General Dentist
in Chicago, IL

Prevention Is the Best Cure!

It is no secret that prevention is better than treatment when it comes to oral health. At Kimberly Smiles, we emphasize preventive measures to reduce the risk of needing dental treatment. Dr. Anast believes every patient has unique dental needs that require evaluation on an individual basis.

Our General Dental Services

• Exams
• Cleanings
• Digital X-Rays
• Oral Cancer Screenings
• Dental Sealants
• Fluoride Treatment
• Night Guards

What to Expect During Your Hygiene Appointment

Review your health history

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

Oral Cancer Screening

Our hygienist will complete an oral cancer exam, which will check your lymph nodes, pharynx, soft palate, hard palate, tongue, and floor of the mouth.

Periodontal Exam

Our hygienist will 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.

Dental Exam

Dr. Anast will come in to do an oral cancer exam, check your teeth and gum tissues, and evaluate any images that were taken.

Dental Cleaning

Your teeth will be gently and expertly cleaned above and below the gum line. Our hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove calculus and then polish the teeth to remove stains and plaque. If indicated, fluoride will be applied after the dental cleaning to help reduce tooth sensitivity and help prevent decay.

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.