Do I need a root canal?

September 8th, 2021

Do I need a root canal?  This is a question many ask who start feeling a toothache.  The answer to this question is maybe, and is determined by many factors.  Firstly, visiting Dr. Lovda at his Hoffman Estates, IL dentist office is highly recommended for a thorough oral evaluation.  Starting with an xray of the area of discomfort, Dr. Lovda will ask a series of questions related to the length of time the tooth has been hurting, what triggers the discomfort, and if there is any inflammation present.  Dr. Lovda and his team at Lovda Family Dental will then recommend treatment, if needed, once a diagnosis is made.

What is a root canal?

Root canals are a procedure, performed by Dr. Lovda, to treat infected teeth.  When bacteria enter inside a tooth where the nerve is located, pressure increases inside the tooth that may cause pain and discomfort when chewing on the affected tooth, or consuming hot or cold drinks.  If left untreated, the infection could spread, degenerating the bone and causing the tooth to become loose and eventually fall out.  A root canal is a procedure performed at a dentist near me to remove the infected nerve inside the tooth and replace it with a special filling.  Treatment usually requires one appointment but may require more to ensure the infection is no longer present.  Finally, a crown is placed on the tooth to strengthen to tooth.  Highly successful, uncomplicated root canals have a 95% success rate.

How will I feel after treatment?

Minor discomfort is not unusual following a root canal procedure and is considered normal.  This is can minimized with Ibuprofen or other NSAID medications commonly taken for headaches.  The vast majority of patients who have received a root canal do not experience any post-operative symptoms.  Aftercare includes maintaining regular visits to Dr. Lovda's dental office near me, daily brushing and flossing, and avoiding chewing hard foods with the treated tooth.

It's always best to keep your original tooth if possible, and root canal therapy allows you to do so.

If you are experiencing a toothache, fractured tooth, or broken crown, do not hesitate to call Lovda Family Dental for an exam immediately.

Schedule your appointment today!

Vivos mRNA Oral Sleep Appliance

August 23rd, 2021

Obstructive Sleep Appliances - Vivos mRNA appliance and sleep apnea

What are Obstructive Sleep Appliances and Vivos mRNA Sleep Appliance

Obstructive sleep disorder is a very common disorder affecting as many as one in 14 American adults today.  Commonly referred as snoring during nighttime sleep, obstructive sleep disorder can be a serious condition where an adult does not get enough oxygen during what should be restful sleep.  If enough oxygen does not reach the brain, the body enters a "fight or flight" sympathetic nervous system response that elevates blood pressure, dilates the pupils, and if need be, awakens the adult from night time sleep.  If considered serious, death may occur as the brain becomes starved of oxygen.

The Vivos mRNA OSA sleep appliance is a revolutionary oral sleep appliance developed over years by Vivos Therapeutics Inc.  Recently approved by the FDA as a obstructive sleep appliance (OSA) for obstructive sleep disorder, the DNA & mRNA sleep appliance can drastically reduce awakening spells in the middle of the night, leading to more restful sleep and a generally more rewarding daytime energy levels.  Unfortunately, 85% of Americans who have OSA go undiagnosed, leading to a crisis in America today regarding sleep quality.

Dr Lovda and his dentist in 60192 are committed to improving the lives of his patients who ask "do I have OSA?".  Starting with a consult at his hoffman estates dentist office, Dr Lovda will take careful measurements to determine if obstructive sleep disorder may affect you or a loved one.  By evaluating a patient's morning headaches, generalized anxiety, chronic depression, and mouth breathing, Dr Lovda can determine if the Vivos mRNA OSA sleep appliance is right for you.  The Vivos Therapeutics mRNA OSA appliance works by treating mile-to-moderate sleep apnea in those who may have crooked teeth or a under developed airway.

Call and schedule your consult for the Vivos Therapeutics Inc mRNA OSA appliance today in Hoffman Estates dentist office today!

Beware of Dental Hacks on TikTok

August 10th, 2021

Over the past few months, social media has given rise to various dental hacks, some of which range from ineffective to downright dangerous.  Alarmingly, these unfortunate "tips" and "tricks" are seen by millions of unsuspecting viewers looking to improve the appearance of their teeth without visiting the dentist.  Are these hacks safe?  Lets take a closer look...

1. Teeth filing

Unhappy with the size or shape of your teeth?  TikTok users have started filing their teeth as a way to shape their teeth exactly as they want it... but is it safe?  Absolutely not!  Teeth are made of enamel, which is special substance composed of calcium and hydroxyapatite that provides an effective barrier from the outside environment.  Filing enamel away can lead to sensitivity, but most importantly, could expose the nerve inside the tooth, leading to infection.  Toothaches are the worst!

2. Hydrogen Peroxide teeth whitening

Recent social media posts instruct the use of 3% hydrogen peroxide as a means to whitening your teeth.  But does it work?  Of course not!  Household chemicals are dangerous if ingested, even in small amounts.  Even the tiniest amount exposed to the oral tissue and throat can cause 2nd and 3rd degree burns.  Ouch!

3. DIY orthodontic "braces"

A recent TikTok member posted videos of using rubber bands to close gaps between teeth in hopes of creating a better smile... quickly.  Orthodontists use rubber bands to move teeth, so this should work... right?  Definitely not!  Orthodontists undergo years of training to study the effects of moving teeth around your mouth, and its complicated!  One misalignment of your teeth can result in massive pain and discomfort when chewing and speaking.  Homemade orthodontic treatment can even result in losing your teeth.  Such irony!

Dentists are trained professionals with clinical expertise to help any patient with their concerns.  Visiting your general dentist can provide a wealth of knowledge as well as treatment for your oral health.

 

Latest CBCT Technology at Lovda Family Dental

August 31st, 2020

I hope everyone is staying safe and maintaining excellent oral health!

As true to many aspects in life, dental emergencies are likely to happen throughout one's life, including but not limited to, broken or knocked out teeth, dental infections, and toothaches.  If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact Lovda Family Dental immediately for an evaluation before more pain or damage has occurred.

As the only general dentist in Hoffman Estates with CBCT technology, my team and I are able to identify dental emergencies at a level of detail commonly missed by other dentists.  This allows any dental emergency to be quickly identified and treated all on the same day visit.

As the video shows above, you can see firsthand the level of detail that can effectively diagnose any dental emergency.

-Dr Lovda

 

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