# Reflection Dental > We are devoted to providing our patients with the best possible dental care. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey to a beautiful smile. > Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.3, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. ## Pages ### [Home](https://www.reflectdental.com/) **Published:** December 17, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** We are devoted to providing our patients with the best possible dental care in Lombard. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey to a beautiful smile. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50Ijoic2l0ZV90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ # Healthy Smiles Start Here @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50Ijoic2l0ZV90YWdsaW5lIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIifX0=@ Request An Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50Ijoic2l0ZV90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMj5XZWxjb21lIHRvICIsImFmdGVyIjoiPC9oMj4ifX0=@ ### Providing outstanding dental care to our community. The dental professionals at Reflection Dental are focused on providing excellent dental care to all patients. Your family’s dental health is important to us, and we want to make sure every family member is comfortable at our office, regardless of their age or needs. Our office utilizes the latest dental procedures and technology to keep your smile healthy and bright. > A dedicated, experienced, and caring team of dental professionals providing care for your entire family. Our dental office provides a variety of dental services to meet your needs. [Preventative dental care](/services/prevention/) can help stop problems before they start. [Dental restorations](/services/restoration/) can provide greater utility when your teeth have been damaged from decay or injuries. [Cosmetic dentistry](/services/cosmetic/) can help improve your smile to give you that bright, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Ready to get started? [Contact our office](/contact/) today to schedule a consultation with our team. We can’t wait to see you! (630) 426-1300 About Our Practice ## Our Dental Services Our dental professionals are skilled at providing a variety of dental services to help keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Our dentist will recommend the services that will improve your oral health and make sure you understand what is involved with these treatments. Our patient education library on this website will help inform you about the treatments offered at our practice. The button below will take you to the full education library. All Services [dipl_image_card title=”Prevention” image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/family-blue.png” content_bg_color=”gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”fade” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjEyOCJ9fQ==@” scroll_vertical_motion=”36|50|50|65|4|0|-4″ scroll_horizontal_motion=”0|50|50|100|1.5|0|0″ global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22%93}”][/dipl_image_card] [dipl_image_card title=”Cosmetic” image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/female-pink.png” content_bg_color=”gcid-8cc8dab2-4d1c-4cbf-8375-8fdb77062993″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”500ms” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjEzMSJ9fQ==@” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22%93,%22gcid-8cc8dab2-4d1c-4cbf-8375-8fdb77062993%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22%93}”][/dipl_image_card] [dipl_image_card title=”Restoration” image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/male-stripes.png” content_bg_color=”gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”1000ms” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjEyOSJ9fQ==@” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22,%22content_bg_color%22%93}”][/dipl_image_card] [dipl_image_card title=”General” image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/female-yellow-shirt.png” content_bg_color=”gcid-8cc8dab2-4d1c-4cbf-8375-8fdb77062993″ _builder_version=”4.19.5″ _dynamic_attributes=”link_option_url” _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”1500ms” link_option_url=”@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9saW5rX3VybF9wYWdlIiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsicG9zdF9pZCI6IjE0MCJ9fQ==@” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-9fd04233-c303-4a60-871a-1d9718957b57%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22%93,%22gcid-8cc8dab2-4d1c-4cbf-8375-8fdb77062993%22:%91%22content_bg_color%22%93}”][/dipl_image_card] ## What Sets Us Apart? At Reflection Dental, you’ll discover a refreshingly honest approach to your oral health. Our staff won’t pressure you into treatments you don’t truly need. Instead, you’ll experience genuine, no-strings-attached consultations where your questions are welcomed, and your choices are respected. From your first visit, you’ll receive transparent recommendations designed around your unique needs so you can feel confident and fully informed about your dental care. Reflection Dental is more than just a dental office, we’ve created a warm, judgment-free environment where you can feel at ease. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or it’s been years since your last appointment, you’ll be greeted with compassion. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and offer extended hours to make it easy to schedule your appointment. We’re in-network with most major insurances, and our team will walk you through clear pricing and flexible payment options. No rushed appointments, no surprise bills, just personalized and thoughtful dentistry that puts your comfort and peace of mind first. ## Our Dentist The dentist at Reflection Dental will provide you with the excellent dental care you need to improve your oral health. Learn more about our dentist below, and we look forward to seeing you at your initial dental consultation! Meet Dr. Patalia @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50Ijoic2l0ZV90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMj5PdXIgTWlzc2lvbiBhdCAiLCJhZnRlciI6IjwvaDI+In19@ About Us Patient Info Our dental office provides outstanding dental care to all of our patients. Our goal is to keep your smile healthy and bright. We are open late so you don’t have to leave work early, and our office accepts most insurance plans. Our dental professionals strive to make sure you and your family are comfortable during your entire visit to our office. ## What Our Patients Say The best review we can receive is a healthy smile from our great patients. Below are just a few of the great testimonials we have received from patients at our dental office. Read More Patient Reviews ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Family Dentistry](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/family-dentistry/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental treats every member of your household under one roof, from young children through grandparents. Dr. Patalia offers personalized care, evening hours, and most insurance accepted for Lombard families. **Content:** ## Family Dentist in Lombard, IL Coordinating dental care for an entire household is easier when everyone sees the same dentist. At Reflection Dental, Dr. Patalia treats patients of every age, from young children through grandparents, so your family can handle checkups, cleanings, and treatment in one place instead of juggling multiple providers across Lombard and the surrounding area. ## What Is Family Dentistry? Family dentistry means choosing one general dentist who treats every member of your household, rather than splitting care across a pediatric dentist for your kids and a separate general dentist for the adults. This is different from pediatric dentistry, which is a distinct specialty focused solely on children. Reflection Dental welcomes patients of all ages as part of our general dentistry practice, and Dr. Patalia gets to know your whole family’s dental history over time. ## One Dentist Knows Your Whole Family’s History When everyone in your household sees the same dentist, that dentist builds a complete picture of your family’s dental health over time. Starting your children with Reflection Dental early means they stay with a practice that already knows their history as they grow, rather than starting over with a new provider every few years. ## One Location, Less Juggling A family of four typically needs at least two cleanings and exams per person each year, which adds up to eight visits annually. Fitting that around school, work, and everyone’s other commitments gets complicated fast. Family dentistry lets you book multiple family members on the same day at one location, so you’re not shuttling between offices to cover everyone’s care. ## Setting an Example for Your Kids Children pick up habits by watching the adults around them. When your kids see you keep your own dental appointments, regular checkups become normal rather than something to dread. Familiarity also helps: a child who’s already been in our office for a parent’s appointment tends to feel more at ease at their own first visit. ## A Practice That Knows Your Family Seeing the same practice over years builds familiarity on both sides. Our team gets to know your family, and your family gets comfortable with us, which tends to make visits easier for everyone, especially kids who might otherwise feel nervous about the dentist. ## Built Around Your Family and Your Schedule Reflection Dental accepts most major insurance plans, and our team will walk you through your coverage for every family member before treatment begins. Evening appointments are available Tuesday and Thursday until 7:00 PM, which makes it easier to book multiple family members without pulling everyone out of school or work during the day. Dr. Patalia takes a personalized approach with every patient, whether that’s a first cleaning for a five-year-old or a restorative visit for a grandparent. ## Schedule Your Family’s Next Visit Ready to bring your whole family to one practice? [Contact Reflection Dental](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/#contact-form) today or call [(630) 426-1300](tel:16304261300) to schedule appointments for your family in Lombard. --- ### [Smile Makeover](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/smile-makeover/) **Published:** January 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** A smile makeover combines whitening, veneers, and other cosmetic treatments into one plan built around your goals. Reflection Dental serves Lombard families with evening hours, most insurance accepted, and a personalized approach from Dr. Patalia. **Content:** ## Smile Makeover in Lombard, IL Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and it plays a real role in how confident you feel day to day. A smile makeover is not a single procedure. It’s a plan that combines the treatments your smile actually needs, whether that’s whitening, veneers, straighter teeth, or a mix of the three. At Reflection Dental, Dr. Patalia builds that plan around your goals and your timeline, not a standard package. ## What a Smile Makeover Can Include [Teeth Whitening](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/teeth-whitening/): Years of coffee, tea, or nicotine can leave teeth discolored. Professional whitening lifts stains far more effectively than store-bought kits, often in a single visit. [Veneers](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/veneers/): Thin, custom-made shells cover chips, discoloration, and minor gaps in a single treatment. Veneers are one of the most requested smile makeover components because they address several issues at once. [Invisalign](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/): If crowding or spacing is part of what’s holding your smile back, Invisalign straightens teeth with clear, removable aligners instead of metal brackets. Some smile makeover plans also call for a [crown](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/crowns/) to repair a chipped or broken tooth. Dr. Patalia will let you know if a crown fits into your plan alongside your cosmetic treatment. ## What to Expect Your first appointment is a conversation, not a commitment. Dr. Patalia examines your teeth, takes X-rays, and asks about your goals and your dental history before recommending anything. For treatments like veneers, you’ll typically see a mock-up of your new smile before moving forward, so you know what to expect before any permanent work begins. Timelines vary by treatment. In-office whitening is usually a single appointment of about an hour. Veneers involve more steps, including preparing the tooth and sending impressions to a lab, so the full process from consultation to final placement generally spans a few weeks. ## Built Around Your Family and Your Schedule Reflection Dental accepts most major insurance plans, and our team will walk you through your coverage as part of your smile makeover consultation. Evening appointments are available Tuesday and Thursday until 7:00 PM, making it easier to fit consultations and follow-ups around work or school. Dr. Patalia takes a personalized approach with every patient, whether you’re a teenager starting Invisalign or an adult combining whitening and veneers into one plan. ## Ready to Start Your Smile Makeover? The best way to find out which treatments fit your goals is a consultation with our team. [Contact Reflection Dental](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/#contact-form) today or call [(630) 426-1300](tel:16304261300) to schedule your smile makeover consultation in Lombard. --- ### [Invisalign Treatment](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/) **Published:** January 13, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Invisalign gives teens and adults in Lombard a discreet way to straighten their smile. Reflection Dental builds a personalized plan around your teeth, your schedule, and your goals, with evening appointments and most insurance accepted. **Content:** ## Invisalign Treatment in Lombard, IL Straighter teeth do not have to mean metal brackets and wires. Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made trays to move your teeth gradually, without the look or the hassle of traditional braces. Reflection Dental offers Invisalign to teens and adults across Lombard and the surrounding area, with a treatment plan built around your teeth and your schedule. ## What Is Invisalign? Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using a series of clear, removable aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. Each set of aligners is custom-made from BPA-free plastic, so they fit closely and stay far less noticeable than traditional braces. Because the trays are removable, you brush, floss, and eat normally throughout treatment, something traditional braces don’t allow. For patients who want straighter teeth without the appearance of hardware, Invisalign is one of the most popular options we offer. ## Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign? Invisalign corrects a wide range of alignment issues: mild overbites and underbites, gaps between teeth, crowding, protruding teeth, and open bites. Adults and older teenagers tend to be the best candidates, since their jaws have finished growing and they’re able to keep the removable trays in for the recommended hours each day. Invisalign is not the right fit for every case. Severe bite issues that require jaw repositioning typically call for a different approach, which our team will walk you through during your exam. Even when Invisalign is right for one family member and not another, Reflection Dental treats patients of every age. Bring your teenager in for an Invisalign consultation and schedule the rest of the family’s dental care on the same visit. ## The Invisalign Process at Reflection Dental **Initial Screening**: We examine your teeth and take X-rays and 3D scans to map the exact position of your teeth and the issues we’re treating. Those scans go to the lab to build your custom aligners. **First Appointment**: If your case calls for them, we place small, tooth-colored attachments on certain teeth. These act as grip points that help each aligner apply the right pressure in the right spot. **Your First Set of Aligners**: You’ll receive your first several sets of aligners once the lab completes them. Dr. Patalia determines how long you wear each tray before moving to the next one, based on how your teeth respond. **Follow-Up Visits**: Most patients come in every six to eight weeks so we can check your progress and hand off the next set of aligners. Outside of those visits, you keep your normal routine. ## Built Around Your Family and Your Schedule Reflection Dental accepts most major insurance plans, and our team will walk you through your coverage before treatment starts. Evening appointments are available Tuesday and Thursday until 7:00 PM, so fitting Invisalign check-ins around work or school is easier. Dr. Patalia builds every plan around your teeth and your goals rather than a standard package, so your timeline and your results are specific to you. ## Ready to Get Started? The best way to find out if Invisalign is right for you is a conversation with our team. Schedule a [free Invisalign consultation,](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/free-invisalign-consultation/) ask about [financing and insurance](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/financing-insurance/), or [contact](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/#contact-form) Reflection Dental today. Call [(630) 426-1300](tel:16304261300) to schedule your Invisalign consultation in Lombard. --- ### [Cosmetic](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental brings cosmetic dentistry to Lombard families of every age, from teeth whitening and veneers to Invisalign and full smile makeovers. Dr. Patalia builds each treatment plan around your goals, your schedule, and your smile. **Content:** ## Cosmetic Dentistry in Lombard, IL A smile you’re proud to share starts with the right dentist. At Reflection Dental, Dr. Patalia works with patients of every age in Lombard and the surrounding communities to build cosmetic treatment plans around each patient’s goals. We see teens preparing for their first job interview, parents closing a gap they’ve noticed since childhood, and grandparents ready for a brighter smile in retirement. Whatever brought you here, we have options to fit your life and your budget. ## Cosmetic Dentistry Services We Offer [**Invisalign Treatment**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/): Straighten your teeth without traditional metal brackets. Invisalign works for teens and adults alike, and we offer a free consultation to see if it’s right for you. [**Teeth Whitening**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/teeth-whitening/): Professional in-office whitening lifts stains from coffee, wine, and everyday life far more effectively than store-bought kits, often in a single visit. [**Home Whitening**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/home-whitening/): Prefer to whiten on your own schedule? We provide custom trays and professional-grade gel you use at home, with the same dentist-guided results. [**Veneers**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/veneers/): Thin, custom-made shells correct chips, discoloration, and gaps in a single cohesive treatment, giving you a natural-looking, uniform smile. [**Smile Makeover**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/smile-makeover/): When more than one issue is holding your smile back, we combine treatments such as whitening, veneers, and bonding into one coordinated plan. [**Gummy Smile Contouring**](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/gummy-smile-contouring/): If excess gum tissue makes your teeth look short or uneven, we reshape the gumline to reveal more of your natural tooth structure. ## Built Around Your Family and Your Schedule Reflection Dental treats patients of every age, so you can bring your teenager in for an Invisalign consultation and book your own whitening appointment on the same trip. We accept most major dental insurance plans, and our team will walk you through your coverage before any treatment begins. Evening appointments are available Tuesday and Thursday until 7:00 PM, so a cosmetic consultation does not mean taking time off work or pulling your child out of school. Dr. Patalia takes a personalized approach to every treatment plan. Rather than recommending a standard package, we start by listening to what you want your smile to do for you, then build a plan around that goal. ## Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for Me? The best way to find out is a conversation with our team. Schedule a [free Invisalign consultation](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/free-invisalign-consultation/) or ask about our [$375 in-office teeth whitening special](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/375-in-office-teeth-whitening/) to get started. [Contact](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/#contact-form) Reflection Dental today or call [(630) 426-1300](tel:16304261300) to schedule your cosmetic consultation in Lombard. --- ### [FAQs](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/faqs/) **Published:** December 21, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Do you have questions about your oral health? Reflection Dental has compiled answers to just a few of our most commonly asked questions below. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Frequently Asked Questions Please see the answers to some of our more frequently asked questions. If your question isn’t answered here, please [contact our office](/contact/ "Contact") and let our dental professionals help. [dipl_faq_page_schema closed_toggle_icon=”||fa||900″ closed_icon_color=”#FFFFFF” open_toggle_icon=”||fa||900″ open_icon_color=”#0C71C3″ closed_toggle_bg_color=”#0C71C3″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” faq_heading_level=”h3″ faq_question_closed_text_color=”#FFFFFF” faq_question_closed_font_size=”23px” faq_question_open_text_color=”#0C71C3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”Can my whole family see the same dentist at Reflection Dental?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Yes! [Family dentistry](/services/treatments/family-dentistry/) at Reflection Dental means your kids, you, and even grandparents can all be treated by a team that gets to know their dental history over time, instead of switching providers as their needs change. Our office accepts most dental insurance plans, so scheduling everyone under one roof doesn’t add hassle. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”What cosmetic dentistry treatments do you offer?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Reflection Dental offers a full range of [cosmetic dentistry](/services/cosmetic/) options, including: - [Invisalign](/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/) and clear braces for straightening - [Veneers](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/veneers/) and [bonding](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/bonding/) for chipped or uneven teeth - [In-office](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/teeth-whitening/) and [take-home](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/home-whitening/) teeth whitening - [Smile makeovers](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/smile-makeover/) that combine multiple treatments into one plan Not sure which option fits your smile goals? [Contact our office](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/#contact-form), and we’ll help you build a plan during your consultation. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”What should I do if I have a dental emergency during a busy workday?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][Dental emergencies](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/emergencies/) like severe pain, a knocked-out tooth, or facial swelling don’t wait for a convenient time, and neither should treatment. That’s part of why we built our schedule around working patients: we’re open until 7:00 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays and until 6:00 PM on Mondays, so an emergency doesn’t have to mean missing a full day of work. Call us at [(630) 426-1300](tel:16304261300) as soon as symptoms start, and our team will tell you exactly what to do before you get here. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”How long does Invisalign treatment take?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Treatment length depends on how much movement your teeth need, but most patients complete [Invisalign](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/) faster than they would with traditional metal braces. After an initial exam and 3D scans, you’ll get a personalized plan, and follow-up visits are typically scheduled every six to eight weeks so our team can check your progress and give you your next set of aligners. Curious what your own timeline might look like? [Schedule your free Invisalign consultation](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/free-invisalign-consultation/), and we’ll map it out for you. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”How long does a smile makeover take?” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]It depends on which treatments are part of your plan. [Teeth whitening](/services/cosmetic/teeth-whitening/) can transform your smile in about an hour, while [veneers](/services/cosmetic/veneers/) typically take about three weeks from your first appointment to final placement, since each one is custom-made for your teeth. Because a smile makeover can combine whitening, veneers, [crowns](/services/restoration/crowns/), [bonding](/services/treatments/bonding/), or [Invisalign](/services/cosmetic/invisalign-treatment/), your dentist will lay out a specific timeline once we understand exactly what you want to change about your smile. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”How often do I need to visit the dentist?” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]It is recommended that you visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. Regular cleaning appointments keep your teeth cleaner than just brushing and flossing at home, and the exam allows our dental team to catch potential problems early. If you are experiencing gum disease or other problems, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to treat this condition. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”It has been a while since my last dental visit, what should I do?” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]We understand that sometimes it can be difficult to schedule regular dental appointments. It is never too late to get your oral health back on track, so we recommend scheduling an appointment with our team as soon as possible to treat any potential complications. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”How can I whiten my teeth?” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]A beautiful smile with bright, white teeth can be a huge boost to your confidence. As we age, most people will see some discoloration of their teeth from both surface and internal stains. Our dental office has a number of options available to get a brighter smile, from in-office whitening treatments to dental veneers. Our dental team can help you get the beautiful smile you have always wanted! [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”Why are my teeth sensitive?” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Tooth sensitivity can cause you to feel pain when eating food or drinks that are hot or cold. Sensitivity can be caused by a number of factors including: - Gum Recession - Grinding your teeth while sleeping - Teeth Whitening - Fractured or Chipped Teeth If you are experiencing sensitivity in your teeth, contact our office today and schedule a consultation with our dental professionals. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][dipl_faq_page_schema_item faq_question=”What is gum disease?” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” question_heading_level=”h3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Gum disease, which is also known as periodontal disease, is caused by bacteria invading your gums. As gum disease progresses your gums will appear red and swollen and will bleed easily. Gum disease can also cause bad breath and sensitivity in your teeth. If gum disease is left untreated it can lead to pain, abscesses, or even tooth loss. It is important to visit our dental team regularly to catch gum disease before it becomes a more serious issue. [/dipl_faq_page_schema_item][/dipl_faq_page_schema] ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Office Tour](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/office-tour/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental would like to welcome you to our dental office. Below you will find more information about our location, get directions, and see photos of our office. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Our Dental Office At Reflection Dental we have been providing dental care to a long list of happy and satisfied patients. As our patient, our goal is to provide you with expert dental care with a personal touch. > Your comfort and convenience are our number one priority at Reflection Dental. Our dental team doesn’t mind going the extra mile to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed during your visit. Our office uses the latest in dental technology to provide you and your family with excellent oral health care. We understand that some patients may feel anxious about visiting the dentist, and our team wants to make sure you have a positive experience. Learn more about our dental office on this page, and please feel free to contact us if you have any questions before your visit. Office Info ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Smile Gallery](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/smile-gallery/) **Published:** December 21, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** A picture is worth a thousand words! Below are just a few of the before and after photos from our great patients. Look at those beautiful smiles! **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ [dipl_before_after_slider before_image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smile-Gallery-Before.jpg” show_before_label=”on” before_label=”Before” after_image=”https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smile-Gallery-After.jpg” show_after_label=”on” after_label=”After” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” title_text=”Smile Gallery After” sticky_enabled=”0″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” alt=”Smile Gallery After”][/dipl_before_after_slider] ## Our Patients’ Smile Transformations Your smile is often the first thing people see, and Reflection Dental wants to help you make a great first impression. This smile gallery features just a few examples of the smile transformations that have come from our office. > Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. Ready to transform your smile? [Contact our office](/contact/) and schedule a consultation with our team today. ## Amalgam to Composite Restoration ## Invisalign ## Upper Anterior Porcelain Crowns ## Bonding ## Veneers ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Contact](https://www.reflectdental.com/contact/) **Published:** December 21, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** The team at Reflection Dental is excited to welcome you to our dental office. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your appointment. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Contact Form off ## Get In Touch Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ## Contact Us Anytime We encourage you to reach out to our office with any questions or concerns you may have. You can contact our office using the methods below, or send us an email using the contact us form. We look forward to hearing from you soon! > Request An Appointment Today! \*Please note that requesting an appointment using this form does not guarantee that time. A member of our team will reach out to confirm your appointment. Please do not submit appointment cancellations from this form and instead contact our office by phone ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Exam & X-Ray for only $99](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/exam-x-ray-for-only-99/) **Published:** June 22, 2025 **Author:** Rocio Bernal **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMz4iLCJhZnRlciI6IiJ9fQ==@ Exam & X-Ray for only $99\* #### You’ll want to **feel comfortable** with your new dentist, and this is a great **way** for you to see if you like the Reflection Dental team. Fill out the form on the right to receive an exam and x-ray for only $99\* Request an appointment today and mention this offer. ​ Request an Appointment \*New patients only. --- ### [About](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental has been providing dental care to a long list of happy and satisfied clients. Convenience and comfort are the two hallmarks of our office. We have a state-of-the-art facility to ensure the highest quality dental care. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## What Sets Reflection Dental Apart? At Reflection Dental, you’ll discover a refreshingly honest approach to your oral health. Here are just a few of the ways we set ourselves apart from other dental offices. #### 1. No Pressure Environment Our staff won’t pressure you into treatments you don’t truly need. Instead, you’ll experience genuine, no-strings-attached consultations where your questions are welcomed, and your choices are respected. #### 2. Transparent Recommendations From your first visit, you’ll receive transparent recommendations designed around your unique needs so you can feel confident and fully informed about your dental care. #### 3. Zero Judgment Reflection Dental is more than just a dental office, we’ve created a warm, judgment-free environment where you can feel at ease. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or it’s been years since your last appointment, you’ll be greeted with compassion. #### 4. Extended Office Hours We make it easy to request your appointment around your busy schedule with extended office hours. #### 5. Payment Options We’re in-network with most major insurances, and our team will walk you through our clear pricing and flexible payment options. No rushed appointments, no surprise bills, just personalized and thoughtful dentistry that puts your comfort and peace of mind first. [Request an Appointment](/contact/) today! ## Our Mission in Dentistry At Reflection Dental, we value our patients and our relationships with them. Our office strives to provide the best experience for each and every patient who trusts us with their care. Our office’s philosophy is driven by commitment, compassion, and consistency. > Delivering positive transformations to your oral health and overall well-being. Our office aims to earn your trust by providing excellent dental care in a relaxing and comfortable environment. Our team works together to make your satisfaction our primary focus. We can’t wait to help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful, schedule your first appointment today! Meet the Doctor Learn more about our dentist and their mission in dentistry. Office Tour Tour our practice facilities to see how we care for our patients. Meet the Team Learn more about the friendly dental team at Reflection Dental. Reviews Read the wonderful things that our patients say about us. Smile Gallery Check out pictures of the teeth of our satisfied patients. FAQs Ready to learn more? View our most frequently asked questions. ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Patient Forms](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/patient-forms/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Don't want to spend fill out paperwork before your dental appointment? The below forms can be completed before your visit to Reflection Dental to reduce your stress in the dental office. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Online Patient Forms The below patient forms can be completed online before your visit to Reflection Dental. Click the links below to get started! Patient Intake Form Click here to access our patient intake form to complete ahead of time. Patient Intake Form (Spanish) Click here to access our patient intake form to complete ahead of time. ## Printable Patient Forms If you do not complete the online forms above, the below patient forms can be printed and completed before your visit to Reflection Dental. Please bring the completed forms with you during your appointment. Patient Intake Form Click here to access our patient intake form to download, print, or complete ahead of time. Patient Intake Form (Spanish) Click here to access our patient intake form to download, print, or complete ahead of time. Disclosure & Consent Click here to access our disclosure and consent form to download, print, or complete ahead of time. ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Financing & Insurance](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/financing-insurance/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Are you unsure about your dental insurance or financing your treatment? The team at Reflection Dental is here to help, and we have put together this page to keep you informed. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Request an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Payments and Financing Is it time for a visit to a dental office, but you are worried about the bill since you don’t have dental insurance? Don’t worry if you don’t have a dental insurance plan, because there are many other payment options that you can choose from. Here at Reflection Dental, we want to be sure that every person has access to the dental services that they need. We accept most major insurance plans, and we will make an effort to help with the billing process. Additionally, you might consider a few other options: > ## In-Office Dental Membership No Insurance? No Problem! Access high-quality dental care at prices you will love! We have an in-office dental membership that is available for families and individuals which includes: - No Yearly Maximums - No Deductibles - No Claim Forms - No Pre-Authorization Requirements - No Pre-Existing Condition Limitations - Immediate Eligibility (No Waiting Period) - Free Consultation Our focus is on disease prevention as well as early diagnosis. We encourage you to contact us to learn more about how this in-office dental plan can be used. > ## Financing Available [![](https://www.reflectdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Care-Credit-Button-300x183-1.png)](https://www.carecredit.com/apply/confirm.html?encm=VjdWb1c1B2IAPFYyBDAPZlRuA2ZTPAAwA28DNFQ-AjM) If you don’t have the cash to pay for your dental treatments, but you need to visit our office, you should consider the benefits of the [CareCredit](https://www.carecredit.com/apply/confirm.html?encm=VjdWb1c1B2IAPFYyBDAPZlRuA2ZTPAAwA28DNFQ-AjM) program, which offers financial assistance to patients like you. This service allows you to finance the treatments and make installment payments through a third-party financer. Once you are approved for [CareCredit](https://www.carecredit.com/apply/confirm.html?encm=VjdWb1c1B2IAPFYyBDAPZlRuA2ZTPAAwA28DNFQ-AjM), you will have the benefit of no interest for 12 months. Since there is no prepayment penalty, you can pay off your dental services in the timeframe that works best for you. Here at Reflection Dental, we want to make it easy for you to access the dental services that you need. We invite you to contact our team anytime to learn more about the payment options that you can choose from. Call us today! ## Insurance Billing Do you have a dental insurance plan? Most of these plans are accepted in our office, and we can typically file the majority of treatment claims with your insurance company. You will pay your estimated co-pay at the time of the visit; then we will give the insurance company time to pay their portion. Our team will discuss this with you and answer any questions you may have. ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Text Us: (630) 426-1300 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Free Invisalign Consultation](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/free-invisalign-consultation/) **Published:** June 23, 2025 **Author:** Rocio Bernal **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMz4iLCJhZnRlciI6IiJ9fQ==@ Free Invisalign Consultation #### See if Invisalign Clear Aligners are right for you. Fill out the form on the right for your free Invisalign consultation at Reflection Dental.\* Request an appointment today and mention this offer ​ Request an Appointment \*New patients only. --- ### [$50 Off Any Dental Procedure](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/50-off-any-dental-procedure/) **Published:** June 23, 2025 **Author:** Rocio Bernal **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMz4iLCJhZnRlciI6IiJ9fQ==@ $50 Off Any Dental Procedure #### Fill out the form on the right to receive $50 off of any dental procedure at Reflection Dental.\* Request an appointment today and mention this offer ​ Request an Appointment \*New patients only. Redeemable following a comprehensive exam, X-ray & cleaning appointment. --- ### [$375 In-Office Teeth Whitening](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/375-in-office-teeth-whitening/) **Published:** June 23, 2025 **Author:** Rocio Bernal **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMz4iLCJhZnRlciI6IiJ9fQ==@ $375 In-Office Teeth Whitening #### Get a brighter smile with teeth whitening at Reflection Dental. Fill out the form on the right for a $375 In-Office Teeth Whitening.\* Request an appointment today and mention this offer ​ Request an Appointment \*New patients only. Redeemable following a comprehensive exam, X-ray & cleaning appointment. --- ### [Reviews](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/reviews/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** At Reflection Dental we love to hear from our happy patients! We've included a few of our favorite testimonials we have received below. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Read What Our Wonderful Patients Have to Say The best reviews we can receive are from our happy and satisfied patients. Our team goes the extra mile to make all visitors to our office feel welcomed and comfortable. Below are just a few of the great testimonials we have received from our patients, and we hope to see you as a patient soon! ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Fax: (855) 710-6255 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Meet the Doctor](https://www.reflectdental.com/about/meet-the-doctor/) **Published:** April 22, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Meet the dental professionals at Reflection Dental. We are proud to offer the best dental care to our patients and look forward to seeing you at your next visit to our dental office. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Meet Your Dentist Our skilled dental team is here to help you keep your smile healthy and bright. Learn more about our team below, and we look forward to seeing you in the office soon! ### Dr. Mohit Patalia Dr. Mohit Patalia graduated with honors from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska with a bachelors degree in Biology. During his undergraduate studies, he worked as a dental assistant where he fell in love with the profession. He then continued to attend Creighton University School of Dentistry where he earned his dental degree. Following graduation, he was accepted into a one year General Practice Residency program at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Patalia is proud to provide comprehensive dental care to adults and children of Lombard and neighboring communities. His commitment to patient care and continuing education allows him to further his dental knowledge and provide his patients with the latest dental techniques. His philosophy is to take time to know his patients and listen to their concerns. Using this information, he will develop your individualized, comprehensive treatment plan to accommodate your goals. Dr. Patalia is currently a member of: Academy of General Dentistry American Dental Association Illinois State Dental Society Chicago Dental Society Doctor Patalia and his family reside in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. When he is not working, he likes to spend time with his family and friends. ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Fax: (855) 710-6255 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Special Offers](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/special-offers/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental has a number of special offers for our patients. Read below to learn more about the specials that are available right now. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule an Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Special Offers for New and Current Patients Are you looking for a new dentist in your area? Reflection Dental is proud to offer the following special offers for new and existing dental patients. To claim these offers, please print the coupon and bring it with you to your scheduled appointment. You should also mention this offer when scheduling your appointment so our team is aware of it. Do you have questions about any of the special offers listed on this page? Don’t hesitate to [contact us](/contact/) today and let our friendly team help you. Exam & X-Ray for only $99 Free Invisalign Consultation $50 Off Any Dental Procedure $375 In-Office Teeth Whitening $99 New Patient Special Claim Offer Our $99 New Patient Special\* includes the following: - Standard Dental Cleaning - Dental X-Rays - Comprehensive Exam \*$99 New Patient Special only available to new patients of Reflection Dental. Bring this coupon with you during your visit. ## Dentist Near You Address: 346 E North Ave Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: (630) 426-1300 Fax: (855) 710-6255 Email: smiles@reflectdental.com Hours Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: By Appointment Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed ### Excellence in Dental Care for the Entire Family ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy and bright. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Gummy Smile Contouring](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/gummy-smile-contouring/) **Published:** June 22, 2025 **Author:** Rocio Bernal **Excerpt:** Don’t let a gummy smile or uneven gum line impact your smile. Gummy Smile Contouring can help ensure your gums match your teeth. **Content:** ## What is Gummy Smile Contouring? An uneven gum line or a gummy smile can have a negative impact on the overall appearance of a person’s smile. When you smile, you want to show people your beautiful teeth instead of a smile with unattractive gums. We can use a laser treatment to contour the gums in the right way to match your teeth. The benefit of using a laser for gummy smile contouring is that the laser is more comfortable, and it is less invasive compared with methods that were used in the past. The laser is used to shape the gums into a symmetrical line and eliminate overgrown gum areas. When a laser is used for gum contouring, you can enjoy the benefits of a comfortable experience and fast healing after the appointment. Examples of common gum treatments that are completed with a laser include both periodontal gum therapy and a frenectomy. These treatments are determined on a case-by-case basis for each patient. Learn more about Gummy Smile Contouring by visiting our Lombard dental office today. --- ### [Sterilization](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/sterilization/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Our dental team at Reflection Dental uses a sterilization process to ensure our dental tools and equipment are thoroughly clean and completely safe for our patients. **Content:** ## Importance of Instrument Sterilization Dentistry is a health care profession that strives to provide a safe and comfortable environment for its patients in the Lombard area. As a result, the [American Dental Association](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/infection-control-and-sterilization) (ADA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have instituted protocols to prevent cross-infection among dental patients. Each time dental instruments are used on a patient, they must be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. To begin, let’s familiarize you with some terminology associated with cross-infection control at our dental practice in Lombard: - **Cleaning**. Cleaning dental instruments with water and soap are essential before sterilization or disinfection. Cleaning dental instruments involve removing bacteria or debris and preparing the instruments for sterilization or disinfection. - **Disinfecting**. Disinfection removes microbes on instruments using liquid disinfectants. Bacterial spores, however, are not removed in this manner. - **Sterilization**. When done correctly, sterilization kills all bacteria on the surface of dental instruments, including bacterial spores. ## Controlling Cross-Contamination The [CDC categorizes dental instruments](https://www.dentalytec.com/en/sterilization-disinfection-methods-dentistry/#_ftn1) into three categories based on their potential for transmitting bacteria to patients and dental care providers: - **Critical Instruments**. Any instrument that penetrates soft tissues or bone or enters the bloodstream is considered critical, including forceps and scalpels. Sterilization of these instruments by heat, dry or chemical processes is mandatory after each use. - **Semi-critical Instruments**. These instruments do not penetrate oral tissues. Nevertheless, they come in contact with the mucous membrane of the mouth or non-intact skin. Among semi-critical instruments are dental mirrors, amalgam condensers, and impression trays. CDC guidelines recommend sterilizing instruments after every use. As an alternative, an EPA-registered high-level disinfectant can be used. - **Non-critical Instruments**. Only intact skin and mucous membranes are in contact with these instruments, which include X-ray heads and pulse oximeters. There is a low risk of cross-infection with these instruments. Our dental team can use a low-level or intermediate disinfectant to clean them. ## Sterilization of Tools and Instruments at the Dentist’s Office A dental autoclave is a machine that sterilizes tools by using high pressure and temperatures. It’s used to sterilize mouth mirrors, forceps, and dental scalers. For sterility reasons, some equipment is single use only. Surgical masks, gloves, cotton rolls, syringe needles, and other items that are specific to one patient are considered disposable. All the instruments used to remove saliva have replaceable tips that are discarded after each patient, including suction devices, air syringes, and water syringes. ### How Is The Rest Of The Dental Office Sanitized? The most commonly touched areas of our office are regularly disinfected with hospital-grade solutions. Commonly touched areas include doorknobs, light switches, faucets, countertops, and waiting room chairs. Many items inside our dental office are covered with plastic, such as the overhead light and the dental chair. After every patient leaves the exam room, all plastic covers are replaced and disinfected. Our dentist and their team always do their utmost to ensure the cleanliness of your dental office. In today’s world, it is more important than ever for our dentist to protect themselves, their teams, and their patients. These routine procedures at Reflection Dental allow you to visit with peace of mind, knowing you are in safe hands. Schedule an appointment today with our dental team in Lombard. --- ### [Digital X-Rays](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/digital-x-rays/) **Published:** March 29, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Digital X-rays at Reflection Dental give our dental professionals amazing insights into your oral health. Discover the benefits, types of digital X-rays, and methods of this non-invasive technology. **Content:** ## What are Digital X-Rays? A digital dental X-ray gives Reflection Dental a more complete view of your oral health than a regular exam. This technology, also called digital radiography, furnishes a detailed picture of the teeth, bones, and soft tissues surrounding your teeth and jawbones. Consequently, your dentist can identify and address developmental problems, damage, or disease before they escalate. ## Benefits of Digital X-Rays ### Immediate Access [Digital X-rays](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5705895/) produce an image readily displayed on a screen. This saves time over waiting for conventional X-rays to develop. Your dental professional can also enhance digital X-rays to optimize their usefulness in diagnosing and treatment planning. ### Environmentally Friendly Storage Digitized dental X-ray images are easily scanned for electronic storage and transmittal. In addition, they’re much easier to retrieve and share than conventional X-rays. Further, digitization does not require the use of hazardous chemicals and increasing physical storage space. ### Lower Radiation Research suggests that digital X-ray equipment produces up to 70% less radiation than traditional X-ray equipment. This means that you may incur significantly lower risks of side effects from long-term X-ray exposure. ## Methods of Digitizing Dental X-Rays Your dental office can use direct, indirect, or semi-indirect methods to digitize and scan your images. With the direct method, dental assistants place an electronic sensor in the mouth to record images. The indirect digital method utilizes an X-ray film scanner which views standard dental X-rays as digital images. The semi-indirect method combines a sensor and scanner to transform conventional dental X-rays into digital film. ## Types of Digital Dental X-Rays The dental professionals at Reflection Dental take intraoral digital images inside the mouth or extraoral images outside the mouth. Intraoral X-rays are the most common type. Their sharp detail makes them ideal for detecting cavities, checking developing teeth, and assessing teeth and bone health. Extraoral X-rays pinpoint impacted teeth, observe jaw development and check for potential issues between teeth, jaws, and other facial bones. ### Intraoral X-rays - **Bitewing X-rays:** used to find decay between teeth and bone density changes caused by gum disease. Also used to determine fits for same-day crowns. - **Periapical X-rays**: used to explore root structure and surrounding bone structure. Aids in diagnosing advanced gum disease and abscesses. ### Extraoral X-rays - [**Panoramic X-rays**](https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/panoramic-xray)**:** used in detecting impacted wisdom teeth, diagnosing bony tumors, and planning treatment for dental implants. - [**Cephalometric projections**](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/cephalometry)**:** help examine teeth in relation to the jaw and profile. Used in developing orthodontic treatment plans. - [**Multi-slice computed tomography (MCT)**](https://www.nature.com/articles/ijos201722)**:** displays a chosen layer or “slice” of the mouth. Used to examine structures that are otherwise difficult to see. - [**Dental Cone-beam Computed Tomography**](https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-x-ray-imaging/dental-cone-beam-computed-tomography) **(CBCT):** builds a 3D image of your teeth, mouth, and jaw. Can extract information about nerve pathways, bone health, and soft tissues in addition to the tooth structure to minimize invasive measures. Digital X-rays are an important part of your dental treatment plan. To limit your exposure to radiation, your dentist should perform only as many X-rays as necessary for a thorough examination. Feel free to ask our dental professionals here at Reflection Dental about the frequency or types of digital X-rays they use or recommend. Schedule a dental exam today and let our team help keep your smile healthy and bright. --- ### [Teeth Whitening](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/teeth-whitening/) **Published:** November 12, 2023 **Author:** Mill Richards **Excerpt:** Professional teeth whitening can yield results of up to 10 shades of brighter tooth enamel. Our dental professionals can help you achieve a whiter and brighter smile with in-office whitening. **Content:** ## What is Teeth Whitening? Bright tooth enamel makes a person look younger, healthier, and more attractive, so it’s no wonder that across the globe teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. With professional teeth whitening, patients avoid the expense of invasive cosmetic bonding or veneers to achieve whiter tooth enamel. Reflection Dental’s professional teeth whitening produces amazing results in as little as one hour. ## Why Teeth Whitening Works Dentist-prescribed teeth whitening contains a higher concentration of active ingredients than store-bought products like toothpaste, gels, rinses, strips, and pens. The “magic” ingredient in whitening products is carbamide peroxide, which turns into hydrogen peroxide in the mouth. Safe and effective, hydrogen peroxide penetrates tooth enamel to remove stains, without harming the enamel itself. ## Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening If you have good oral hygiene and no gum disease, our in-office teeth whitening may be the ideal solution for brightening your smile. In-office teeth whitening offers the advantage of professional supervision, fewer sensitivity issues, and results that are faster and last for longer. Our dentist will explain the teeth whitening procedure and what to expect. ## Benefits of Teeth Whitening Cosmetic dentistry, including whitening teeth, can improve not only your self-esteem but how others view you, as well. The [American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) conducted a poll](https://aacd.com/cmsproxy/236/files/Can%20a%20new%20smile%20make%20you%20appear%20more%20intelligent.pdf) that found after cosmetic dental enhancements, participants appeared more attractive, intelligent, successful, and friendly. They were even thought to be more kind, interesting, sensitive, and wealthy, all based on alterations to their smiles. A brighter smile has professional benefits you may not have considered, too. A study by Kelton Research found that over half of participating teeth whitening patients were offered a job and a higher salary than those who did not undergo whitening. Furthermore, after whitening, participants felt more confident, had a more positive attitude, and felt better about their appearance. ## When Whitening Won’t Work Chemical teeth whitening is not effective for bleaching bonding, fillings, crowns, veneers, or other prosthetics. Carbamide peroxide brightens natural tooth enamel only. If you have restorations or prosthetic teeth, they will require replacement if you want them brightened. Many patients opt to undergo professional teeth whitening prior to having any restorations or prosthetics made. After your teeth are lightened, then we can shade-match new restorations and/or prosthetics to match the brightened enamel. Should your teeth discolor afterward, simply undergo another session of whitening to bring enamel back to the shade that matches your restorations and/or prosthetics. ## Call Today for a Brighter Smile Professional, dentist-prescribed teeth whitening will produce noticeable results in a few days. If you’d like to look younger, healthier, and more attractive, or if you plan to attend job interviews in the near future, schedule an appointment at Reflection Dental in Lombard today. --- ### [Scaling and Root Planing](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/scaling-and-root-planing/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** If you have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontal disease, the dental professionals at Reflection Dental may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure. **Content:** ## What does Scaling & Root Planing Do for Your Dental Health? Scaling and root planing is a dental treatment that removes hardened plaque and calculus from below the gum line. When left untreated, a buildup can lead to periodontal disease. Early periodontal disease is referred to as gingivitis, a condition that can be reversed with appropriate dental hygiene as well as scaling, and root planing procedures. Learning about the signs and symptoms of [early periodontal disease](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gingivitis) and the treatments available at Reflection Dental in Lombard is a good way to start taking care of your dental health. ## Gingivitis and Gum Disease According to the American Dental Association, approximately 42% of [adults ](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/oral-systemic-health)[aged](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/oral-systemic-health)[ 30 years and older](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/oral-systemic-health) have some form of gum disease. Gingivitis is sometimes referred to as the ‘[Silent Invader](https://www.drnemeth.com/the-silent-invader-periodontal-disease/)‘ because it doesn’t cause pain in the early stages. Over time, untreated gingivitis can cause inflammation of the gums, causing them to bleed easily when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is often caused by improper flossing and brushing, allowing plaque to adhere to the teeth, eventually hardening and creating tartar. Plaque and tartar [contain bacteria](https://www.myidealdental.com/blog/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-tartar/) that irritate the gums and erode tooth enamel. While soft plaque can be removed with proper toothbrushing, mouth rinses, and flossing, hardened tartar should be removed by one of our dental professionals at Reflection Dental. In addition to inadequate oral hygiene, certain individuals may be predisposed to gum disease due to genetics. Menstruating and pregnant females may also experience a condition referred to as hormonal gingivitis, which is caused by hormone fluctuations. Women need to take extra care of their teeth and gums during these times to prevent further issues. ## Periodontal Pockets Excess tartar buildup beneath the gum line can cause pockets to form around the teeth. When pockets develop, the teeth and gums are more vulnerable to bacteria, and hardened tartar can [destroy the bone structure of the tooth](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354473), leading to tooth loss. During dental check-ups, our dentists use a probe to measure pocket depths. Pockets that measure 3 mm or less are considered healthy, while pockets measuring 4 mm or higher can [signify gum disease](https://www.mccarldental.com/blog/periodontal-pocket-depths/). We often recommend teeth scaling and root planing when they detect pockets measuring over 3 mm. ## Scaling and Root Planing Procedures At Reflection Dental, scaling and root planing procedures are often completed over two appointments where two quadrants of the mouth are treated. Scaling and root planing are performed on an outpatient basis and take an hour or two to complete. During teeth scaling and root planing procedures, the dentist numbs the gums and tooth roots with a topical anesthetic or local anesthetic, depending on the extent of tartar buildup. The procedure can be painful for some of our patients due to the intensity of cleaning. Once the mouth is numbed, the dentist uses special tools to [remove tartar from the tooth roots](https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/tartar-plaque/dental-scaling-and-root-planing-explained) and on the teeth below the gum line. After tartar removal, the dentist smooths out rough spots on the roots to allow the gums to heal and form a tight seal around each affected tooth. Immediately following a deep cleaning, the gums may feel sensitive. It’s important to follow after-care instructions that may include rinsing with a prescription mouthwash or saltwater and avoiding certain foods while the gums heal. Most patients can expect to see results within eight weeks. ## Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing Scaling and root planing may halt the progression of advanced periodontitis and reverse early gingivitis. Stay on top of your oral health with Reflection Dental and proper oral hygiene. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our dental team to keep your mouth healthy. --- ### [Periodontal](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/periodontal/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Gum disease affects almost half of adults, but most are unaware. Periodontal treatments at Reflection Dental can treat gum disease and preserve your teeth, gums, and smile. **Content:** ## Periodontics and Gum Disease Periodontic treatment or periodontics is specialty dental care that addresses periodontal (gum) disease and is available at Reflection Dental in Lombard. Unchecked, gum disease can destroy the gums, tissue, and bones that hold your teeth in place. A periodontist is a dentist with extra training to diagnose and treat periodontal disease and perform cosmetic periodontal procedures. At Reflection Dental we recommend periodontal treatment if you: - Have gum disease - Need bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, or tissue sculpting - Need a tooth extraction - Have had a dental implant treatment ## What Causes Periodontal Disease? Plaque, a sticky biofilm of bacteria, is constantly forming on teeth. [Periodontal disease](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease) typically results from inadequate dental hygiene, which allows plaque buildup on your teeth and under the gums, and on the roots. Untreated plaque hardens into tartar or calculus, which only professional cleaning can remove. You might not be aware of periodontal disease in its initial stages. The CDC estimates that 47% of adults in the U.S. ages 30 and older have some form of gum disease. Periodontal disease progresses with age, too, as 70% of adults ages 65 and older have it. Advanced stages cause sore or bleeding gums, changes in the bite, and even tooth loss. ## What Are My Treatment Options for Periodontal Disease? The main goal of periodontal treatment is to remove bacteria from the gum pockets around the teeth. This helps prevent further erosion of bone and tissue. Exactly what your dentist or periodontist at Reflection Dental will do depends on how far your gum disease has progressed. ### Scaling and Root Planing Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical, deep cleaning treatment for early-stage periodontal disease. The periodontist at Reflection Dental removes tartar from the teeth and below the gumline with hand tools or an ultrasonic instrument. They will also smooth rough areas on the roots of the teeth so that bacteria no longer gets trapped there. You may need local or systemic antibiotics to kill the remaining bacteria. Scaling and cleaning may require one or more visits, depending on the buildup of plaque and tartar. ### Surgical Treatments Advanced periodontal disease may require surgery such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafting. #### Flap surgery Flap surgery, or surgical pocket reduction, lifts the gums back to remove calculus in deep pockets. After the professional removes the tartar, they suture the gums back into place to fit more closely to the tooth. This procedure reduces or eliminates the pockets, making the area easier to clean and reducing the risk of future infections. #### Bone and Tissue Grafts Bone and tissue grafts help regenerate bone or gum tissue. A periodontist places new natural or synthetic bone where the bone was lost to help promote bone growth. With guided tissue regeneration (GTR), our periodontist places a mesh-like material between the bone and gum. This material keeps the gum from growing where the bone should be, allowing the bone to regrow correctly. #### Laser Surgery Reflection Dental uses laser gum surgery to treat moderate to severe periodontal disease. We may recommend this procedure after scaling and planning and in place of flap surgery. Laser gum surgery may have several uses: - [Gum contouring](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-contouring-procedure) - [Endodontic procedures to save teeth](https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/endodontic-treatment-options/endodontic-surgery/endodontic-surgery-explained/) ## What Are the Telltale Signs of Periodontal Disease? If you notice any of the following symptoms, we should check for periodontal disease: - Bleeding or swollen gums - Abscesses - Painful chewing - Sudden tooth sensitivity - Persistently bad breath - Receding gums - Shifting or loose teeth Timely periodontal treatments are essential for protecting your dental and overall health. ## How to Get the Most Effective Periodontal Treatment If you are experiencing any of the signs of periodontal disease, contact our office today to set up your appointment for periodontal treatments in Lombard. --- ### [Bonding](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/bonding/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** The dental team at Reflection Dental uses a dental bonding procedure to reshape your teeth or to fix damage due to chips, cracks, and tooth decay. **Content:** ## What is Bonding? Bonding is a dental procedure that uses a special type of resin to repair or reshape your teeth. Our dentist at Reflection Dental commonly uses bonding to fix chipped teeth; it’s also used in cosmetic dentistry. The process at Reflection Dental is fast and painless so that you can get back to your normal activities the same day. ## How Does Dental Bonding Work? When you go in for tooth bonding, our dentist will select a composite resin that matches the color of your teeth. Then, the dentist prepares the tooth’s surface with gentle etching, which adds a rough texture that helps create a secure bond. Once the tooth is ready, your dentist applies the color-matched resin and shapes the tooth. A special light hardens and bonds the resin. After a final round of trimming and polishing, the bonded area looks natural. Dental bonding typically takes less than 60 minutes per tooth. The procedure doesn’t usually require anesthesia unless your dentist is removing decay or replacing fillings. If you’re anesthetized, you may need to avoid chewing hard foods and drinking hot beverages until the numbness wears off. ## When Do Dentists Use Tooth Bonding? Our dentist at Reflection Dental uses tooth bonding to fix a variety of minor cosmetic and structural problems. For example, it’s a common repair for chipped teeth where the resin fills in the damaged area and restores the normal shape and function of the tooth. If you’re unhappy with the space between your teeth, our dentist may recommend bonding to reduce the gap. Bonding is also used to: - Fix cracked teeth - Correct discolored teeth - Reshape teeth - Lengthen teeth - Fill cavities left by decay - Protect exposed roots of teeth - Reduce tooth sensitivity ## Caring for Bonded Teeth Bonded teeth don’t require special care — simply brush and floss as usual, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings. However, the resin used in tooth bonding can be vulnerable to staining, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at all times. To further reduce the risk of discoloration, you might consider limiting the amount of red wine, coffee, and tea you drink. Also, avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products, which can leave yellow stains on the bonding resin and your natural teeth. You can chew food normally with bonded teeth. However, your dentist may advise you not to use bonded teeth for potentially damaging activities, such as chewing ice or non-food items. ## How Long Does Dental Bonding Last? [Dental bonding](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10922-dental-bonding#:~:text=How%20long%20does%20dental%20bonding%20material%20last%3F) usually lasts for 3-10 years. The exact lifetime depends on various factors, including your chewing style, brushing habits, and oral health. If you notice a chip or a crack in the bonded areas, simply call us to schedule a repair or a replacement of your teeth bonding. ## Benefits of Tooth Bonding Bonding is a fast and effective way to fix damaged teeth or improve your smile. Since the process is gentle and non-invasive, you don’t need to worry about an extended recovery time. Bonding resin is strong and durable, so it improves the look of your teeth while maintaining their natural function. When budget is a concern, bonding can be an affordable alternative to treatments such as crowns and veneers. Bonding is one possible solution: whether you have a chipped tooth or a wide gap between your front teeth. At Reflection Dental, with a single appointment, you can fix many imperfections and achieve beautiful, stronger teeth. --- ### [Sealants](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/sealants/) **Published:** February 3, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental sealants can help protect your teeth against cavities and decay. Here’s what to expect when receiving dental sealants at Reflection Dental. **Content:** ## What are Sealants? Dental sealants are an affordable, effective way to prevent cavities or tooth decay from affecting the teeth. Sealants prevent around 80% of cavities in the back teeth, where the majority of cavities and decay occur. ## How Do Sealants Work? Dental sealants work like raincoats for your teeth. They provide a protective coating where cavities are most likely to occur and can last years after application. Cavities are formed when damaging acids come into contact with the tooth enamel. The longer these acids and debris sit on the teeth, the more damage it causes. Good oral hygiene can help prevent cavities, but it isn’t always enough alone. That is where dental sealants come in. ## Can Sealants Be Applied Over Cavities? Our professionals at Reflection Dental recommend you have any cavities filled before having sealants applied. However, sealants can be applied over areas of earlier tooth decay. In this situation, the dental sealant will protect the decayed tooth from further damage, essentially stopping the problem from spreading. ## Does Dental Insurance Cover Sealants? Some dental insurance companies in Lombard do cover sealants, generally up to one application per year. However, not all insurance companies offer this coverage. Whenever you aren’t sure if your insurance covers a procedure, it’s best to call and ask ahead of time. ## Who Can Receive Dental Sealants? Most adults and children with permanent teeth can receive dental sealants. Our dental team at Reflection Dental recommends sealants for children when their first permanent molars come in. You can give your children a head start at cavity prevention by sealing the molars in as soon as they come through the gums. ## Cleanings Come First Our dental team will professionally clean your teeth before applying sealants. Cleaning usually involves scraping plaque and tartar buildup from around your gum line and between your teeth. Then, a gritty toothpaste and powerful electric toothbrush polish your teeth. The dentist may also conduct a physical examination of the teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw before (or after) cleaning. ## Acidic Gel Primes the Teeth Once the teeth are clean, an acidic gel is applied to the teeth and left briefly. This gel helps to roughen the surface of the teeth so the sealant bonds are better. The gel shouldn’t hurt or be uncomfortable. When finished, the gel will be cleaned from your teeth. Then, the teeth will be dried. ## Sealant Is Applied After our dentist has dried your teeth, they’ll apply the sealant to the groves of your back teeth. These are the areas where cavities are most likely to occur because they’re the most difficult to reach during regular brushing. ## Sealant Is Hardened Our dentist at Reflection Dental will use a special blue light to harden the sealant once it’s applied. Hardening doesn’t take long. Once finished, you can resume normal eating and drinking shortly after. The sealant will need evaluation at least once or twice a year to see if they’re still intact. However, a sealant application can last years without needing reapplication. ## Dental Sealants Can Prevent Cavities Cavities affect many people and are most common in the back teeth. Dental sealants can help prevent cavities and decay for months at a time. ## Find Out if Dental Sealants Are Right for You Contact Reflection Dental today to see if dental sealants are right for your teeth. --- ### [Dental Exams](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/dental-exams/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental exams help our dental professionals rule out any dental issues, including tooth decay and gum disease. Here’s what to expect during your dental exam at Reflection Dental. **Content:** ## Your Dental Exam Regular dental exams are vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. During a dental exam, our dental team looks for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health conditions. Finding problems early on makes treatment more successful. ## What to Expect at a Dental Exam Let’s look at what you can expect when you sit down in our dentist’s chair here at Reflection Dental for a regular dental exam and why routine dental exams are so crucial to your overall oral and physical health. Most dental exams follow a predictable trajectory that begins with cleaning. A dental hygienist or dental assistant cleans the teeth using tools that scrape or remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and the perimeter of your gum line. The teeth are then polished, and sometimes X-rays are taken to help our dentist find any oral health issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. Next, our dentist reviews the X-rays, looking for signs of cavities or inflammation. The dentist examines your soft palette, gums, neck, and throat, looking for any abnormalities. If there are problems discovered during the exam, our dentist will schedule a follow-up visit. If our dentist finds gum disease, they may send you home with special at-home periodontal trays to treat the condition. If a cavity is discovered during the exam, our dentist may offer to fill on the same day, if desired and time is available. If necessary, we may refer you to a specialist in Lombard, such as an oral surgeon or orthodontist, depending on the issue. ## How Often Should You Schedule a Routine Dental Exam? Your oral health determines how often our dentist may ask you to come in for a routine dental exam. The standard recommendation for routine dental exams is once each year, although some patients may need to be seen by their dentists more frequently. For instance, if you have a dental crown, your dentist in Lombard may want to see you more often so that potential tooth decay below the crown can be ruled out. If you are at greater risk for developing gum disease due to health issues, smoking, or the use of certain medications, our dentist may recommend that you come in more often. ## The Importance of Routine Dental Exams Routine dental exams should be part of your overall oral health regimen. Dental exams: - Prevent cavities and problems with your gums. Brushing and flossing alone cannot remove 100 percent of the plaque, which can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel and gums. Dental exams allow for early detection of any problems so that treatment outcomes are more successful. - Protect both your oral health and your physical health. Untreated dental problems lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. In addition, researchers warn that diabetes and cardiovascular problems are more likely in people with poor dental health. - Keep your smile healthy and bright. Staining and other issues can affect your smile over time. Polishing the teeth removes mild stains, giving you a healthier-looking smile. - Can help detect changes in oral health. Changes in the teeth, jawbone, gums, and soft tissue can alert us to serious problems, including cancer. Dental exams are the cornerstone of good oral health. Work with our dentist to determine the best schedule for regular dental exams to maintain your healthiest and brightest smile. ## Schedule Your Dental Exam Has it been a while since your last dental exam? Contact Reflection Dental today to schedule your dental exam with our dental professionals today. --- ### [Check-ups](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/check-ups/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** It is important to regularly schedule dental check-ups so our dental team can assess the teeth and gums for signs of cavities and gum disease. **Content:** ## What is the Purpose of a Dental Check-up? Dental check-ups generally occur twice a year when patients visit the dental office for regularly scheduled cleanings and dental exams. Check-ups allow our dental team at Reflection Dental to assess patients’ oral health and make recommendations for preventative care and procedures, such as fillings and extractions, gum treatments, and dental implants. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults visit the dentist twice a year. During routine check-ups, your dentist at Reflection Dental thoroughly examines the teeth and gums for cavities, signs of gum disease and gum recession, and other oral health issues, including oral cancer. ### X-Rays Periodic dental X-rays of the entire mouth (full-mouth X-rays) are recommended at check-ups every 24 to 36 months for patients with [good oral health](https://health.sunnybrook.ca/navigator/too-many-dental-x-rays/) and those with a low risk of dental disease. If our dentist detects possible issues such as cavities, fractured teeth, or signs of dental abscesses or periodontal disease upon visual examination during your check-up, they may need to take additional X-rays for further assessment. ### Prophylaxis Standard cleanings also referred to as dental prophylaxis, are performed during routine check-ups. During a standard dental cleaning, the hygienist uses a high-powered brush to clean and polish the teeth, along with a hand scaling tool or water scaler to remove light tartar buildup. However, if your initial exam reveals periodontal disease or severe tartar buildup, our dentist may hold off on the regular cleaning and recommend a scaling and root planning procedure or a debridement. When debridement is required, our dentist will also delay conducting a thorough exam until after the procedure. Scaling and root planing is a procedure that removes calculus and tartar below the gumline, while full mouth debridement treatments remove heavy tartar buildup on the tooth surfaces. Your dental professional performs both procedures with special scaling tools specifically designed to remove hardened tartar and calculus. While specific dental protocols can vary, regular cleanings usually cease when either of these issues is detected. Tartar buildup beneath the gum line and symptoms such as swollen or bleeding gums indicate an active infection, and a standard cleaning may stir up bacteria that can enter the bloodstream. When a patient in Lombard has severe tartar on their tooth surfaces above the gum line, a [debridement procedure](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/plaque-and-tartar/debridement) must be performed prior to a thorough exam and cleaning, as the buildup hinders the dentist’s ability to evaluate the teeth and oral tissues adequately. ### Treatment Recommendations If our dentist in Lombard gives you the all-clear following your dental exam and cleaning, the next step is to schedule a follow-up appointment in approximately six months. In the event that additional treatments are required, your follow-up appointments should be scheduled based on our dentist’s instructions. If your dentist detects an active tooth infection during your exam, they may prescribe antibiotics to prevent the [bacteria from spreading](https://www.dentaly.org/us/oral-health/antibiotics-tooth-infection/) to surrounding teeth and tissues. It’s important to follow all home care instructions and return for your follow-up procedures as recommended to prevent additional issues or complications. ## Benefits of Dental Check-ups Visiting your dentist at Reflection Dental twice a year is essential in maintaining optimal oral health. Regular cleanings are beneficial in keeping tartar and plaque at bay, while periodic dental exams ensure that potential oral health issues are assessed and treated in a timely fashion. ## How to Schedule Your Dental Check-Up Our dental team is available to help you schedule an appointment for a check-up. Contact our office today and we will look forward to seeing you soon! --- ### [Prevention](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Cavity prevention doesn't have to be expensive, or stressful. Learn these five simple tips for maintaining a good dental hygiene routine and preventing dental problems. **Content:** ## How Can I Avoid Common Dental Problems? While cavities are the most frequent dental disease, prevention is critical. Many factors can influence dental decay, including poor oral hygiene habits. For healthy teeth and gums, brushing and flossing are two of the most important daily habits. But there are a few other simple things you can do for the prevention of toothaches or tooth loss. Listed below are five simple things you can do to prevent cavities. ## 1. Assess Your Cavity Risk Taking charge of your oral health begins with knowing how likely you are to get cavities. You can find out by having comprehensive and regular dental exams to know what treatments may be needed and how to improve your oral hygiene and diet. When you know your risk level, you can take more specific measures to improve your oral health. Talk to our dentist at Reflection Dental in Lombard about how to assess your risk level and how you can lower it. ## 2. Brush Regularly Brushing your teeth is one of the most effective and simple tools for cavity prevention because it kills massive amounts of bacteria and plaque in just a few minutes each day. Be sure to brush after eating and before bedtime. When you brush your teeth before bed, you prevent the formation of enamel-damaging acid (which ultimately leads to cavities). It is recommended to brush manually, or with an electric toothbrush, for at least 2 mins during every cleaning. Our dentist at Reflection Dental can advise on other cleaning techniques for your particular oral health situation. ## 3. Drink Water With Fluoride Fluoride can prevent cavities by remineralizing tooth enamel. It’s most effective if taken through a fluoridated beverage, such as water. Most municipalities have fluoride added to public water systems already. If your home in Lombard is equipped with a filtration system that removes fluoride from tap water, using fluoridated toothpaste can help as an alternative. ## 4. Stop Smoking People who smoke cigarettes are more likely to suffer from untreated tooth decay. Smoking causes tooth decay in more than 40% of adults aged 20 to 64. Smoking dramatically increases your risk of developing cavities. The nicotine in cigarettes restricts the flow of saliva, which is necessary for fighting bacteria and washing away food debris. ## 5. Start Flossing According to the [American Dental Association](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/flossing#:~:text=The%20American%20Dental%20Association%20recommends%20cleaning%20between%20your%20teeth%20daily%20with%20an%20interdental%20cleaner%20(like%20floss).), flossing daily is a vital step in cavity prevention. Daily flossing eliminates plaque and food particles from between teeth and prevents bacteria from building up. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that accumulates on the teeth. A buildup of plaque can cause more than just cavities. Plaque buildup can also lead to: - Bad breath - Stained teeth - Gum disease - Tooth loss By removing plaque, flossing helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Almost everyone gets cavities at some point in their life. The best way to aid the prevention of tooth decay is through good dental hygiene and regular dental exams. ## Keep Your Smile Healthy with Preventive Dentistry Contact our Lombard office today to learn more about oral disease and cavity prevention habits that will keep your smile happy and healthy. --- ### [Oral Cancer Screenings](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/oral-cancer-screenings/) **Published:** February 7, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Oral cancer screenings are an important part of your preventative health care. Learn the benefits, how to prepare for the procedure, and what to expect at Reflection Dental. **Content:** ## How to Screen for Oral Cancer A dental or medical professional performs an oral cancer screening to determine if you have cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. Oral cancer screenings aim to detect mouth cancer earlier, when treatment may be more successful. Routine dental visits at Reflection Dental in Lombard usually include a screening for oral cancer by our dentist. Our dentist may perform other tests to help identify any abnormal cells in your mouth. A single oral examination or oral cancer screening test cannot reduce the risk of death due to oral cancer. Our dentist may still recommend an oral exam or a particular test if your risk factors indicate it is necessary. ## Risk Factors For Oral Cancer Risk factors for oral cancer include: - The consumption of any form of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, etc. - Drinking excessively - Previous diagnosis of oral cancer - Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of lip cancer The [human papillomavirus (HPV)](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/hpv-and-oral-cancer) can also pose an oral cancer risk, along with an inadequate diet of fruits and vegetables. ## Benefits of Routine Screenings By detecting oral cancers early, you may receive better treatment and prevent yourself or a loved one from becoming a statistic. For 2021, the [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html) estimates the following for oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers in the U.S.: - Around 54,010 new cases of the oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer were reported - About 10,850 deaths were caused by oral cancer ### The Procedure for Oral Cancer Screenings Preparation for oral cancer screening is not necessary. During routine dental visits, oral cancer screening usually takes place. Looking at your lips and inside your mouth allows our dentist to examine your oral tissues quickly. The dentist will examine your gums. The inside of your cheeks, as well as the sides and bottom of your tongue, will be checked. In addition, we will examine the floor and roof of your mouth. ## Oral cancer symptoms: What are they? When these signs and symptoms do not subside after two weeks, you should see our dentist: - A persistent soreness or irritation - White or red patches - Numbness or pain in the lips or mouth - The thickening, crusting, or eroded area of a lump - An inability to chew, swallow, speak or move your tongue or jaw - Changes in your bite when you close your mouth - Changes in voice or hoarseness - Persistent sore throat ## Are Oral Screenings Enough To Detect A Problem? Oral cancer screening could lead to additional tests. Sores in the mouth are common, and the majority of these sores are not cancerous. An oral exam in Lombard cannot distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous sores. Biopsies are the only way to determine whether you have oral cancer. During the biopsy, abnormal cells are removed and tested for cancer. It’s crucial to understand that not all mouth cancers can be detected through oral cancer screening. Small cancer or precancerous lesions could go undetected if there is no obvious indication of abnormal cells in your mouth. You may be tested further to determine the cause of a sore. ## Ready for Your Oral Cancer Screening? Contact Reflection Dental today to learn more about Oral Cancer Screenings and find out how crucial a screening can be to detecting cancer before it is too late. --- ### [Back to School Exam](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/back-to-school-exam/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Start the school year off right with a back-to-school dental exam at our dental office. Back-to-school exams are important for improving your child’s oral health. **Content:** ## Back-to-School Exams Are Important Your child should visit Reflection Dental once or twice a year for a dental exam and have their teeth cleaned. Before school starts is the perfect time to have an exam to help your child start the school year right. ## What Are the Benefits of a Back-to-School Exam? Scheduling a dental exam for your child before school starts will ensure that they start the year off with a healthy smile. A healthy smile can boost your child’s self-confidence while they are in class. Another added benefit is that you reduce the risk of your child having to miss school days because of toothaches, cavities, or other oral health problems. During your back-to-school exam, the dental team at Reflection Dental will complete a physical examination of your child’s mouth and then clean their teeth. ## Physical Exam Our dentist will begin by examining your child’s teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw. This helps ensure their mouth is healthy overall and will identify any issues that might exist. Routine dental exams are an essential part of maintaining excellent oral and overall health. ## Teeth Cleaning Typically, dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning the teeth. They’ll start by scraping plaque and tartar from between the teeth and around the gumline. Next, the hygienist will use gritty toothpaste and a powerful electric toothbrush to polish your teeth, resulting in a bright smile. Upon completion of the cleaning, the hygienist will ask your child to rinse their mouth to expel any debris. Finally, they will have the option to receive a fluoride treatment. This last step is optional but highly recommended, as a fluoride treatment in Lombard can help protect your child’s teeth from cavities. ## Dental Sealants Our dentist may suggest dental sealants if your child hasn’t recently received them. If they have, we will check their integrity during the physical exam and reapply the sealants if necessary. Dental sealants are like small raincoats for teeth. They’re applied to the groves of the back teeth, where most cavities occur. By providing a barrier between the teeth and the acids in food, sealants can significantly decrease the risk of cavities or decay for months or even years. ## Cavities If Reflection Dental finds any cavities during the physical examination, the dentist may fill them on the day of your back-to-school exam if time permits. However, if there are multiple cavities, you may need to make an appointment for your child to come back. When the procedure begins, the dentist will numb your child’s mouth around the tooth that has the cavity. Then, they’ll drill out the decayed portion of the tooth. Finally, they’ll fill the tooth in and polish the tooth as necessary. ## Setting Up a Back-to-School Exam Whether your child is heading for another year of primary school or starting high school, a dental exam can help maintain good oral and overall health. Contact Reflection Dental today to schedule your child’s back-to-school dental exam, and start the school year off right. --- ### [Patients](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** At Reflection Dental, we understand that finding a new dentist can often seem like an overwhelming task. We strive to make this process simple by providing you helpful information in a single location. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Helpful Information for Our Patients Are you a new patient at Reflection Dental? If so, we have assembled a collection of helpful information for you before your first visit to our office. Existing patients shouldn’t feel left out either, this information is helpful for you as well. > Your first visit to our dental office is an important one. You will be introduced to our dental professionals and will learn about how we can help keep your smile healthy. Whether you are curious what your first visit to our dental office will be like, or you are wondering what payment and financing options are available, we have put together these resources to answer your questions. Each page below contains more information, and if you have any questions that aren’t answered, please [contact our dental professionals](/contact/) for help. Your First Visit Learn about what to expect when you walk into our office. Financing & Insurance All you need to know about dental insurance coverage accepted and financing options. Patient Forms View our patient information forms that can be filled out before your first visit. Special Offers Check here for our special offers and current promotions. ## Dentist Near You Address: 6672 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, IL 60631 USA Phone: +1 (855) 444-1715 Fax: +1 (855) 710-6255 Email: info@digisearch.com ### Hours | Monday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | |---|---| | Tuesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Wednesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Thursday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Friday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Saturday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Sunday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | ### Excellence in Dental Care ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Privacy Policy](https://www.reflectdental.com/privacy-policy/) **Published:** December 17, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Thank you for choosing to be part of our community at Reflection Dental (“Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). We are committed to protecting your personal information and your right to privacy. If you have any questions or concerns about our policy or our practices with regard to your personal information, please contact us by visiting our Contact page. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Last Updated January 1, 2020 When you visit our website and use our services, you trust us with your personal information. We take your privacy very seriously. In this privacy policy, we seek to explain to you in the clearest way possible what information we collect, how we use it, and what rights you have in relation to it. We hope you take some time to read through it carefully, as it is important. If there are any terms in this privacy policy that you do not agree with, please discontinue the use of our Sites and our services. > This privacy policy applies to all information collected through our website, and/or any related services, sales, marketing, or events (we refer to them collectively in this privacy policy as the “Services”). Please read this privacy policy carefully as it will help you make informed decisions about sharing your personal information with us. ## 1. WHAT INFORMATION DO WE COLLECT? ### Personal Information you Disclose to Us *In Short: We collect personal information that you provide to us such as name, address, contact information, passwords and security data, and payment information.* We collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when expressing an interest in obtaining information about us or our products and services, when participating in activities on the Services, or otherwise contacting us. The personal information that we collect depends on the context of your interactions with us and the Services, the choices you make and the products and features you use. The personal information we collect can include the following: - Publicly Available Personal Information. We collect first name, maiden name, last name, nickname, phone numbers, email addresses, business email, business phone number, and other similar data. - Credentials. We collect passwords, password hints, and similar security information used for authentication and account access. All personal information that you provide to us must be true, complete and accurate, and you must notify us of any changes to such personal information. ### Information automatically collected *In Short: Some information – such as IP address and/or browser and device characteristics – is collected automatically when you visit our Services.* We automatically collect certain information when you visit, use or navigate the Services. This information does not reveal your specific identity (like your name or contact information) but may include device and usage information, such as your IP address, browser and device characteristics, operating system, language preferences, referring URLs, device name, country, location, information about how and when you use our Services and other technical information. This information is primarily needed to maintain the security and operation of our Services, and for our internal analytics and reporting purposes. ## 2. HOW DO WE USE YOUR INFORMATION? *In Short: We process your information for purposes based on legitimate business interests, the fulfillment of our contract with you, compliance with our legal obligations, and/or your consent.* We use personal information collected via our Services for a variety of business purposes described below. We process your personal information for these purposes in reliance on our legitimate business interests, in order to enter into or perform a contract with you, with your consent, and/or for compliance with our legal obligations. We indicate the specific processing grounds we rely on next to each purpose listed below. ### We use the information we collect or receive: - To send you marketing and promotional communications. We and/or our third party marketing partners may use the personal information you send to us for our marketing purposes, if this is in accordance with your marketing preferences. You can opt-out of our marketing emails at any time. - To send administrative information to you. We may use your personal information to send you product, service and new feature information and/or information about changes to our terms, conditions, and policies. - Fulfill and manage your orders. We may use your information to fulfill and manage your orders, payments, returns, and exchanges made through the Services. - Deliver targeted advertising to you. We may use your information to develop and display content and advertising (and work with third parties who do so) tailored to your interests and/or location and to measure its effectiveness. - Administer prize draws and competitions. We may use your information to administer prize draws and competitions when you elect to participate in competitions. - Request Feedback. We may use your information to request feedback and to contact you about your use of our Services. - To enforce our terms, conditions and policies for Business Purposes, Legal Reasons and Contractual. - To respond to legal requests and prevent harm. If we receive a subpoena or other legal request, we may need to inspect the data we hold to determine how to respond. - To deliver services to the user. We may use your information to provide you with the requested service. - To respond to user inquiries/offer support to users. We may use your information to respond to your inquiries and solve any potential issues you might have with the use of our Services. - For other Business Purposes. We may use your information for other Business Purposes, such as data analysis, identifying usage trends, determining the effectiveness of our promotional campaigns and to evaluate and improve our Services, products, marketing and your experience. We may use and store this information in aggregated and anonymized form so that it is not associated with individual end users and does not include personal information. We will not use identifiable personal information without your consent. ## ## 3. WILL YOUR INFORMATION BE SHARED WITH ANYONE? *In Short: We only share information with your consent, to comply with laws, to provide you with services, to protect your rights, or to fulfill business obligations.* We may process or share data based on the following legal basis: - Consent: We may process your data if you have given us specific consent to use your personal information in a specific purpose. - Legitimate Interests: We may process your data when it is reasonably necessary to achieve our legitimate business interests. - Performance of a Contract: Where we have entered into a contract with you, we may process your personal information to fulfill the terms of our contract. - Legal Obligations: We may disclose your information where we are legally required to do so in order to comply with applicable law, governmental requests, a judicial proceeding, court order, or legal process, such as in response to a court order or a subpoena (including in response to public authorities to meet national security or law enforcement requirements). - Vital Interests: We may disclose your information where we believe it is necessary to investigate, prevent, or take action regarding potential violations of our policies, suspected fraud, situations involving potential threats to the safety of any person and illegal activities, or as evidence in litigation in which we are involved. More specifically, we may need to process your data or share your personal information in the following situations: - Vendors, Consultants and Other Third-Party Service Providers. We may share your data with third party vendors, service providers, contractors or agents who perform services for us or on our behalf and require access to such information to do that work. Examples include: payment processing, data analysis, email delivery, hosting services, customer service and marketing efforts. We may allow selected third parties to use tracking technology on the Services, which will enable them to collect data about how you interact with the Services over time. This information may be used to, among other things, analyze and track data, determine the popularity of certain content and better understand online activity. Unless described in this Policy, we do not share, sell, rent or trade any of your information with third parties for their promotional purposes. - Business Transfers. We may share or transfer your information in connection with, or during negotiations of, any merger, sale of company assets, financing, or acquisition of all or a portion of our business to another company. - Third-Party Advertisers. We may use third-party advertising companies to serve ads when you visit the Services. These companies may use information about your visits to our Website(s) and other websites that are contained in web cookies and other tracking technologies in order to provide advertisements about goods and services of interest to you. ## ## 4. DO WE USE COOKIES AND OTHER TRACKING TECHNOLOGIES? *In Short: We may use cookies and other tracking technologies to collect and store your information.* We may use cookies and similar tracking technologies (like web beacons and pixels) to access or store information. ## ## 5. DO WE USE GOOGLE MAPS? *In Short: Yes, we use Google Maps for the purpose of providing better service.* This website, mobile application, or Facebook application uses Google Maps APIs. You may find the Google Maps APIs Terms of Service here. To better understand Google’s Privacy Policy, please refer to this link. By using our Maps API Implementation, you agree to be bound by Google’s Terms of Service. ## ## 6. HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION? *In Short: We keep your information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this privacy policy unless otherwise required by law.* We will only keep your personal information for as long as it is necessary for the purposes set out in this privacy policy, unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law (such as tax, accounting or other legal requirements). No purpose in this policy will require us keeping your personal information for longer than 2 years. When we have no ongoing legitimate business need to process your personal information, we will either delete or anonymize it, or, if this is not possible (for example, because your personal information has been stored in backup archives), then we will securely store your personal information and isolate it from any further processing until deletion is possible. ## ## 7. HOW DO WE KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE? *In Short: We aim to protect your personal information through a system of organizational and technical security measures.* We have implemented appropriate technical and organizational security measures designed to protect the security of any personal information we process. However, please also remember that we cannot guarantee that the internet itself is 100% secure. Although we will do our best to protect your personal information, transmission of personal information to and from our Services is at your own risk. You should only access the services within a secure environment. ## ## 8. DO WE COLLECT INFORMATION FROM MINORS? *In Short: We do not knowingly collect data from or market to children under 18 years of age.* We do not knowingly solicit data from or market to children under 18 years of age. By using the Services, you represent that you are at least 18 or that you are the parent or guardian of such a minor and consent to such minor dependent’s use of the Services. If we learn that personal information from users less than 18 years of age has been collected, we will deactivate the account and take reasonable measures to promptly delete such data from our records. If you become aware of any data we have collected from children under age 18, please contact us. ## ## 9. WHAT ARE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS? *In Short: You may review, change, or terminate your account at any time.* If you are resident in the European Economic Area and you believe we are unlawfully processing your personal information, you also have the right to complain to your local data protection supervisory authority. You can find their contact details here: [http://ec.europa.eu/justice/data-protection/bodies/authorities/index\_en.htm](http://ec.europa.eu/justice/data-protection/bodies/authorities/index_en.htm). Cookies and similar technologies: Most Web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. If you prefer, you can usually choose to set your browser to remove cookies and to reject cookies. If you choose to remove cookies or reject cookies, this could affect certain features or services of our Services. To opt-out of interest-based advertising by advertisers on our Services visit <http://www.aboutads.info/choices/> . ## ## 10. CONTROLS FOR DO-NOT-TRACK FEATURES Most web browsers and some mobile operating systems and mobile applications include a Do-Not-Track (“DNT”) feature or setting you can activate to signal your privacy preference not to have data about your online browsing activities monitored and collected. No uniform technology standard for recognizing and implementing DNT signals has been finalized. As such, we do not currently respond to DNT browser signals or any other mechanism that automatically communicates your choice not to be tracked online. If a standard for online tracking is adopted that we must follow in the future, we will inform you about that practice in a revised version of this privacy policy. ## ## 11. DO CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS HAVE SPECIFIC PRIVACY RIGHTS? *In Short: Yes, if you are a resident of California, you are granted specific rights regarding access to your personal information.* California Civil Code Section 1798.83, also known as the “Shine The Light” law, permits our users who are California residents to request and obtain from us, once a year and free of charge, information about categories of personal information (if any) we disclosed to third parties for direct marketing purposes and the names and addresses of all third parties with which we shared personal information in the immediately preceding calendar year. If you are a California resident and would like to make such a request, please submit your request in writing to us using the contact information provided below. If you are under 18 years of age, reside in California, and have a registered account with the Services, you have the right to request removal of unwanted data that you publicly post on the Services. To request removal of such data, please contact us using the contact information provided below, and include the email address associated with your account and a statement that you reside in California. We will make sure the data is not publicly displayed on the Services, but please be aware that the data may not be completely or comprehensively removed from our systems. ## ## 12. DO WE MAKE UPDATES TO THIS POLICY? *In Short: Yes, we will update this policy as necessary to stay compliant with relevant laws.* We may update this privacy policy from time to time. The updated version will be indicated by an updated “Revised” date and the updated version will be effective as soon as it is accessible. If we make material changes to this privacy policy, we may notify you either by prominently posting a notice of such changes or by directly sending you a notification. We encourage you to review this privacy policy frequently to be informed of how we are protecting your information. ## ## 13. HOW CAN YOU CONTACT US ABOUT THIS POLICY? If you have questions or comments about this policy, you may contact us via our Contact page.. ### ### HOW CAN YOU REVIEW, UPDATE, OR DELETE THE DATA WE COLLECT FROM YOU? Based on the laws of some countries, you may have the right to request access to the personal information we collect from you, change that information, or delete it in some circumstances. To request to review, update, or delete your personal information, please submit a request form from our website. We will respond to your request within 30 days. ## Dentist Near You Address: 6672 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, IL 60631 USA Phone: +1 (855) 444-1715 Fax: +1 (855) 710-6255 Email: info@digisearch.com ### Hours | Monday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | |---|---| | Tuesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Wednesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Thursday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Friday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Saturday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Sunday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | ### Excellence in Dental Care ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Services](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental is your family's dentist, and we understand that each member of your family deserves a personalized treatment plan so we assure personalized care and attention. We make our patients feel at home and offer them an unmatched quality of service. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## Our Dental Services At Reflection Dental, our team is dedicated to providing our patients with complete care for their oral health. Our dental professionals offer a wide range of dental services to ensure your family keeps healthy smiles for a lifetime. Your family dentist will provide each member of your family with the specific dental care that they need to keep their mouth healthy, and will present all patients with preventative care to stop problems before they occur. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable at every dental appointment. Whether you are visiting for a routine dental exam or extensive restorative or cosmetic dental care, you can rest assured that you will receive the highest level of care from our entire dental team. You can use the links below to learn more about the dental services we provide, including in-depth information about routine procedures you may experience at our office. If you have any questions about our dental services, [reach out to our friendly team](/contact/) today! ## Dentist Near You Address: 6672 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, IL 60631 USA Phone: +1 (855) 444-1715 Fax: +1 (855) 710-6255 Email: info@digisearch.com ### Hours | Monday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | |---|---| | Tuesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Wednesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Thursday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Friday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Saturday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Sunday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | ### Excellence in Dental Care ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Your First Visit](https://www.reflectdental.com/patients/your-first-visit/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental appointments can be stressful, but knowing what to expect on your first visit to Reflection Dental can help you have a more enjoyable visit. Let's take a look at what will happen during your first visit to our office. **Content:** @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Schedule Appointment @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF9leGNlcnB0Iiwic2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiYmVmb3JlIjoiIiwiYWZ0ZXIiOiIiLCJ3b3JkcyI6IiIsInJlYWRfbW9yZV9sYWJlbCI6IiJ9fQ==@ ## What to Expect During Your Appointment Your first visit to Reflection Dental is an exciting and important appointment. During this initial visit, you will be introduced to our friendly team of dental professionals. Our team is here to help you feel comfortable during your visit and will answer any questions you may have along with collecting some medical information about you. > Your first appointment at Reflection Dental is our first opportunity to build a life-long relationship! During your initial visit you will receive a comprehensive dental exam, as well as X-rays and a cleaning if recommended by our team. Our dentist will spend some time explaining the findings from the exam and X-rays, and will recommend any necessary next steps for future appointments. If you have any questions during this time, our dentist is happy to answer them to make sure you feel comfortable with your treatment plan. Your first visit to Reflection Dental is the start of a life-long relationship that will result in a healthier smile for you and your family. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice. ## Dentist Near You Address: 6672 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, IL 60631 USA Phone: +1 (855) 444-1715 Fax: +1 (855) 710-6255 Email: info@digisearch.com ### Hours | Monday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | |---|---| | Tuesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Wednesday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Thursday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Friday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Saturday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | | Sunday | 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM | ### Excellence in Dental Care ## Contact Us Today for an Appointment Don’t wait, schedule your appointment with our friendly dental team today and keep your smile healthy. Patient Reviews Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions --- ### [Children's Dentistry](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/childrens-dentistry/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Regular dental care is essential for the well-being of your child. Routine visits to Reflection Dental are important, here’s what to expect during your child’s visit **Content:** ## Children’s Dental Care About [42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/dental-caries/children) have at least one cavity. Statistically, boys are more likely than girls to have cavities. In addition, those living at or below the poverty level are significantly more likely than their higher-income peers to have cavities. Thankfully, children’s dentistry at Reflection Dental can reverse this trend and reduce the number of oral health issues affecting children. ## Why Is Regular Dental Care Important for Children? You should make an appointment with Reflection Dental once a year and additional appointments if problems arise. You might like to make an appointment with your child’s dentist for a back-to-school exam, so your child looks and feels their best on their first day back after summer. Studies show that [children with poor oral health](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6541e1.htm?s_cid=mm6541e1_w) often miss more school days and receive lower grades than those with excellent oral health. Additionally, untreated cavities can lead to problems with eating, speaking, and learning. Pain and infections are also common in children with untreated cavities. ## Basic Dental Exam Your child’s dentist and dental team will start each appointment at Reflection Dental with a basic dental exam. They’ll look at the teeth, gums, and jaw to ensure everything looks fine. We may also see how many baby teeth are left for younger children. Cavities are common in kid’s dentistry, so our dentist will be looking to see if your child’s teeth are in good shape. If they find cavities, the dentist may fill them that day, or they may make another appointment to have the cavities filled later. ## Teeth Cleaning At your child’s annual appointment, our dental hygienist will [clean their teeth](https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-oral-health/what-happens-during-a-tooth-cleaning). They start by using a special device to scrape away plaque and tartar from around the gum line. Once this is finished, they will brush your child’s teeth with a powerful electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste. This helps remove any tartar left behind after scraping. Then, they will floss the teeth, and your child will rinse to get rid of any leftover debris in the mouth. ## Dental Sealants You can choose to have [dental sealants](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sealants) placed on your child’s teeth during their annual visit. Dental sealants are thin, plastic tooth coatings that help prevent tooth decay, and the dentist applies them to your child’s teeth after they’ve been cleaned. A special light is used to harden the sealant. ## Dental Fillings If our dentist finds any cavities in your child’s mouth, they may fill them that day. However, if there isn’t enough time or multiple cavities, the dentist may set an appointment for you to come back to have them filled. Before they fill the cavities, the dentist applies a numbing gel to the gums. They then use a special tool to drill out the cavity. The hole is filled with a dental filling, and the dentist may polish or adjust the tooth so your child’s bite feels normal. ## Children’s Dentistry Is Essential for Good Oral Health Routine dental checkups are essential for your child’s oral health. Make sure your child visits at least once a year. Contact our dental office in Lombard today to schedule your child’s appointment. --- ### [Fillings](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/fillings/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** After treatment of a cavity, the dental team at Reflection Dental will utilize a dental filling to repair your tooth. Our dental team can provide you with more information about the types of dental fillings available. **Content:** ## What are Fillings? Dental fillings are used to treat dental cavities. When a tooth decays, it loses functionality and shape, exacerbating deterioration and causing pain and sensitivity. A dental filling helps restore the tooth’s shape and prevent further damage from decay. Fillings close off the area of the tooth exposed to the cavity, which prevents food, bacteria, and other foreign matter from getting inside. ## What Are Fillings Made Of? Amalgam (silver) dental fillings were standard fare for many years and are still in use in Lombard, but today’s filling options include tooth-colored composite material that’s more visually appealing than silver. Silver fillings are durable, hold up well to the force of chewing, and tend to be the least costly filling option. They also last the longest, with some silver fillings lasting for a decade or more. The main drawback to silver dental fillings is that they can be unappealing to the eye, and they can cause the remainder of the tooth to develop a grayish look. Treatment may also require that our dentist shave down parts of the tooth that are still healthy to fit the filling in the tooth. And perhaps more ominously, contraction and expansion of silver fillings can result in fractures and cracks in the tooth, necessitating more dental work, pain, and expense. By contrast, tooth-colored composite dental fillings are an obvious choice for filling cavities in teeth that are visible when our patient opens their mouth, smile, or talk. Composite is a versatile material used in all types of dental repairs, including structural damage, holes, and fractures. Composite dental fillings allow the dentist to remove less of the healthy tooth structure. This filling fits more easily since it doesn’t sit inside the tooth but chemically bonds to the tooth instead. ## Why Dentists Recommend Fillings Cavities are the primary cause for our dentists recommending dental fillings. Still, fillings are also used to treat small holes in teeth that occur due to fractures or even as part of the aging process. Sometimes dental fillings are a good option for treating discolored teeth. ## What to Expect When You Get a Filling Filling a tooth is a relatively simple procedure. Our dentist will: - Numb the area to be treated using a numbing gel and local anesthetic. - Grind, shape, and repair the area to be treated using special tools such as a drill, air abrasion tool, or laser. All decay is removed from the tooth. - Probe the area to assess damage to the tooth’s structure and determine how to fill the area. - Fill the area using the appropriate filling material. - Polish the treated area and buff away any residue left from the procedure. Dental fillings are a safe, effective way to treat cavities in Lombard. Modern techniques make getting a filing nearly painless. Visit Reflection Dental today to learn about the dental filling options available to you for the treatment of cavities. --- ### [Root Canals](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/root-canals/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is used to clean debris and bacteria from an infected root of a tooth. Root canals are a common dental procedure and are available at Reflection Dental. **Content:** ## What are Root Canals? If you suffer from persistent, localized dental pain, you might have a severe tooth infection that requires a root canal to alleviate the problem. Root canals are a common dental procedure at Reflection Dental designed to clean up bacteria from infected roots of teeth. Telltale signs that could indicate that you need root canal treatment include swelling, sensitivity to extreme temperatures, discoloring, and chipped teeth. ## Root Canal Therapy The outer layer of your teeth contains a layer of enamel that works as both an insulator against temperature and a protector against daily oral activities such as chewing and grinding. Just beneath the enamel is the dentin, a hardy tissue extending to the tooth’s pulp. Hundreds of microscopic dentinal tubules fan out from the pulp through the dentine and into the enamel. The dental pulp contains a network of tissue, nerves, and blood vessels that connect to the roots extending through to the jawbone. Any chipping or weakening of the enamel and dentin can very quickly lead to infections of the central pulp area. One of our dental professionals will remove the debris and infection in the pulp while attempting to preserve the crown of the tooth. This procedure is called a root canal. ## What to Expect With Root Canal Therapy Root canal therapy is also known as endodontic therapy, and the procedure has many similarities to getting a filling. First, a numbing cream is smeared onto the gum. You’ll then receive a local anesthetic administered by needle into the gum. Throughout the procedure, you’ll be conscious unless you opt to take an oral sedative beforehand. When the tooth area is prepped and ready, the procedure will begin. Our endodontist will remove the pulp and nerves of the infected tooth, clean the inside from debris and decay, and seal it. Next, our specialist will use endodontic burs to access the canals and excavators to remove decay. The goal of a root canal is to clean the inside while leaving the tooth intact as much as possible. Although the tooth is weaker after a root canal, the crown is usually left if it’s still intact and it’s a back molar. The aesthetics of the front teeth are important, so a [composite filling is often used as an alternative to a crown](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24701612/). ### How To Avoid Root Canal Therapy A root canal infection happens when a tooth with decay or infection is untreated. To avoid a root canal, visit Reflection Dental for a dental check-up every six to 12 months, brush twice daily, floss, and get your teeth cleaned professionally by an oral hygienist. With modern technology, many people in Lombard report that root canal treatment is not as painful as they thought. Aesthetically, it’s better to save the tooth and repair it than to have it removed. If the infected root is neglected, it can cause an abscess to form, which can be painful. Some don’t have symptoms of root infection, so it’s important to get annual dental check-ups. ## Are Root Canals Right For Me? If you are experiencing tooth pain in Lombard, root canal therapy could be the solution to relieve your pain. Visit our dentist today to schedule a consultation with our team and see if a root canal is the best option for you. --- ### [TMJ Treatment](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/tmj-treatment/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** If you are experiencing pain from a Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), TMJ treatment from Reflection Dental may be able to help. **Content:** ## What is the Temporomandibular Joint? The temporomandibular joint, better known as the TMJ, connects the jawbone to the skull. It works like a sliding hinge to allow full movement when speaking, eating, or yawning. TMJ disorders are often temporary, although the cause is often difficult to determine. Genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, bruxism (teeth grinding), or issues with the teeth can cause TMJ disorders. For example, overcrowding or severely crooked teeth can disrupt your bite, which can cause the jaw to slide out of its normal position over time. Thankfully, [TMJ treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15066-temporomandibular-disorders-tmd-overview#management-and-treatment) in Lombard is available to manage or cure these disorders. ## TMJ Symptoms [Symptoms of TMJ disorders](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941) can include pain, tenderness, or an ache in the jaw, face, ears, or temporomandibular joint. In addition, you may experience pain or difficulty when chewing. In more severe cases, TMJ disorders can cause lockjaw. This is when the jaw locks, making it difficult to open or close the mouth. In most cases, lockjaw associated with TMJ disorders is temporary and will not affect breathing or swallowing. ## Mouth Guards Mouthguards are a device that can be inserted over your teeth. These are sometimes called night guards because they’re meant to be worn primarily while you sleep. Mouthguards can be especially helpful for people who grind their teeth while sleeping. ## Oral Splints Oral splints are similar to mouth guards, except they’re meant to be worn all the time instead of primarily at night. Oral splints can help with TMJ disorders by placing your mouth in a more favorable position. Over time, this can help correct your bite and ease pain or discomfort in your jaw. ## Alternative TMJ Treatments Alternative treatments include non-surgical options and home treatments that work best when paired with either a mouth guard or an oral splint. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can help manage pain related to the TMJ. However, if the pain is unbearable or over-the-counter medications aren’t working, we may prescribe something more potent like prescription-strength ibuprofen. Another prescription option is a muscle reliever or relaxer. Our dentist may prescribe a muscle reliever if they believe muscle spasms are causing or exacerbating your TMJ pain. Some people find physical therapy works well for their TMJ disorders. Physical therapy will focus on stretching and strengthening the jaw using targeted exercises. Ultrasound, heat, and ice may be used alongside the exercises. ## Surgical Options There are various surgical options available at Reflection Dental for severe TMJ disorders or those where alternatives have proved unsuccessful. Surgical options are a last resort. Injections and minimally-invasive options are available before more invasive options. You should discuss these TMJ treatment options with our dental professionals at Reflection Dental. ## There are Treatment Options Available for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders TMJ disorders can cause pain and achiness and disrupt your quality of life. These disorders can also make chewing or talking difficult. Thankfully, Reflection Dental provides TMJ treatments to manage or fix these disorders. Contact our office today to set up a consultation appointment with our dental team. --- ### [3D Imaging](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/3d-imaging/) **Published:** March 28, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** 3D imaging in dental applications helps to improve dental evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning for patients, particularly for dental implants, surgery, and orthodontics. **Content:** ## The Future of Dental Care Over the past few decades, technological advancements have had a tremendous impact on the healthcare industry and the quality of care to patients at Reflection Dental in Lombard. This is especially true for dental applications. One of the most exciting advancements in dental diagnostic technology is the development of 3D dental imaging, which has made dental examinations, diagnoses, and care much faster and more effective for us at Reflection Dental. ## What Is 3D Imaging? 3D imaging is [essentially a series of pictures](https://dentalhealthsociety.com/dental-imaging/big-trends-in-dental-technology-3d-imaging-and-cone-beam-computed-tomography-cbct/) that are taken to create a 3D model or image. Currently, the most exciting kind of 3D imaging that is used at Reflection Dental is “Cone Beam Computed Tomography.” Our dentists employ a CBCT machine to take pictures of your teeth and jaw, and then they construct a 3D image to create a realistic view of your mouth to diagnose problems and determine the next step in your treatment. ### Cone Beam Computed Tomography Technology Cone-beam computed tomography is an [imaging technique](https://www.aae.org/specialty/clinical-resources/cone-beam-computed-tomography/) that provides a three-dimensional view by rotating around the patient and capturing images using a cone-shaped X-ray beam to see the underlying teeth and bone structure. A CBCT scan provides critical information for clinical applications such as dental implants, cleft palate assessment, visualization of abnormal teeth, and cavity and root canal diagnosis. ## Which Are the Most Common Clinical Applications? The most common applications for 3D imaging are surgery, orthodontic concerns, and implants. ### Surgery Oral surgery applications are complex cosmetic or reconstructive treatments and include implants, bone grafts, root canals, inlays and onlays, and crowns and veneers. 3D imaging can help to extend the life of your teeth and improve the quality of your implants and crowns. ### Orthodontic 3D imaging is crucial for orthodontists in correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw, as it provides additional data about skeletal and dental conditions, soft tissues, and airway obstruction, along with their interrelationships. ### Implants [Implants replace tooth roots](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622) with metal, screw-like posts and replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. 3D imaging provides data for the correct placement of the implants. ## What Are the Benefits of 3D Imaging? The [primary benefit of 3D imaging](https://northbranddental.com/understanding-the-advantages-of-3d-dental-imaging/) is that it allows Reflection Dental to support patients with a high level of care and provides critical information that isn’t available with traditional X-rays. Additional benefits include: - **Viewing dental anatomy from different angles.** 3D scans can provide a better view of bone structures and the ability to measure them more accurately. - **Creating flexibility.** 3D scans support a wide range of diagnoses and treatment planning. - **Increasing the possibility of treatment success.** 3D scans help us detect problems and create a higher level of confidence in planning treatments. - **Improving the dental visit experience.** The use of dental imaging technology increases the dentist’s confidence and the procedure’s success rate. 3D imaging is proving to be the future of dental diagnostics, as it holds advantages for both dentists and patients and improves the quality of dental care in Lombard. ## More Conversation about 3D Imaging Call our office today to learn more about 3D imaging and how it helps us gain precise insights and better care for our patients. --- ### [Implant-Supported Dentures](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/implant-supported-dentures/) **Published:** March 23, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** If you need to replace multiple missing teeth, implant-supported dentures could be the smile restoration solution you are looking for. **Content:** ## What are Implant-Supported Dentures? Although you have 32 adult teeth, [adults under 64](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/tooth-loss/adults) have an average of 24 remaining, with just under four percent having no natural teeth left. If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re far from alone. Thankfully, there are several options at Reflection Dental to replace missing adult teeth. Implant-support dentures are one popular option to restore your smile. ## Implant-Supported Denture Benefits Traditional dentures are the most affordable option to replace missing teeth, but they have many downsides. Sores on the gums, difficulty talking, and discomfort when eating are only a few examples. Reflection Dental offers implant-supported dentures which provide many of the benefits of dental implants combined with the affordability of traditional dentures. This makes them an excellent choice for most people with missing teeth. The benefits of implant-supported dentures include: - Preventing bone tissue loss, as the implants will stimulate your gums - A natural look and feel - Little to no adjustment period - Allowing you to care for your dentures the same way you would natural teeth - The ability to eat all of your favorite foods If you’re missing only a few teeth, you won’t need a full denture arch. Instead, you could choose an implant-supported bridge that replaces only the teeth you have missing. Other than the financial expense, there are no significant downsides to receiving implant-supported dentures. While this option costs significantly less than individual implants, it’s still more than traditional dentures. You will want to speak with your dental insurance to see if implant-supported dentures are covered. ## Many People Are Candidates Not everyone is a candidate for an implant-supported bridge or denture, but many are. You need to be in good general health and have adequate jawbone density to be a candidate. If your jawbone isn’t dense enough, bone grafting can sometimes be used. If bone grafting is used to support your implants, the process will take longer. The best way to determine if you’re a candidate for implant-supported dentures in Lombard is to have a consultation with your dentist. Only they can provide a definitive answer on your candidacy. ## What To Expect During the Implant Process The implant-supported denture process can take between two to seven months from start to finish. Your dentist will first develop a comprehensive plan tailored specifically for you and will provide a time estimation for completion. First, you’ll undergo surgery to place the dental implants inside your jawbone. The implants will fuse or bond with the bone during the two to six-month healing process. Once your implants have healed, our dentist at Reflection Dental will get a mold of your arch. If you’ve been wearing traditional dentures, the mold and creation process is the same. Once the dentures are finished, they’re sent to us. Our dentist will place them in your mouth and check that everything looks right. If you experience any abnormal discomfort or symptoms after having your implant-supported dentures placed, you should contact your dentist right away. ## Implant-Supported Dentures Are the Answer to Your Missing Teeth Implant-supported dentures in Lombard could be the answer to your missing teeth. If you’re considering this traditional denture alternative, you should speak with Reflection Dental to verify your candidacy for the procedure. Contact our office today for more information. --- ### [General Dentistry](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/general-dentistry/) **Published:** February 3, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** General dentistry's goal is to help you maintain optimal dental health. Your general dentist is trained to help you keep your smile healthy and bright for a lifetime. **Content:** ## What is General Dentistry? General dentistry practitioners are the dentistry equivalent of primary care providers: They serve as your top resource for preserving and improving your oral health. Covering preventative measures and restorative procedures, [general dentistry](https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/general/) involves the application of a variety of useful skills. ## What Do General Dentists Do? General dentistry is primarily focused on preventing problems from forming or becoming worse. To that end, our general dentists and their offices provide services like the following. - **Dental exams.** These involve cleaning and examining the teeth to detect problems. General dentists and oral hygienists both play a role in dental exams, with the latter often handling much of the cleaning work and the former providing an expert visual inspection to determine issues. - **X-rays and other diagnostic methods**. These help the dentist detect immediate issues and track changes over time. - **Restorative procedures**. If problems have emerged with your teeth, your general dentist may recommend and perform restorative procedures as appropriate. Potential procedures include root canals, fillings, and crowns. Our general dentist may also remove badly damaged teeth and provide denture services, and they may handle certain gum procedures as well. - **Referrals**. In some cases, an issue may call for treatment from a specialist such as an [orthodontist](https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-an-orthodontist) (for bite-related issues) or [periodontist](https://www.perio.org/for-patients/what-is-a-periodontist/) (for advanced gum care). If that applies to your situation, our dentist will point you in the right direction. - **Advice and care-plan forming**. Everyone’s mouth is unique, and a big part of our general dentist’s job is providing personalized advice on oral care to each patient. ## How Often Should I See a General Dentist? It’s important to see our general dentist here at Reflection Dental regularly, even if nothing seems to be amiss. That’s because problems like plaque buildup may not be obvious to you at first, but they may cause issues if left undetected and untreated. A standard recommendation is for people to [visit their dentist twice a year](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-visits/how-often-should-you-go-to-the-dentist) for checkups, but more or fewer visits may be appropriate, depending on your situation. For instance, if you have preexisting gum disease or are a smoker, you may want to see the dentist more often. We can work with you to set up an appropriate, personalized schedule. With that said, there are some situations in which you should deviate from the schedule and see your dentist as soon as possible. [Warning signs](https://www.aetna.com/health-guide/warning-signs-you-need-to-see-the-dentist.html) that you need to visit our dentist include bleeding when you brush or floss, unusual oral legions, and loose or painful teeth. If in doubt, call our dentist’s office for advice. ## How Do I Find a General Dentist? Because a general dentist can be such an excellent ally to you and your oral health, taking the time to find the right one is worth it. Reflection Dental is your best option when looking at low-cost/high-quality care for you and your family. Our dental team is here to help you keep your smile healthy. ## Is a General Dentist Right for You? If you are in need of dental care, contact our office and schedule an appointment with our general dentist in Lombard today. --- ### [Veneers](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/veneers/) **Published:** January 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Cosmetic dental veneers correct issues such as stains, gaps, chips, or uneven teeth. Learn how dental veneers can help you restore your smile. **Content:** # What are Cosmetic Dental Veneers? Cosmetic dental veneers are coverings [placed over natural teeth](https://marketplace.ada.org/blog/dental-services/veneers-vs-dentures-which-one-is-right-for-you/) to improve the overall appearance of one’s smile. The thin coverings are most commonly crafted from porcelain and/or composite materials and used to correct minor imperfections such as deep stains, gaps between teeth, and small chips. Veneers are a popular choice among patients looking to brighten their smiles, as they blend in well with the natural teeth, and the procedure is considered minimally invasive. ## Veneers Procedure and Types of Veneers In certain cases, patients at Reflection Dental may only need a single veneer to correct discoloration or one broken or chipped tooth. Alternatively, Reflection Dental may recommend a full set of six to eight veneers to cover the top front teeth. The two types of veneers are traditional veneers and no-prep veneers and, the procedure varies slightly based on the specific veneer type. ## Traditional Veneers [Traditional veneers](https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-veneers) are the most popular type of veneers. These veneers are crafted with solid porcelain to ensure durability. Our dentist in Lombard can match traditional veneers to the color of your surrounding teeth for a natural-looking appearance. Traditional veneers are applied over two appointments. During the first appointment, our dentist uses molding material to make [impressions of the teeth](https://sugarfixdental.com/how-porcelain-veneers-are-applied/) that a lab uses to create permanent veneers. The dentist then preps the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel and applying an etching solution to create a rough surface to help with the bonding procedure. Once the teeth are prepped, temporary veneers are placed to protect the teeth while porcelain veneers are created in the dental lab. When your permanent veneers are ready, our dentist in Lombard applies a light-sensitive resin to the tooth surface and places the veneer. A curing light is then utilized to bond the veneer to the tooth surface by hardening the resin. After the resin is cured and your veneers are safely bonded, our dentist will polish the teeth and remove any excess resin from the sides. Your teeth and gums may feel slightly sore, so it’s important to follow aftercare instructions that may include rinsing with warm salt water and gentle flossing and brushing for the first week or two. ## No-Prep Dental Veneers No-prep veneers require some preparation, but this procedure is generally less invasive than traditional veneer placement. Lumineers are one of the most well-known no-prep veneers offered as an alternative to traditional veneers. Lumineers veneers are made of carinate feldspathic pressable porcelain, which is thinner than traditional porcelain. Traditional veneers are approximately 1.5 millimeters thick, while Lumineers are [0.3 millimeters thick](https://www.newmouth.com/dentistry/cosmetic/lumineers/). Two appointments are also required for no-prep veneers. During the initial prep appointment, our dentist uses molding material to take impressions of the teeth. No-prep veneers are placed directly onto the teeth, so our dentist isn’t required to remove enamel or etch the surfaces. The molds are sent to the dental lab, and no-prep veneers are created. At the second no-prep veneer appointment, our dentist bonds the veneers to the teeth with bonding resin and a curing light. While traditional veneers are designed for [permanent wear](https://www.meadowcreekfamilydentistry.com/veneers/), no-prep veneers last between [10 and 20 years](https://www.healthline.com/health/veneers-vs-lumineers#pros-cons). ## Benefits of Cosmetic Veneers Cosmetic veneers are life-changing for those with dental issues such as chips, deep stains, gaps, or uneven teeth that can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and prevent them from smiling altogether. Understanding the differences between traditional and no-prep veneers and learning about the application process at Reflection Dental can help you determine the best procedure to meet your cosmetic dental needs. ## Are Veneers Right for Me? If you have damaged or discolored teeth, dental veneers from Reflection Dental could be a good solution. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our dentist to learn more about cosmetic veneers. --- ### [Emergencies](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/emergencies/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. Reflection Dental offers emergency dental care to help you when you need it most. **Content:** ## Dental Emergencies Dental emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time, even if you take excellent care of your mouth and teeth. Around [22% of American adults](https://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0201/p511.html) have reported experiencing tooth or mouth pain in the last six months. This proves how common dental emergencies are. However, not every toothache or oral issue is considered an emergency. Therefore, you must understand what constitutes a dental emergency and what to do if you experience one. ## What Is a Dental Emergency? A dental emergency is an issue with the teeth or mouth that needs immediate attention. Immediate attention may be necessary if the problem can’t be fixed later, a person is in severe pain, or there’s a risk to someone’s health if they wait. Different dental emergencies require different self-care steps. You should call Reflection Dental and ask to be seen right away in every emergency. When you tell our dentist at Reflection Dental in Lombard about your emergency, they can provide you with any necessary steps you should take before your arrival. ## When Should You Call an Emergency Dentist? There are a few signs you need an emergency dentist in Lombard. If you experience one or more of the following, you need emergency dental care: - Severe mouth pain or toothache - You lost a permanent tooth - One or more of your permanent (adult) teeth are loose - You’re bleeding from the mouth - You’re experiencing symptoms of an infection in the mouth Symptoms of an infection can include severe pain, bleeding, swelling, and a fever. An infection may also present with oozing, nausea, and a feeling of general malaise. ## Common Emergency Dentistry Examples Some dental emergencies are more common than others. A few of the most common emergencies that we see at Reflection Dental are below. ### Loose or Missing Adult Tooth An adult tooth that has been knocked out or become loose is an emergency. If you have the tooth and get to the dentist in time, the tooth may potentially be replaced in the mouth and saved. However, as an adult, you should never experience a loose tooth. This may point to a range of serious issues that require immediate care. ### Cracked or Chipped Teeth A cracked tooth or a chipped tooth is sometimes an emergency, but not always. For example, if the broken tooth is jagged and cutting into the gums, this would be an emergency. In addition, severe pain or swelling at the site of the damaged tooth would also constitute an emergency. However, if the damaged tooth isn’t causing you pain, you can wait a few days until you get an appointment to see your regular dentist. ### Exposed Nerve Exposed nerves usually occur in the gums due to injury or due to dental decay. The pain of an exposed nerve is unbearable for most people and requires an immediate solution. ### Gum or Facial Swelling If the face or gums swell suddenly with no apparent cause, you must visit a dentist immediately. Swelling can indicate an injury, infection, or another serious issue that could be hazardous if left untreated for any length of time. ## Dental Emergencies Can Happen at Any Time Dental emergencies can happen without warning no matter how careful you are. Thankfully, emergency dentistry at Reflection Dental can help manage or solve the most pressing issues. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact our team immediately. --- ### [Treatments](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Reflection Dental uses a variety of dental treatments to help resolve oral problems. There are a number of treatments available for your specific needs, including common treatments like crowns and fillings. **Content:** ## What Dental Treatments are Available? Whether or not you’re currently experiencing a dental problem, it’s natural to be curious about the different treatments Reflection Dental may offer. The following go-to dental treatments are used to tackle everything from decayed teeth to gum disease. ## Dental Fillings Dental fillings are an important part of cavity treatment. Cavities are caused by tooth decay. After your dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth, they use a filling to fill in the resulting empty space. To avoid pain during the procedure, our dental team in Lombard may use a local anesthetic. Fillings come in a [variety of materials](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/fillings/what-is-a-filling), including porcelain, composite resins, gold, and amalgam. These all have the same basic function but come with different advantages and disadvantages. For instance, gold fillings are durable but are pricier than some other options. ## Dental Crowns We install [dental crowns](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10923-dental-crowns), which are essentially caps, over teeth that are damaged to restore their shape, appearance, and integrity. Before installation, our dentist reshapes the damaged tooth so that the crown fits. Installing a crown may be appropriate when a tooth is damaged, weakened, or discolored. Sometimes, this is a one-day procedure, but often, two visits are necessary. Afterward, the crown doesn’t require any special care other than typical oral hygiene. ## Scaling and Root Planing The purpose of [scaling and root planing](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/scaling-and-root-planing) is to get rid of worrisome plaque and tartar, thereby treating gum disease. (Tartar is hardened plaque that [requires professional dental treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/plaque-vs-tartar) to remove.) Our dental team in Lombard may recommend scaling and root planing when plaque buildup has caused the gums to retreat from the teeth and create spaces prone to trapping additional plaque. During the scaling portion of this procedure, the dentist takes out plaque and tartar. During the root planing, the dentist removes unwanted material from your teeth’ roots, making it easier for the teeth to attach to the gums once more. ## Root Canals When infection or deterioration afflicts a tooth, a root canal may help save it. Our dentists often turn to [root canals](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-root-canals) when a tooth’s nerve or pulp has suffered damage, potentially leading to an abscess or other issues. Patients may suffer from pain and sensitivity in the teeth, not to mention decay and swelling. Root canals usually involve anesthesia. The dentist drills into the tooth clean out decayed materials and then seals the tooth. These steps may occur all in one visit, or the dentist may use a temporary seal during the first visit and apply a permanent one later. Among dental services, root canals have a reputation as painful, but the discomfort they produce is comparable to that of a filling. Root canals are highly preferable to letting tooth decay advance. ## Tooth Extractions Tooth extractions may sound off-putting, but they can prevent a problem tooth from causing worse issues. The dental professionals at Reflection Dental may recommend [tooth-extraction dental procedures](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-removal/when-surgical-extraction-of-teeth-is-necessary) in cases involving impacted wisdom teeth, damaged teeth, and teeth with problems that resist a root canal procedure. Extractions come in two types: simple extractions, in which the dentist just takes the tooth out with forceps, and surgical extractions, which are more complicated and will likely involve an incision and stitches. ## Get Recommendations on Dental Treatments from Your Dentist Regardless of which dental services we recommend, we’ll be able to tell you more about why we think it’s appropriate and what to expect from the process. Soon, you’ll be well on your way to having a healthier mouth! Contact our office in Lombard to schedule an appointment today. --- ### [Extractions](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/treatments/extractions/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** When tooth extraction is needed, it is important to know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure to ensure a fast recovery. **Content:** ## Reasons for Tooth Extractions Even though adult teeth should be permanent, tooth [extractions](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/e/extractions) are a relatively standard procedure in specific cases. The following are some reasons someone might need a tooth extraction: - Defective or infected teeth - Infection of the gums - Trauma-related injuries - Tooth crowding Let’s dive into the procedure, risks, and recovery process for a tooth extraction at Reflection Dental. ## Performing Tooth Extractions At Reflection Dental, our oral surgeon or dentist can remove your tooth. A local anesthetic is first injected to numb the area and prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure. However, you will be aware of the surrounding environment. Our dentist may use a strong general anesthetic to extract a child’s tooth, or if you’re having more than one tooth pulled. With this sedation, you will sleep through the entire procedure. We will use an [elevator device](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5529197/) to rock the tooth back and forth until it becomes loose and then use dental forceps to remove the tooth. ### Removing Impacted Teeth or Molars Surgery may be necessary to remove a molar or impacted teeth (which are teeth that sit below the gum line.) This type of surgery involves the surgeon making an incision to remove the gum and bone tissue covering the tooth. Then, with forceps, the surgeon will wiggle the tooth until it breaks off. In some cases, they may remove the tooth in pieces if the extraction is difficult. In more complex extraction surgeries, a general anesthetic is likely to be used. ## Risks Following Extractions After the tooth is extracted, a blood clot usually forms in its place. Your dentist or oral surgeon will apply gauze pads to stop the bleeding & stitches may also be required. A tooth socket can become exposed (known as a “dry socket”) if the blood clot doesn’t form or dislodges. In this case, a sedative dressing is applied to protect the area and prevent it from drying out. New clots form as a result. Other possible risks following tooth extractions include: - Bleeding lasting more than 12 hours - Fever and chills, indicating an infection - Vomiting or nausea - Persistent Cough - Shortness of breath and chest pain - Redness and swelling around the surgical site If you experience any of these symptoms after having a tooth pulled, you should consult us right away. ### Recovery Recovery from a tooth extraction usually takes a few days. Here are some steps to help speed up your recovery. - Reduce swelling by applying an ice pack for 10 minutes at a time. - To reduce bleeding and aid in clot formation, bite down on the gauze pad after the dentist places it over the affected area. Wear the gauze for three to four hours or until it is saturated with blood. - Take 24 hours to rest and relax. - Avoid using a straw. - Avoid smoking. - Avoid rinsing for 24 hours, and if spitting is required, do so gently. - Prop your head up with pillows when you lay down. In the event of persistent pain or signs of infection, including fever, pain, pus, or drainage from the incision, consult your dentist at Reflection Dental as soon as possible. ### Long-term Results You can probably resume your regular diet after one to two weeks of healing. The extraction site will grow new gum and bone tissue. Missing teeth can, however, cause teeth to move and affect your bite. To avoid tooth movement, ask your dentist about replacing the extracted tooth. Dentures, implants, or fixed bridges are all options that Reflection Dental is prepared to handle for the Lombard area. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment for dental extractions in Lombard. --- ### [Electric Toothbrush](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/electric-toothbrush/) **Published:** March 25, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Electric toothbrushes have several benefits over traditional toothbrushes to help keep your smile healthy and beautiful for a lifetime. **Content:** ## What are Electric Toothbrushes? Electric toothbrushes are manufactured by a variety of dental technology companies, including Oral-B, Philips, and Arm & Hammer, which offer users quite a few general and cosmetic dentistry benefits over manual toothbrushes. These types of toothbrushes can help you improve the overall quality of your smile and keep your teeth and gums healthy. ## Improving the Health of Your Teeth and Gums [Cosmetic dentistry studies have shown](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25039577/) that electric toothbrushes are slightly more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque from your teeth. The real benefit of electric toothbrushes comes from the ease of use, especially for people in Lombard with dexterity issues, such as young children and elderly people. The oscillation of the toothbrush’s head also makes it easier for people to access ordinarily hard-to-reach areas, including underneath braces and close to the gums. You may not notice a major difference in your dental health when using an electric toothbrush if you consistently keep up with your dental care routine, but here at Reflection Dental, we have noticed that it often has much more effective results for those who may struggle with taking care of their teeth. ## Cosmetic Dentistry Benefits Removing the plaque from your teeth is a benefit for their appearance, as well as your general health. Proper brushing with an electric toothbrush can help you fight plaque in between regular dentist appointments while keeping your teeth clean and white. An electronic toothbrush can also make it easier to remove buildup between your gums and teeth, reducing the chance of developing cavities. ## Technology Available with Electric Toothbrushes Another major benefit associated with electric toothbrushes is the technology that they use, helping you brush properly. Some of this technology is built into the brush, and some products even have phone applications that track how well you’re brushing. ### Inside the Toothbrush Many electric toothbrushes have timers built into them that signal when you’ve been brushing for two minutes, the recommended time that you should be brushing twice a day. Some of them even have the timer split into 30-second segments that signal you to move on to another quadrant in your mouth. Certain brands of electronic toothbrushes may also have a built-in pressure sensor that warns you if you begin to brush too hard, which can impact healthy teeth and gums. Most of the brushes have several brushing modes that you can choose from. These modes can be designed for brushing your teeth, cleaning your tongue, and even massaging your gums. ### Phone Applications Progressive electronic toothbrush manufacturers have phone apps available to help you keep track of your brushing. The toothbrush can sense where in your mouth you’ve been brushing and send the information to your phone, analyzing where you may need to focus. These applications also save your brushing history to detail your brushing improvements. ## Manual or Electric? While a manual toothbrush can be just as effective as an electric one, the electric brush comes with many benefits the manual brush can’t match. ## More About Electric Toothbrushes Contact our office today to learn more about Electric Toothbrushes and why they are so beneficial for your oral health. --- ### [Patient Safety](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/patient-safety/) **Published:** March 30, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** The dental team at Reflection Dental takes many precautions to ensure your safety during and after dental procedures. **Content:** ## Dental Procedures and Safety Although our dentist’s office in Lombard is generally a safe place, some dental procedures are complex. Complicated medical procedures always have the potential for side effects, whether they take place at your dentist, a hospital, or a doctor’s office. Because of this, patient safety is always a top priority. There are many ways our dental team keeps you safe and a few ways you can help them with this essential task. ## The Importance of Physical Examinations You’ll receive a brief physical examination of your teeth, mouth, and gums before most dental work is done. A physical exam will look for broken teeth, decay, cuts, sores, and other issues to see if your mouth is healthy enough for the planned procedure. ## Revealing Your Full Medical History Revealing your complete medical history is essential to staying safe. We won’t judge you for certain lifestyle choices and will make you feel comfortable regardless. We’re also bound by law not to disclose personal health information. Certain procedures (especially those requiring [anesthesia](https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/anesthesia-101/types-of-anesthesia/anesthesia-risks/)) may not be safe for some people. In other cases, certain lifestyle choices or health problems may require additional monitoring during the procedure. For example, you’ll want to tell our dentist if you have unmanaged diabetes, heart disease, contagious blood disease, or a bleeding disorder. You’ll also want to be honest about smoking, drug, or alcohol use, whether current or in the past. If you’re currently on certain street drugs, using IV sedation could cause potentially life-threatening problems. We should know any daily medications you take, including vitamins or supplements. ## Minimizing Allergic Reactions Allergic reactions range from mild to life-threatening. Your dentist at Reflection Dental will want to know if you’re allergic to latex or any medications, or if you’ve had a reaction to any anesthesia in the past. ## Monitoring Our dental team will monitor you during all procedures at Reflection Dental. If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, be sure to tell them. If you undergo IV sedation, you’ll be monitored using a blood pressure cuff and pulse oximeter. You may also receive oxygen. ## When to Not Drive Yourself Home There are times when your dentist might tell you ahead of time that you can’t drive yourself home after a procedure. Remember, IV sedation makes you drowsy and slows your reflexes. It takes hours for these effects to wear off entirely, so it is important to follow these instructions and find someone to drive you home after certain procedures. ## Sanitation All the tools used at our office are thoroughly sanitized between uses to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Certain tools and items are used only once. Our dentist and staff wash their hands thoroughly between patients and between procedural steps as necessary. ## Following Instructions You will always be given [care instructions](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001957.htm) to follow after leaving our office. You must follow these instructions exactly. This is especially important if you’ve undergone any surgical procedure, like wisdom teeth removal or dental implant placement. The care instructions will help minimize the risk of complications such as infection, excess bleeding, and dry socket, among others. ## Your Dentist Takes Many Patient Safety Steps The patient safety procedures followed at Reflection Dental along with following the instructions provided by our dental team help ensure you have the safest possible visit to our office. If you have any concerns regarding your safety during a dental procedure, contact our office today. --- ### [Restoration](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Get an insight into how dental restorations at Reflection Dental can help save and transform your teeth, and learn which issues can be addressed and corrected using these procedures. **Content:** ## What are Restorations? If you have missing, fractured, weakened, or decayed teeth, you may require a dental restoration. Dental restorations can be used to repair teeth that are broken, chipped, or cracked as well as those that have cavities. Tooth restoration methods can help treat different levels of tooth damage. Most of these procedures aim at improving our patient’s smiles. ## How Do Dental Restorations Work? Dental restorations can be used to transform your smile, improve the functionality of your teeth and help restore or repair damaged or missing parts of your tooth structures. Dental restorations can help you in the following ways. ### Repairing Damage Dental fillings and crowns can be used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Depending on the level of damage and the teeth’ position, our dental professionals will suggest a suitable tooth restoration technique to help you get a better smile. ### Improving Oral Health Unhealthy teeth may look discolored or brittle and are more susceptible to cavities and gum diseases. Dental restorations in Lombard can help deal with these issues and assist you in maintaining good oral hygiene. After removing the infected or decayed parts of your teeth, dental restorations can repair or restore your tooth structure. Healthier teeth mean better oral hygiene. ### Correcting Genetic Imperfections Many people have genetic imperfections in their teeth, which can be corrected using dental restorations. Treatment options such as veneers and dental crowns can address issues such as thinner teeth, shorter teeth, misaligned teeth, and divots or misshapen teeth. They can also help patients get better-aligned teeth and improved smiles. ## Commonly Used Dental Restorations Some of the most commonly used dental restoration procedures include the following. ### Crowns Dental crowns in Lombard encase the entire outer tooth to protect it from further damage and structural breakdown. Crowns are customized and fabricated in a lab. Our dentist removes the infected part of the tooth and roughens the surface to prepare it for crown placement. Then an impression of the prepared teeth is taken, and a temporary dental crown is placed on the teeth until the permanent crown is prepared in the lab. Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist removes the temporary crown, cleans the tooth, and places the permanent crown on your teeth. ### Fillings Dental fillings treat tooth decay and cavities. [ Around 85% of people](https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/dental-caries/adults) aged between 20 to 34 years have had cavities in their permanent teeth. Cavities and decay occur due to a lack of proper brushing, bacteria accumulation, and acids formed from leftover food particles. Fillings are a quick and easy procedure, usually completed in less than an hour. The infected part of the teeth is removed, and the filling is inserted into the tooth. Fillings are typically made of amalgam or composite resin. ### Dental Bonding Dental bonding, which is an application of composite resin, can treat issues such as minor gaps between teeth, deformed teeth, minor chips, discolored teeth, and unresponsive stains. The composite resin is molded, and the color is matched to your teeth to look natural. An etching formula is applied before dental bonding to prepare the teeth for the procedure. After the composite is inserted and molded into shape, it is hardened using a special dental laser. We then file down and polish the composite to finish the treatment. ## Restore Your Smile Today Dental restorations can help you get a better smile with improved oral hygiene. Your dentist at Reflection Dental determines the type of dental restoration procedure suitable for treating your dental concerns. --- ### [Bridges](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/bridges/) **Published:** February 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental bridges can be used to replace missing teeth or even create a new smile. Learn how dental bridges can help you restore your smile today. **Content:** ## What Are Bridges? If you have one or more missing teeth, Reflection Dental can close those gaps with dental bridges. Dental bridges are natural-looking dental prosthetics that anchor to adjacent teeth. Dental bridges are one of the most commonly used treatments in Lombard for replacing missing teeth. ## Types of Dental Bridges In dentistry, [a bridge is a false tooth (called a pontic)](https://www.dentalfind.com/glossary/pontic) attached to either side of a gap by abutment teeth. There are several different types of bridges. Traditional bridges consist of a false tooth or teeth affixed to each of the abutment teeth by dental crowns. Traditional dental bridges are the most common, and they are for when you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap caused by a missing tooth. While cantilever dental bridges are similar to traditional bridges, with only one abutment tooth cemented to the pontic, a cantilever bridge requires only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap left by the missing tooth. Maryland dental bridges utilize two natural abutment teeth on both sides of the gap, similar to a traditional bridge. Unlike traditional bridges, which use crowns on the abutment teeth, a Maryland bridge uses a porcelain or metal framework that bonds to the back surface of the abutment teeth. Like a traditional bridge, a Maryland bridge can be used if an adjacent natural tooth is on both sides of the gap resulting from the missing tooth or teeth. The term “implant-supported bridge” refers to a bridge supported by dental implants rather than by crowns or frames. In general, for each missing tooth, one implant is surgically placed, and these implants serve as a support for the bridge. Constructing a bridge by suspending a pontic between two implant-supported crowns is possible if a single implant is not feasible for each missing tooth. ### Choosing between a dental bridge and an implant [Dental insurance plans commonly cover bridges and implants.](https://www.investopedia.com/best-dental-insurance-for-implants-4802710) A dental bridge can last between five and 15 years if properly cared for, while dental implants are considered a permanent solution. The quality of dental hygiene can affect the life expectancy of all types of bridges, including dental implants. ## What Is the Purpose of a Dental Bridge? The loss of a tooth or teeth can cause various problems for you. You can address these issues with a dental bridge, such as: - Restorative dentistry - Restoring chewing function - Restoring your pronunciation and speech - Preserving the shape of your face - Bite readjustment for chewing - Maintaining the correct position of your remaining teeth However, it would be best to consider many factors before deciding on dental bridges. These include your health and the location of the missing teeth. Cost can be another factor for many, especially concerning insurance coverage. Your dentist at Reflection Dental will be able to discuss treatment options in Lombard for your particular situation that best suits your dental health needs. ## Are Bridges Right For You? If you would like to learn more about dental bridges and see if they are the right solution for your smile, contact our office to schedule an appointment today. --- ### [Crowns](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/crowns/) **Published:** February 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Dental crowns can often be a necessity to help restore the function and appearance of your teeth. It is important to know what to expect when getting a dental crown. **Content:** ## What is a Crown? Just like the cap that covers your toothpaste bottle, a dental crown is a [cap](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-crowns) that covers your tooth. Typically made of porcelain or metal, dental crowns are placed over teeth to restore tooth function and cosmetic appearance. Here are a few things to know about dental crown procedures. ## What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure Most [dental crown procedures](https://www.healthline.com/find-care/articles/dentists/dental-crown#the-procedure) at Reflection Dental involve two visits to the dentist’s office in Lombard. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth by filing it down to remove its outer layer and then makes a mold of the tooth. The mold is used as the model to make the actual crown, which is typically made off-site at a laboratory and can take up to several weeks. In the meantime, your dentist will put a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is prepared, which will then be cemented on the tooth during the second visit. Reflection Dental has the technology to make the crown in the office the same day, in which case you only have to make one visit to the dentist and you’re done. It’s worth asking your dentist if this is an option and what the estimated cost would be. ## When Might You Need a Dental Crown? A dental crown is often used to cover a tooth that is already weakened, protecting the tooth from further decay and providing extra strength for chewing. A dental crown is also used to protect a tooth after a dental procedure, including a root canal, dental implant, or dental bridge. Dental crowns are also useful to cover teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or otherwise have an appearance that is not aesthetically pleasing. Getting crowns that are similar to the color of your teeth provides a natural appearance and enhances your smile. ## Different Types of Dental Crowns There are several kinds of [dental crowns](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-a-crown-last#types) to choose from, each varying in strength, aesthetic, and cost. The right kind will depend on different factors, including the tooth’s location and the severity of the tooth’s damage. Below are four common options for dental crowns. ### Gold Crowns Gold crowns have been around for over a century and are extremely strong and durable. The only setback with gold crowns is their appearance, which can be unsightly depending on your taste. For this reason, gold crowns work great for back molars, where the crown is not entirely visible. ### Porcelain Fused-to-Metal Crowns These crowns are made with a metal interior and a porcelain exterior, providing the best of both worlds. They have the benefit of durability while also creating a natural appearance that matches the rest of your teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal[ crowns](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK304693/) have also been used for several decades, so dentists know how well they work. ### Zirconia Crowns [Zirconia crowns](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3723107/) are similar to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns in that they have combined metal and porcelain components, but they are a much newer technology. ### Lithium Disilicate Crowns These crowns are also very new but are made of glass-ceramic that creates a lifelike appearance. While these crowns can be made in our dentist’s office with a specialized machine, they may be more expensive than other crowns. ## Are Crowns Right For You? Dental crowns are a great way to protect your teeth while maintaining a natural look. With plenty of options to choose from, you can ensure that you select the crown type that suits you best, combined with the best care here at Reflection Dental. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our dental professionals. --- ### [Full Dentures](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/full-dentures/) **Published:** February 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Full dentures are removable acrylic teeth designed to look natural and feel comfortable. Patients benefit from increased confidence and better clarity when speaking. **Content:** ## The Missing Piece to a Perfect Smile When teeth are missing, it can significantly affect how a patient feels about themselves, especially if they have visible tooth gaps when smiling or talking. In addition to altering our patient’s appearance, missing teeth can also cause discomfort. Patients can lose teeth by accident, through infection, or from severe decay. Full dentures are an excellent alternative that Reflection Dental encourages for our patients who want to replace teeth when implants are not a viable option due to bone loss or expense. Full dentures require some getting used to and won’t feel exactly like the natural teeth, but today’s dentures can be removed and put back in the mouth as necessary. Plus, full dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever. ## What Is a Full Denture? Full dentures replace all or most of your natural teeth and are the most popular type of denture used in the United States. A full denture can be fixed or removable and can replace all the natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. A fixed partial denture is an oral prosthetic device used to replace a tooth gap from one or more missing teeth. ## How Do Full Dentures Work? The main features of full dentures are their fit, durability, and retention. Metal clasps are used on the upper and lower jaws to secure full dentures in place. ## Caring for a Full Denture Patients in Lombard need to ensure that they are correctly clean and [care for their full dentures](https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/dentures) on a daily basis. This will prevent damage to the dentures and keep them in their original shape. Patients should brush their dentures thoroughly with denture-specific toothpaste, paying particular attention to the teeth and any cracks in the plastic and metal surfaces. All surfaces that come into contact with food or liquids, like the chewing surface of the top and bottom molars and both sides of all teeth, should be brushed thoroughly. Patients should make sure to scrape away plaque from the teeth, gum line, and metal fittings on top and bottom surfaces. It’s always a good idea to give the mouth a break. When not using their dentures, patients should let them soak in warm water or submerge them in denture cleaner to keep them free of bacteria. ## What Are Full Dentures Made From? Full dentures are typically constructed of either acrylic or metal with a plastic liner. Metal dentures are often coated with acrylic to give them color and shape. Acrylic is used because it can be molded into any desired shape and form, unlike metal which is limited in shape and size due to its rigidity. Acrylic also provides tooth-like surfaces that feel more natural than metal surfaces, which can feel overly smooth or cold to the touch. With acrylic surfacing, patients enjoy a more realistic tooth feel. While the thought of dentures can be a scary one, it is comforting to know that the smile is one of the face’s best features. Once our patients have their full dentures fitted, they enjoy an immediate increase in confidence when they smile and improved clarity when they speak. Patients in Lombard should remember to have regular checkups with their dentist at Reflection Dental to maintain a proper fit over time. Gums and jawlines change with age, and it may be necessary to adjust dentures or possibly remake them in the future. ## Are Full Dentures Right For You? If you are missing all or most of your teeth, full dentures may be the right choice for you. Schedule an appointment with our dental team at Reflection Dental today to learn more. --- ### [Implant Restorations](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/implant-restorations/) **Published:** March 14, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** When replacing missing teeth with dental implants, implant restoration is a key piece of the puzzle. Your dentist will ensure that you get the perfect implant restoration for your needs. **Content:** ## The Solution for Tooth Restoration If you’re missing a tooth and it’s causing dental issues, your dentist at Reflection Dental might suggest a permanent solution called a dental implant. Dental implants are a common procedure designed to replace a missing tooth with a custom-built implant that gets attached to the jawbone with a screw. Once the implant is placed, our dentist will design a custom implant restoration that will cover the implant and improve the functionality of your smile. A variety of dental implant restoration procedures are available at Reflection Dental in Lombard, each providing a unique method for tooth replacement. Our restorative dentist and dental team can discuss which implant restoration method is the best solution for you. ## Dental Implant Restoration Benefits A missing tooth can cause a host of oral health and speech problems, and it can even affect your confidence. Implant restoration crowns can last for up to 15 years, while the screw holding the implant can last a lifetime. To ensure the longevity of your implants and restorations, it’s important to go for regular checkups every six months, floss regularly, and brush daily. By opting for this procedure, you may see an improvement with the following: - Eating and chewing - Infections and disease - Speech - The overall aesthetics of your teeth ## Types of Dental Implants Each of the implant methods available has a functional and cosmetic purpose. Your oral surgeon and the team at Reflection Dental will usually discuss the best solution for you. Although there are roughly over 40 implant types, the three most common types are endosteal, subperiosteal, and mini-dental implants. ### Endosteal Implants This procedure, which involves constructing an artificial root to secure the false tooth in place, is the most common type of implant restoration for people with a healthy jawbone. A titanium screw is inserted into the gum and attached to the jawbone. The protruding screws keep the tooth secure. The entire procedure can take anywhere from two to six months, as first, the jawbone needs to fuse with the implant to create a solid base before tooth insertion. ### Subperiosteal Implants If you have an eroded jawbone or have lost a lot of your back teeth, a subperiosteal implant is likely to be the preferred implant method. Because the jawbone is weak, a surgeon uses a metal frame beneath the gums. This solid structure can then support crowns, bridges, or dentures. ### Mini-Dental Implants A mini-dental implant is a less invasive procedure than a full implant. These implants also last a lifetime but tend to be smaller, with a tinier titanium screw. Mini-dental implants are strategically placed over the gum. Although no sutures or major surgery are involved, the process can take up to six months. This procedure at Reflection Dental is used for people who don’t have a solid jawbone and who would rather not undergo surgery. As with most surgeries, there is likely to be a bit of pain and swelling at the site of the incision. Over-the-counter pain medication should be sufficient to ease the pain. Simple dental procedures don’t quite have the advantages of lifelong implant restorations, which require a one-off surgical procedure for a lifetime of reliability and uncomplicated dental problems. ## Let Our Team Create a Quality Implant Restoration Once your implant is placed, the team at Reflection Dental will create an implant restoration that will look natural and restore functionality to your mouth. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our restorative dentist in Lombard. --- ### [Partial Dentures](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/restoration/partial-dentures/) **Published:** March 25, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Partial dentures are prosthetics that replace a tooth or a group of teeth. The dental team at Reflection Dental can help you discover if a partial denture is the best solution to restore your smile. **Content:** ## What Are Partial Dentures? A partial denture is a removable dental appliance that is custom-made to replicate your natural teeth as closely as possible. Partial dentures usually replace teeth by attaching to a gum-colored base that clasps or snaps onto remaining teeth or dental implants. Partial dentures are beneficial for restoring form and function to your smile if several teeth are missing. A partial denture can replace multiple teeth in either the upper or lower portion of your mouth and is usually removable. Partially implanted dentures serve more than just cosmetic purposes. They can also enhance the wearer’s ability to chew and speak. In addition to preserving your natural smile, partial dentures can also maintain the position of the remaining teeth in your mouth, which can shift over time. A partial denture is made of a combination of metal and acrylic, and it is sturdy enough to handle chewing and speaking needs while still looking natural. Partially removable dentures made from acrylic can be less durable and structurally sound, but depending on your needs, they may be your best alternative. ### When Is a Partial Denture Necessary? If you have lost multiple teeth due to the following reasons, partial dentures may be necessary: - Advanced tooth decay - Gum disease ([periodontal disease](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354473)) - Injuries to the face or jaw - Extraction of teeth - Inadequate dental care - Natural aging ### Alternative Options Replacing missing teeth isn’t limited to partial dentures. A full set of dentures can be used to replace a full set of missing lower or upper teeth. Before you can get full dentures, our dentist at Reflection Dental will need to extract your remaining teeth. Missing teeth can also be replaced with bridges. [Dental bridges are similar to partial dentures](https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-bridge) since only a few teeth are replaced. As opposed to partial dentures, which can replace teeth on both sides of your mouth, bridges usually go on one side of your mouth. Moreover, bridges tend to be permanently attached, while partial dentures are usually removable. When you have three or more adjacent missing teeth, Reflection Dental recommends partial dentures. ### What Happens At The Dentist If You Need Dentures? Reflection Dental constructs a removable partial denture based on your remaining teeth and their condition. These teeth may all be healthy, but if they can’t support normal chewing, speaking or other activities, our dentist may recommend extracting them and using full dentures instead of partials. If you have any allergies to the materials often used in partials, such as acrylic, our dentist may want to explore other options for partials or full dentures. ### Can I Eat With Partials? Yes, partial dentures can be worn while eating. Starting with soft foods and chopping them into small pieces is the best way to adjust to your new dentures. After you get a partial denture in Lombard, don’t eat anything sticky or hard for a couple of days. Additionally, you should chew on both sides of your mouth so the pressure is even. Nonabrasive denture cleaners can be used to remove stains and stuck-on food from removable partial dentures. Soak the denture overnight in the cleaner, and then brush it thoroughly. A toothbrush will help remove stuck-on food. ## Are Partial Dentures Right for Me? If you are missing multiple teeth, partial dentures in Lombard may be the solution to restoring your smile. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with the dental team at Reflection Dental today. --- ### [Cleanings](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/cleanings/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Regular dental cleanings can help protect the integrity of your teeth and keep your mouth healthy. Here’s what to expect during your routine dental cleaning. **Content:** ## Dental Cleanings are Essential Most people need their teeth cleaned once or twice a year. Teeth cleanings are an essential part of maintaining excellent oral health and maintaining your overall health. There are several steps involved in professional teeth cleaning at our Lombard office. ## Why Are Teeth Cleanings Important? Professional teeth cleanings are important because they provide a whiter, brighter smile. A healthy smile can help you feel more confident, which may help promote a higher quality of life. However, the benefits of dental cleanings go far beyond a beautiful smile. Oral cancers can be detected early during routine cleaning examinations. Around one in 60 men and one in 140 women will be [diagnosed with oral cancer](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html) during their lifetime. When caught early, oral cancers can be successfully treated. Teeth cleanings protect your oral health by preventing cavities and gum disease, like gingivitis. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and be painful, making eating certain foods difficult. ## Physical Exam Dental cleanings are usually done by a hygienist at Reflection Dental and start with an exam. The hygienist uses a small dental mirror to examine your teeth and gums to ensure they’re healthy. If there are concerns, the hygienist may want to consult with our dentist at Reflection Dental before moving forward. ## Plaque Removal The hygienist will begin cleaning by removing any plaque or tartar built up along the gum line or between the teeth. They’ll do this using a special scraper tool. You may hear scraping noises during this part of the cleaning. This is normal and nothing to cause you concern. ## Brushing Teeth Once the hygienist has removed plaque and tartar, they will brush your teeth using a powerful electric toothbrush and special toothpaste. This toothpaste may taste and look similar to the kind you use at home but has a gritty texture that gently scrubs and polishes your teeth. Some people in Lombard become anxious when they hear the grinding noise during this part of the cleaning, but this is a normal part of the dental procedure. ## Expert Flossing The hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove debris once brushing is complete. Even if you floss regularly at home, this is an important step. Not only does expert flossing thoroughly clean your teeth, but it can pinpoint any spots on the gums where bleeding may occur. ## Rinse After the expert flossing, you’ll need to rinse your mouth to remove any leftover debris. The rinse used usually contains liquid fluoride. Sometimes, the hygienist will remove excess liquid and rinse with a special suction tool. ## Fluoride Treatment Your dental professional at Reflection Dental may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth after cleaning. This treatment helps protect your teeth against cavities in Lombard for several months. The hygienist will place foamy fluoride into teeth trays and place them over your teeth. This foam rests on teeth for about a minute before removal and rinsing. ## Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings Having your teeth cleaned once or twice a year can help keep you healthy and provide you with a bright smile. If you haven’t had your teeth professionally cleaned recently, now is the time to schedule an appointment. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our dental team. --- ### [Wisdom Tooth Extractions](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/wisdom-tooth-extractions/) **Published:** February 7, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Wisdom tooth extractions are a common dental procedure that many people have performed at Reflection Dental. Find out how wisdom teeth removal is done and what the recovery time is like. **Content:** ## What are Wisdom Teeth and Why are They Removed? Wisdom teeth are permanent teeth located at the back of your mouth. The jaws of many people are too small to accommodate wisdom teeth without causing other teeth to shift. The results can be problematic. A wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that removes the teeth if necessary. Impacted wisdom teeth are teeth that don’t have the space or room to erupt into the mouth or develop normally, so they haven’t emerged from beneath the gums and aren’t visible. Consequently, impacted wisdom teeth may only erupt partially or not at all. You may need to have an impacted wisdom tooth removed if it causes dental problems, pain, or infection. Our dental professionals at Reflection Dental in Lombard can perform wisdom tooth extractions. Even when impacted teeth don’t currently pose a problem, our dental team recommends [wisdom tooth extractions](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268) to avoid potential future complications. ## What to Expect With Wisdom Tooth Extractions Our dentist is likely to recommend surgery if your [wisdom teeth](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/wisdom-teeth) are causing issues. Wisdom teeth extraction is a fairly standard procedure, and recovery might take up to a week, depending on your circumstances. Patients with impacted wisdom teeth may require an extended recovery period. Wisdom teeth extraction is considered an outpatient procedure, meaning that you’re admitted and released from the surgery center on the same day. If you’re anesthetized or sedated during your procedure, you will likely wake up in the dental chair. You’ll be directed to the recovery room after undergoing general anesthesia because it may take you a bit longer to wake up. Consult our dentist about the type of sedation you should expect. ### Recovery for Tooth Extractions As you recover from surgery, your mouth slowly begins to feel normal again. It’s usual to experience some pain and swelling and some bleeding after surgery. As soon as you wish, you can apply an ice pack to your face. You’ll also be instructed on how and when to take any prescribed painkillers or over-the-counter medications. Wisdom teeth surgery usually takes between three and four days to fully recover. Your teeth could take a full week to recover if they were impacted or growing at an awkward angle. Infection can still occur weeks after surgery because the wound left behind won’t completely heal for a month or two. Monitor yourself for signs of infection at all times. On the day following your surgery, you can resume normal daily activities, but you should refrain from doing anything that could cause stitches to come loose or your blood clot to dislodge. A few examples include but are not limited to: - Exercising vigorously - Using tobacco products - Drinking through a straw - Spitting Complications may indicate an infection or damage to the nerves. The following symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention: - Having difficulty swallowing or breathing - No effect of medication on dulling the pain - Swelling that becomes worse over time - Fever - Expelling blood or pus from your nose - Bleeding that persists even after applying pressure with gauze Wisdom tooth extraction from our dentist at Reflection Dental is a fairly simple process. Follow your dentist’s instructions, and extraction and recovery should go smoothly. ## Having Issues with Your Wisdom Teeth? Contact our Lombard dental office and schedule an appointment to have your wisdom teeth examined by our dental professionals. --- ### [Home Whitening](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/home-whitening/) **Published:** January 13, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Home teeth whitening products are available in stores, but how do they compare to in-office teeth whitening from your dentist? Let’s look at how these services compare to each other. **Content:** ## What do Tooth Whitening Products Consist of? Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can be performed at home and in our office in Lombard. While specific ingredients may differ, products designed for home whitening typically contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide, which helps lift surface stains from tooth enamel. When whitening your teeth at home, it’s important to follow all provided instructions to ensure the safe application of the product and to reduce the chance of possible side effects. ## Home Whitening Products for Teeth At-home teeth whitening generally falls into the two categories of over-the-counter products and dentist-supervised treatments in which patients use dental-grade [home whitening](https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/whitening) products. Over-the-counter whitening products contain lower levels of peroxide when compared to at-home dentist-supervised products. Common over-the-counter and dentist-supervised products include: - Whitening strips: Polyethylene, a thin plastic material, is used in the manufacture of whitening strips. The flexible strips are coated with peroxide and fit over the teeth. Specific directions can vary per brand, but the treatment generally consists of placing the strips over the teeth for a specified amount of time. - Bleaching trays: Bleaching trays contain a whitening solution and fit directly over the top and bottom teeth. Dental-grade bleaching trays are custom-fit at our office, while over-the-counter trays are fit at home. Bleaching trays consist of flexible plastic molded to fit directly over the teeth. When using an over-the-counter whitening kit, the user must first melt the bleaching trays in boiling water to create a custom mold. The user then places the bleaching solution into the trays and places the trays over their top and bottom teeth for a specified amount of time. - Whitening toothpaste: Whitening toothpaste is available both over-the-counter and through [dental prescriptions](https://www.woodshorefamilydentistry.com/dental-clinic/cosmetic-dentistry/at-home-teeth-whitening). The active ingredient in most whitening toothpaste is peroxide. Certain brands contain both baking soda and peroxide. The baking soda acts as an abrasive agent to help remove stains in conjunction with the peroxide. Whitening toothpaste is typically considered safe for daily use. - Bleaching pens: Bleaching or whitening pens contain dissolvable whitening serum that users apply directly to the teeth. The pens consist of a tube with a soft tip, which releases the serum when the pen is twisted or squeezed. The soft tip allows for targeted application for each tooth, and the pens can also be used for quick whitening touch-ups. ## Precautions for At-Home Whitening At-home whitening treatments can eliminate surface stains and lighten the tooth surface by several shades. It’s important to note that at-home whitening treatments may not effectively remove deeply-set stains beneath the enamel and [stains or discoloration](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10958-tooth-discoloration) caused by medications such as the antibiotic tetracycline. If your teeth have deep-set stains or severe discoloration, it’s best to consult with Reflection Dental before using an over-the-counter whitening product. Peroxide can cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation in certain individuals, so it’s imperative to follow all provided instructions to ensure the bleaching agent doesn’t absorb into the gum line. If irritation or sensitivity occurs, discontinue use and consult with the dental team at Reflection Dental. ## Benefits of At-Home Teeth Whitening At-home tooth-whitening treatments enhance your overall appearance by eliminating stains and lightening yellow or slightly discolored teeth. By using home whitening products as directed, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine, and scheduling regular check-ups with us at Reflection Dental, you can enjoy the benefits of a bright and healthy smile. ## Questions About Home Whitening? If you have questions or concerns about whitening your teeth, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our Lombard team to discuss the best options for you. --- ### [Clear Braces](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/cosmetic/clear-braces/) **Published:** January 13, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Learn all about clear braces and why many prefer them over traditional metal braces. Here are a few of the advantages of clear braces and how they could be a great solution for misaligned teeth. **Content:** ## What are Clear Braces? Clear braces or [clear aligners](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/invisible-orthodontic-aligners) are gaining popularity among teens and adults in Lombard, as they offer many advantages over traditional braces. Clear braces are customized, transparent, removable trays that help straighten your teeth. Here’s why patients at Reflection Dental prefer clear braces over any other form of orthodontic treatment: - Less noticeable: Clear braces or clear aligners are more discreet, as they are made of clear BPA-free plastic. Unlike traditional braces that use metal brackets, which are noticeable even from a distance, these braces are not obvious. Teens and adults who wish to keep their orthodontic treatment private can benefit from clear aligners. - Improved comfort: Clear aligners are more comfortable than traditional braces. With metal braces, patients have a metal setup in their mouth that can irritate the inner side of cheeks and lips by rubbing against it. Clear aligners do not have any metal brackets making them more comfortable than metal braces. - Better oral hygiene: Clear aligners are removable trays that can be removed while brushing and eating. Moreover, with clear aligners, patients are not prohibited from consuming any specific food items. Patients can eat anything without worrying about damaging their braces. - Fewer dentist visits: Unlike metal braces that require frequent visits to our dentist, clear aligners may require follow-up appointments after eight weeks or more. Patients can switch their trays at home according to their orthodontist’s instructions. ## Getting Clear Braces: The Procedure Clear braces use plastic trays to apply pressure on the misaligned teeth and shift them to the desired position. At first, the patient may feel some pressure on the teeth, but once accustomed to the feeling, patients remain comfortable throughout the process. The procedure of clear braces involves: ### Examination and Mouth Impression The initial stage for getting clear braces is to get an examination performed by a qualified dentist to determine whether this treatment is suitable for you. After the screening, detailed scans and x-rays are taken and sent to the laboratory, where your custom-made clear braces will be manufactured. ### First Sets of Aligners You can get the first set of clear trays to take home. You can switch the trays after a few weeks per the orthodontist’s instructions. These trays need to be worn for 22 to 24 hours daily and can be removed while brushing and eating. ### Follow Up Sessions Patients in Lombard may be required to visit our office after six to eight weeks, depending on the severity of the case. We will keep a regular check on the progress of teeth alignment and check whether the movement is progressing properly. Clear braces or aligners don’t require any specific maintenance routine. ## In-Office Clear Aligners Vs. At-Home Aligners While some companies provide clear aligners directly to patients by giving them DIY impression kits, others work exclusively with our dental team at Reflection Dental to offer their products to patients. In-office aligners have a more intensive treatment plan, as a qualified dentist supervises the entire procedure. Issues arising during treatment can be addressed readily, as our team can guide the patient and solve their queries. Clear braces are an ideal alternative to metal braces. They help shift misaligned teeth to their desired position to help people get a straighter smile. Since crooked or misaligned teeth are harder to clean and may cause future oral issues, it’s essential to treat them as early as possible to avoid future problems. ## Ready to Get Started with Clear Braces? If you are ready to straighten your smile, contact our office today to see if clear braces in Lombard are right for you. --- ### [Laser Dentistry](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/laser-dentistry/) **Published:** January 12, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Laser dentistry can be used for treating numerous dental problems with minimal discomfort and pain and reduced recovery time for patients at Reflection Dental. **Content:** ## What Is Laser Dentistry? Innovations in dental technology have positively affected almost all aspects of dental surgery and treatments at Reflection Dental in Lombard. Laser dentistry is a minimally invasive, effective, and precise method of treating many dental problems such as cavities and gum diseases. ## How Laser Treatment Works Laser dentistry, which was first made available commercially in 1989, uses a dental laser to treat various dental conditions. This procedure, which is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, uses energy in an extremely focused thin beam of light to mold or eliminate mouth tissues. Minor laser treatments do not require anesthesia, as our patients remain comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure. Many of our patients prefer laser treatments at Reflection Dental as they do not require any drilling or scaling. Sometimes laser dentistry is recommended for children who are afraid of drilling. Laser dentistry procedures also result in quicker healing with minimal bleeding. ## Types of Dental Lasers Two types of lasers are used for dental procedures: hard tissue and soft tissue lasers. These lasers use different wavelengths to treat specific tissues. ### Hard Tissue Laser The wavelength of hard tissue lasers can cut through bone and the calcium phosphate of teeth. Hard tissue lasers precisely remove small amounts by cutting through the teeth and are used for shaping, treating cavities, and preparing teeth for dental fillings. ### Soft Tissue Laser Soft tissue lasers are absorbed by water and hemoglobin easily, making them effective for cutting through soft tissues such as gums and closing the exposed blood vessels. This laser is also ideal for cosmetic dental procedures as well as gum reshaping, lengthening crowns, and treating restricted tongue movements. ## Uses of Dental Lasers Dental lasers are commonly used for the following: - Teeth whitening. Light soft tissue lasers can help speed up the bleaching process to make teeth whiter. - Cold sores. Low-intensity soft tissue lasers can be used to treat cold sores and speed up the healing process. - Temporomandibular Joint. Lasers are used to reduce inflammation and pain associated with the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. - Sleep apnea. A laser-assisted uvula palatoplasty procedure can treat sleep apnea caused by tissue overgrowth in the throat by reshaping the affected areas of the throat. - Gum diseases. Soft tissue lasers are used to treat gum inflammation by reshaping the affected areas and reducing the healing time. - Benign tumors. Lasers are used for suture-free, pain-free removal of benign tumors from lips, cheeks, gums, and the palate. ## What To Expect During Laser Treatment Procedure The first step is to identify the dental issue. After our dentist physically examines your mouth and determines whether laser dentistry is the accurate solution to your problem, they can start the procedure. Laser dentistry does not involve any tooth drilling, so our patients do not feel significant pain or discomfort, but slight bleeding may occur in some cases. With laser treatments in Lombard, there is almost zero probability of developing pain and swelling in the treated areas. The chances of developing an infection after laser dentistry are much lower than with other invasive dental processes as the laser sterilizes the gums. ## Laser Dentistry Options Near Me Whether your dental concerns are serious issues or simply cosmetic, laser dentistry is a reliable solution to many dental problems. Ask your dentist at Reflection Dental whether laser treatments are right for you. --- ### [Mouthguards](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/mouthguards/) **Published:** February 4, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Mouthguards come in a number of different types, including over-the-counter options, sports mouthguards, and durable custom-made devices. Protect your teeth now to avoid oral issues later. **Content:** ## What are Mouthguards? Mouthguards provide protection against injury during high-impact sports that could lead to reconstructive dental surgery. Initiated by boxers in 1890 to prevent severe injury, mouthguards are now a standard item for athletes. Reflection Dental also prescribes mouthguards to help individuals who suffer from sleep apnea, snore excessively, and grind their teeth. ## Types of Mouthguards Mouthguards have a variety of uses and can add value to your overall oral health, especially when playing sports. There are several types of mouthguards available, but it’s always best to get a recommendation from our dentist. ### Over the Counter Mouthguards Pre-made stock mouthguards, which are made from hard-wearing plastic, are an affordable option for contact sports. Stock mouthguards come in a variety of sizes, colors, and brands. However, they’re not particularly comfortable, so they are mainly worn for short periods of time. An over-the-counter mouthguard in Lombard isn’t the best solution if you’re looking for a nightguard, but does offer some protection for sports. ### Boil-and-bite Mouthguards A boil-and-bite mouthguard is molded to fit your mouth. Because you have to boil the mouthguard before fitting it, the fit is usually quite secure. These mouthguards are made from thermoplastic, and you mold them manually with your fingers to fit your mouth. ### Custom-made Mouthguards Custom-made mouthguards require an appointment and discussion with our dentist. These are superior mouthguards for oral health, particularly if you grind your teeth at night. A custom-made mouthguard can help prevent potential concussions if an athlete is dealt a blow to their chin. In addition, custom-made mouthguards help decrease snoring and sleep apnea episodes by pushing the tongue and jaw forward and forcing your airways to open. ## How a Custom Mouthguard is Made First, we will discuss the particular benefits associated with mouthguards and why you may need one. Then, our dentist will decide if you need an upper mouthguard, lower mouthguard, or both. Typically, protection is only needed for the upper teeth, as the lower teeth are set quite far back and have a lot of natural protection. Professional athletes tend to favor custom-designed mouthguards because of their durability, fit, and comfort. Two types of mouthguards are available, namely pressure-laminated mouthguards and vacuum-formed mouthguards. The vacuum-formed mouthguards are the most widely used by the dental profession. Reflection Dental will first make an impression of your teeth using alginate material and then wait for it to dry. The mouthguard, made from a thermoplastic polymer, is carefully molded over the dentition model. The fit should be snug, with a noticeable difference in thickness between the areas covering the anterior and posterior teeth. If you experience teeth grinding, sleep apnea, snoring, or participating in physical sports, make sure to consult with Reflection Dental about your options. ## Ready to Get Started With a Custom Mouthguard? Reflection Dental is here to help, contact our Lombard dental office today to learn more about the best mouthguard option to fit your needs. --- ### [Fluoride](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/prevention/fluoride/) **Published:** February 4, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Fluoride is a chemical that prevents tooth decay and cavities as well as other dental problems. Here is what is involved in the process of fluoride treatments as well as their benefits. **Content:** ## What is Flouride? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that assists in developing strong teeth and preventing cavities. People at risk of tooth decay can benefit from fluoride treatments, though they may not be appropriate for everyone. Let’s examine fluoride benefits, side effects, and treatment recommendations. ## What Is a Fluoride Treatment? Our dental professionals at Reflection Dental apply fluoride treatments to patients’ teeth to reduce their risk of cavities. These treatments usually contain a high concentration of fluoride in the form of solutions, gels, foams, or varnishes. [Fluoride](https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment) treatments can be also administered to teeth at home. The fluoride used by our dentist in these treatments works similarly to that found in toothpaste. The treatments, however, contain much higher doses and may be more effective immediately. ## Fluoride Benefits Fluoride benefits the teeth in several ways: - The body can better utilize calcium and phosphate with this supplement. Weak tooth enamel is repaired by reabsorbing these minerals. - The mineral joins into the tooth’s structure during development and strengthens its enamel, making it more resistant to bacteria and cavities. - By harming bacteria that cause cavities, this mineral slows or even reverses their growth. Collectively, these benefits can: - Decrease the risk of cavities - Reduce the growth of cavities - Reduce the need for expensive dental work - Maintain the health of baby teeth - Reduce dental expenses and time spent at the dentist As well as preventing teeth cavities and preventing bacteria from multiplying, a fluoride treatment may: - Aid in the prevention of gum disease - Reduce tooth sensitivity - Prevent early tooth loss ## Fluoride Treatment Recommendations According to the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association, small amounts of fluoride every day can reduce the risk of dental cavities in anyone of any age. Drinking fluoridated tap water and brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste provides significant benefits. Fluoride treatments may offer additional benefits to children and adults who are at a higher risk of cavities. The [American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)](https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/134/3/e870/74139/Pharmacokinetics-of-Fluoride-in-Toddlers-After?redirectedFrom=fulltext) recommends fluoride treatment for children’s teeth to grow correctly and to prevent decay, pain, and future dental infections. Professional fluoride treatment can help protect against tooth decay in individuals who are at a moderate to high risk. Professional fluoride treatments should be applied twice a year to those at high risk of dental cavities. Ask our dentist at Reflection Dental in Lombard if you would benefit from the application of a fluoride varnish if you suffer from: - Dry mouth - Weak enamel - Oral health issues - Crowns Our dentist may also suggest additional preventive measures if you are at a greater risk of tooth decay, such as over-the-counter or prescription fluoride mouthwashes or gels or antibacterial mouthwashes. Patients should discuss fluoride treatment with our dentist to determine its risks and benefits. In addition to fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash, it is essential to consider other fluoride sources in Lombard. If you live in an area where the water does not contain fluoride, fluoride treatments may be beneficial. ## Are Fluoride Treatments Right for Me? Contact Reflection Dental today to learn more about Fluoride Treatment options. Our dental professionals are here to answer any questions you may have about the benefits of fluoride. --- ### [Technology](https://www.reflectdental.com/services/technology/) **Published:** January 17, 2022 **Author:** Dental Websites **Excerpt:** Modern dental technology features a number of cutting-edge tools. Learn how this technology helps the dental team at Reflection Dental offer patients a great dental experience. **Content:** ## Advanced Dental Technology Dental technology has greatly advanced over the years, always moving toward one goal: giving patients better experiences and outcomes. Our dental team at Reflection Dental uses tools such as the following to diagnose and treat problems. ## X-Rays [X-rays are a key dental technology](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/x-rays/the-importance-of-dental-x-rays) for diagnostic purposes. Also known as dental radiographs, they provide our team a look at the state of your teeth, roots, and jaw. X-rays can help detect issues such as tooth decay and cysts as well as bone loss from periodontal disease. Abscesses and problems with tooth positioning may also come to light thanks to X-rays. Today’s X-ray technology produces relatively little radiation and is considered quite safe. ## Dental Cone-Beam Computed Tomography [Dental CBCT](https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-x-ray-imaging/dental-cone-beam-computed-tomography) can be thought of as an improved X-ray technology. Using an X-ray beam in the shape of a cone, the dental team gathers data points on your mouth from various angles. From those data points, the technology creates a three-dimensional image. This provides a detailed look at the teeth, jaw, and neck. Typically, it is reserved for situations when other imaging techniques do not suffice. Situations in which CBCT may play a role include jaw evaluations, cleft palate examinations, and preparation for dental implants. If a CBCT procedure is on the table, your dentist can tell you more about the process. ## Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing [CAD/CAM dental technology](https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-visits/cad-cam-dentistry-what-is-it) is a technology used for planning and producing restorative crowns, veneers, inlays, and bridges. Because the use of computers and advanced manufacturing tools allows for the quick creation of custom materials, CAD/CAM technology can sometimes cut what were once multi-visit obligations down to a single visit. Additionally, in many instances, digital scanning means patients don’t need to produce dental impressions by biting down on a gooey substance called alginate, which some people find uncomfortable. CAD/CAM technology can also reduce costs for patients in some cases. ## Intraoral Cameras Intraoral cameras are a dental technology whose [benefits are readily apparent](https://dimensionsofdentalhygiene.com/article/a-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words/) to both dentists and patients. Today’s intraoral cameras are unobtrusive and are able to give dentists a look inside a patient’s mouth by producing high-quality digital images. Like X-rays, they can help detect a range of problems, including soft tissue lesions and broken teeth. Magnification helps dentists spot problems that may otherwise escape the naked eye. Because these images are easy to show to patients, they can help patients in Lombard understand what’s going on in their mouths. ## Dental Lasers Dental lasers can be used for a variety of applications. Common uses of dental lasers [include](https://www.healthline.com/health/laser-dentistry) finding cavities, preparing cavities for fillings by killing bacteria, and reducing tooth sensitivity. Through laser treatments, patients may also find relief from cold sores and pain in the temporomandibular joints. Additionally, lasers have proven useful for reshaping gum tissue and correcting restrictive frenulums in children. ## Dental Technology and Your Oral Health Our dentist may have other technological implements at disposal as well. Such tools provide even more benefits when they’re combined with a regular schedule of dental visits and good oral hygiene at home. Contact our office in Lombard today to learn how breakthroughs in dental technology can help with your oral health. --- ## DP Team Members ### [Staff 2](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-team-member/staff-2/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **DP Team Member Categories:** Staff --- ### [Staff 1](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-team-member/staff-1/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **DP Team Member Categories:** Staff --- ### [Dr. DIGI Search](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-team-member/dr-digi-search/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **DP Team Member Categories:** Dentist --- ## DP Testimonials ### [Patient Review 1](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-testimonial/patient-review-1/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Content:** Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. --- ### [Patient Review 2](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-testimonial/patient-review-2/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Content:** Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. --- ### [Patient Review 3](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-testimonial/patient-review-3/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Content:** Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. --- ### [Patient Review 4](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-testimonial/patient-review-4/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Content:** Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. --- ### [Patient Review 5](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-testimonial/patient-review-5/) **Published:** December 20, 2021 **Author:** Dental Websites **Content:** Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. --- ## DP Team Member Categories ### [Dentist](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-team-member-category/dentist/) --- ### [Staff](https://www.reflectdental.com/dipl-team-member-category/staff/) ---