Composite veneers – The affordable one day option

composite veneers

Composite veneers are thin shells, hand shaped with composite resin material, and bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. They can change the shape, size, color, and texture of a natural tooth. They can remove the need for white crowns, teeth whitening, braces, or porcelain veneers. This affordable treatment alternative to porcelain veneers can be… Read more »

How a Custom Mouth Guard Protects Your Oral Health

custom mouth guard

Custom oral appliances alleviate symptoms caused by a number of conditions, including bruxism, sleep apnea, TMD, and more. Your dentist can fabricate a mouth guard that fits snugly over your teeth, providing maximum protection and comfort. In this article, we’ll explore the value of a custom mouth guard and explore topics such as: Bruxism, or… Read more »

Smile Transformation: The Planning Process

Smile Transformation planning

A smile transformation can enhance your overall appearance and give your confidence a boost. Also referred to as a smile makeover, a transformation combines multiple cosmetic procedures into one comprehensive treatment. Since the dawn of modern dentistry, individuals have had the desire to improve the aesthetics of their smile. Today’s advanced methods and materials allow… Read more »

What Causes Short Teeth | How Are They Addressed?

short teeth

Upper front teeth normally are 20% longer than they are wide. If this length to width ratio is closer to 1:1, the teeth will appear short or boxy and can make the smile appear unbalanced and not symmetrical. The appearance of short teeth is caused mainly by heavy wear, how the gum lays over the… Read more »

Tooth enhancement | Options for making teeth look better

Front tooth enhancements

Cosmetic dental work comes at a cost, but the benefits are well worth it. The goals of a cosmetic dentist are to enhance a tooth or multiple teeth and improve your quality of life. There are many types of tooth enhancement that a skilled dentist can render. Common cosmetic dental goals are to improve a tooth’s:… Read more »

Plaque vs Tartar: What is the Difference?

Plaque vs Tartar

Plaque vs tartar. You probably know both dental terms. You may even understand that they are both bad for your teeth and oral health. The terms are related but not interchangeable. What’s the Difference Between Plaque vs Tartar? Before your next visit to the dentist, it wouldn’t hurt to brush up on some dental terms…. Read more »

Metals in Dentistry: Exploring Biocompatibility

metals in dentistry

Metals in dentistry are used to create a variety of restorations, from fillings and crowns to bridges and dental implants. Not all metals are created equal. Some are biocompatible, which means they aren’t harmful to living tissue. In contrast, some metals can be detrimental to health over time. Here, we’ll explore some of the most… Read more »

Fake ceramic teeth | Do they look real?

Ceramic teeth

Many patients ask for fake ceramic teeth to hide their smile problems. Dentists call these fake restorations, prosthetics, bridges, crowns, and veneers. We understand that all of these options use ceramic to replace or cover teeth. Fake isn’t always bad, especially after you have suffered trauma or a lost tooth.  What are ceramics? Dental ceramics… Read more »

Make my smile look better | Six ways to do it

Make my smile look better

It may be time to see a professional if you’re tired of trying to hide your smile or fed up with costly dental gimmicks that fail to deliver. We have compiled a list of 6 ways you can make your smile look better.  In the past, patients were very limited in the ways they could… Read more »

Cosmetic veneers | Which type is best for you?

Cosmetic veneers

Do you dream of a dazzling “Hollywood” smile? A smile makeover with cosmetic veneers can give you a stunning smile, but there are several types to choose from. They can be made with composite resin or porcelain. The first question to answer is deciding which material is best for you, porcelain or composite resin. Choose… Read more »

How long does a crown last?

How long does a crown last

A common question that dentists receive is, “How long does a crown last?”.  There are many factors that can affect how long a crown lasts. Service longevity of dentistry depends mostly on the quality of the dentistry, oral hygiene, and abuse to the restoration. Crowns will last five years on the short end and 20… Read more »

Bonding vs veneers | Advantages and disadvantages to each

tooth bonding vs veneers

Problem: “I’ve been told that bonding is just as good as getting veneers, but it costs less. I’m not sure which one is right for me.”  Treatment planning for smile makeovers usually includes a discussion of using bonding vs veneers. The answers vary from patient to patient. Solution: “You need to learn what bonding and veneers can… Read more »

Better Smile | How to get one

PFM Bridge

A better smile can lead to promotions in the workplace and new romantic opportunities. Many studies have shown that our smiles are one of the most important features people remember after a first meeting. Am I a Candidate for a Better Smile? Almost anyone can desire an improved smile. Before undergoing a cosmetic treatment, you… Read more »

Enhance your smile | What are the treatment options?

enhance your smile

A smile is one of the first things we notice when talking to others. A pretty smile can exude confidence while a bad smile can have others questioning your oral health. If there are things that you wish you could change about your smile Dr. James Fondriest can help. Dr. Fondriest specializes in cosmetic dentistry… Read more »

Teeth clenching | Causes, Side effects, Treatments

Clench your teeth

Do you clench your teeth for no apparent reason? Many people perform this action subconsciously. Some may do it during stressful situations, while others may only do it during their sleep. Teeth clenching can have detrimental effects on your teeth. Your overall health can also be severely impacted. Breaking the habit while awake is not nearly… Read more »

Dark teeth | Cover them with cosmetic dental magic

woman covering teeth

Dark teeth can have a negative impact on your life. You may avoid speaking to others or always smile with your mouth closed for photos. If you find yourself going out of your way to hide your teeth then it’s time to make some changes.  What effects can dark teeth have on your life? An… Read more »

Translucent teeth | Loss of enamel

translucent teeth in smile

Are you wearing the enamel off of your front teeth? As teeth get thin from enamel loss, they become translucent. Translucent teeth appear thin around the edges and are white grey in color. Once the outer enamel layers begin to thin, the teeth are more susceptible to injury. There are various explanations for why the teeth… Read more »

Dental fluoride treatment | Why is it important?

dental fluoride treatments

Have you ever wondered why your dentist recommends dental fluoride treatments with each dental cleaning? Maybe you have never considered this treatment as necessary. Today, we will discuss what fluoride is, it’s benefits, and why it is highly recommended for both children and adults. While some people seem to be immune from cavities, most dentists… Read more »

How long does a tooth bridge last?

tooth bridge

When considering followup treatment for an extraction, your dentist will often suggest a tooth bridge as the best option. This restoration replaces missing teeth. All dentistry has a cost and required treatment time. When comparing all treatment options, it is appropriate to ask, “how long does a tooth bridge last?” One question our patients ask is, “How… Read more »

Gum Receding Around Crown | Causes, Solutions

Gum receding around crown

Problem: “I have gum receding around a crown. The tooth root feels sensitive when heat or cold comes in contact with it, and the crown itself looks unhealthy.  Solution: “Your problem is more common than you might think, and treatment is possible. You need to find a dentist who can perform a gum graft to… Read more »

Discolored Teeth | The best way to whiten them

discolored teeth

Problem: “My discolored teeth make me look unhealthy and unattractive, so I’m embarrassed about my smile. I want to whiten my teeth, but I don’t know the best product or treatment for my dental stains.” Solution: “Your tooth stains can be corrected, but there are many types of tooth whitening products on the market. When… Read more »

Closing Diastemas | Causes and treatment options

Diastema

Have your talked to your dentist about closing diastemas between your teeth? What do Madonna, Samuel L. Jackson, and 50 Cent have in common? Not much, but they do all share a dental feature called a diastema. A diastema is any noticeable space between teeth. Most people won’t see a gap between molars or other hidden… Read more »

Metal under crown | Dark edge is showing

Metal under the crown showing

The metal under a crown is showing Problem: The metal under a crown is showing. It appears like a black line where the gum meets the tooth. “That tooth looks completely fake now, and I’m embarrassed when people see it. I’ve started to intentionally not open my mouth wide in public. Help!” Solution: It sounds… Read more »

Tooth Bridges | Types, Uses, and Alternatives

cleaning dental bridges

Problem: “I’ve lost some teeth and need to have them replaced. I am missing two upper lateral incisors. Will a tooth bridge be the best choice for me, or is another option better?” Solution: “A tooth bridge, also called a dental bridge, fixed bridge, or bridgework, replaces lost teeth following tooth decay or gum disease…. Read more »

Crowns that look real | How to find quality

Crowns that look real

Modern dentistry has come a long way. Now, restorations can completely cover a tooth in a ceramic material that matches natural teeth. Emerging technological advances in porcelain and advanced techniques from master ceramists are allowing crowns that look real to be created. We welcome you to view our Before & After Gallery. You will see dozens… Read more »

Veneers Before and After Experience

porcelain veneers after treatment

The Veneer Before and After Experience Our website is full of porcelain veneers before and after photos. We would love to add your photo to our treatment example gallery. Many patients are stunned to see their transformation. Your cosmetic dentist takes all of the photos for our website. Nothing is altered or borrowed from another dentist. You… Read more »

Best Smile | Tips to improve your dental appearance

Best smile

Tip #1: Maintaining Your Best Smile Is Easier Than Treating It For better or worse, we are judged on the appearance of our teeth. When it comes to retaining your best smile, Mother Nature often works against us. The protective layer of enamel that coats our teeth thins with age. This natural process allows the… Read more »

Teeth Makeover | Benefits, Options, Procedures

Transformational makeover

TV shows like Extreme Makeover play off a familiar idea. Sometimes, a drastic change can be a good thing. Undergoing a cosmetic teeth makeover can have long reaching benefits, from better oral and overall health to more self confidence. Undergoing one treatment at a time can actually leave you paying more. You’ll make more trips… Read more »

Natural Looking Crowns for a Restored Smile

Natural Looking Crowns for a Restored Smile

There’s a reason that dental crowns have a name fit for a king. The custom crown serves many needs. Even more, today’s dental restorations are natural looking. You may need a crown to fix deep tooth decay. Perhaps you want straighten a crooked tooth. Our doctor will deliver a natural looking crown that fits, functions,… Read more »

Spaces between teeth | Fill Gaps in smile

Fill spaces between teeth

Do you have gaps in your smile or anywhere in your mouth? Some individuals embrace this trait. Others, however, may wish to fill spaces between the teeth for a more uniform appearance. Let’s discuss why extra space can occur between the teeth, and explains how to address the issue with cosmetic dentistry. Why Do I… Read more »

How long do veneers last?

Improve my smile

How long do veneers last? They are an excellent option for those looking to improve their smile dramatically. They cover a multitude of issues, such as gaps, cracks, discoloration, chips, decay, and even misaligned or worn down teeth. These covers create a durable, dazzling, natural looking smile. Depending on your situation and needs, veneers can… Read more »

The Importance of Flossing

Flossing and Why You Really Need to Do It

Ask dental patients about brushing, and most everyone will tell you it’s an essential aspect of oral healthcare. Unfortunately, many individuals don’t place the same importance on flossing. One study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that 68 percent of American adults floss at least once every week, while Delta Dental reports that… Read more »

Relief for Your Jaw Pain

Relief for Jaw Pain

Are you seeking relief for jaw pain? Have you been waking up with headaches, and feeling unrested? Maybe you have noticed a popping sound when you open your mouth wide, or a ringing in your ears. Do your jaws hurt when you open your mouth or yawn? Are your teeth suddenly extra sensitive to cold… Read more »

Gum problems | 80% Of Americans Have It

gum problems

A gum problem (periodontal disease) is a chronic infection of the gums. It is caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates on teeth and destroys the gums.  Plaque can accumulate on teeth if proper oral hygiene habits are not observed, although some people are simply more prone to plaque buildup than others. Various medications and health… Read more »

The Human Touch

Boutique dentist with a human touch

It’s amazing just how far the field of dentistry has evolved thanks to modern day technology and science. For dental professionals today, it’s not enough to just keep your patients’ teeth clean. Continuing education courses and countless hours and dollars are constantly being spent to ensure that patients receive the most up-to-date, comprehensive, and high-quality… Read more »

Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits

If you’re careful about maintaining good dental health, then you may already be familiar with the importance of sticking to a schedule of regular dental visits and cleaning appointments. For instance, routine professional care is needed to keep harmful plaque and tartar at bay, which prevents harmful oral bacteria from damaging your teeth and gums…. Read more »

Types of Mouthwash | Different uses and therapeutic purposes

Types of Mouthwash

Did you know that there isn’t just one type of mouthwash? In fact, some mouthwashes have a specialized purpose and require a prescription for purchase. In other words, not all mouth rinses were created equal, and this blog is meant to explain the key differences. To teach his patients about the types of mouthwash, Dr…. Read more »

Foods to Avoid with TMJ – or make it worse

Foods to Avoid with TMJ

Many people experience discomfort with their jaw joints or TMJ pain when they open their mouth wide? This article lists foods to avoid if you have jaw joint pains. This disorder is a serious condition that affects the joints in your jaw. This causes patients great discomfort and pain, which is why managing it is incredibly… Read more »

Close my diastema | Can you fix my gapped teeth?

Gapped Teeth

Can my dentist close the diastema between my teeth without braces? Spaces between teeth, sometimes called diastemas are larger than usual spaces between two teeth (also known as gapped teeth). Though these gaps pose no threat to your oral health, it’s appearance can hurt your confidence in your smile. Because it’s technically an arrangement issue,… Read more »

Replace Teeth – What are the best ways?

Best Way to Replace Teeth

Do you need to replace teeth? Even the loss of one tooth can present a multitude of challenges, both restorative and cosmetic. Advanced age is a leading risk factor for losing teeth. Over years and decades, our jawbone density naturally lowers. The chances of gum disease or tooth decay compromising a tooth also increase with… Read more »

All About Dental Cleanings

preparing for a dental visit

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are certainly important steps to keeping your smile beautiful, but it’s also important to schedule professional dental cleanings and checkups every six months. Our Lake Forest dentist Dr. James Fondriest wants you to know the benefits of regular dental preventative care examinations and how… Read more »

No-Prep Veneers | Less enamel removed

No-preparation veneers

If you are exploring porcelain veneers to address your smile concerns, you should know that there are two major categories options: traditional regular prep or no-prep veneers. Are you looking for less invasive alternatives to traditional dental veneer treatment? Cosmetic bonding may be right for you. There are many low prep and no-prep veneer options on… Read more »

Are veneers worth it? Outcome worth the cost

Are veneers worth it?

Achieve a completely new looking smile without years and years of cosmetic dental work. Porcelain veneers are often called “instant orthodontics” because the cosmetic results are similar to those offered through orthodontic treatments. Unlike metal braces or Invisalign, veneers can reshape your smile in two short visits. The goal of this article is to show… Read more »

Gummy Smile | Permanent solutions for this common problem

Gummy smile

Generally speaking, when people think about poor smile quality, they think about issues with teeth. With that said, some patients will actually have issues because of their gums of the upper jaw. When the amount of gum tissue exposure is too great when you smile, it is called a gummy smile. If you have too… Read more »

Teeth Veneers can transform your smile

teeth veneers

For patients who need a convenient but effective method for improving their smile, teeth veneers are an ideal option. They address a wide variety of cosmetic concerns, but they do so with minimal changes to your natural teeth. Today, we veneer teeth and what makes them one of the most popular and effective cosmetic dentistry… Read more »

How to remove plaque from teeth

how to remove plaque from teeth

Did your dentist ever really show you how to remove plaque from your teeth? Dental plaque is the sticky, uncomfortable biofilm that forms around your gum line just hours after brushing your teeth. It’s the product of hundreds of types of oral bacteria gathering in your mouth. When left unattended, it can quickly calcify into… Read more »

Bonding & contouring teeth

Bonding & contouring teeth

Smile improvement is an important aspect of professional dentistry because your confidence in your smile is as important as its overall health. However, when improving your smile’s appearance, it’s just as important to make sure that you preserve a maximum amount of healthy, natural tooth structure for the good of your long-term oral health. To… Read more »

Bright white smile | Erase those stains

Teeth whitening for a bright white smile

Do you want a bright white smile? Stains and discolorations cause a lot of people to feel insecure about their smiles. Has insecurity about your teeth hold you back in business or your personal life? It’s hard to muster the confidence to try new things and meet new people when you’re busy hiding imperfections in… Read more »

Zirconia Crowns | What type of Zirconium crown is best?

Zirconium crowns

Modern patients and dentists prefer realistic esthetics and frequently opt for beautiful zirconia crowns. Zirconia is considered a metal. Although it is listed as a ceramic it has more of the characteristics of metals. There are two main types of crowns that are used for different situations. One type is for cosmetic situations and the… Read more »

Tooth stains that don’t bleach or respond to whitening

tooth stains that don't whiten

Tooth stains that don’t bleach Do you have tooth stains that don’t bleach? With today’s advanced cosmetic dentistry treatments, most smile concerns can be improved effectively and efficiently. For instance, if your teeth are stained, then you may be able to brighten them with professional teeth whitening. However, if your teeth have more stubborn discolorations… Read more »

Dental Veneers | Benefits, Lifespan, Treatment Process

dental veneers

One of the best things about dental veneers is that they can fix your smile’s appearance in several different ways. They can save you from needing multiple procedures to address different issues. Besides appearance, veneers are also beneficial due to the fact that they don’t require extensive tooth preparation. They also can help your front… Read more »

POM Crowns | Durable and beautiful dental restorations

POM crowns

Dental crowns are used every day in dentistry. Many don’t realize that crowns vary in how they are designed, how they fit, and how long they last. Each restoration is custom made to meet the needs of the individual. There are several different types of dental crowns. You may have heard your dentist suggest POM… Read more »

Dental Bridgework – Benefits and Drawbacks

How long does a tooth bridge last

There are different ways of replacing missing teeth. Tooth replacement can be accomplished with implants or a permanent bridge. Tooth loss is one of the most destructive issues that can affect your smile. It can be caused by aggressive dental diseases, or simply the teeth is lost due to trauma. Unfortunately, tooth loss is common… Read more »

Heavy Tooth Wear | Restore tooth length

Heavy tooth wear

As time passes, some dental wear and tear can inevitably happen. As strong as our teeth can be, they still have a difficult job, and regularly experience biting and chewing pressure. What you should be wary of is the effect that poor dental care and habits like teeth grinding can do to your smile. If… Read more »

Hairline Cracks in Teeth: How to Stop Them from Growing Worse

cracked tooth vector illustration

Healthy teeth are incredibly strong, and the enamel that protects them is the most resilient substance your body produces. Nevertheless, undue pressure or accidental trauma can still wear down or crack a tooth, and when that happens, repairing it is a time-sensitive process. As you continue to bite and chew, the crack will grow worse… Read more »

Cosmetic Dentistry when You Have Bruxism

Cosmetic Dentistry when you Have Bruxism

Smile improvement is something that most of us consider at some point in our lives. With today’s advanced techniques and dental technologies, more people can enjoy cosmetic dentistry when they have bruxism. However, some things can affect your smile’s appearance without you realizing it or can impact the success of your cosmetic dental treatment. For… Read more »

White fillings that blend with the tooth

Tooth fillings

Cavities are common problems even today. The vast majority of Americans have had tooth decay. Fortunately, cavities aren’t typically difficult to deal with, especially if they’re detected and treated early. In many cases, treating cavities is easier with the help of tooth colored white fillings. White fillings not only blend in with your natural teeth,… Read more »

Tongue Thrusting

Tongue Thrusting: How does your child swallow?

Did you know that 20 to 80 percent of orthodontic patients throughout the U.S. present with some form of tongue thrust? Do you know what tongue thrusting is? Babies are born with this natural “extrusion reflex” for survival. When their lips are touched, they extend their tongue expecting the breast or bottle.  Within the first… Read more »

Care for bonded teeth | Hygiene, oral habits

Care for bonded teeth

Cosmetic dental bonding is a simple and common way to improve the look of your front teeth. Bonding is typically used to close spaces between natural teeth, replace worn enamel, re-shape crooked or misaligned teeth, repair broken teeth, and cover stains that tooth whitening treatments cannot remove. While white fillings work well and look great,… Read more »

Interesting Facts About Tooth Morphology

Tooth morphology: studying the shape and design of your teeth.

Tooth morphology: what does that term mean? When it comes to biology, morphology is the study of the form(s) of living organisms, and the relationships between their various structures. Scientists look at the shape and design of cells, organs, systems, and other features of organisms to determine their evolutionary path.

Flossing your teeth is very important

flossing your teeth

Do you brush your teeth regularly? Perhaps you wouldn’t think of skipping a brushing. There are many people that brush religiously, yet do not floss. Less than half of Americans floss daily and 10 percent don’t floss at all. Both brushing and flossing are important to your dental health. Flossing helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and… Read more »

Jaw Pain Causes | Pain when chewing

chronic jaw pain

Chronic jaw pain or pain when chewing are serious chronic problems for millions of patients. There are many causes that are not related to tooth problems. Unlike toothaches, the cause of facial pain isn’t always easy to diagnose. A thorough examination will reveal the exact cause of your condition.  It is often caused by issues… Read more »

Tooth replacement | Replace lost teeth with bridges-implants

tooth replacement with dental implants

We may never be able to completely prevent the loss of a tooth for everyone. The good news is that today’s dentistry offers a wealth of preventive measures and tooth replacement options. It also offers highly lifelike materials and techniques for tooth replacement so that patients can regain their confidence in their smiles. If you… Read more »

Cavity Prevention | Are You Immune To Cavities?

cavities occur without good cavity prevention

Is it Decay Immunity or just good Cavity Prevention? Tooth decay is an international chronic infectious health disease in industrialized and developing countries, especially in young children. Early Childhood Caries (ECC) begins early in life, progresses rapidly, and causes immediate and long-term effects. People suffering from tooth decay can also suffer pain, lack of self-esteem,… Read more »

Strong Enamel – The Secret of Healthy Teeth

There is no secret, one time trick to keep your teeth healthy for life. A healthy mouth requires a lifetime commitment of routine care to protect your teeth and gums. What many people don’t realize, however, is that teeth also have their own protection. A protective layer that keeps the vulnerable inner tooth from being… Read more »

Cleaning dental bridges | Techniques vary with type of bridge

cleaning dental bridges

Many people do not know how to clean a dental bridge. Tooth loss is never an ideal circumstance, but when life happens, restorative dentistry can restore a full, functional smile. Thankfully, with the number of tooth replacement methods available, restoring your smile is relatively simple. One of the more common dental restorations is a dental… Read more »

Lost gum from between teeth

Lost gum from between teeth

Have you lost gum from between your teeth? If you look at any magazine photo or advertisement you will see cosmetically beautiful smiles with uniform, straight teeth. The smiles you see in these magazines do not have gaps or spaces. If you have tiny triangles between two or more of your teeth, you may feel… Read more »

Black Line at Base of Crown

Darkness at Gumline

It almost looks like you might have black gums above your crown. But the hygienist says that you have healthy gums and certainly no gum disease. So if your oral health is good, then what could that darkness at the gumline be? Are your crowns older than 9 years? If so, you may  have noticed… Read more »