Air abrasion is a minimally invasive technology that offers an alternative method for removing decay from teeth. It may also be used to prepare the surface of a tooth for a bonding procedure, the application of sealants, or for removal of certain stains and discolorations of the tooth enamel.

Air abrasion operates like a mini sandblaster emitting a precise stream of fine particles that can be aimed at the affected areas of the tooth. As the stream of particles strike the tooth’s surface the decay is efficiently and gently removed. Utilizing this method the dentist is able to remove the soft decay, while leaving healthy tooth structure intact.

The advantage of air abrasion technology is the elimination of the harsh sound and vibration of the dental drill. This is often a plus for individuals who are uncomfortable or anxious about getting dental treatment. Moreover, using air abrasion technology may eliminate the need for local anesthesia.

While air abrasion is an excellent, simple, quick and effective alternation to the dental drill, it does have some limitations. Treating large cavities and the removal of old fillings in some cases may still require a more conventional approach.

Imagine a beautiful and complete smile in one day!

With the remarkable All-on-4^®1 method of care, we can help patients who have either already lost, or are scheduled to have all of their upper and/or lower teeth extracted, quickly rebuild their smiles to speak, smile, and eat with renewed confidence and ease!

What is All-On-4^®1?

The All-On-4 treatment concept offers an implant-based solution to patients who have lost all of their upper and/or lower teeth. This remarkable method of care helps patients quickly rebuild complete and beautiful smiles. With All-On-4, your new, and complete set of implant-supported replacement teeth feel secure, stable, and much like your very own. 

Is All-On-4^® right for me?

If you currently wear complete upper and/or lower dentures or are slated to have your remaining teeth extracted, you may be a candidate for All-On-4. First Performed by Dr. Paulo Malo in 1998, the All-on-4 treatment concept has helped hundreds of thousands of patients quickly reestablish attractive smiles that look, feel, and function just like a set of natural teeth!

What is the difference between All-On-4^® and dentures?

The All-On-4 treatment concept offers a fixed and permanent alternative to removable dentures. Unlike dentures, All-On-4 does not rely on messy dental adhesives or natural suction to hold your new set of teeth in place. With All-On-4, your replacement teeth are permanently secured by dental implants, giving you a smile that looks not only great but also feels secure and stable. You’ll feel comfortable and confident as you speak, smile, and chew with ease. 

How is All-On-4^® different from other types of dental implants?

While traditional full arch implants also achieve outstanding results of care, the All-On-4 treatment concept does not involve bone grafting and requires fewer implants to support a full set of teeth. With just four strategically placed dental implants needed to support an entire set of upper or lower teeth, the All-on-4 treatment concept offers a cost-effective and satisfying solution for rebuilding a complete smile. Thanks to this remarkable method of care, patients can experience the satisfaction of having teeth placed the same day as surgery. This key feature allows patients to smile and function with confidence until healing is complete and the permanent restorations installed.

What’s the procedure for All-On-4^® treatment?

Once it’s been determined that you’re a candidate for treatment with All-On-4, the process of treatment planning and designing your new smile begins. 3D diagnostic records provide the detailed information required to determine the exact positions of the four supporting dental implants. Then, on the day of surgery, we’ll remove any remaining teeth, place the 4 implants, and insert a set of attractive, sturdy, and functional set of temporary teeth. With All-On-4, temporary teeth can be placed right away with a customized, permanent set to follow once the implants become fully integrated with the surrounding bone. 

Will I have teeth right away with All-On-4^® treatment?

With All-On-4, temporary teeth can be placed right away with a customized, permanent set to follow within just a few months after the implants become fully integrated with the surrounding bone. 

Will All-On-4^® give me a natural-looking smile?

Thanks to All-On-4, patients enjoy permanent teeth that look, feel, and function just like real teeth. And with a patient satisfaction rate that exceeds 95%, the All-on-4 treatment concept restores your smile, your confidence, and allows you to enjoy once again the foods you love!

How do I take care of my new All-On-4^® smile?

Maintaining your All-On-4 smile requires the same care as a natural smile. By cleaning your teeth twice daily, after meals as possible, and scheduling appointments for routine checkups as well as care, you can keep your new smile strong and healthy for years to come. Our office will demonstrate the most effective methods of oral hygiene and answer all your questions as to how to care for your new smile. 

¹All-On-4 is a registered trademark of Nobel Biocare

A high-tech alternative to traditional dentures, the ALL-On-6 technique creates a comfortable and stable full set of upper and/or lower teeth using six strategically placed specialized dental implants. While conventional removable dentures can effectively replace a full complement of lost or missing teeth, ALL-On-6 dental implants provide a fixed and permanent method of reestablishing a complete set of teeth. This restores patients with a sense of having their own teeth and offers an improved quality of life as they can once again eat and speak with confidence. With ALL-On-6 dental implants the need for messy denture adhesives or having to take one’s dentures out to clean and sanitize them is eliminated. The replacement teeth are cared for in very much the same way as a set of natural teeth.

All-On-6 dental implants offer a less invasive and quicker way to restore a full upper or lower set of teeth than treatment with conventional dental implants. Requiring just six implants per jaw for a complete set of functional teeth, All-On-6 treatment may reduce the need for preliminary bone grafting surgery. Utilizing the All-On-6 method, temporary teeth can often be placed right away with a permanent set to follow within just a few months after the implants become fully integrated with the surrounding bone.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we offer an array of cosmetic procedures to address the unwanted signs of aging, including ®, which provides a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What is Botox?

As part of the aging process wrinkles and furrows can develop between the brows and crow’s feet can appear around the eyes. These age-related imperfections can result in a tired and weary appearance.

Botox is a prescription medicine that can be injected into the affected areas to dramatically improve the look of fine lines and furrows. Made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, Botox gives the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance. It works by blocking nerve impulses and temporarily paralyzing the muscles that are causing these wrinkles and furrows.

How is Treatment with Botox Provided?

With strategically placed injections of Botox, we can produce a noticeable reduction in the appearance of frown lines and fine wrinkles. Moreover, since Botox is delivered to targeted areas through a series of small injections with micro-fine needles, the discomfort of this in-office procedure is minimal and involves zero downtime.

Patients typically see noticeable results in 4-10 days following treatment with improvements lasting up to four to six months. And, by coming in for periodic treatment, patients can maintain the aesthetically pleasing effects of Botox over time.

What Else Can be Treated with Botox?

In addition to cosmetic applications, Botox can also be used for medical purposes. Botox provides a safe and effective method of care for relieving migraine headaches, muscle spasms in the neck or eyes, and any TMJ discomfort associated with clenching and grinding the teeth.

Aurora, IL is home to Dr. Ali Khan at Tranquil Dental, a renowned orthodontist specializing in braces in Aurora for teeth alignment. Dr. Ali Khan understands the complexities of rebuilding smiles and takes a straightforward approach to provide patient-centered care and stunning results. Dr. Ali Khan's high success rate and immense knowledge of the craft make him the perfect choice for patients seeking providers in Aurora, IL for braces. His modern facilities and cutting-edge technology help Dr. Ali Khan create personalized plans to fit every individual and deliver great results with minimal pain or discomfort promptly. Dr. Ali Khan strives to ensure quality services at an affordable price by offering payment programs that fit your needs, making it easy and worry-free to keep your smile looking perfect with braces in Aurora, IL! With Dr. Ali Khan's expertise and kind demeanor, you can trust that you're making an excellent choice when choosing Dr. Ali Khan for your dental needs!

When is the right age to visit the orthodontist?

It's never too early or too late to talk to an orthodontist about improving your smile! For young children — typically between the ages of 7 and 8 — Dr. Ali Khan will assess signs of crooked teeth that may need correcting with braces or other types of treatment down the road. And while Dr. Khan recommends younger teens utilize traditional metal braces, adults sometimes opt for clear ceramic brackets or Invisalign® aligners instead — transitioning them right into adulthood with a perfect smile! Visiting Dr. Ali Khan at any age means you are in good hands when it comes to taking preventive steps toward making sure your smile looks as dazzling as possible now and in the future! So get off the fence and give Dr. Ali Khan a call today — you won't regret it! After all, having healthy teeth is always worth smiling about!

How long you'll need to wear them and what kind of maintenance is required

Ah, the age-old question: if I get braces, how long will I have to wear them? The answer depends on a lot of factors -- Dr. Ali Khan from Tranquil Dental explains that wearing braces takes an average of one-and-a-half to two years. This can vary from patient to patient -- if you only need minor corrections like closing gaps or straightening out teeth then you might be finished in less than a year! On the other hand, it may take longer for more complex cases that involve major teeth straightening and bite correction. Dr. Ali Khan also points out that adherence to the dentist's instructions is essential for successful treatment; patients who follow their doctor's directions can often finish treatment before their estimated completion date. All in all, your experience with braces will likely depend on several dimensions, from your initial assessment to your ability to stay disciplined during treatment. Your best bet is to talk with dentist Dr. Ali Khan and see what plan works best for you!

Prevention is key to success. According to Dr. Ali Khan, proper cleaning of the braces will help avoid the buildup of plaque and bacteria, as well as staining and discoloration of the teeth and wires, thus avoiding an uncomfortable experience while wearing them. To prevent this, Dr. Ali Khan suggests brushing with a soft toothbrush and orthodontic toothpaste after every meal or snack. Dr. Ali Khan also recommends flossing along every wire bracket between each tooth with waxed threader floss to remove trapped food particles. It's also important to choose foods carefully — avoid sticky or chewy candies and gum, crunchy items like nuts, hard fruits, and vegetables (cut them into bite-sized pieces instead), and avoid chewing ice or hard pretzels if your braces already feel tight. Finally, Dr. Ali Khan may recommend specialized mouth rinse products or toothpaste specifically designed for orthodontic patients. Finally, Dr. Ali Khan believes regular dental visits are indispensable for an overall successful outcome in treatment with braces - so don't forget those check-ups! Contact Tranquil Dental today in Aurora you'll have a great smile in no time!

Cone-beam computed tomography systems are radiographic systems used by dental professionals to analyze and reconstruct 3D images of a patient’s teeth, jaws and surrounding anatomy. The information obtained by means of CBCT imaging is useful in both diagnosis and precise treatment planning when two-dimensional diagnostic films are insufficient. Dental CBCT is useful for multiple types of analyses as well as the assessment of maxillofacial disorders or pathology. It is also most useful in surgical planning, including the accurate placement of dental implants.

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in Aurora? Look no further than Tranquil Dental! Led by Dr. Ali Khan, the highly trained professionals at Tranquil Dental are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care and services with the utmost comfort and convenience. From teeth whitening to veneers, we provide a comprehensive range of services that will help you achieve your dream smile. Let’s take a closer look at why Tranquil Dental is the best choice for cosmetic dentistry in Aurora.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry in Aurora focuses on enhancing the aesthetic appearance of one's teeth, gums, and overall smile, while simultaneously maintaining optimal oral health. This specialized field combines an artistic touch with advanced technology, offering a wide range of procedures catering to the unique needs of each individual. Your cosmetic dentist in Aurora will work to boost confidence by transforming dental imperfections.

How to Choose the Right Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For You

1. Teeth Whitening

One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures in Aurora is teeth whitening, which can be done in-office or at home. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to brighten your smile and boost your self-confidence.

2. Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Veneers are used to improve the appearance of your teeth and can be used to correct a variety of issues, such as chips, cracks, gaps, and misshapen teeth.

3. Invisalign®

Invisalign® is a clear aligner system that is used to straighten teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible and are removable for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth.

4. Dental Implants

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone over time. Once the implant has fused with the bone, an artificial tooth (crown) is placed on top of it.

Cosmetic Dentistry - What It Can Fix for You

1. Crooked Teeth

One of the most common smile flaws is crooked teeth. Crooked teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, thumb sucking, and injury. While some people may be born with perfectly straight teeth, others may need to seek treatment to achieve a straighter smile. Your cosmetic dentist in Aurora can straighten teeth including braces, clear aligners, and porcelain veneers.

2. Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth, also known as diastemas, are another common smile flaw. Gaps between teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, gum disease, and tooth loss. While some people may choose to leave their gaps as is, others may feel self-conscious about them and opt for treatment to close them. Cosmetic dentistry treatments that can close gaps between teeth include bonding, porcelain veneers, and dental implants.

3. Yellow Teeth

Yellow teeth are another common smile flaw that can be caused by a variety of factors, including smoking, coffee drinking, and poor oral hygiene. While some people may be born with naturally yellow teeth, others may find that their teeth become yellow over time due to staining. Cosmetic dentistry treatments that can whiten teeth include professional teeth whitening and porcelain veneers.

4. Chipped Teeth

Chipped teeth are another common smile flaw that can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury and tooth decay. While some people may choose to leave their chipped teeth as is, others may feel self-conscious about them and opt for treatment to repair them. Cosmetic dentistry treatments that can repair chipped teeth include bonding, dental crowns, and dental implants.

5. Missing Teeth

Missing teeth are another common smile flaw that can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay and gum disease. While some people may choose to leave their missing teeth as is, others may feel self-conscious about them and opt for treatment to replace them. Cosmetic dentistry treatments that can replace missing teeth include dental bridges, dental implants, and dentures.

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Aurora, trust Tranquil Dental! With years of experience, compassionate care, and advanced technology, Dr. Ali Khan and his team are committed to helping you achieve your dream smile with ease! Give us a call today or book an appointment online – we look forward to seeing you soon!

When teeth are missing, a series of changes that can impact your overall dental health and jaw function may begin to develop. The adjacent teeth may start to drift or tilt into the space, and teeth in the opposing jaw may start to shift toward the area of the missing tooth. It is therefore, essential to replace either the single tooth or multiple teeth that are missing from this area. One of the best options to prevent the consequences of shifting teeth and to restore full function to a small edentulous section in the mouth is a dental bridge.

Fixed Dental Bridges

A dental bridge replaces the missing teeth with artificial teeth called “pontics,” and is supported on the ends by prepared natural teeth. Once fabricated and fitted, a dental bridge will be permanently “fixed” or cemented into place. Like crowns, bridges are designed to restore the look of natural teeth as well as recreate a functional, comfortable, and healthy occlusion (bite). 

Implant-Supported Bridges

To preserve the integrity of the adjacent, natural teeth or to provide added support to when multiple teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge may be recommended. Because dental implants behave in much the same way as the roots of natural teeth, they help to bear the stress of chewing and other types of oral function. This feature alleviates the burden for the remaining natural teeth and supports their health and longevity. Dental implants also provide ongoing stimulation to the bone to prevent the bone shrinkage that naturally occurs where teeth have been lost. By maintaining the bone in the edentulous areas (the space without teeth), normal facial contours are supported, and a sagging or caved in look is avoided. As they are permanently anchored in the jawbone, implant-supported bridges fully restore one’s natural biting and chewing capacity.

At Tranquil Dental, we'll  analyze every aspect of your smile to develop a treatment plan that provides aesthetically pleasing, healthy, and long-lasting results of care. For more information on dental bridges, or any of the many services we provide, give us a call today.

Restoring Teeth With Dental Fillings

When dental decay compromises a tooth's structural integrity, a filling gets placed to rebuild its natural form and restore its strength and function.

Because tooth decay, also known as dental caries, remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases affecting both children and adults worldwide, procedures to place fillings are routinely performed each and every day.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we provide precise and gentle treatment and maintain a position at the forefront of advances in care to provide patients with the highest quality of aesthetically pleasing and durable dental fillings.

The History Of Dental Fillings

According to archaeological findings, for as long as dental problems have existed, there have been efforts to provide emergency and restorative care. In fact, attempts to place dental fillings have been found in the skeletal remains of people who lived around the year 8000 BC. However, it wasn't until thousands and thousands of years later, in the 19th century, that a variety of metal fillings, including dental amalgam, appeared on the scene. Although gold achieved status as a popular restorative material, it was soon apparent that amalgam fillings, consisting of a mixture of mercury and an alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper, offered a less expensive, durable, and simpler alternative.

Until recent decades, the vast majority of dental fillings remained silver-colored, amalgam restorations. However, as dentistry has evolved in the last 50 years, new filling materials have been developed. While amalgam fillings are long-lasting and durable, today's newer materials offer the benefits of being mercury-free, metal-free, and much more aesthetic. These "tooth-colored or white fillings" invisibly restore the form and function of the involved tooth, while seamlessly blending in with the remaining tooth structure and the entire smile.

Our Commitment To Restoring Oral Health And Beautiful Smiles

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we tailor treatment to address specific dental needs and expectations of care. As with all the services our practice provides, we'll explain all your options in care, including the type of dental filling materials we offer to restore your tooth. Our goals are to gently remove the dental decay and the damaged tooth structure and then rebuild your tooth's form and function while providing you healthy, durable, long-lasting, and cosmetically pleasing results.

What are the different types of dental fillings?

While traditional dental materials like gold and amalgam have been in use for over a century, recent advances in dental technology have made a more expansive and improved selection of restorative choices widely available. Beyond offering strength and durability, these new filling materials provide aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking results.

Some commonly used filling materials include the following:

• Composite Fillings

  Composite fillings, which are frequently referred to as either "tooth-colored fillings" or "white fillings," consist of a combination of biocompatible resins and finely ground, glass-like filler materials that become strong and durable when set. Available in a complete range of natural-looking shades, composite fillings offer a cosmetically pleasing alternative to traditional "silver" fillings. Composite resins are also used in dental bonding procedures to improve a tooth's color or shape, mask defects, or close minor gaps between teeth.

  Composite fillings adhere to natural tooth structure through a bonding process, which also serves to seal and strengthen the tooth. Beyond providing a close match to your natural tooth color, a composite filling does not require removing of as much tooth structure for placement, nor are they subject to expansion or contraction with temperature changes as is the case with dental amalgams. However, composite restorations can be more vulnerable to wear and staining and may require replacement down the road.

• Silver Fillings (Amalgam)

  For many years, amalgam fillings represented the standard of care for restoring decayed teeth. While they don't offer the cosmetic appeal of other types of filling materials, amalgam restorations are strong, durable, and less likely than some other types of fillings to break or wear down.

• Glass Ionomers

  Another type of white filling material, glass ionomer cements bond to the tooth's surface to provide a tight seal between the tooth and surrounding oral environment. Besides offering a natural-looking restoration, glass ionomer cements slowly release fluoride to strengthen and help protect the involved tooth from future decay. Since they are not as durable or wear-resistant as other filling materials, glass ionomers are most frequently used to treat baby teeth, cavities near the gumline, and in temporary fillings.

• Ceramic Fillings

  Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are fabricated from the highest quality of dental porcelain and ceramics. As the most stain and wear-resistant option in tooth-colored fillings, these restorations offer durable, attractive, and long-lasting results. While "direct" fillings such as dental amalgam and composite fillings get placed immediately after the tooth is prepared, "indirect" fillings such as inlays or onlays get fabricated outside of the mouth before insertion and cementation or bonding.

• Gold Fillings

  Far less common these days and more expensive than any of the other materials, gold fillings remain excellent restorations. With excellent physical and chemical properties, gold fillings are strong, long-lasting, kind to the surrounding tissues, and remain stable over time.

How are cavities treated?

Once our office has a chance to assess your smile, we'll advise you of our findings and outline a comprehensive treatment plan to help ensure your smile is healthy and functions at its best. If any tooth decay is detected, we'll schedule appointments to treat those cavities and place the fillings or restorations that are needed.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, patient care and comfort are our top priorities. While treating cavities and placing fillings are among the most routine procedures in dentistry, our office understands you have questions and concerns and will keep you well informed every step of the way.

Treating a cavity involves the precise and gentle removal of decayed and damaged tooth structure and any preparation of the remaining tooth structure needed to secure your new filling. Although every patient and every smile is different, you can expect your visit to take about an hour.

In most cases, this visit is performed under local anesthesia. As the work gets performed, your tooth is completely numb, and you should not feel any discomfort. A dental drill, dental laser, or air abrasion technology can be used to remove decay. Once the cavity gets excavated, and healthy tooth structure remains, it's time to place the filling. The type of dental filling material being used determines the manner of placement. Composite fillings, glass ionomer cements, and amalgam fillings are typically placed right away. However, in the case of an extensive cavity, a tiny palliative dressing and a temporary filling may be placed. Whatever type of filling is used, our office will check the fit, do any necessary polishing, and meticulously adjust the bite to ensure your optimal comfort and function.

For patients who are anxious about dental work, you can rest assured the office of Tranquil Dental is mindful of your needs. As skilled and experienced providers of care, we pride ourselves on providing gentle dentistry and do all we can to make your visit comfortable and stress-free. While we perform dental procedures under local anesthesia, we're also happy to discuss options in dental sedation.

What Do I Need To Know Following The Placement Of My New Filling?

At the office of Tranquil Dental, our goal is to help our patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.

Immediately after the placement of a new filling, it's essential to keep the following in mind:

• Until the anesthesia wears off
  Immediately following your dental visit, you may experience a period of lingering numbness. Normal sensation typically returns within an hour or two. However, until the anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue. Be mindful of chewing, drinking hot beverages, or smoking.

• Now that your tooth has been restored and rebuilt, it may feel slightly different
  While we take the utmost care to polish your new filling and make sure the bite is correct, on rare occasions, a patient may feel additional minor smoothing or further bite adjustment is required.

• You may experience short-term sensitivity
  It's perfectly normal for a tooth to feel a little sensitive following the placement of a filling. You may experience a twinge when eating cold or hot foods and beverages. This sensitivity should subside by itself within a few days. If your sensitivity worsens, you experience ongoing pain or develop any other symptoms; please contact our office.

• Caring for your new restoration
  Our office uses the latest generations of strong and durable filling materials. With proper oral hygiene and routine care, your new filling should last for many years to come. However, in cases of extensive tooth decay or injury to the underlying tooth, even the best restoration may need to be replaced, or further dental work may be needed down the road.

We're passionate about what we do and dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns, feel free to contact our office.

Thanks to advances in dental materials, technology, and methods of care, it’s easier than ever before to replace missing teeth with the most natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing treatment outcomes. While dental implants and fixed bridgework provide effective and satisfying solutions for missing teeth, removable dentures remain a tried and true method for reestablishing a complete smile.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we fabricate dentures from the highest grade of dental materials for a precise and comfortable fit. Our dentures are meticulously designed to rebuild beautiful smiles and support natural facial contours while enabling patients to speak, smile, and chew with renewed confidence and ease.

We’re dedicated to helping patients to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile and take pride in offering personalized solutions to address their dental needs, lifestyle, and budget.

How missing teeth affect your smile, your health, and your outlook

According to recent statistics, it’s estimated that across the country, over 175 million adults have lost at least one tooth, and close to 40 million are missing all of their teeth. In most of these cases, tooth loss is the end result of extensive dental decay, advanced gum disease, a traumatic injury, a congenital anomaly, or associated with a medical condition.

In addition to the psychological and social consequences having embarrassing gaps in your smile often produce, missing teeth can affect your ability to speak clearly and eat a satisfying and nutritious diet. Left unaddressed, missing teeth can also cause gradual changes to your appearance and the alignment of your remaining teeth. These changes not only affect your bite, but they have the potential to create more unsightly and unhealthy gaps in your smile. Furthermore, without the support of a complete set of teeth, facial contours may also begin to look more sagged and haggard over time.

While it’s never too late to rebuild a complete and beautiful smile, it’s always best to replace missing teeth sooner than later. Both partial and full dentures from the office of Tranquil Dental offer an effective and satisfying solution for reestablishing a complete smile.

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances that are designed to precisely and comfortably rest on top of the gums that cover the jawbones. They consist of natural-looking artificial teeth set in a supportive base. In addition to offering a cost-effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth, dentures are quite versatile. They can be used to replace either a few teeth that have been lost or all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaws.

While conventional bridgework and dental implants offer fixed solutions for rebuilding complete smiles, partial and full dentures are removable oral appliances. This statement means it’s possible to take dentures out of the mouth to clean and maintain the health of the underlying tissues and any remaining teeth, as well as clean the dentures themselves, or remove them while sleeping.

Types of Dentures

You can rest assured that rebuilding your smile is in the best of hands at the office of Tranquil Dental. As skilled and experienced providers of care, we’ll carefully evaluate all aspects of your smile, the health and integrity of any remaining teeth, along with the surrounding tissues and the supporting bone to develop a treatment plan that satisfies the functional and aesthetic requirements of your case.

The two main types of removable dentures are full dentures and partial dentures. Which of these types offers the best solution for your smile depends on how many natural teeth are still present in your mouth and the health of these remaining teeth. While a partial denture can offer an effective solution in cases where some sturdy natural teeth remain, you may be a candidate for a complete denture when all the upper or lower teeth are missing or require extraction.

Full Dentures

Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, can effectively replace all the upper teeth, lower teeth, or both the upper and lower teeth. As with other types of dental solutions, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for every case. The ultimate design, fabrication, and insertion of a full denture can vary based upon a patient’s specific needs.

Conventional Full Denture

This type of denture is fabricated and placed after all of the remaining teeth are removed, and the surrounding tissues have adequately healed. Fabricating a full denture when healing is complete supports a precise and comfortable fit.

• Immediate Denture

  With an immediate denture, a patient does not have to go without teeth while waiting for complete healing of the extraction sites. Although an immediate denture offers the advantage of not having to go without teeth for any length of time, it can require a reline and adjustments as the tissues remodel and heal. In some cases, for optimal comfort and fit, a conventional denture may eventually be required.

• Overdenture

  An overdenture is a type of complete denture that receives added stability and support from special attachments that are secured to the remaining underlying teeth or specialized dental implants.

• Implant-Supported Dentures

  As the name implies, this type of denture attaches to a select number of strategically placed implants in the upper or lower jaw. These small surgical posts provide precise points of attachment for the overlying denture and add a significant measure of stability and retention.

Partial Dentures

In situations where some sturdy teeth remain, partial dentures can offer an effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth. Partial dentures typically achieve adequate retention and stability with clasps or precision attachments on the teeth adjacent to the edentulous areas (the spaces formerly occupied by the missing teeth).

Removable partial dentures can fill the void left by individual missing teeth and multiple ones to restore the look and function of a complete smile. At the same time a partial denture fills the gaps left by missing teeth; it also stabilizes the dentition and bite and prevents unwanted drifting of the remaining natural teeth.

As with full dentures, partial denture design and fabrication varies based on a patient’s specific needs. With advances in dental materials and technology, partial denture wearers have more options than ever before. Today, a partial denture’s supportive framework can be fabricated from various materials, including cast metal, flexible resins, and hybrid materials.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we’re dedicated to building healthy and beautiful smiles. As your trusted partner in care, you can depend on our office to design and fabricate a denture that will look good, fit comfortably, and serve you well for years to come.

Providing integrated solutions to rebuild smiles

Fabricating an attractive, well-fitting, and long-lasting denture requires a comprehensive understanding of oral function, facial aesthetics, dental materials, and appliance design. At the office of Tranquil Dental, we maintain a position at the forefront of advances in care and successfully combine the art and science of dentistry to provide patients with outstanding treatment outcomes.

Once we’ve had an opportunity to review your medical and dental history, assess all aspects of your smile, and discuss your expectation of care, we’ll discuss the best options for restoring and rebuilding your smile.

Based upon a comprehensive analysis of your case, including advanced diagnostic imaging, we’ll advise you if any dental work, additional procedures, or extractions are required prior to the fabrication of a partial or complete denture. It’s essential that any remaining teeth are healthy and have sufficient bone support. Sometimes, a pre-prosthetic procedure to improve the tissue anatomy and ensure a denture’s optimal fit is recommended.

Having a denture or set of dentures made is a sophisticated process involving dental impressions, framework try-ins, selecting the right shade, shape, and size of the artificial teeth, and making sure that the bite and all aspects of oral function are comfortable and healthy. Whether it takes a single visit or a few visits to fabricate a partial or complete denture, a satisfying and healthy outcome relies on the careful execution of every step in care.

What To Expect When You Receive Your New Denture

At the office of Tranquil Dental, our patients' care and comfort are our top priorities. Our goal is to help patients enjoy optimal oral health and to keep them well informed every step of the way.

• Adjusting to wearing a new denture

  Getting used to wearing a new denture, especially a full denture, can take a little time. It’s not unusual to need some minor adjustments as you begin to speak, chew, and function with your new teeth. It can take a few adjustments to fit completely and feel comfortable. If you have a sore spot, try to wear the denture at least the day before your adjustment visit. In this way, we can see exactly where we need to relieve the area causing your irritation.

• More saliva than usual

  One of the natural responses to a new denture is for your mouth to produce more saliva. Not to worry, this is only a temporary reaction. The flow of saliva gradually decreases back to a normal level.

• Speaking with ease

  While it may seem challenging to speak clearly at first with a new denture, that feeling will pass within a few days. It’s important to keep talking, as usual, to allow yourself to adapt to your new set of teeth. You can help things along by reading some passages from printed materials or a computer out loud.

• Getting used to eating with a denture

  If this is your first denture, it can also take some time to adapt to eating with your new prosthesis. Getting used to eating with a full denture is typically more challenging than doing so with a partial denture. It’s best to start with soft foods and to avoid chewing on just one side. Your tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft tissues will soon adapt to chewing with your new denture, and from then on, you’ll be able to eat with ease.

• Taking care of your dentures

  • It’s essential to keep your denture clean! Rinse your dentures after eating and brush them daily. In this way, you can prevent stains and bacteria from accumulating on your new set of teeth. It helps to use a brush designed for dentures. Also, remember to soak your dentures in water when you’re not wearing them and at least once a week in the recommended denture cleaner.

  • Brush any remaining teeth as well as your gums to keep them clean and the tissues healthy and firm. If you wear an upper denture, rinse and gently clean the roof of your mouth as well.

  • Take your dentures out at bedtime. This practice gives the gums and the jawbone a chance to rest, helping to prevent irritation and infection as well as bone resorption (shrinkage).

• Added stability

  Due to the status of the underlying tissues and other factors, there are some cases where full dentures benefit from additional means of retention. While denture adhesive is often sufficient, full dentures that are implant-supported or clip onto special attachments offer added stability and retention.

• Follow-up care

  Maintaining oral health and overall well-being involves routine checkups and care. At these visits, we not only check the fit and condition of your dentures but we also perform a comprehensive exam to check the status of any remaining teeth as well as assess the health of all of the soft and hard tissues in and around the oral cavity.

• Relines

  Over time, the tissues supporting the denture can change. As the shape and contours of these tissues shrink or remodel, your denture may not fit as comfortably or feel as stable as it once did. A separate procedure, which is known as a reline, may be recommended.

Young, healthy-looking skin contains an abundance of a naturally hydrating substance called hyaluronic acid (HA). However, as you age, sunlight and other factors can reduce the amount of HA in your skin. This lack of HA causes your skin to lose structure and volume, creating unwanted facial wrinkles and folds – like those parentheses lines around your nose and mouth. Using a dermal filler is a safe and effective way to replace the HA your skin has lost, bringing back its volume and smoothing away facial wrinkles and folds. It is a simple way to restore a more youthful and vibrant appearance.

By using intra-oral optical scanning devices, the need for patients to have a messy conventional dental impression taken of their teeth is eliminated. Digital optical impressions enable the dentist to more efficiently and effectively obtain an accurate computer generated representation of their patient’s teeth along with the surrounding tissues. In addition to being much more comfortable for the patient, a digital impression eliminates the need for the dentist to either create a stone model from the impression, or to mail the impression directly to the laboratory for any type of work to be done. Digital impression information is transmitted electronically, significantly reducing the turnaround time of any needed outside laboratory work. Digital impressions are also integral to systems that produce same day, in-office ceramic restorations.

Digital radiography utilizes computer technology and digital sensors for the acquisition, viewing, storage, and sharing of radiographic images. It offers several advantages over the older traditional film based methods of taking x-rays. The most significant of these advantages is that digital radiography reduces a patient’s exposure to radiation. Other benefits are that images can be viewed instantly after being taken, can be seen simultaneously as needed by multiple practitioners, and can be easily shared with other offices. Digital x-rays are also safer for the environment as they do not require any chemicals or paper to develop.

An electronic pad, known as a sensor is used instead of film to acquire a digital image. After the image is taken, it goes directly into the patient’s file on the computer. Once it is stored on the computer, it can be easily viewed on a screen, shared, or printed out.

Are You Looking For An Emergency Dentist In Aurora?

Whether you or any member of your family are suffering from a chipped tooth, toothache, wisdom teeth issues, or other problems affecting your oral health, you can be sure to get the prompt attention and skilled care you need at the office of Tranquil Dental.

While emergency dental care is a service we hope you'll never need, Tranquil Dental can help! As anyone who has ever had a toothache or sustained a dental injury can attest, the experience is both painful and upsetting. Although getting some measure of relief is a paramount concern, timely care is critical to prevent further consequences to your oral health and overall well-being.

At Tranquil Dental, our experienced, compassionate dental team provides a broad range of services to address dental emergencies in Aurora and the surrounding communities. We can assure you that your smile is in the best of hands with us. Patient care and comfort are our top priorities. Our practice maintains a position at the forefront of advances in diagnostic and treatment technology to provide precise, gentle, and safe care.

We treat many types of dental emergencies and urgent oral health problems, including:

• Toothaches
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Abscesses
• Loose or broken fillings
• Dislodged or lost dental crowns
• Broken, ill-fitting, or lost dentures
• Problematic wisdom teeth
• Acute Periodontal Problems
• Loose or broken down teeth
• Swollen, bleeding gums
• Bacterial, viral, or fungal Infections affecting the tongue, cheeks, gums, lips, or other soft tissues of the mouth
• Oral pain or swelling of unknown origin
• Suspicious bumps, spots, and lesions

Let Tranquil Dental Help Alleviate Your Discomfort and Restore Your Oral Health

Our goal is to get you back on the road to oral health as quickly as possible. As a trusted emergency dentist, you can count on our office for prompt, skilled, and reliable care.

Treatment for dental problems such as a toothache or a fractured tooth can vary. It all depends on the extent of the damage caused by the decay or trauma. Care may involve the placement of a new dental filling, dental bonding, or a larger restoration such as a crown to rebuild the tooth's form and function. If the damage has reached the tooth's nerve and vital inner tissues, you may need root canal treatment to save your natural tooth. Root canal treatment is a highly effective procedure with a greater than 95% success rate. Although we provide leading-edge care and do all we can to help save your tooth, in some situations a dental extraction is required. While losing a tooth can feel a little overwhelming, there's no reason for despair.

With advances in dentistry, there are several options available for the replacement of missing teeth, including dental implants, conventional fixed bridges, and partial or complete dentures. Today, dental implants represent the most advanced method for replacing a lost tooth and reestablishing a complete and beautiful smile.

At Tranquil Dental, We Provide Care To Support Ongoing Oral Health And Help Prevent Dental Emergencies

While some dental emergencies cannot be predicted or avoided, practicing good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and routine care go a long way to protect the health of your smile.

At Tranquil Dental, we emphasize taking a preventive approach to care to help you and every member of your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. By coming to our office as recommended for checkup visits and routine care, we can help to prevent both the onset and progression of many oral health problems. We offer a comprehensive program of preventive care, including examinations, professional teeth cleanings, and oral cancer screenings, along with patient education on hygiene, diet, and healthy practices.

Your oral health and overall well-being are our top priorities. Remember, it's best not to hold off seeing the dentist until you're in terrible pain or think there's something wrong. By scheduling a routine appointment for a comprehensive checkup, a professional cleaning, and routine dental care, our skilled dental team can help you keep your smile looking and functioning its very best.

What You Need To Know About Having A Tooth Extracted

At the office of Tranquil Dental, our patients' care and well-being are our top priorities. Every member of our skilled and experienced team strives to ensure patient comfort and a stress-free dental experience. Our dedication to the consistent provision of compassionate and personalized attention along with gentle, precise care has earned our office the respect and trust of our patients.

While we do everything we can to preserve the integrity of your natural smile, it's sometimes necessary to extract a tooth to protect your oral health and overall well-being.

Some of the most common reasons our office may recommend having a tooth extracted include the following ones:

• A "baby" or deciduous tooth that is over retained (reluctant to fall out), severely decayed, or damaged
  In most cases, a baby tooth will fall out as scheduled as the underlying permanent one begins to erupt into place. However, occasionally a baby tooth continues to remain firmly attached to the bone. Either the roots of the baby tooth have failed to resorb and shrink as intended, or the baby tooth has become anklylosed and fused to the supporting bone. The problem is that over-retained baby teeth can disrupt the development and alignment of your child's smile. As we monitor your child's smile as they grow, we'll advise you if and when an extraction of a baby tooth is required to facilitate the eruption of its underlying permanent successor.

• A permanent tooth that has extensive decay and is deemed non-restorable
  Beginning as a simple pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay will continue to compromise healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of the tooth. Without proper care, a cavity can lead to significant damage to tooth structure, irreversible damage to the nerve of the tooth, a dental infection, and serious consequences to your oral health and overall well-being. When the tooth has sustained far too much structural damage and cannot be restored, a dental extraction may be required.

• A permanent tooth that has been severely fractured or cracked and can not be restored
  There are many different types of chips, cracks, and fractures that can affect your teeth. The extent of the damage that it causes will determine if there is enough intact tooth structure to save the tooth and the type of treatment required. In cases where too much tooth structure or the root of a tooth has also been compromised, an extraction may be necessary.

• Advanced gum disease that has significantly compromised the tooth's supporting tissues
  The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease. When left untreated, periodontal disease, which affects the hard and soft tissues supporting your teeth, can lead to gingival pocket formation, gum recession, and diminishing alveolar bone. As advanced and untreated gum disease progresses, the teeth ultimately loosen, fall out, or require extractions.

• Poorly positioned, impacted, or decayed wisdom teeth
  Wisdom teeth, which are also known as the third molars, are the last permanent teeth to develop in the oral cavity and the final ones to come into place. However, as is often the case, many wisdom teeth do not have sufficient room to erupt, are not developing correctly, develop extensive decay, or cause issues for the adjacent teeth and the surrounding tissues. Although the extraction of wisdom teeth sometimes gets recommended for an older patient, the early removal of troublesome or potentially problematic third molars in young adults is more often the case.

• Overcrowded Teeth
  A tooth size to jaw size discrepancy often results in a crowded and misaligned smile. More simply put, the upper and lower jaws are not large enough to accommodate all the permanent teeth. As part of an orthodontic treatment plan to optimally align teeth and establish an attractive, healthy, and functional bite, the extraction of select permanent teeth may be required.

How is a tooth extraction performed?

Whatever the reasons for a dental extraction may be, you can rest assured that your care is in the best of hands at our office. As the first step in care, our dentist will review your medical and dental histories and discuss any special considerations in care.

It's essential to inform our office of any existing medical conditions or medications you are currently taking. In some situations, extra precautions, including premedication with antibiotics, a change in medication, and a medical clearance may be required. Follow all our pre-surgical directives and let us know if you are sick or have developed other symptoms on the day of surgery.

Our goal is to reduce any anxiety and help ensure patient comfort whenever a tooth extraction is necessary. In advance of the procedure, we'll discuss any medical considerations or precautions and go over our pre-surgical instructions. We'll also discuss post-surgical recommendations, including whether replacing the extracted tooth or teeth is needed and the best options in care.

To thoroughly assess the tooth and the type of extraction required, we perform a comprehensive examination and take digital radiographs as indicated. Extractions are typically categorized as either "simple" or "surgical extractions."

What Is A Simple Extraction?

When the tooth is clearly visible in the mouth and the root anatomy is not extensively hooked, fused to the surrounding bone, or otherwise unusual, it usually falls into the category of a simple extraction. Once the tooth and the surrounding tissues get sufficiently numbed with a local anesthetic, our dentist will loosen any attached periodontal tissues and apply forceps to remove the tooth. As with all dental procedures, we do all we can to help ensure your comfort and relaxation throughout every step in care. For patients who are anxious about dental work or certain procedures, we can discuss additional options in dental sedation.

What Is A Surgical Extraction?

For teeth that are severely broken down, anklylosed, or impacted, a surgical extraction is often indicated. We may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to perform this procedure. During a surgical extraction, a small incision in the soft tissues and localized, precise removal of overlying bone provides greater access to remove the tooth. As with all tooth extractions, patients are given a local anesthetic to completely numb the involved tooth and the surrounding tissues. Once again, additional options in dental sedation, pre-surgical considerations, and directives are thoroughly discussed and explained.

What To Do After Getting A Tooth Taken Out

As skilled and experienced providers of care, we recognize that every case is different and provide treatment that addresses the unique requirements of each patient. Depending on a patient's specific needs, we provide post-operative instructions, including special instructions, limitations on activities, medications, and follow-up care that support optimal recovery and healing. In some cases, post-op care may also include the involvement of a patient's physician. In general, and unless modified otherwise by our office, the following post-operative guidelines apply to simple extractions.

Post-Op Care Following An Extraction

1. Maintaining gauze pressure
   Following your extraction, some gauze to bite down on will be placed over the extraction site. By biting down and maintaining pressure on the gauze as instructed, any active bleeding should stop. You may change the gauze pad after the first hour. Continue to bite down for another 45 minutes if heavy oozing continues. While it's normal for a little oozing to continue for 24 hours, contact our office if you are still experiencing profuse oozing or bleeding.

2. Until the local anesthesia wears off
   Until the local anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue.

3. Take medications as prescribed
   

   • Antibiotics:
     If you have been given a prescription for antibiotics, be sure to take the correct dosage and full course of medication as prescribed.

   • Pain management:
     It's helpful to take a pain reliever before the local anesthetic completely wears off. Over-the-counter (non-aspirin) pain medication may be taken to relieve discomfort. Any prescription pain medication should only be taken as directed.

4. To facilitate healing
   Do not rinse your mouth, spit, drink through a straw, or suck on candies. It's essential to allow the extraction site to clot and not dislodge the new clot once it has formed.

5. Applying ice
   An ice-pack held in place in the facial area overlying the extraction site helps to control swelling. Apply the ice for 10-minute intervals during the first day following your procedure.

6. Avoid smoking
   Smoking not only prevents clot formation, but it also interferes with healing. Avoid smoking and tobacco products for the first week.

7. Watch what you eat and drink
   Stay away from hot or spicy foods and drinks for the first day or two. Also, refrain from drinking any carbonated or alcoholic beverages. Stick with a diet of soft foods and liquids for the first couple of days following surgery. Drink plenty of fluids.

8. Oral hygiene
   Brush gently; it's essential to take great care not to disturb or irritate the extraction site for a few days. A very mild lukewarm saltwater solution can be used to freshen your mouth. Remember not to rinse or spit that first day or two. Simply let any liquids gently fall from your mouth into the sink.

9. An appointment for a follow-up visit
   If sutures (stitches) were placed, or if a complex extraction, an infection, or other issues requires a visit to monitor your healing and progress, you will be given an appointment for follow-up care. It's essential that you keep this appointment as provided.

If you experience continued bleeding, ongoing pain, more swelling, have a bad taste in your mouth, or other unusual symptoms, contact our office.

Why choose the office of Tranquil Dental?

You deserve quality care that's personalized to meet your individual needs, and at the office of Tranquil Dental, you can rest assured your smile is in the best of hands. We deliver precise and gentle care, keeping you informed and relaxed throughout your procedure. If your tooth needs to be replaced, we'll discuss your best options, including dentures, fixed bridges, and dental implants. As the most advanced method of tooth replacement available, dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile.

Replacing Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

If you're missing teeth, you're not alone. Tooth loss is a far more common problem than you think. In fact, studies show that 178 million people across the United States are missing at least one tooth, and 35 million are completely edentulous (missing all their teeth). Whether you have lost one tooth or multiple ones to gum disease, tooth decay, or a traumatic injury, the office of Tranquil Dental can help. We provide state-of-the-art care and offer the latest solutions to help patients reestablish complete, healthy, and beautiful smiles.

Dental implants for a smile that looks and feels completely natural!

Today, dental implants represent the most advanced system for the replacement of missing teeth. While conventional fixed bridges and dentures remain effective and satisfying ways to replace missing teeth, dental implants come the closest to replicating the look, feel, and function of a natural smile.

With dental implants, you can once again enjoy all your favorite foods and speak and smile with renewed confidence and ease. Because dental implants behave in much the same way as the roots of natural teeth, they provide unrivaled stability for the placement of a broad range of dental prostheses, including crowns and bridges up to a complete set of teeth. For patients who wear full dentures, dental implants provide the added stability and retention required to improve comfort and fit while preventing any embarrassing slippage.

If you are struggling with tooth loss and looking for the best solutions for the replacement of missing teeth, visit the office of Tranquil Dental to learn more about dental implants and all the state-of-the-art services we provide. At the office of Tranquil Dental, we take pride in creating beautiful and healthy smiles!

Let The Office Of Tranquil Dental Help You Rebuild A Beautiful Smile

Missing teeth do more than cause embarrassing gaps in your smile. For one thing, they can also affect your ability to speak or chew nutritious food with ease. By not replacing missing teeth, the adjacent ones can shift towards the space over time and change your bite and compromise the health of your smile in many ways.

With all of the advances in dental materials, technology, and treatment methods available today, it's easier than ever before to replace missing teeth with the most natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing results of care.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we're pleased to offer leading solutions to improve your oral health and give you a smile you can feel confident sharing with the world. We give you back the complete smile you have lost and provide personalized solutions for all of your oral healthcare needs. To find out more about dental implants or schedule an appointment so that we can take a closer look at your smile, give us a call today.

LANAP®, or Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure, is an advanced method of treatment for gum disease that enables certain periodontal procedures to be performed in a safer, more precise and less invasive manner than with traditional surgical methods. Using LANAP, cases of periodontitis can be addressed without the pain, gum line recession, or increased tooth sensitivity that is often associated with other treatments that are used at this stage of periodontal disease.

A LANAP Procedure, employs a PerioLase® MVP-7TM laser to selectively vaporize the inflamed and diseased tissue beneath the gum line that is inside of a periodontal pocket, while leaving the healthy tissue intact. This advanced laser technology also targets and kills the bacteria that cause gum disease and helps to facilitate the healthy reattachment of supporting tissues to the surface of the tooth’s root. Since treatment with LANAP effectively reduces the depth of periodontal pockets and promotes the regeneration of bone around a tooth, it may also be helpful in saving a periodontally involved tooth that might otherwise have an unfavorable prognosis. Furthermore, as LANAP is a minimally invasive method, the patient experiences less discomfort and less bleeding both during and after treatment. In addition, recovery time from the procedure and healing at the site of treatment are quicker.

Chronic jaw clenching and grinding one’s teeth is called bruxism. While it can happen any time of day, it often occurs at night causing an individual to wake up with any number of symptoms including jaw pain, headaches, and sore teeth that may feel loose. Although, stress and anxiety are the most common causes of bruxism there may be other contributing factors such as a sleep disorder, an abnormal bite, as well as teeth that are missing or poorly aligned.

To alleviate the symptoms of bruxism, wearing a night guard while sleeping is frequently recommended. This appliance is designed to fit over the teeth and to keep the jaws slightly apart. Wearing a night guard prevents a number of damaging events, including muscle strain, excessive pressure on the jaw joint (the TMJ), and such dental damage as chipped or cracked teeth resulting from the teeth grinding against each other.

In addition to preventing damage to the soft and hard tissues surrounding the orofacial cavity, a custom night guard fabricated at the dental office can help curb a bruxism habit and give the wearer a better night’s sleep.

When you think of a trip to the dentist, chances are your mind immediately goes to visions of pain and discomfort. But what if that wasn't the case? What if a trip to the dentist could be an experience you looked forward to? That's what you get with a root canal in Aurora at Tranquil Dental. With Dr. Ali Khan and his team, root canals can be a quick and painless process, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready for whatever life throws your way.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that aims to save a severely damaged or infected tooth, preserving its function and appearance. The process involves removing the tooth's damaged pulp, which consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. By meticulously cleaning and shaping the root canal system, the endodontist eliminates bacteria and debris harbored within. Subsequently, the tooth's interior is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection. Ultimately, root canals in Aurora provide an effective solution to maintain an individual's natural dental structure while addressing the underlying issues that might otherwise lead to tooth loss or more severe health concerns.

What to Look Out For - Recognizing the Signs You Need a Root Canal

• Severe toothache

  One of the most common signs that you may need a root canal is a severe toothache. If the pain is severe enough, it may wake you up at night or make it difficult to eat or drink. The pain may also be accompanied by sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

• Swollen gums

  Another sign that you may need a root canal is swollen gums. If your gums are red, tender, and/or swollen, it could be a sign of infection. Additionally, you may notice pus coming from the affected tooth.

• Darkened tooth

  If your tooth has become darker in color, it could be a sign that the nerve tissue has died. This is often due to an infection or decay that has reached the pulp of the tooth.

• Darkened, discolored tooth

  A discolored tooth is often a message that the inner vital tissues, including the tooth’s nerve and blood supply, have been compromised. Teeth that have sustained an injury may demonstrate discoloration as the internal tissues have devitalized.

• Cracked tooth

  A cracked tooth can also lead to nerve damage and may require a root canal. A crack in your tooth may not cause any pain at first, but it can allow bacteria to enter the pulp and cause an infection.

• Loose tooth

  A loose tooth is another sign that the nerve tissue in your tooth may be damaged. This can happen due to an infection, decay, or trauma to the tooth.

• Sensitivity to temperature changes

  If you have noticed that your teeth are suddenly more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. This is often due to damage to the nerve tissue in the tooth.

• Pain when biting down

  If you experience pain when biting down or chewing, it could be a sign of damage to the nerve tissue in your tooth.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Though often feared, root canals in Aurora provide many benefits for patients suffering from dental issues such as infection or decay. For one thing, it relieves pain quickly and effectively so that you can go back to living your life without worrying about discomfort in your mouth. Additionally, undergoing root canal therapy helps protect your other teeth from infection by removing the source of the problem before it spreads further down into your gums or other teeth. Finally, getting a root canal in Aurora allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted—which means that you won’t have to worry about replacing it with dentures or implants later on down the line!

Root canal in Aurora doesn’t have to be scary; In fact, when done right - like at Tranquil Dental in Aurora - it provides relief from infection and discomfort while preserving your natural teeth for years to come! If you think root canal therapy may be right for you, contact us today and learn more about how Dr. Ali Khan can help restore your smile!

A full night’s sleep is essential to your overall health. If you are well rested, you feel good and can function at your best. According to statistics, approximately 25 million adults in the United States suffer from obstructive sleep apnea and more than three times that number snore. At the office of Hyline Dental, we provide care to address these issues so that you can enjoy a safe and uninterrupted night’s sleep.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially life-threatening disorder involving repeated pauses in breathing while asleep. The most common form of this condition is obstructive sleep apnea. This occurs when there is an obstruction of an individual’s airway that interferes with the flow of oxygen through nose or mouth during sleep.

In someone afflicted with obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles of the throat and mouth relax during sleep to the point where they fall back into the upper airway and create a blockage that restricts breathing.

What Are Some of The Signs & Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

The signs and symptoms of this disorder during sleeping hours may include, loud snoring, episodes of breathing cessation, abrupt awakenings, episodes of gasping for air, along with difficulties getting a good night’s sleep. An individual with sleep apnea will exhibit problems during the day as well. Sleep apnea can lead to a morning headache, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. Furthermore suffering with sleep apnea can be associated with other medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular and heart issues, gastric reflux and depression.

How Do I Know If I Have Sleep Apnea?

A sleep study is typically conducted to determine the severity of the disorder. The results of this study along with other medical findings will play a role in determining the recommended therapy. In some cases testing to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea and determine blood oxygen levels along with how well you are breathing while sleeping can be done in the comfort of your own home.

What Is The Treatment For Sleep Apnea?

C-PAP

The most common form of therapy for obstructive sleep apnea is a CPAP machine that is worn while sleeping. This device provides a steady stream of pressurized air into the respiratory system through a mask.

Oral Appliances

In cases of mild to moderate sleep apnea, an oral appliance is often prescribed. Worn in a similar fashion to a mouthguard or an orthodontic retainer, this appliance is designed to help keep the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat from collapsing, thereby enabling the airway to stay open during sleep. Oral appliances are designed to the exact specifications of each case. They are custom crafted for a precise and comfortable fit as well as calibrated for maximum effectiveness. An oral appliance is not only easy to wear but it’s also easy to care for as well as comfortable, and portable. In addition to being an effective option in care for mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring, oral appliances may be considered for patients who refuse or are intolerant of CPAP therapy. Oral appliance therapy is covered by many medical insurance plans. 

Surgery

While conservative treatment to help ensure a healthy and restful night’s sleep is often effective, some case may require a surgical procedure to alleviate the condition. Physical airway obstructions such as a deviated septum, large tonsils and adenoids, or a bigger-than-average uvula many indicate the need for a surgical procedure. As skilled and experienced providers of care, our office works collaboratively with physicians to provide patients with guidance on the healthiest options in care.

It’s also essential to keep in mind that lifestyle changes can provide relief from some of the symptoms of sleep apnea. Weight loss, regular exercise, cutting back on alcohol and not smoking may help to improve your breathing while asleep.  

Getting a quality night’s rest can reduce your risk for a broad range of serious health conditions. At the office of Tranquil Dental, we want every patient to enjoy the benefits of a good night’s sleep and optimal health. To learn more about how we can help treat sleep apnea, give us a call today.

Getting a full night of sleep is essential to your overall health. Being well rested helps you to feel good and to function at your best. One of the most common problems that can affect the quality of your sleep is snoring. According to statistics, about 90 million individuals in the United States snore while they sleep. While for about half of these people the problem is simply snoring, the others may be afflicted with a serious disorder known as sleep apnea. Therefore, before any type of treatment can be prescribed, it must be determined whether the problem is sleep apnea or “simple” snoring.

If it is determined that your problem is simply snoring, and you are what is known as a primary snorer, then an oral appliance can help you as well as any of your roommates enjoy a quieter and more comfortable sleep. A custom fabricated oral appliance to address snoring fits somewhat like a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer and is only worn while you sleep. As a removable and non-invasive treatment for snoring, your appliance slightly repositions your jaw to allow for a less restricted airflow to promote a quieter and more restful sleep.

Every year millions of cases of dental and facial injuries occur as the result of sport-related trauma. While all sports have some risk of oral injury, it is especially prevalent in recreational activities that involve frequent body contact with other players or the ground, as well as the possibility of being struck by other objects such as, balls, bats, or sticks.

One way to significantly reduce the risk of damage to your teeth, cheeks, lips, tongue, face, or jaw as the result of a sports-related injury is to wear a mouthguard. A mouthguard is a removable appliance made of a sturdy plastic that sits comfortably over your teeth. Typically, mouthguards are designed to cover just the top teeth but may also be fabricated to include the lower teeth as well depending on your particular situation. Individuals who wear braces or have some types of dental work may require a specific type of mouthguard that provides more coverage.

There are three types of sports mouthguards on the market, including pre-formed and ready to wear stock mouthguards, boil and bite mouthguards, and custom mouthguards fabricated by your dentist. Our office will help you to select just the right sports mouthguard to protect your smile. While the first two choices offer some level of protection, the best and most comfortable mouthguards to safeguard your smile are the ones individually designed and customized by your dentist.

Improving the appearance of your smile can make a difference in your confidence and overall quality of life. At the office of Tranquil Dental, we provide experienced care, skillfully combining the art and science of dentistry to give patients teeth that are as beautiful as they are healthy.

If your teeth appear dull, drab, discolored, or stained, don't despair. Thanks to advances in cosmetic dentistry, you too can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile. With a teeth whitening procedure from our office, we can quickly and dramatically lighten and brighten your smile.

You can rest assured your smile in the best of hands with us. We use the latest generations of professional strength teeth whitening systems to transform the appearance of your teeth and give you a smile that's several shades lighter, brighter, and more vibrant than before your procedure.

Personalized care to achieve your cosmetic goals

As dedicated providers of care, our goals are to help every patient maintain good oral health and wear their best-looking smile. We tailor treatment to address individual needs and meet every patient's expectations of care.

After examining your smile and determining if a teeth whitening procedure is suitable for you, we'll recommend the best in-office procedure or a take-home whitening system to achieve your cosmetic goals.

Factors that influence the color and vibrancy of your smile

How white your teeth look depends on how they reflected and scattered light. Although external staining is typically due to certain foods, beverages, or tobacco use, internal tooth discoloration is usually the result of genetics, certain medications, tooth decay, restorations, and trauma. Aging also plays a significant role in tooth color. Over time, as the outer layer of enamel thins, the yellow inner layer of dentin becomes more apparent.

About teeth whitening

Teeth whitening or bleaching simply refers to any process that will make the teeth appear whiter. Today, there's an abundance of choices in teeth whitening products and procedures available to you. Options run the gamut from over-the-counter toothpastes, rinses, strips, or gels to professionally supervised in-office treatments and customized take-home kits.

With so many choices in care, how do you know which one to select? Despite the many over-the-counter products on the market today, it's essential to keep in mind that the premiere teeth whitening systems are the professional-strength ones provided by the dentist. Not only do these whitening systems offer a higher concentration of whitening components than the ones available in stores or online, but they also get delivered to the teeth in the safest, most effective, and well-supervised way.

While you may be tempted to purchase a kit in the drugstore or online, be careful. Some over-the-counter teeth whitening products can damage the teeth and soft tissues in the mouth. Even though many work when healthy teeth and gums are present, they may be ineffective or problematic when sensitive teeth, exposed roots, cavities, broken fillings, cracked teeth, or loose dental work exist.

How does a teeth whitening procedure work?

Whitening products typically fall into one of two of the following categories:

• Peroxide-containing bleaching agents.
• Whitening toothpastes or dentifrices.

Under the category of peroxide containing bleaching agents, most whitening systems contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient. While both can readily permeate the enamel to achieve pleasing results, the concentration of either one of these ingredients determines the strength, effectiveness, and safety level of the whitening system.

Teeth whitening systems rely on a chemical reaction between the bleaching agent and the discolored molecules. As the latter get oxidized, the stains and discoloration get broken up and erased.

Considerations in care

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we combine the art and science of dentistry to create beautiful and healthy smiles. We value your investment and provide treatment that supports good oral health while fulfilling your smile goals and expectations of care. We offer a range of advanced cosmetic dental services and will help you choose the option that's right for your smile.

While teeth whitening procedures in most cases produce highly satisfying results, not every type of stain or discoloration responds well to one. First of all, a teeth whitening procedure only works on natural teeth and does not change or improve the color of dental fillings, crowns, or bridges. It should also be mentioned that just as individuals with yellow tones to their teeth typically respond well to a teeth whitening, brown and grayish teeth can respond less well and may require more intensive whitening regimens or alternative cosmetic treatments. Furthermore, a teeth whitening procedure may not be recommended in the presence of sensitive teeth, worn enamel, and significant gum disease.

You can trust us to take a close look at your smile and advise you if a teeth whitening is right for you, or if another cosmetic procedure offers healthier and better results.

What to do and what to expect after a teeth whitening procedure

1. Watch what you eat and drink
   Maximizing the benefits of a teeth whitening procedure involves being mindful of what you eat and drink. This guideline is especially true for the first 48 hours following an in-office treatment. The reason is the ultra-thin, membranous protective layer of the tooth that was temporarily removed as a result of the whitening procedure takes a couple of days to reestablish itself.

   You can protect the results by avoiding deeply colored foods and beverages that can stain your teeth!
   Refrain from drinking coffee, red wine, dark soft drinks, and teas. Stay away from fruits like berries and grapes, and chocolate products as well as other foods that are darkly colored.

   Feel free to eat and drink foods with a low potential to stain your teeth!
   Beverages such as water, milk, white wine, and clear soft drinks are okay. Eating fruits such as a banana or peeled apple are fine. Cheeses, as well as white foods like chicken, fish, pasta, oatmeal, potatoes, and bread prepared without red sauces or dressings, are acceptable as well.

2. Avoid Smoking
   Smoking stains and yellows your teeth under the best of circumstances. If you are a smoker and have just had your teeth whitened, it's a good idea to refraining from the habit for at least the first couple of days. Of course, smoking less frequently after that or quitting the habit altogether not only benefits the appearance of your smile but also your oral health and overall well-being.

3. Some sensitivity is normal.
   You may experience some sensitivity to cold and hot for a couple of days. This discomfort typically subsides. We recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication just as you would for a headache. Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth may also be helpful.

4. Treatment Results
   While teeth whitening procedures provide satisfying outcomes of care, it's essential to keep in mind that results vary from patient to patient. Both short-term and long-term results are influenced by the original shade of the tooth, diet, and oral habits.

   Also, as explained before treatment, teeth whitening procedures do not change the color of existing fillings, crowns, bridgework, or dental bonding. If this issue presents an aesthetic concern, we can discuss replacing a restoration.

5. Keeping your smile bright
   Maintaining the results of treatment also rely upon proper oral hygiene and routine dental care. We'll also discuss a take-home whitening system if any periodic touch-ups are indicated following the procedure or down the road.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your teeth whitening procedure, feel free to contact our office.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), also referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), are the most common source of chronic facial pain and jaw dysfunction. It is estimated that more than 10 million people in the United States are affected by temporomandibular joint problems.

What is the Temporomandibular Joint?

There are two temporomandibular joints that connect the left and right sides of the lower jaw to the temporal bone. Both joints and their associated muscles, ligaments and tendons work together to allow for all manner of oral function as the jaw moves up and down, front to back and from side to side. Containing a shock-absorbing, soft disc that sits between the rounded condyles of both sides of the lower jaw and the corresponding concavities in the skull’s temporal bone, the TMJ makes chewing, speaking, yawning and all jaw movements possible.

Since the TMJ is a joint with both up and down hinge-like movements, as well as side to side and front to back sliding motions to perform, it is often considered one of the most complicated joints in the body and one of the most difficult to treat when problems arise.

Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can fall into one or more of the following three categories:

• Myofascial pain- Refers to pain in the area of the jaw joint due to various causes of increased muscle tension and spasm

• Internal derangement-Involves displacement of the disc, jaw dislocation or trauma to the condyles of the jaw

• Degenerative joint disease -Arthritis

The risk for developing a TMJ problem is greater in the presence of long-term teeth grinding or bruxism, a jaw injury or various types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Furthermore, the manifestations of a TMJ disorder can vary from person to person with a wide range of symptoms possible, including earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), headaches, back and neck pain, vertigo, muscle spasms and joint tenderness as well as jaw pain, popping or grating sounds with jaw movement, jaw locking and limited jaw movement. For some people a TMJ disorder can be resolved within a relatively short period of time, while for others it will continue to persist despite extensive therapy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When evaluating for the presence of a TMJ disorder, the dentist will perform a thorough clinical assessment of joint symptoms and function. Special radiographic imaging and other diagnostic tests will be ordered as needed. The treatment of a TMJ disorder may include oral appliances such as night guards or stabilization splints to alleviate strain on the joints. Other types of therapy may include steroid injections, occlusal adjustments as well as orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment to improve occlusion. In cases of persistent and serious TMJ problems, surgery may be recommended.

Methods of self-care can be helpful in alleviating some of the symptoms of a TMJ disorder. Patients are typically advised to eat soft foods, avoid extreme jaw movement such as wide yawning and gum chewing, to practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques and applying ice packs or moist heat as directed. If recommended, a patient should follow the dentist or therapist’s instruction for gentle stretching exercises. The short-term use of over-the-counter, non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may provide relief. If not the dentist or physician may prescribe stronger pain or anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants or anti-depressants.

As the most recognizable expression and the universal sign of happiness, a beautiful smile is an important asset. Studies show that an attractive smile can boost your self-confidence, contribute to your overall well-being, and help make a positive impression on everyone you meet.

Transforming Smiles With Porcelain Veneers

If your front teeth are stained, discolored, chipped, worn-down, misshapen, a little gapped, or slightly misaligned, you're not alone. According to statistics, more than one-third of adults in the United States are dissatisfied with the appearance of their smiles. Cosmetic imperfections may be due to genetics, excessive wear and tear on the teeth, the aging process, dietary choices that stain the dental enamel, smoking, or as a side effect of certain medications.

In some cases, if the imperfections are minor ones, a teeth whitening procedure or cosmetic bonding may be all it takes to create a more perfect-looking smile. However, darker dental stains, discolorations, and more significant flaws involving the size, shape, and alignment of the teeth, are sometimes better addressed with porcelain veneers.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we recognize that every smile is different and tailor treatment to address individual needs and expectations of care. Whether your smile is best served by the fabrication of dental veneers or another cosmetic dental procedure we provide, you can count on our office for the latest, most effective, pleasing, and healthy solutions for your smile.

What are dental veneers?

One of the most conservative yet highly effective and aesthetically pleasing ways to transform the appearance of imperfect looking teeth is the fabrication of dental veneers. Fully customized to the exact specifications of your smile and the cosmetic corrections required, veneers are ultra-thin facings, seamlessly bonded to the fronts of the involved teeth.

This versatile and minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure conceals a range of imperfections to dramatically improve the look of teeth that are misshapen, exhibit minor chips, enamel defects, or stains. They also provide an excellent solution for closing small gaps as well as addressing other minor alignment issues.

Among the chief benefits offered by veneers are that they require little to no preparation of the underlying tooth and offer a relatively quick way to achieve long-lasting and pleasing results. And because they are ultra-thin, veneers preserve the maximum amount of natural tooth structure and are kind to the tissues along the gumline.

With veneers, your smile looks naturally beautiful.

Whether you're looking to improve the appearance of a single front tooth or multiple ones, dental veneers can turn a less-than-perfect smile into one that appears naturally beautiful and flawless.

Your veneers are fabricated from the highest quality of dental-grade porcelain to recreate the natural translucency of healthy tooth enamel. Since porcelain reflects light in much the same way as dental enamel, veneers produce a vibrant, flawless, and naturally beautiful-looking smile.

From preparation to taking an impression and placement, the entire process of getting dental veneers only takes a few visits. Furthermore, even though a veneer is fragile to handle before placement in the mouth, once it gets bonded to the underlying tooth, it becomes quite strong and durable. With proper oral hygiene and care, you can maintain your new veneers for many years to come.

At the office of Tranquil Dental, we successfully combine the art and science of dentistry to create healthy, beautiful smiles. We've helped many patients enhance the look of their smiles and feel confident we can do the same for you.

What to expect when getting veneers

• Initial consultation and care

  The process of getting dental veneers begins with a consultation and thorough assessment of your dental health, oral function, and smile aesthetics. We'll also discuss your smile goals and treatment expectations. Although getting veneers is a relatively quick process, it's essential to address any periodontal problems or cavities in the involved teeth before your new veneers get fabricated.

• Tooth preparation and Impression taking

  While the amount of tooth preparation varies, depending on the unique requirements of the case and the type of porcelain veneer, the removal of tooth structure from the front and sides of the tooth is typically quite minimal. It's just enough enamel for the ultra-thin facing to look most natural and remain sturdy and strong when placed.

  Once the teeth are prepared, an impression gets taken, and an appropriate shade of porcelain is selected, your new veneers are ready for fabrication. Porcelain veneers are most often sent out to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication. For the short time it takes the permanent ones to come back from the lab, attractive temporary veneer facings cover the teeth.

• Fitting and placement

  When your veneers are ready, it's time to check their fit, size, shade, and shape. Prior to getting affixed to the teeth, any adjustments to ensure a precise fit and optimal aesthetics are made. At this time, we'll also confirm that you're pleased with the look of your new smile. Once fitted and approved, the involved teeth are then cleaned, and the veneers are permanently bonded in place with composite resin cement. Following placement, any further adjustments or minor refinements are performed as needed.

The ViziLite® Plus system provides your dentist with an additional and effective mechanism for identifying, evaluating, monitoring and marking abnormal lesions in the mouth that may be indicative of the dysplastic changes that are associated with the development of oral cancer. Since early detection and diagnosis of oral cancer can significantly improve the outcome of treatment, ViziLite is considered an important adjunct to periodic, conventional head and neck examinations.

A painless and fast oral cancer screening with the ViziLite Plus system may be combined with your regular checkup visit. After rinsing your mouth with a special cleansing solution, the dentist will simply pass the ViziLite Plus light over the tissues in your mouth. If there are any abnormal changes to the mucous membranes lining the mouth and throat, the area will appear in a different color from the surrounding healthy tissues. In the event that anything is detected, further diagnostic assessments will be recommended as needed.

Young, healthy-looking skin contains an abundance of a naturally hydrating substance called hyaluronic acid (HA). However, as you age, sunlight and other factors can reduce the amount of HA in your skin. This lack of HA causes your skin to lose structure and volume, creating unwanted facial wrinkles and folds – like those parentheses lines around your nose and mouth. Using a dermal filler is a safe and effective way to replace the HA your skin has lost, bringing back its volume and smoothing away facial wrinkles and folds. It is a simple way to restore a more youthful and vibrant appearance.