Is it safe to visit the dentist during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes. At Midwest Family Dental, it is our top priority to ensure our patients and team members' safety and health. Our commitment to your dental health is our focus, and we've added additional safety precautions to ensure you're safe, comfortable, and have the best smile. More details about how we're helping protect our patients and staff are available on our COVID-19 dental safety page.

What causes cavities?

The most common cause is practicing poor hygiene. If you don’t brush your teeth twice a day and floss, you’re more likely to create an environment in your mouth where bacteria, acid, food debris, and your saliva accumulate to form plaque.  The plaque starts to dissolve the enamel, creating holes called cavities.

What are some signs that I should visit the dentist for a checkup?

•    Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids
•    Pain or swelling in your mouth
•    Dry Mouth
•    Difficulty chewing or swallowing
•    If you can’t remember the last time you went to the dentist!

My tooth got knocked out! What should I do?

Recover the tooth as soon as possible since there is a chance to save it with emergency dental care! Make sure to handle the tooth by the crown (chewing surface) and not the root! If there is dirt or debris on the tooth, gently wash it away with water or milk. Most importantly, keep the tooth moist and get to a dentist within a half hour. To keep the tooth moist, try to place it back into the socket. If this is not possible, place the tooth in your mouth next to your cheek or transport it in milk. Never leave the tooth soaking in water!

How often should I see a dentist?

Children and adults should see the dentist for a regular cleaning and check-up every six months. If you’re at greater risk for oral diseases, the dentist may recommend more regular visits. To find out more, schedule a dental consultation!

I don’t have insurance.  Can I still see a dentist at Midwest Family Dental?

Absolutely! Part of our mission is to be accessible and provide affordable dental care in Chicago. For first time dental patients, we offer a complete dental exam, x-rays and a 1 on 1 dentist consultation for $89. Additionally, we offer 30% off on all dental procedures for these that don’t have dental insurance. Check out our new Chicago dental patient offer.

How much do dental services generally cost?

Prices will vary from patient to patient depending on the type of treatment that is needed. Another important factor to consider when calculating cost is the type of dental insurance you have or the lack thereof.  If you’re unsure how to proceed, schedule a dental consultation with us so we can provide you with detailed information specific to your needs and discuss financing alternatives.

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you’re missing any teeth, you are a good candidate!  Even if you wear dentures, you can still benefit from dental implants.

• New Dental Implants are meant to last. That makes it the most cost effective and best long term solution.
• Dental Implants protect your healthy bone and teeth. They never get cavities!
• Implants retain the integrity of your natural face shape and smile.
• More than 3+ million Americans have dental implants and that number increases by half a million on a yearly basis.
• Scientific literature has indicated a 98% success rate of dental implants!

Do I have symptoms of tooth decay?

Unfortunately, symptoms of tooth decay don’t always surface until you have a cavity or an infected tooth. When this happens, you may have:

• A toothache or tooth sensitivity. This is often the first indication of possible decay.
• Discoloration. White or black staining on your teeth.
• Swelling in your gums near a sore tooth. The gums appear inflamed and sensitive to the touch. This can be a sign of severe tooth decay or an abscessed tooth.
• An undesirable taste in your mouth or offensive breath.

Maintaining a healthy oral regimen and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings significantly reduce your chance of developing tooth decay.

Do I have Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. It is caused by a bacterial infection below the gum line due to plaque and food that accumulates in the pockets between your teeth and gums. If left untreated, it could eventually lead to periodontal disease. Common symptoms of gingivitis are:

•    Gums that are swollen, red, or tender
•    Gums that bleed after brushing teeth
•    Halitosis: Bad breath (even after brushing teeth)

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissue structures that surround your teeth. It’s caused by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque to build up on teeth and harden. In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to a severe regression of gums and eventually tooth loss. Additionally, recent studies have linked periodontal disease to increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. It’s imperative that you practice proper hygiene to prevent the onset periodontitis. Schedule a dental consultation with us to learn more!

Am I a candidate for teeth whitening

Absolutely! Teeth whitening products are a great solution for a variety of discoloration conditions:

•    Aging: As you grow older, teeth start to discolor. Throughout your life, you may have consumed a significant amount of tea, coffee, wine, juice, etc. which can stain your teeth over a long period of time. Through our services, we can effectively reduce this effect.
•    Tobacco: Nicotine from cigarettes and chewing tabacco can quickly cause yellowing of your teeth. We strongly recommend the cessation of all tobacco products to reduce the negative effects of on your dental health. Our teeth whitening service is one component of nicotine treatment. Our clients leave with whiter and more radiant looking smile.
•    Genetic: Believe it or not, you may be genetically predisposed to having discolored teeth, and we can do something to help you. Your genes may result in you having a thinner enamel, which allows for yellow dentyne to be more visible. Our products and services are gentle and will bring about change to make your smile whiter and brighter!
•    Tetracycline: Prescription medicine is also known to have an affect on the discoloration of teeth. Our cosmetic dental practice cares for numerous clients that come to us to correct the side effect of medication on their teeth. Our commitment is for you to walk out the door with a smile of satisfaction!

There a many more factors that contribute to the discoloration of teeth. At Midwest Family Dental, we provide a wide range of techniques and practices to address any teeth discoloration-related issues. Schedule a dental consultation with us to learn more!