General Dentist
in Chicago, IL

Prevention Is the Best Cure

It is no secret that prevention is better than treatment – and this rings true for your oral health, too! At Kimberly Smiles, we emphasize preventive measures to reduce the risk of needing dental treatment. Dr. Anast, our general dentist in Chicago, believes every patient has unique dental needs that require individual evaluation.

What Does Dr. Anast Do?

Dr. Anast is a primary dental care provider who diagnoses, treats and manages overall oral healthcare needs. His role encompasses a range of dental services essential for maintaining and improving oral health. These include preventive services like routine teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to protect against decay.

Additionally, his role as a general dentist also allows him to play a crucial role in the early detection of oral diseases, including oral cancer. This helps patients understand the connection between oral health and overall health. He will also offer advice on maintaining good oral hygiene and making lifestyle choices to promote your dental health.

Your Hygiene Appointment

1. Review Your Dental Health History

Before the cleaning process begins, your hygienist will review your health history and update any changes to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.

2. Oral Cancer Screening & Periodontal Exam

Next, your hygenist or Dr. Anast will complete an oral cancer exam to check your lymph nodes, pharynx, soft palate, hard palate, tongue, and floor of the mouth. We will also complete a thorough examination of your gum tissues to identify any problem areas and give you tips on how to improve and maintain those areas in between appointments.

4. Dental Exam & Cleaning

Dr. Anast will check your teeth and gum tissues and evaluate any images that were taken. Then, he will gently clean your teeth above and below your gum line. Our hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler to remove calculus and then polish the teeth to remove stains and plaque. If needed, we will apply fluoride after your dental cleaning to help reduce tooth sensitivity and decay.

Additional Preventative Care

Dental Sealants

Sealants help prevent tooth decay and cavities on your molars by acting as a barrier to protect the enamel from plaque and acids. The molars are the most susceptible to cavities due to the various grooves. Typically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. However, sealants can also benefit adults without decay or fillings in their molars.

Applying sealants is quick and easy. After the teeth have been cleaned, the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride helps make the teeth more resistant to the build-up of decay, causing plaque and sugars. It can also speed re-mineralization as well as disrupt acid erosion in teeth.

Fluoride can be applied to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish. According to the ADA, fluoride intake is often recommended for infants and children between 6 months and 16 years. During this time, primary and permanent teeth are developing.

Night Guards

Night guards are beneficial for people that grind their teeth at night. Most of the time, patients are unaware of this habit because it often occurs while asleep. Teeth grinding causes your teeth to flatten and wear down over time. If not properly treated, you may experience sensitivity and pain, cracks in your teeth, receding gums, and possible tooth loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit Dr. Anast for an examination?

We recommend that our patients visit for a routine check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. However, those with specific dental issues may need more frequent visits!

Can you treat gum disease?

Yes, Dr. Anast can diagnose and treat various stages of gum disease. Treatment can range from a professional cleaning to more extensive procedures, depending on the severity of the disease.

Are dental X-rays safe, and why are they needed?

Dental X-rays are safe and expose patients to minimal radiation. They are a vital diagnostic tool that helps dentists detect issues not visible during a regular dental exam, such as cavities between teeth, impacted teeth, or jawbone damage.

What types of tooth fillings do you offer?

Dr. Anast offers composite resins (tooth-colored fillings) to provide a more seamless and natural result to fill cavities. This solution is also a more biocompatible material than amalgam.

Schedule Your Check-Up Today

For comprehensive preventative care, trust Dr. Anast and our Kimberly Smiles dental team as your Chicago dentist! From routine care to restorative work and gum disease treatment, we’re your one-stop general dentist in Chicago, IL, for a healthy smile. Request an appointment today!