Chronic jaw pain – also known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJD) – is a condition that affects an estimated 10 million Americans. Recent studies suggest that TMJ disorder may also be linked to a host of underlying health concerns. Although “TMJ” tends to be a catch-all phrase people use to describe jaw joint pain, disorders are not all that common. When they are, they impact the joints, muscles of the TMJ, and adjacent tissues.  The causes of jaw joint disorders are often linked to issues like: 

Plainfield Oral Surgeon

• Past traumatic injuries
• Tooth and jaw misalignment
• Chronic teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism)
• Stress
• Obstructive sleep apnea

Understanding TMD’s Domino Effect

In a survey of people with TMD, researchers found that about two-thirds of patients with the disorder also experienced chronic health conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and migraines. Continued research is currently underway to explore the potential systematic connections between these medical issues. 

Some studies suggest that when jaw muscles become tense and irritated, they release an inflammatory compound called “CGRP” into the body. As these compounds spread, it can create a chain reaction of inflammation that might ultimately lead to a number of other painful disorders. The focus on early intervention for TMD could minimize the risk of additional health problems.

Is it TMD?

Aside from notable jaw pain, individuals suffering from TMD/TMJD may experience symptoms of:

• Frequent headaches
• Problems chewing
• Audible clicking in their jaw
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
• Stiff joints
• Teeth that don’t close together properly

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to go ahead and schedule a TMJ exam. In most cases, TMD treatments are more effective as part of an early intervention plan. 

Treating TMJ Disorder

TMD disorder is typically treated by a dental professional. Normally, your dentist will use a physical exam and X-rays to determine the cause of the TMD and pinpoint the origin of your symptoms. Depending on the cause of your TMJ problems, treatment options can range from physical therapy and bite splints to orthodontic treatment and surgical intervention.

Chronic jaw pain is a treatable condition. With early diagnosis, you could potentially avoid related inflammatory health issues. To discuss treatment options for TMD, contact our Oral Surgeon in Downers Grove IL office today.

Dental implants are the preferred treatment choice for replacing missing teeth. What you may not know is that filling in an open space with a dental implant can also slow or stop the bone deterioration that’s associated with tooth loss. 

Oral Surgeon in Joliet

Understanding the Tooth/Bone Connection

The bone in your jaw, just like those in the rest of your body, follows a specific lifecycle. As bones age, their tissues are resorbed into your body, and new bone forms to replace them. In the jaw, our bone growth occurs in response to stimulation. That is, when we use our teeth to bite or chew. But when we lose a tooth, there’s nothing to stimulate the bone. So, it starts to shrink. If the tooth isn’t replaced relatively soon with a dental implant, it can lead to secondary complications, including:

• Gum recession
• Difficulty chewing 
• Speech challenges
• Shifting, tilting of adjacent teeth
• Sagging, collapsed facial features

How Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss

Dental implants not only replace teeth, they naturally encourage bone growth. The science behind this “osseointegration” phenomenon is that the titanium metal used in implants stimulates a natural affinity in the bone. After an implant is placed in the jaw, the bone cells adjacent to it begin to grow and attach themselves to the titanium post. This osseointegration cycle stabilizes bone loss and the implant itself, by providing the stimulation the jaw needs to stay healthy. It’s also what makes implant treatment so successful!

The negative effects of tooth loss are progressive. Waiting too long to replace a missing tooth could lead to excess bone deterioration (resorption). And when too much bone is resorbed, it limits the space and support available to place an implant. That’s why we recommend getting an implant consultation as quickly as possible following tooth loss or extraction.

Are You a Candidate for Implants?

Dental implants are a good option for people with: 

• Sufficient bone height and density
• Healthy gums 
• No serious underlying health issues
• Good oral hygiene habits

Dental implants offer a natural, permanent solution for people with missing teeth. Choosing to get a dental implant improves your smile in more ways than one. For more information on dental implant placement and preventing bone loss, contact our office to schedule a consultation with our Plainfield IL Oral Surgeon. 

Is discomfort and pain in your jaw, cheek, or ear affecting your quality of life? You may have a condition that requires the care of an oral surgeon. Many of the people who struggle with orofacial or TMJ pain don’t realize that the discomfort originates from an issue within their jaw or a specific tooth. Depending on the cause, oral surgery could help relieve your pain for good. 

Orland Park IL Oral Surgeon

Dental Abscess/Abscessed Tooth

If you have a cavity or crack in a tooth, the nerve tissues inside of it can become exposed to bacteria and develop an infection. As this process occurs, the infection causes swelling and pus, which drain out the root and through your bone and gum tissues. In some cases, the throbbing pain may radiate to your jaw or ear. If the infection is severe, you might also experience facial swelling or a fever. Abscessed teeth are best treated by root canal therapy (to remove the infected tissue and seal the tooth) or extracted to prevent the spread of the infection into other teeth. 

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD/TMJD)

Your temporomandibular joint (or TMJ) is the hinge-like joint on either side of your mandible (lower jaw) where it connects to the rest of the body. It allows up and down and side to side movement, allowing you to chew, speak, and swallow. When the joint or surrounding tissues aren’t functioning properly or are overused, it can lead to severe pain in your jaw, face, neck, shoulders, and back. 

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that more than 10 million Americans suffer from a TMJ disorder. Usually, it’s caused by grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism) or an injury that caused a misalignment in your jaw. 

If you have chronic facial pain and notice clicking or popping in your jaw when you chew, you should speak with an oral surgeon. He or she will first recommend therapeutic, non-surgical options to adjust your TMJ and biting relationships, such as a splint or physical therapy. If those methods aren’t effective,  surgery may be an option to correct your TMD.

Dry Socket After a Dental Extraction

After a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms inside of the now-empty socket to protect the underlying bone tissues. Sometimes, that blood clot doesn’t form properly or becomes dislodged, allowing air, food, and fluid to cause a painful infection. This situation can cause symptoms similar to an abscessed tooth, including swelling, fever, and severe pain. We call this scenario a “dry socket.” A dentist or oral surgeon will likely prescribe medication to alleviate your discomfort, then clean out the socket and place a medicated dressing inside of it to help your body heal. 

You Don’t Have to Keep Living in Pain

As oral surgeons, our team is specially trained to diagnose and treat painful conditions of the face, mouth, teeth, and jaws. If you’re struggling with severe orofacial discomfort, relief is just a phone call away. Contact our Plainfield Oral Surgeon today for practical solutions that offer long-lasting relief so that you can live pain-free again.

If the thought of going to the dentist makes you feel anxious, you’re not alone. An estimated 13-24% of people around the world have some level of dental anxiety. For some, the nervousness they experience can be so severe that it’s classified as dental phobia. Ultimately, the way you feel about the dentist’s office can prevent you from having access to the care you need and deserve. 

Oral Surgeon in Downers Grove

If you need dental treatment but are holding off because of fear of the dentist, sedation dentistry could be the answer you’ve been looking for. 

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety encompasses any level of fear, nervousness, apprehension, or stress that a person may experience when they’re in a dental setting. Fear of visiting the dentist often results in delaying or avoiding dental treatment completely. As a result, your dental health issues may worsen over time which leads to lengthier and more complex treatment needs. Ultimately, a vicious cycle is created out of expanding oral health issues and a lack of treatment. 

How Can Sedation Dentistry Lower Dental Anxiety?

Sedation dentistry is more than “being put to sleep” for a dental procedure. Rather, it’s a process where we work with you to choose a sedation process to best help you relax at a level that’s appropriate for your treatment needs. You may feel as if you’re sleeping, or only drowsy, depending on the type of sedation that is administered. Sedation medications range from a pill or liquid that you swallow, nitrous oxide inhalation (laughing gas), or an intravenous (IV) drip. Our office will help you determine the best type of sedation for your anxiety level and past dental experiences.

Don’t let the fear of the dentist’s office be the source of your dental problems. Our sedation dentistry services provide you with the most comfortable care experience possible, whether you suffer from mild anxiety or severe dental phobia. To learn more about our sedation options, request a consultation today with our 60467 Oral Surgeon!

The dangers of smoking have been prevalent for a very long time. Lung disease, periodontitis, and tooth loss are all but a few common side effects of this habit. For many adults who are looking to replace a lost tooth, dental implants have become a viable option. Even for those who have been life-long smokers, implants offer a cosmetic restoration to their smile. Nevertheless, if you smoke or are thinking of smoking in the future, you should be aware of the fact that this habit can cause your dental implants to require replacement sooner than necessary.

Orland Park Oral Surgeon

The dental implant failure rate is noticeably higher in those who smoke compared to those who do not.  In general, about one percent of all dental implants fail in those who do not smoke. Alternatively, studies show the dental implant failure ratio for those who smoke is above 15 percent.  Dental implants are made of titanium and supplementary materials that are entirely well-suited with our bodies. Titanium is known to attract bone cells which will grow and adhere to the post over time. This strengthens the implant within the mouth. However, complications arise when the patient smokes.

Nicotine adversely impacts the health of teeth through blood vessel constriction, dry mouth and pocket formation within the gums. As blood flow is reduced, the body loses its ability to fight disease and infection. Smoking decreases the rate at which bone grows throughout the entirety of the body, including the mouth and face region. Smoking also damages the mouth’s salivary glands, drying them out to the point that there is minimal fluid remaining to wash away bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Not surprisingly, most dentists believe that smoking adversely curtails the likelihood that the implants will heal properly, let alone last. The surgically impacted area simply cannot get the necessary healing nutrients it needs to recover.

Dentists offer differing opinions as to whether to fit smokers with dental implants. Nonetheless, doctors all agree that the best way for dental implants to last is for the patient to exercise good oral health. Not only will regular brushing and flossing help, but so will quitting the smoking habit altogether. Giving up smoking before your scheduled implant surgery will provide a healthy foundation for your new teeth to thrive for years to come. 

If you would like more information on dental implants, please contact our Orland Park oral surgery office or schedule an appointment for a consultation. We look forward to helping you smile with confidence again.  

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. What you might not know is that research has found the health of your mouth actually mirrors the overall condition of your body. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a direct relationship between gum disease and many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The good news is, research also shows that good oral health may actually help prevent certain diseases from occurring.

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Understanding the mouth/body connection

Poor oral habits can cause bacteria to build up on your teeth, making your gums more prone to

disease and infection. When that happens, your immune system goes to work attacking the

infection, leading to inflammation and gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis and chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on the rest of your body, leading to a host of health problems. Thankfully, this “worst-case-scenario” is easily preventable. Here’s what you can do to elevate your oral hygiene habits and keep unwanted health concerns at bay:

• Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to choose a toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth so you can reach back teeth easily. If you have any questions about which toothbrush we recommend for you, you can ask our office during your appointment.
• Remember to replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
• Choose an American Dental Association-approved fluoride toothpaste to keep teeth free from decay.
• Floss daily to remove tooth decay-causing bacteria that tend to linger between teeth. Regular flossing also helps remove plaque under the gumline and minimize your risk of contracting gum disease.
• Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks.
• Avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products, which are known to contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.

In addition to maintaining good daily oral health habits, seeing your dentist regularly is one of the best ways to keep your mouth – and your body – healthy. These exams allow our team to monitor any changes to your teeth and gums and make recommendations that will help you avoid future health problems. Call our Oral Surgeon in Joliet today to schedule an exam.

Your face and mouth are some of the most vulnerable places on your body. With an average of 25% of all sports injuries involving the face, the resulting damage and necessary repairs can be a costly process. As such, learning how to protect yourself to avoid injury and what to do if an injury occurs are important to know. Here, we’ll outline basic steps you can take. 

How to protect yourself

Equipping yourself with the proper gear before play is the first and most important step to protect yourself from injury. Organized sports such as football or hockey require helmets for play, but including a full cage or a visor can make a difference when out on the field or on the ice. 

Additionally, using a proper mouthguard is a crucial part of protecting yourself while playing sports. A custom form-fit mouth guard will be worth the investment for any sport you play, both for protection and comfort. Keeping child athletes equipped with the proper protection is especially important. Childhood sports injuries have been on the rise with the increasing popularity of more contact sports, such as football, hockey, and MMA (mixed martial arts).

What to do if an injury occurs

Occasionally injury can still occur even with proper protection. It is important to know what to do in those situations for your safety. Depending on the extent and type of trauma, some injuries can be taken care of at the sporting event site, with the athlete continuing play. More organized sports often have some type of care on site whether it is a licensed trainer or a coach able to assist the athlete. Having a knowledgeable person on-site knowing how to assess injury is also a way to protect against any further injury. 

If a tooth is knocked out during play, it can be placed temporarily in milk or salt water for transport, but should be placed back into the socket as soon as possible. Any other serious injury should be assessed by a medical professional as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage.

Proper protection and knowledge on how to protect against sports related facial injury is important to keep you or even a teammate safe during play. If you have any questions about sports related facial injuries or have previously suffered from a facial injury, contact our oral surgeon in 60544 office today. 

According to The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, oral cancer claims one American life every hour of every day. Unfortunately, most cases go undetected until it is too late, making the need for regular examinations of even greater importance. Those who are proactive and seek treatment early have the best chance of beating the disease and living a long, healthy life. Below are some facts you may not have known about oral cancer, including warning signs, trends, and more. 

1.) Oral Cancer Affects More Men Than Women

No matter your gender, you should be aware of the very real dangers of oral cancer. While studies conducted by the Oral Cancer Foundation have shown that oral cancer is one the rise among women too, a 2:1 incidence ratio between men and women still remains. This correlation may be due to the fact that, statistically speaking, men smoke and drink more than women. Regardless of your own habits, remain aware of the signs and symptoms and ask your doctor to perform a regular oral exam if they do not already. 

2.) Each Year, 450,000 New Cases Are Discovered

As such, it is likely that oral cancer has affected someone in your life. Whether you know someone who has had, or is currently dealing with their own struggle against oral cancer, you should know that they are not alone.

3.) Alcohol and Tobacco Increase Your Risk

Among the many risk factors, your lifestyle choices can have a huge impact on the likelihood of you developing this cancer. It is estimated by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America that roughly 80% of people with oral cancer are heavy smokers, while 70% are heavy drinkers. Add this unfortunate statistic to the list of reasons why you should leave the cigarettes behind.

4.) When Detected Early Enough, Oral Cancer has a Cure Rate of 90%

According to many experts, part of the reason why oral cancer can be so destructive is because it often goes undetected for long periods of time. Don’t overlook or ignore any suspicious new developments in your mouth and call your doctor or oral surgeon as soon as you notice anything amiss. 

The best way to overcome oral cancer is to stay informed and catch it early. As something that is important to all dental professionals, we hope you will take this disease just as seriously as we do. We look forward to helping you stay healthy and protecting your oral health throughout your life. If you have any questions call or contact our Oral Surgeon office in 60435 today and we will assist you however we can.  

If a dentist has recommended you have your wisdom teeth removed, you probably have some questions you would like answered before scheduling the extractions. The prospect of oral surgery may seem rather scary at first, but we are here to provide you with both clarity and comfort as you contemplate the “what” and “why” of wisdom teeth removal. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions our office receives: 

Q. Why do I have wisdom teeth if I don’t need them?

A. Wisdom teeth helped our early human ancestors chew and dissect the tougher foods that were a typical part of their diet. Fossil records also indicate that ancient human jaws were larger than ours, leaving more room for these “third molars.” The bottom line is that as our diets have evolved and our jaws have gotten smaller, wisdom teeth are no longer a tool that we rely upon. In fact, they can often do more harm to our mouths than good these days.

Q.  Why do my wisdom teeth need to be removed?

A. Wisdom teeth removal is often recommended to prevent an array of potential oral health problems. For example, leaving your wisdom teeth in place can lead to impaction. Impaction occurs when there is not enough space inside your mouth to accommodate emerging teeth, causing them to grow in at an angle. These impacted molars can cause tooth crowding and discomfort, and potentially lead to plaque build-up and periodontal disease. 

Q. When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

A. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons , wisdom teeth removal usually occurs during your high school years or when you are a young adult (between the ages of 17 and 25). If you wait too long, the tooth root will continue to grow leading to potential nerve damage and other complications. However, each person is unique and your needs may vary.

Q. Are there circumstances when it’s okay to keep your wisdom teeth?

A. Our office will work with you to determine whether or not your wisdom tooth removal can be delayed. If there is enough room in your mouth to allow your wisdom teeth to erupt properly without impaction or damage to surrounding teeth, then it may be acceptable to consider leaving them in place. However, your wisdom teeth will need close monitoring to ensure that no changes occur that could cause harm to your other teeth. Our team will discuss this option with you during your exam.

Wisdom teeth removal is a very common procedure that millions of people undergo each year. For many young adults, it’s almost a right-of-passage. Doing your homework and talking to your dentist can provide you with confidence and peace of mind as you determine if wisdom teeth removal is right for you. If you still have unanswered questions or if you would like more information, please contact our Oral Surgeon in Plainfield today to schedule an evaluation.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467

When most people think about oral surgeons usually the first thing to come to mind is removing wisdom teeth. However, with extensive knowledge and experience, oral surgeons have the ability to treat a wide array of areas from medical to cosmetic. Oral surgeons train and learn in different areas of the medical field to become experts on nearly all of the different possible dental and facial needs you may have. Learn more about oral surgeons’ training and how they might be able to benefit you. 

How Oral Surgeons Reach Their Positions

Did you know that oral surgeons are the only dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association who are surgically trained in a hospital-based residency? Oral surgeons must complete a 4 year minimum hospital based residency program focusing on facial skin, bone, and muscle. This training allows them to train alongside general surgery, internal medicine, and emergency specialists to name a few. Oral surgeons also learn and train extensively in anesthesia (general and local) and sedation, and how to properly administer them to patients.

How Can An Oral Surgeon Help You? 

Oral surgeons specialize in numerous areas related to face, mouth, and jaw surgery. With both medical and cosmetic specialties, oral surgeons may be able to assist you with something you had not expected previously. While specialties can vary from surgeon to surgeon, most can treat a variety of areas including, but not limited to:

• Wisdom teeth
• Corrective jaw surgery
• Tooth extractions
• Cleft lip and palate 
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Oral, neck, and head cancer

With a multitude of specialties, oral surgeons can treat areas and issues you may not have previously thought of. If you have any questions for our team or would like to learn more about us, visit us online or contact our Plainfield Oral Surgeon today.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
Url: https://chicagodentalimplants.com/
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467