Esthetic dental restorations

Esthetic dental restorations is the term that Dr. James Fondriest uses to describe the type of dentistry he offers in his Chicago-area dental office. Esthetic refers to beauty, while dental restorations refers to dental work that improves health, oral function, and appearance.  The media has popularized the phrase cosmetic dentistry, but most consumers don’t know… Read more »

Three Problems Associated with TMJ Disorder

  Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a painful condition with symptoms that include severe headaches, sensitive teeth, ear pain, muscle soreness, and difficulty opening and closing the jaw comfortably. The TMJs hold your bottom jaw to your top jaw. When problems develop in these joints, they can cause TMJ disorder. Various causes of the disorder… Read more »

Amalgam Fillings | Safety and controversy

While the American Dental Association (ADA) continues to endorse the use of amalgam fillings, there has been widespread debate on their use since the 1800s. Because amalgam fillings contain inorganic mercury, some non scientific studies link them with mercury poisoning, which can cause serious problems with the brain and nervous system. Symptoms include memory loss,… Read more »

Foods That Cause Bad Breath

While our Lake Forest cosmetic dentist can give you a complete smile makeover, restoring your teeth and improving your self-confidence, you cannot fully benefit from your artistic cosmetic dental work if you struggle with halitosis. After all, how can you show off those brand new pearly whites when you are afraid to offend people with… Read more »

Collaborative cosmetic dentistry – Best way to great outcome

dentist patient partnership

Achieving your dream of a beautiful smile can be a daunting challenge to some. The challenge comes in picking the right cosmetic expert, making the right treatment choices, and most importantly, overcoming the emotional stress. Finding a dentist that will work with you makes things easier. Going through a collaborative cosmetic dentistry process is the… Read more »

Dental bridge vs Implant

Which is better, a dental bridge vs implant? The importance of replacing missing teeth cannot be overstated. Each of your teeth has a specific function. When one tooth is lost, the other teeth begin to sustain this loss by shifting. This shifting can lead to a misaligned bite, also called malocclusion. Malocclusion can cause a… Read more »

Dental planning | Treatment design with patient input

Cosmetic dental treatment planning

The artistic side of cosmetic dental planning can easily be varied from patient to patient. There are many factors that make a smile that can be adjusted to a patient’s preferences. Just as an architect will work with a client to design a family home, dentists can design smiles to meet the needs of our… Read more »

Implants Prevent Tooth Loss: Replacement is important

Implants Prevent Tooth Loss

Missing teeth should not be viewed as an inevitable fact of aging. Instead, seniors should fight back against tooth loss with proper oral hygiene, frequent dental checkups and cleanings, as well as restorative dentistry. Dental implants can play a significant role in maintaining your surrounding teeth after suffering from tooth loss. Implants prevent tooth loss… Read more »

Obesity linked to gum disease | Shedding Pounds Can Improve Gum Health

More than 70 percent of Americans struggle with gum problems. From gingivitis, or simple gum inflammation, to periodontitis, an acute form of the disease, unhealthy gums lead to various health issues. Not only does gum disease lead to cavities and tooth loss, studies now link it to heart disease, stroke, preterm birth, and diabetes. Unhealthy… Read more »

Link between gum disease and cancer

Gum disease, or gingivitis, is an inflammatory illness that can lead to more than tooth loss. Researchers have established a connection between gum disease and an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders, as well as uncontrolled blood sugar. In a more disturbing development, a recent study has revealed a connection between advanced gum disease (periodontitis) and… Read more »

Americans Score Low for Dental Health Knowledge

According to the American Dental Association, the United States needs some education on the facts about oral health. The association’s new Web site, mouthHealthy.org, features the results of a national survey that recently gave the average American a “D” on the fundamentals of oral health. The survey offered a range of true or false questions… Read more »

Oral Cancer Rates are Rising

In 2012, an estimated 40,000 Americans were diagnosed with oral cancer. Approximately 8,000 people will die this year from cancer of the tongue, mouth, and throat, according to a report published by the American Cancer Society. While doctors aren’t certain why one person will get mouth cancer and another won’t, there are several risk factors… Read more »

Energy drinks damage teeth

Some of the most popular products available today are energy drinks. These energy drinks damage teeth. It comes as no surprise that Americans love the stuff. Between 30 and 50% of teens alone consume them. The contents of these drinks promise long-lasting energy boosts through caffeine, sugar, and herbal ingredients. The effectiveness and safety of… Read more »

Advantages of No-prep Veneers

Eighty percent of people aren’t happy with their smiles. If you fall into this category, you might benefit from no-prep veneers. This elective cosmetic treatment basically allows you to resurface your smile with tooth colored restorative materials. Today, our Lake Forest cosmetic dentist Dr. James Fondriest discusses the advantages of no-prep veneers. What are No-prep… Read more »

The Wear and Tear of Bruxism

Do you have the wear and tear of bruxism? Teeth grinding, known clinically as bruxism, is the repeated clenching of the jaw, sometimes causing tooth damage that can ultimately require restorative work. If you already have restorations, you might wonder if your bruxism will damage your new beautiful smile. Today, cosmetic dentist Dr. James Fondriest… Read more »

Sports Drinks and enamel erosion | Protect teeth from acidic drinks

Sports Drinks and Enamel Erosion Sports drinks are not as healthy as you might think. In fact, sports drinks have a deadly combination of sugar and acidity that can wreak havoc on your tooth enamel. Weakened enamel creates an environment for cavities, tooth sensitivity, and staining. If you are an athlete this news may be… Read more »

The Most Popular Cosmetic Dental Procedures

Cosmetic dentistry is becoming more popular than ever before. Your smile is an asset. An attractive smile is important in both your professional and personal life. With modern technology and extensive experience, our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Fondriest can transform your smile into something you will want to show off. We offer many of the most… Read more »

Brief History of Cosmetic Dentistry

Our earliest ancestors must have realized the importance of oral hygiene. As early as 3,000 BC, people were cleaning their teeth with nothing more than sticks. Since then, cosmetic dentistry has taken great leaps forward. Today, Dr. James Fondriest provides state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry procedures to perfect the smiles of his Chicago patients. To the Lake… Read more »

Facts about Mouthwashes

Mouthwashes or gargling rinses are useful additions to your arsenal in the fight against oral health problems. However, it is a mistake to believe that mouthwash can replace manual plaque and debris removal, such as brushing your teeth and flossing. Dr. Fondriest and his team clarify a few interesting facts about mouthwashes and rinses and… Read more »

Should you replace metal fillings?

Replace metal fillings

Do dark, unsightly fillings in your mouth cause you embarrassment and hold you back when you want to show off your biggest smile or laugh with abandon? Tooth colored fillings are an excellent option to replace metal fillings and enhance your smile. Have you heard that the mercury in metal fillings can cause health issues,… Read more »

Celebrities with Cosmetic Dental Work

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reports that cosmetic dentists rank Natalie Portman’s smile as the best in Hollywood, followed by James Franco’s and Nicole Kidman’s. Annette Bening, Colin Firth, and Christian Bale came next. The dentists also reported on the most kissable mouths on the silver screen. For the females, Angelina Jolie came in… Read more »

Anti-inflammatory Herbs for Gums | Herbal Remedies for Your Gums

Herbal Remedies for Your Gums

Anti-inflammatory Herbal Remedies for Your Gums Have you considered anti-inflammatory herbal remedies for your gums? Most commonly associated with sunburn relief, aloe vera can also be beneficial for your gums by alleviating ulcers. Applied directly, the antibacterial properties of aloe vera can help your ulcers heal faster. If you have a toothache, contact us right… Read more »

Geographic Tongue and Other Conditions by Dr. Fondriest

What is geographic tongue? This oral health condition reflects its name by showing map-like lesions on the tongue. Tastebuds create “island-shaped” red sores where papillae are missing. While some people experience discomfort with geographical tongue, it has not been linked to any serious health conditions. The exact cause of geographic tongue is still unknown but… Read more »

Causes of Bruxism | Teeth Grinding

You may not realize it as you occasionally grind your teeth together, but the habit of doing so could be a potentially serious dental issue. Most people clench their jaws and grit their teeth when under extreme pressure or physical strain, or when experiencing a strong negative emotion, like anger. However, many people chronically grind… Read more »

Tooth Enamel Facts

The topmost layer of the tooth, enamel is the hard substance which covers the soft layer of dentin. A strong layer of enamel will help you prevent tooth decay and sensitivity. Get to know the part of your tooth which protects your smile from cavities with some interesting facts from Dr. Fondriest. Sharks have tooth… Read more »

Nail Biting is bad for your health

nail biting

More Than Just a Nervous Habit Almost everyone has a nervous habit. Some people continually adjust their clothing, some women twirl their hair, and others bite their nails. While some nervous habits are harmless, some habits, like the latter can be detrimental to your health. Nail Biting Spreads Bacteria If you remember your mother telling… Read more »

How Chocolate Benefits Teeth

Do you celebrate a Truffle Day every day? Truffle Day was a day to celebrate the sweet confection invented in France in 1895. While we caution against the sugar and fat contents of truffles, new research points to evidence of dental health benefits from chocolate. You read correctly; chocolate benefits teeth. Chicago dentist, Dr. Fondriest… Read more »

Untreated gingivitis | Treat Gum Disease to Prevent Tooth Loss

Gum Disease Treatment in Chicago One of the worst things you can do for your oral health is ignoring the signs of gum disease. Leaving gingivitis untreated can lead to periodontitis. The advanced stages of gum disease include gingival recession, extreme tooth sensitivity, and possible tooth loss. While gum disease is not curable, the progression of… Read more »

Hidden Sugar in Foods You Eat

Why are we getting cavities? Spring is a minefield of sweets and candy. With Valentine’s Day, Easter, cotton candy at the carnivals, and that long awaited day when snow cone stands reopen for business, you may find yourself overindulging in springtime treats. Sugar is often cited as the worst offender for your dental health and… Read more »

Stress Can Affect Your Oral Health

Did you know that stress can affect your oral health? April is designated as an awareness month for many different health conditions, such as Autism Awareness, STD Awareness, and Parkinson’s Awareness, to name a few. April also creates awareness for a common American condition: stress. Today is National Stress Awareness day. Over half of Americans… Read more »

Toothpaste History

The modern consumer now has the option of hundreds of flavors, colors, brands, textures, sizes, and health claims of contemporary toothpastes. Just like most hygiene products, the history of toothpaste had its dark days. Here is brief history of the evolution of toothpaste into the booming industry it has become today. The earliest forms of… Read more »

Are thin veneers more durable?

What are thin veneers? Low preparation veneers, or ultra thin veneers are durable cosmetic restorations that enhance your smile with as little tooth reduction as possible. No-preparation veneers are made with porcelain restorations with a minimal thickness of 0.2 mm. To put this size into perspective, 0.2mm is about as thin as a piece of… Read more »

Dark chocolate and cavities

Dark chocolate and cavities

Does dark chocolate cause cavities? The consensus up until now has been that chocolate is bad for your teeth. It is high in sugar and sugar causes cavities, right? Wrong. Sugar helps cause cavities but it is not solely responsible. A number of factors come together to create tooth decay including sugar and pathogenic oral bacteria. Pathogenic… Read more »

Dentures vs. Dental Implants in Chicago

Denture vs implants

There are many reasons for tooth loss. Gum disease is the most common cause for missing teeth in adulthood. Whether you have lost your teeth to injury, infection, extraction, or any other number of reasons, you understand the discomfort that comes with eating and speaking. Some patients are embarrassed to show their smile because of… Read more »

Oral Hygiene Mistakes

Daily oral hygiene habits are essential to warding off cavities, preventing gum disease, and eliminating bad breath. While most brushing and flossing instructions may seem elementary, as we grow older, we develop bad habits and sometimes forget the fundamentals of keeping our mouth clean and healthy. Dr. Fondriest offers some advice for avoiding oral hygiene… Read more »

Tooth Discolorations | Extrinsic and Intrinsic Types

Do you have tooth discoloration? Does your smile appear dull or discolored? Did you know that stains and discoloration can involve both the external parts of your teeth and internal tooth structures? Understanding the cause of tooth discoloration is an important part of assessing your oral health and improving the appearance of your smile. Some… Read more »

Enhance My Smile With Veneers

Have you ever asked yourself the question,  “Would it be worth it to enhance my smile”? We offer artistic restorations and cosmetic enhancements to patients in the Chicago area. One of our most popular cosmetic services involves bonding porcelain veneers. This cosmetic procedure addresses many smile imperfections by carefully placing cosmetic enhancements over the front… Read more »

Gum Disease Myths Dispelled

Gum disease is common. Recent findings show up to 80% of the population in the United States has gum disease. Despite the fact that gum disease is very common, many patients lack awareness and information on the disease. Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) are reversible with regular dental cleanings and thorough oral hygiene. If… Read more »

When too much gum shows | Treatment options

  When too much gum shows in your smile, there are several treatment options available. Current estimates indicate that up to seven percent of men and fourteen percent of women have excessive amounts of gum tissue or smiles that appear “gummy.” Excess gum tissue creates a disproportionate appearance of a patient’s smile by covering more… Read more »

Dental Cavities: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

dental cavities

Dental cavities are common. Even individuals who practice impeccable oral hygiene can still develop tooth decay. Left untreated, this condition can lead to discomfort and other serious long term problems. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to address the issue, including fillings, crowns, and other custom invisible dental restorations. In this article, we will discuss… Read more »

What You Need to Know About Your Tongue

The tongue is one of the most overlooked parts of the mouth. You have probably been told many times not to neglect brushing your tongue when you clean your teeth. Despite being frequently forgotten, your tongue is very important. The tongue has three major functions. It assists with chewing food and pronouncing words properly along… Read more »

Mouth Reconstruction | Types and benefits

full mouth reconstruction

Have you ever heard of the terms full mouth reconstruction, mouth restoration, and full mouth rehabilitation? These terms essentially mean the same thing; a smile makeover. Reconstruction of the mouth and/or teeth includes an array of procedures that create a uniform smile. Reconstruction can also restore proper jaw alignment, and improve overall oral health.   Depending… Read more »

Jaw pain while yawning or chewing

Jaw pain while yawning or chewing

Have you noticed ongoing jaw pain while yawning? About 15% of Americans suffer from severe facial pain. Over half of patients exhibit symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ. TMJ dysfunction disrupts the natural and harmonious movement of the facial bones, muscles, and ligaments.  What is TMJ dysfunction or disorder? TMJ stands for… Read more »

Sports Drinks Are Dangerous

Did you know that sports drinks are dangerous? Dr. James Fondriest encourages his patients to live an active lifestyle with plenty of cardiovascular exercise. Many of us are concerned about staying hydrated throughout the day and sports drinks are a common choice for maintaining a healthy level of hydration. Although beneficial ingredients in sports drinks like… Read more »

Connection between diabetes and gum disease

As scientists and researchers discover more about the connection between oral health and overall vitality, we would like to provide our patients insight into how diabetes and gum disease are connected. Dr. James Fondriest strives to continually educate his patients, especially patients with certain conditions and special needs. Below are some commonly asked questions about… Read more »

Confirm dental treatment opinion when planning major work

Confirm dental treatment opinion

It’s important to completely understand and confirm your dental treatment opinion To confirm your dental treatment opinion dental appointments can help in many circumstances. Seeking out the input of an expert in cosmetic dental work can help. They can help you develop a clearer picture of how to achieve remarkable smile improvements. You can also… Read more »

How Many Smiles Do You Have?

The average person has about six to eight distinct types of smiles, each one different depending on your mood and situation. Dr. Fondriest can make all your types of smiles look beautiful. Has anyone ever told you that they “can’t read you?” Some people are very readable, meaning their emotions, thoughts, and mood show in… Read more »

Beautiful smile | Enjoy the benefits

Beautiful smile

There are many benefits of a beautiful smile. Have you ever wondered why people feel happy around children? Yes, they are cute and energetic, but research indicates it’s for another reason entirely. It’s because they smile an average of 400 times a day. It’s true. The average adult only does it about 20 times a… Read more »

Straws Can Protect Your Teeth

straws can protect teeth

Did you know that using straws can protect your teeth? This simple invention can help protect your smile from beverages that can stain or erode your teeth. Drinking from a straw can limit highly acidic drinks from contacting your teeth. It also prevents staining of your front teeth from coffee and tea. Americans drink an… Read more »

Weird Dental Requests

Have you ever asked your dentist to do one of the following? Give your dog braces To let you keep the teeth you have extracted To have an emergency dental cleaning because you’re going to see an ex-boyfriend or girlfriend Give you local anesthesia in your lips to ease the pain during permanent lipstick tattoos… Read more »

Heart disease linked to gum disease

It has been theorized since the 1920s that heart disease and gum disease are linked. Recent research has indicated links not only between heart disease and oral health, but between oral health and diabetes, hypertension, lung infections, and dementia. Although the links are not perfectly clear, research continues to try to narrow down specifics as… Read more »

Meet Matt Roberts

Dr. James Fondriest is a well-known and accomplished cosmetic dentist in the Lake Forest area of Chicago. With an expert eye for smile design, aesthetics, and high-quality dentistry, Dr. Fondriest and the Lake Forest Dental Arts team have created healthy, functional, and beautiful smiles for patients from across Illinois. A Complete Team for Your Smile… Read more »

Cold sores

Research suggests that over half of the American population is affected by cold sores, but not all show symptoms or know they have contracted the virus that causes these unsightly, painful blisters. With the cold and flu season quickly approaching, cold sores will be showing up on faces even more frequently. Few know the facts… Read more »

Oral Health Hazards of Smoking

Oral health is definitely affected by smoking. You’ve probably heard about the link between tobacco and heart disease, stroke, and cancer, but do you know what smoking does to your teeth? Let’s examine the most common oral health problems associated with smoking. Social Factors Bad breath: The bacteria in your mouth mix with the tobacco… Read more »

Receding gums | Are your roots starting to show?

receding gums

Receding gums is a common dental problem, but it is also among the lesser known conditions. Receding gums can also be referred to as gingival recession. Let us examine the causes of this condition and the treatments. What causes receding gums? There are several causes that can contribute to recession. It’s important to work with… Read more »

Why are dental x-rays important?

Dental X-rays give insight into some of the most elusive dental health issues to the naked eye. Using digital radiography can not only diagnose problems, but also develop treatment plans. Dental radiography is an irreplaceable diagnostic tool. Dental x-rays show issues like tooth decay, misalignment, soft tissue damage, and periodontal disease that escape visual detection. Children generally… Read more »

How to brush your teeth properly

How to brush your teeth

How to Brush Your Teeth Brushing your teeth will go a long way toward good oral hygiene and disease prevention. Specifically, we brush to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. The ADA recommends that you brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to maintain good oral health. Most of us learn how to brush… Read more »

Eating whole grains can reduce risk for inflammatory diseases, including gum disease

In celebration of Whole Grains Month… what’s that? You didn’t know that it’s Whole Grains Month?! Well, it is! In celebration of Whole Grains Month, Dr. Fondriest wants you to know, that eating whole grains can reduce your risk for inflammatory diseases, including gum disease, as well as tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, type 2… Read more »

What is plaque and how to get rid of it

what is plaque

What is plaque? Plaque is a sticky, yellow substance that naturally and constantly is forming on teeth. Plaque is made up of a complex microbial community with over ten billion bacteria per milligram. Each milligram contains approximately 400 different types of bacteria that produce acids. The bacterial products and acids combine with saliva to create… Read more »

Repair Dental Damage

We all remember how the terror of a loose tooth was offset by the subsequent visit from the Tooth Fairy. However, we only get one set of adult permanent teeth, and losing one is hardly a cause for celebration. Proper oral hygiene is the most important part of caring for your teeth, but minimizing and… Read more »

Chronic TMJ Headaches and Non-Restful Sleep

Chronic TMJ Headaches and non-restful sleep

Do you grind your teeth at night or find yourself clenching? If you do it chronically, it can cause earaches, chronic TMJ headaches, tingling fingers, and even migraines. Aggressive grinding of teeth is very common and can cause the muscles of the jaw to build up lactic acid and become sore. the temporal muscles are… Read more »

High Quality General Dentistry That’s Worth Every Penny

Though Dr. James Fondriest is a skilled cosmetic dentist, he also provides high quality general dentistry. Each patient is important to him, so he spends time focusing on every detail of their dental health and chooses the most conservative dental treatment possible. He also makes patients feel welcomed, relaxed, and comfortable while they are in… Read more »

Dental health changes with age

Dental health changes with age

Do you look older than you feel? If you’ve tried anti-aging products but something is still missing, you might need to look at your teeth. Changes in your body when you age can affect your teeth, as can the accumulation of daily wear. Have you thought about addressing your age related dental health changes? Dr…. Read more »

North Shore Prosthodontics

North Shore Prosthodontics

Dr. James Fondriest began practicing as a general dentist, for which he is licensed in the state of Illinois, and over the span of his decades long career he’s undergone extensive training in the fields of cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and prosthodontics. Today, we will explain what the field of prosthodontics is so that you… Read more »

Preparing for a dental visit

preparing for a dental visit

If going to the dentist is a nerve-racking experience for you, it doesn’t need to be. Is there a better way of preparing for a dental visit to make the appointments more pleasant? Dr. James Fondriest cares about his patients and makes sure that they receive the best service possible in his boutique-style dental practice…. Read more »

Avoiding Lip Cancer

During the summer, you’ll probably be taking advantage of the warm weather by spending a lot of time in the sun. You probably know that sun protection is important, but did you realize how vital it is in safeguarding yourself from oral cancer? The lips are often forgotten when people apply sunscreen, and Dr. James… Read more »

Results of Bruxism | How to Repair the damage

Are your teeth worn down as a result of bruxism? If you have issues with bruxism (also called nighttime grinding) your dentist may have given you a bite guard to wear at night. However your dentist may not have the ability required to repair the effects of bruxism.  Dr. James Fondriest, a cosmetic dentist, can… Read more »

Interdental Brushing | Proxy Brush for ideal gum health

Do you skip flossing, or is it difficult because of dexterity issues, spacing between your teeth, or dental work? If you hate flossing or find that it isn’t effective, you’re not alone. Dr. James Fondriest, a Chicago dentist, recommends interdental brushing (also called using a proxy brush) as a fantastic, and often better, alternative to… Read more »

Artistic Dentist | The Cosmetic Dentist as an Artist

Is Your Dentist an Artist? Cosmetic dentistry is a scientific discipline, but it also involves artistry. Dr. James Fondriest, a Chicago cosmetic dentist, possesses the attention to detail and aesthetic eye of a true artist. His work is highly sought after by people in Chicago and across the country. As an artist, are you proud… Read more »

Foods That Stain Teeth: How to Avoid Discoloration

foods that stain teeth

There are many foods that stain teeth. Everyone wants a beautiful smile, and bright teeth are a big part of the package. That’s why products like at-home teeth whitening systems and whitening toothpaste are so popular. But many of the foods and drinks we consume can make our teeth dark and take away from their… Read more »

Oral Cancer Exam at the Dentist

oral cancer exam at the dentist

An oral cancer exam at the dentist can help detect precancerous or cancerous lesions at an early stage. The earlier oral cancer is identified, the earlier it can be properly treated. Cancer kills over two million people annually. Of these two million people, approximately 7,900 people will die from oral cancer. The death rate is… Read more »

PFM Dental Crowns: Things You Didn’t Realize

PFM dental crowns in smile

You might find yourself at a crossroads when you are in need of a crown. You may really want a beautiful all porcelain restoration to maintain a beautiful and natural-looking smile after restorative care. However, depending on the location of your affected tooth, the restoration could benefit greatly from the strength of metal. The metal… Read more »