Posts Categorized: Restorative Dentistry

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 »

Best Crowns for teeth – How dentists choose types

best crowns for teeth

Has your dentist told you it’s time to repair a broken or damaged tooth? Or maybe you are interested in getting crowns as a cosmetic option to hide your smile imperfections? There are many types of dental crown materials. How do you know which option is the best crown selection for your situation? With several… 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

What is a Cosmetic Dentist?

Why See A Cosmetic Dentist?

What is a cosmetic dentist? A doctor that focuses on cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve your smile. More attention is directed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. Most of the public thinks of teeth whitening or bonding, but most cosmetic dentists in Chicago will provide many smile improvement treatments…. Read more »

What is an Implant?

What is an Implant

You may find yourself quickly agreeing with others in conversation that of course, dental implants are the best for replacing missing teeth! However, you then realize that while you feel fully on board with this idea because you’ve heard about them so frequently (and always in the best light), you don’t really know what they… Read more »

Losing Teeth: Addressing Tooth Loss

losing teeth

Losing teeth certainly affects the appearance of a smile. But most importantly, tooth loss can be detrimental to oral health and function. Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid the issues that can arise from losing teeth. A dental implant is a modern approach to prosthetic care. This treatment helps those with tooth loss regain their… Read more »

Life Like Crowns

life-like crowns

 Do you need a teeth makeover? Cavities create urgent problems for teeth, and should be dealt with as soon as possible. With prompt care, it is possible to minimize the damage caused by decay. Unfortunately, many people will not realize they have a problem until they need more substantial care. While dental crowns are effective… Read more »

Want a new tooth? Options for replacement

Do you want a new tooth?

Are you missing something in your smile? Do you want a new tooth? We can replace missing teeth with removable dentures or even dental bridges, but over time your jawbone could continue to break down. Fortunately, we have an advanced treatment option that can help preserve your jawbone tissue. How do dental implants preserve your… Read more »

Why do I need a root canal?

Why do I need a root canal?

Restorative dental treatments are typically designed with three main goals in mind – to stop the damage or decay from progressing, restore your bite’s function, and preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. In most cases, all three can be achieved with a minimally invasive, custom-designed treatment such as tooth filling. However, in more… Read more »

Replacement teeth choices

Choosing Replacement teeth

There are many types of replacement teeth, which one is perfect for you? Like all dental restorations, a dental bridge is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. The highly lifelike dental prosthesis is made to replace a lost tooth in a way that restores your smile’s appearance and your bite’s function without being obvious…. Read more »

A root canal is needed

a root canal is needed

If your dentist tells you that you need root canal treatment, then you may not immediately think that it’s something to celebrate. After all, the goal of continuous hygiene and dental care is supposed to be to help you avoid serious dental issues and the need for extensive treatment to address them. However, if your… Read more »

Tooth Fillings

Tooth fillings

The principles behind many of today’s most advanced dental treatments haven’t changed much over the years. The materials, technology, and techniques have just become significantly more advanced. For instance, when it comes to treating cavities, tooth fillings have long been the best way to save teeth. Today, however, the materials used to fill cavities and… Read more »

Dental Crown Problems

modern dental crowns

Today’s dentistry is an art form. In addition to ensuring your good oral health and bite function, modern restorations also help preserve your natural tooth structure prevent further issues from developing. For instance, dental crowns, which are often crafted from highly lifelike dental porcelain, can be fashioned according to precise measurements of your tooth. A… Read more »

Difficulty Chewing Food: Causes and Solutions

Difficulty chewing food

If you have difficulty chewing, it could be due to several different factors including weak, broken down, or missing teeth. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to address this issue right away. Proper chewing function is necessary for nutrition and overall health and wellness. In this informative article, we’ll explore: Statistics regarding chewing problems in… Read more »

Smile Problems?

Smile problems

Do you have smile problems that you have considered fixing? Your smile is a valuable asset, and as one of the most dominant features of your face, you’re probably more willing to show your smile when you’re proud of how it looks. Unfortunately, good dental hygiene isn’t always enough to preserve your smile’s appearance, and… Read more »

Fix A Cavity | How, Why, Options

How To Fix A Cavity

Tooth decay impacts patients of all ages and will require restorative treatment. Otherwise, serious complications can arise, such as dental infections or abscesses. Fortunately, we can provide an artistic and cosmetic approach to restorative treatment. We can fix a cavity using lifelike fillings and crowns. Cavities are one of the most common dental problems on… Read more »

Invisible Dentistry: Faithfully Replacing Nature

Invisible dentistry

When dental decay or damage occurs, a restoration is often necessary to restore optimal oral health and function. Many individuals worry that their new restoration will be noticeable to others. Fortunately, however, advanced materials and techniques now make invisible dentistry a possibility. In this article, we will explore some of the most common restorations available…. Read more »

Are dental implants safe? What is the success rate?

Are dental implants safe?

Are dental implants safe? Yes they are and super successful also. While there is no procedure in medicine and dentistry that is 100%, implant fixtures are very unlikely to have problems. The success rate in the lower jaw is 98% and 96% in the upper jaw. Implant dentists are constantly balancing the great benefits of… Read more »

Aging Teeth | Erosion, Stains, Wear

Aging of Teeth

Did you know that there is an aging process of teeth? Ever wondered how old you would seem based solely on your smile? More specifically, do you ever wonder if your dentist would be able to accurately determine your age based on the health, or problems, of your smile? Dental issues, from staining to decay,… Read more »

Alternatives to dental implants : Bridges or Dentures

alternatives to dental implants

Is tooth loss inevitable? If you lose a natural tooth, is a dental implant the right choice for replacing it? There are a lot of questions surrounding tooth loss, many of them surrounding the best methods of rebuilding your smile afterwards. Are there alternatives to dental implants that will work as well? Tooth loss as… Read more »

Teeth bonding | How, When, Why?

Questions about teeth bonding

The saying goes that admitting you have a problem is half the battle. But when it comes to improving your smile, knowing you have a problem is of little consequence, if you’re still struggling to determine the best course of cosmetic treatment. Understanding what options are available to you, and how each can address different… Read more »

Teeth crowns can be absolutely beautiful

A teeth makeover gave this woman a nice smile

Teeth crowns can be used to restore teeth and to improve your smile. They are used when a tooth has sustained severe tooth damage, such as a broken tooth or severe cavity. When made well, they can be beautiful solutions that will blend seamlessly with your smile. You may qualify for a cosmetically pleasing type… Read more »

Porcelain on Metal Crowns | Strong and Esthetic

Porcelain on Metal Crowns

If you have a damaged tooth via accident or decay, there are many treatment options available to save it.  There are minimally invasive and more invasive options depending on the case. Extreme decay and accident would probably require a more invasive treatment. In today’s blog, Dr. Fondriest discusses one option: Porcelain on Metal Crowns. What are… Read more »

Full Mouth Rehabilitation | Restore you mouth

Full Mouth Rehabilitation

Have you been lazy about your dental care and after years you’re seeing the effects? Maybe you have suffered an illness, or been on medications that have played havoc on your teeth. You may be familiar with cosmetic dentistry treatments such as veneers, dental implants, tooth whitening, etc., and you may think that they are… Read more »

Transform My Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry

Transform my smile

A perfect smile can instill confidence and make a great first impression. In fact, according to a recent Kelton Research study, people with beautiful smiles are considered both more attractive and successful. The study went on to reveal that for many Americans, a smile is one of the first things they notice when meeting someone… Read more »

Do You Suffer from TMJ Disorder?

TMJ Earaches

Did you know that TMD disorder, or TMJ, affects over ten million people in the United States alone? Jaw strain that results in TMJ disorder can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms. Without treatment, TMJ disorder may make eating and even yawning difficult. Fortunately,  Dr. James Fondriest, offers the experience and knowledge necessary to… Read more »

Repair a chipped tooth

A number of factors can cause a tooth to chip. For example, eating something too hard or suffering with dental trauma can lead to a damaged tooth. Regardless of the cause, though, a dentist can typically repair the tooth. To help his patients understand how a chipped tooth is treated, Dr. James Fondriest shares this… Read more »

Bleaching Treatment

Have you wanted to use bleaching treatment to improve the appearance of your smile? Then you should know that not everyone can have the procedure. In fact, dentists often suggest a different whitening alternative, should they fall into one these categories. If you’re unsure if you can receive teeth bleaching treatments, Dr. James Fondriest offers of… Read more »

Chicago Dentist: Learn More About Dental Bridges with Today’s Quiz

Losing a tooth can affect more than just your appearance. In fact, even a single missing tooth can start a chain of events that leads to diminished oral health and an increased risk of further tooth loss. At Lake Forest Dental Arts, we can replace one or more missing teeth using a dental bridge. In… Read more »

Teeth Caps, benefits and uses

Teeth caps

A tooth cap or dental crown is often recommended to restore damaged teeth. Teeth caps can repair your teeth and improve your smile. These modern dental restorations are designed specifically to mimic the size, shape, appearance, and function of healthy, natural teeth. When the visible portion of a tooth is damaged, then a dental cap… Read more »

Natural Looking Porcelain Veneers – Really!

Often, people feel self conscious about their smiles due to stains or misalignment. But what if there was a type of dental procedure that could address a myriad of dental imperfections in as little as two visits? In today’s blog, we explain how natural looking porcelain veneers can transform your smile. Cosmetic Dentistry can give… Read more »

Smile Improvement | Design Options, Procedures

Do you ever feel self conscious about your smile? Do you want a beautiful smile free of dental damage or embarrassing teeth stains? Dr. James Fondriest understands that a beautiful smile boosts confidence and helps make a great first impression. In fact, according to a recent Kelton Research study, a bright smile can make a… Read more »

Ceramic veneers to restore your smile

Ceramic veneers

Our tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. But unfortunately, our teeth are still vulnerable to damage and discoloration. While teeth are meant to withstand a lifetime of wear and tear, your smile can still lose its youthful luster. Many people assume restoring their smiles will require multiple office visits and innumerable… Read more »

Permanent Teeth Whitening

A bright smile instills confidence. According to a recent Kelton Research study, the majority polled said a beautiful smile makes a person appear more successful and attractive. In addition, a large portion of the people polled said a smile was one of the first things they notice when meeting someone for the first time. Many… Read more »

Cosmetic Dental Face lifts

Our bodies change as we age, but not always for the better. Over time, our cheeks can appear sunken, jowls can form, and some people may even develop a ptotic, or witch’s, chin. Did you know that a beautiful smile can address many of these issues? As we grow older, wear and tear causes our… Read more »

Best Porcelain Crowns Chicago | How to tell quality

Best Porcelain Crowns Chicago

Did you know a recent Kelton Research study revealed that people with beautiful, bright smiles are considered more attractive and successful? A gorgeous smile can boost confidence. Often, our teeth become damaged due to tooth decay or injury. When this happens, people can become self conscious regarding the imperfections in their smile. Thankfully, a dental… Read more »

Choosing the color of your teeth

What is the Right Shade for Your Smile? Choosing the color of your teeth is one of the most important parts of doing cosmetic dentistry. A bright, gorgeous smile can boost your confidence. Dr. James Fondriest understands what a beautiful smile means to our patients.  Which is why we offer state-of-the-art cosmetic dental procedures to… Read more »

Preventing Bone Loss

When caring for their smiles, few people consider the importance of a healthy jawbone. In fact, your jawbone helps keep your teeth strong, healthy, and holds them in place. But when a patient fails at replacing missing teeth, they leave their jawbone vulnerable to bone loss. In today’s blog, Dr. James Fondriest, explains how to… Read more »

TMJ Earaches: The Solution for Your Ear Pain

TMJ Earaches

Do you experience frequent TMJ earaches or a constant ringing in your ears that affects your hearing? Does the pain spread to your face, jaw, or neck or cause frequent headaches? Have over-the-counter pain remedies failed to relieve your pain? While ear infections can cause ear pain, chronic ear pain might be a sign of… Read more »

Neck pain and tooth grinding – Easing Neck Pain

neck pain

  Many people in America suffer from neck pain and tooth grinding. Over-the-counter pain relievers seem to do little, and the cause of their aches remains a mystery. Constant pains in the neck, head, or face, could be a sign of more serious disorder called TMD or TMJ. Dr. James Fondriest, explains TMJ disorder and… Read more »

Lost teeth linked to dementia

A recent article from the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found a significant association between tooth loss and dementia. Those who can no longer chew food have a higher likelihood of developing dementia. Gum disease creates a bacterial shower in your circulatory system. This bacterial shower is linked to many systemic diseases such as… 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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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. But your dentist may not have the ability required to repair the effects of bruxism.  Dr. James Fondriest, a cosmetic dentist, can… Read more »