, give us a call today to schedule an appointment with us.

How To Look After Your Porcelain Veneers

Where can I get Veneers Oak Park?

It’s no secret porcelain veneers can be costly; yet, millions of Americans are willing to shell out cash to improve their smiles without a second thought! Why? Let’s start with the “what?.” Veneers in Oak Park are thin shells made of porcelain. They slide right over your teeth and can change the color, length, size, and shape of your teeth.

People who have always felt bad about the gap in their teeth, a chipped front tooth, or severely discolored teeth can greatly benefit from veneers. Once veneers are in place, your self-confidence will skyrocket! How long do veneers last? Experts say they can last from 10 to 15 years as long as they are properly maintained. If you are thinking about getting veneers, make sure you how to care for them.

Where can I get Veneers Oak Park?

How To Care For Veneers

Proper Oral Hygiene Does The Trick

To keep your veneers looking beautiful, you need to practice proper oral hygiene. This means you must brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily. Diligent brushers and flossers get to enjoy their veneers for a long time. Although veneers do not decay, keep in mind that your teeth behind the veneers still can. So, make sure you follow the recommendations of the American Dental Association. Brush for 2 minutes twice daily and regularly visit your dentist.

Use A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush and Good Toothpaste

When you’re wearing veneers, you should choose your toothbrush well. Cosmetic dentists recommend you use a soft-bristled toothbrush whenever you brush your teeth. Hard bristles can scratch and destroy the polish of your veneers. It’s also important to ask your cosmetic dentist what type of toothpaste to use because some brands contain harsh chemicals that can damage your veneers.

Where can I get Veneers Oak Park?

Do You Need Veneers in Oak Park?

There’s no doubt porcelain veneers can radically change your smile. If you are looking for a trained cosmetic dentist to place your veneers, you don’t have to look far. At One Fine Smile, we provide cosmetic dental services that will give you a smile you have always wanted. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.

Are You Practicing Good Oral Hygiene?

Who is the best Oak Park dentist?

A lot of people are guilty of not taking their oral health seriously. Most of the time, they end up regretting it once their gums start bleeding or when some of their teeth feel wobbly and loose. By this time, they’ll double their efforts in taking good care of their teeth and gums. Some are lucky to evade tooth loss and reverse gum disease. But, there are also the unlucky ones that end up with permanent gum and teeth damage.

If you regularly visit your Oak Park dentist as recommended by the ADA, you wouldn’t be dealing with oral health problems right now. Trust us. You’ll be smiling in confidence and content because your dental health is in tiptop condition. How can you achieve this? Let’s find out. 

Who is the best Oak Park dentist?

What Constitutes Good Oral Hygiene?

What Are The Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene?

A person who practices good oral hygiene has cavity-free teeth devoid of plaque and tartar with pink gums that do not bleed and hurt during brushing and flossing. People who religiously brush and floss and visit their dentist twice a year also do not have bad breath problems.

When you diligently practice good oral hygiene, it will show on your smile, and everyone around you, including your dentist, will notice it.

How Do You Practice Good Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene is very straightforward. The rules are simple and easy to follow. You only need to brush and floss your teeth using the proper techniques as advised by your dentist to remove food debris and bacteria.

Regular dental visits are also crucial to keep plaque from turning into stubborn tartar. Limit your consumption of sweets and starchy food and drinks as bacteria feed on them. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, see your dentist right away. Don’t wait until your next scheduled visit.

Who is the best Oak Park dentist?

Do You Want To See An Oak Park Dentist?

If you’re not confident with the way you care for your teeth and gums, we can help if you need guidance. At One Fine Smile, our mission is to restore, maintain and improve your dental health regardless of its current state. Our office offers a wide range of dental services that will suit needs at a budget-friendly cost. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.

Is Teeth Whitening Painful?

Where can I get Teeth Whitening Oak Park?

Teeth–should they be white or yellow? Science says yellow teeth are actually stronger than white teeth, but why do people line up in clinics to have their teeth whitened? The explanation is pretty straightforward; whiter teeth are more attractive. Hundreds of Americans book appointments every day to have their teeth professionally whitened. In fact, teeth whitening in Oak Park is considered one of the most in-demand dental cosmetic treatments today!

If you’ve been thinking about having your teeth whitened, here are a few things to get you started.

Where can I get Teeth Whitening Oak Park?
Where can I get Teeth Whitening Oak Park?

Does Teeth Whitening Cause Pain?

Is There Such A Thing As Teeth Whitening Sensitivity?

It’s normal to experience slight discomfort during a whitening treatment. This is called teeth whitening sensitivity. However, individuals who have had their teeth whitened say it was all worth the moments of sensitivity because although the experience caused tooth sensitivity, it didn’t last long.

Furthermore, the procedure does not cause damage to the teeth. Therefore, it’s perfectly safe. However, if the sensitivity persists, you should let your cosmetic dentist know right away!

How Do You Avoid Teeth Sensitivity?

If you’re scheduled for teeth whitening, you should consider avoiding food and drinks that are excessively hot or cold. As much as possible, consume food and drinks at room temperature.

People who immediately had cold drinks after the procedure experienced sensitivity. We recommend you talk to your cosmetic dentist about this before the procedure so you will know what to expect!

Where can I get Teeth Whitening Oak Park?

Do You Need Teeth Whitening in Oak Park?

Are you looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth? You’ve come to the right place. We will evaluate the condition of your teeth and recommend the best teeth whitening option for you.

At One Fine Smile, we make sure you feel relaxed and comfortable during your visit. We offer a wide array of dental services guaranteed to make your smile look more attractive. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign®

Where can I get Invisalign Oak Park?

Is it possible to achieve a beautiful smile? The answer is yes. Nothing is impossible when it comes to revamping your smile. For misalignment issues, Invisalign in Oak Park is a popular treatment choice. Although most people are more familiar with braces, Invisalign poses a great alternative for those looking for more discreet treatment!

Where can I get Invisalign Oak Park?

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign in Oak Park is a series of clear, removable aligners that move your teeth until they reach proper alignment. This orthodontic treatment does not involve wires and brackets but uses patented thermoplastic material exclusively created and designed for orthodontic use.

Your orthodontist will create a digital plan of your teeth to map out their movement. Just like braces, Invisalign relies on gentle pressure to shift your teeth towards the desired direction.

What Are The Benefits of Invisalign?

One of the benefits of Invisalign in Oak Park is they are invisible. People barely notice that you’re wearing aligners. It also offers convenience since these aligner trays are removable, which means you can take them off when you’re eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. You also don’t have to deal with annoying brackets and wires that can potentially irritate the insides of your cheeks.

Where can I get Invisalign Oak Park?

Is Invisalign in Oak Park The Right Treatment For Me?

If you are torn between braces and Invisalign, we’d be more than happy to discuss them with you!

At One Fine Smile, our goal is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit with us. We offer a relaxing and stress-free environment for all our patients. We use state-of-the-art equipment and the latest dental techniques and technology to give you the smile of your dreams. Give us a call or explore our website to learn more about our services.

 

**Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.

How Is TMJ Diagnosed and Treated?

Where can I find TMJ Treatment Oak Park?

Have you ever heard your jaw pop while sitting down to dinner? You’re not alone! Approximately 10 million Americans suffer from pain and discomfort in their jaw and the muscles surrounding these joints – a condition called TMJ disorder. Interestingly, the condition is found to be more common in women than in men. Thankfully, there are great options for your TMJ treatment in Oak Park.

Furthermore, typically the discomfort in these joints is only temporary and only manifests in cycles. When the aching dissipates, treatment is no longer needed. However, some people develop long-term symptoms of this disorder, necessitating further treatment.

Where can I find TMJ Treatment Oak Park?

How Does Your Dentist Diagnose and Treat TMJ?

How Is TMJ Diagnosed?

When you are experiencing aches and discomfort in your jaw, your dentist will conduct a physical examination. They may ask you to open and close your mouth to listen and feel how your jaw moves. Your doctor may also take note of your jaw’s range of motion.

To identify where the pain is coming from, your dentist may press on certain areas in and around your jaw. X-rays, CT scans, and an MRI may be ordered to examine and obtain detailed images of your teeth, jaw, and soft tissues. All of these tools will assist your dentist in diagnosing TMJ and creating a tailored treatment.

How Is TMJ Treated?

Consider yourself lucky if the symptoms of TMJ disappear without TMJ treatment. However, what happens if they stick around? Doctors recommend various treatment options that are often done simultaneously. Furthermore, your procedure will depend on how well your body responds to the treatments.

Sometimes dentists prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to relieve some of the pressure. One of the drugs prescribed to TMJ patients includes tricyclic antidepressants. This medication is used to control bruxism which will provide pain relief. Your dentist may also subscribe to muscle relaxants to stop spams.

Mouthguards and oral splints may also be ordered for TMJ patients as well as counseling and physical therapy.

Where can I find TMJ Treatment Oak Park?

Do You Need TMJ Treatment in Oak Park?

Does your jaw hurt when you open or close your mouth? If the aching doesn’t seem to stop, call our office! You shouldn’t have to live with the extra pain! At One Fine Smile, our mission is to make our clients feel happy and satisfied with their smiles. We use state-of-the-art equipment and the latest technology to treat a wide spectrum of dental problems. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.

How To Avoid Dental Problems

Who is the best Dentist Oak Park?

While it’s true that dental implants can accurately replicate the function and look of natural teeth, your Dentist in Oak Park will always encourage you to take good care of your natural teeth first! The secret to maintaining your oral health is practicing proper dental hygiene.

Keeping your teeth healthy and happy is a long-term commitment! If you are not dedicated to adhering to good dental habits, your mouth may suffer. Remember the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  It’s easier and less expensive to prevent a problem than to repair the damage.

Who is the best Dentist Oak Park?

 

How Can You Avoid Dental Problems?

Gum Disease

Normal and healthy gums are supposed to look pink and firm. They should fit snugly around your teeth. When your gums are infected due to bacteria, they will look red, swollen, and inflamed. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that’s usually reversible.

Periodontitis is an advanced stage gum disease. Furthermore, it will cause your gums and jawbone to deteriorate. To prevent gum disease, the American Dental Association recommends you brush and floss daily and see a dentist at least once every 6 months to have your teeth professionally cleaned. Having your teeth cleaned by a hygienist will remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup, which are typically responsible for causing gum infection.

Tooth Sensitivity

The nerves within your tooth are protected by dentin. Unfortunately, these nerves can be exposed when you brush too hard, succumb to gum disease, or if you are using powerful over-the-counter tooth whitening. When these nerves are exposed, you may experience aches when consuming food and drinks at extreme temperatures – a condition known as tooth sensitivity.

The good news is that tooth sensitivity can be avoided by using the correct toothbrush and following the proper brushing technique. Minimizing your consumption of sugary and acidic foods will also help protect your gums from receding.

Who is the best Dentist Oak Park?

Do You Need To See A Dentist in Oak Park?

Are you experiencing dental problems right now? If yes, don’t hesitate to come to us! At One Fine Smile, we make sure we address all your dental needs through our wide range of dental services. With our spa-inspired dental office and latest technology, we do everything in our power to give you the smile of your dreams. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.

What Are The Benefits of Dental Sealants?

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Besides scraping off plaque and tartar from your teeth, the Best Oak Park Dentist may also recommend dental sealants as a preventive measure against cavities. A dental sealant is a plastic coating that your dentist applies on the surface of your teeth, usually at the back molars, to stop the buildup of bacteria and acids responsible for causing tooth decay. 

How does it work? When the sealant is applied, it will create a smooth surface above your tooth’s fissures and pits. Remember, these fissures are hard to reach areas, and food particles are likely to get stuck inside p the buildup of plaque. By making it smooth, keeping it clean is less challenging. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of dental sealants

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How Can You Benefit From Dental Sealants?

Protects Your Teeth Against Damage

The number one benefit of a dental sealant is that it protects your enamel from damage. Dental sealants work 24/7 once the Best Oak Park Dentist applies them. It serves as a protective mantle that will keep food, bacteria, and plaque from accumulating in the fissures and pits of your tooth. 

Based on their location, the back molars are more difficult to clean, making them more prone to cavities. By applying dental sealants, you are taking a proactive approach in protecting your teeth against cavities and the need for crowns and root canals

The Application is Completely Painless

How does the Best Oak Park Dentist put on a dental sealant? The process is simple; your dentist will use a brush and paint a liquid resin over the surface of your tooth. You’ll need to wait for the resin to dry before you are allowed to rinse your mouth. 

Don’t’ worry because it only takes a few seconds to dry. The best part of it all is that the entire process is entirely painless. This is probably why many people are willing to get dental sealants

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Are You Looking for the Best Oak Park Dentist?

If you are interested in getting dental sealants to make sure the dentist who applies it is skilled and knowledgeable for a successful outcome. At One Fine Smile, our mission is to make sure you are satisfied with our service, which is why all our staff is trained to provide superior quality dental services. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services. 

Can You Avoid a Tooth Extraction?

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Can you prevent a tooth extraction? The answer is yes if you properly care for your teeth. Believe it or not, but your Oak Park Dentist does not want to pull your teeth out. Dentists are doing everything they can to preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible. Unfortunately, certain cases force dentists to perform a tooth extraction. If your teeth are healthy and robust, we recommend you do the following to avoid preventable tooth extraction

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How Do You Prevent a Tooth Extraction?

Avoid Severe Tooth Decay

Cavities usually go unnoticed, and because they aren’t that obvious, people don’t realize that the bacteria in their mouth are slowly eating away their tooth’s enamel creating deep pits and holes. When the cavities reach the pulp, it can cause severe infection. 

Tooth decay that has come this far can still be saved through root canal therapy, but if the infection is so extreme, your Oak Park Dentist will have no choice but to extract the affected tooth to stop the infection from becoming worse. You can prevent tooth decay by avoiding sweet and starchy foods and by brushing and flossing daily

Avoid Gum Disease

Besides avoiding tooth decay, you must also make sure that your gums are firm and healthy. If your gum health is compromised, they won’t be able to hold your teeth securely. Gum disease is considered the number one cause of tooth loss due to bone damage and gum recession. Regular visits to your Oak Park Dentist for a dental exam and routine cleanings will help prevent gum disease

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Do You Need an Appointment with an Oak Park Dentist?

If you want to have your teeth and gums checked, visit our clinic. At One Fine Smile, we make sure you’ll feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit. Our dental office is designed to give the feel and ambiance of a spa for total relaxation. 

We use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to provide you with the best possible care. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services. 

Health Problems Your Dentist Can Detect

where is the best oak park dentist?

Besides checking your teeth and gums for tooth decay and gum disease, do you know that there are other health problems your Oak Park Dentist can detect? Dental health professionals aren’t going to check your mouth for visible signs of decay and gum inflammation; they will also check for other signs of abnormalities. 

This is why regular dental checkups are encouraged. Your dentist can also discover other health conditions by looking inside your mouth. Let’s find out what these are. 

where is the best oak park dentist?

Health Problems Discovered During Dental a Dental Exam

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

One look inside your mouth and your Oak Park Dentist can tell if you suffer from GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. GERD is a type of digestive disorder that occurs when acidic juices from your stomach travel to your esophagus. How will your dentist know that you suffer from acid reflux? 

They will know by looking at your eroded enamel. Aside from enamel erosion, reflux disease can predispose you to esophageal cancer. When you regularly see your dentist, diseases such as GERD can be treated before they do severe damage to your health

Oral Cancer

One of the most common problems your Oak Park Dentist can detect is oral cancer. Around 53,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer each year. Luckily, when oral cancer is detected early, the survival rates are high. 

The best way to detect oral cancer is by scheduling regular visits to your trusted dentist. Through visual inspection, your dentist will look for red and white lesions that usually show up on the floor of your mouth, the back of your tongue and soft palate tissues

where is the best oak park dentist?

Are You Seeing Your Oak Park Dentist Regularly?

The American Dental Association recommends you see your dentist once every six months. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. Don’t let anxiety get in the way of your beautiful smile. Our spa-inspired dental office provides state-of-the-art machinery to make sure you get the best possible care. If you want to improve your smile and your oral health, we can help! Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about our services.