FAQs

Dentistry is a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions affecting the teeth and oral cavity. We hope this comprehensive guide on dentistry offers valuable information to address common concerns people have about their dental health and provides insights into various treatment options available for different dental issues. So, sit back and prepare yourself for an informative journey as we answer some common questions about these essential aspects of modern-day dentistry!

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of a person's teeth, gums, and smile. It involves various procedures and treatments that aim to enhance the overall aesthetics of one's dental structure.

One common misconception about cosmetic dentistry is that it only deals with purely aesthetic concerns. While enhancing the appearance of the teeth is indeed its primary objective, cosmetic dentistry can also address functional issues such as misaligned bites or overcrowded teeth.

There are several procedures that fall under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening is perhaps one of the most popular ones. This procedure helps brighten and remove stains from teeth, giving them a more vibrant look. Another commonly sought-after treatment is dental veneers, which are thin shells applied to the front surface of teeth to improve their shape and color.

In addition to these procedures, cosmetic dentists can also perform dental bonding, gum contouring, orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners, and even full-mouth reconstructions for those with extensive dental issues.

Whether you have stained teeth or crooked smiles, consulting with a skilled cosmetic dentist will help you determine suitable treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Remember - achieving your dream smile may be easier than you think!

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, there are several popular procedures that can help improve the appearance of your smile. These procedures address various dental issues and can be customized to suit individual needs.

  • One popular procedure in cosmetic dentistry is teeth whitening. This simple yet effective treatment can brighten your smile by removing stains and discoloration caused by factors such as aging, smoking, or consuming certain foods and beverages. Teeth whitening treatments can be done in-office or at home with the guidance of a dentist.
  • Another common procedure is dental veneers. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their shape, size, color, and overall appearance. They can correct imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, and even minor misalignments.
  • In addition to teeth whitening and veneers, dental bonding is also a popular choice for enhancing smiles. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material onto the tooth's surface to repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, or improve the shape of irregularly shaped teeth.
  • Other popular cosmetic dentistry procedures include orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners for straightening crooked teeth, gum contouring for reshaping uneven gum lines, and dental implants for replacing missing teeth.

Ultimately, the most suitable cosmetic dentistry procedure will depend on your specific needs and goals. It's important to consult with a qualified dentist who can evaluate your oral health condition and recommend the best options for achieving your desired results. So don't hesitate - take that first step toward getting the smile you've always wanted!

Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond just improving your smile. Here are some key advantages:

  • Enhanced Self-Confidence: When you have a beautiful smile, it can significantly boost your self-esteem and confidence. You'll feel more comfortable in social situations, whether it's meeting new people or giving presentations at work.
  • Improved Oral Health: Many cosmetic dental procedures not only enhance the appearance of your teeth but also improve their functionality and health. For example, fixing misaligned teeth can make them easier to clean, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Long-Term Investment: While cosmetic dentistry may seem like an upfront investment, it is worth considering as a long-term investment in your oral health and overall well-being. By addressing dental issues early on through cosmetic procedures, you can prevent more extensive and costly treatments down the road.
  • Natural-Looking Results: Modern advancements in cosmetic dentistry techniques ensure that you achieve natural-looking results that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. Whether you opt for porcelain veneers or teeth whitening, these treatments offer aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
  • Versatility: Cosmetic dentistry encompasses various procedures tailored to address specific concerns such as stained or discolored teeth, gaps between teeth, chipped or cracked enamel, misshapen teeth, and much more. This versatility allows individuals to choose from a range of options based on their unique needs and preferences.

In conclusion, if you're looking to transform your smile and improve both the aesthetics and function of your teeth while reaping numerous benefits mentioned above – then cosmetic dentistry might be an excellent option for you! Consult with a skilled dentist who specializes in this field to explore suitable treatment plans tailored specifically for you!

Emergency dentistry is a specialized branch of dental care that focuses on providing immediate treatment for dental emergencies. These emergencies can range from severe toothaches and broken teeth to abscesses and knocked-out teeth.

When it comes to emergency dentistry, time is of the essence. Dental emergencies can be incredibly painful and can cause further damage if not addressed promptly. That's why it's crucial to seek help from an emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Emergency dentists are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to handle urgent dental situations effectively. They have experience in managing various types of dental emergencies and can provide quick relief from pain or discomfort.

Common treatments in emergency dentistry include tooth extractions, root canal therapy, filling repairs, and repairing damaged crowns or bridges. Emergency dentists may also prescribe antibiotics or pain medications when necessary.

Remember that prevention is always better than cure! While you cannot predict when a dental emergency will occur, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings play a vital role in maintaining good oral health.

In addition, practicing good oral hygiene at home by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and avoiding harmful habits like chewing ice or opening packages with your teeth can go a long way in preventing dental emergencies.

In short, being familiar with what constitutes a dental emergency and knowing how to respond promptly can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. Remember that seeking professional help from an emergency dentist is essential whenever you encounter a sudden onset of severe pain or trauma affecting your teeth or gums.

When do you need to see an emergency dentist? Dental issues can arise at any time, and it's important to know when to seek immediate professional help. Here are a few situations where seeing an emergency dentist is necessary:

  • Severe tooth pain: If you're experiencing an intense and persistent toothache that over-the-counter pain relievers cannot alleviate, it's crucial to schedule an emergency dental appointment. This could indicate an underlying infection or abscess that requires prompt attention.
  • Dental trauma: Accidents happen, and a sudden blow to the mouth can result in cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth. In such cases, seeking immediate dental care is essential, as early intervention can increase the chances of saving your natural tooth. Swelling or bleeding: Any swelling or bleeding in the gums should not be ignored. It may indicate gum disease or other serious oral health issues that require urgent treatment from a qualified emergency dentist.
  • Swelling or bleeding: Any swelling or bleeding in the gums should not be ignored. It may indicate gum disease or other serious oral health issues that require urgent treatment from a qualified emergency dentist.

Remember, these are just a few examples of when you might need to see an emergency dentist. If you have any concerns about your oral health and are unsure whether it constitutes an emergency situation, don't hesitate to contact your dental provider for guidance!

Maintaining good oral hygiene and practicing preventive measures can help you steer clear of dental emergencies. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:


  • Brush and floss regularly: Make it a habit to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use fluoride toothpaste, and don't forget to clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Limit sugary snacks and beverages, which can contribute to tooth decay. Opt for nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products that support overall oral health.
  • Protect your teeth during physical activities: If you participate in sports or high-risk activities, wear mouthguards or helmets as appropriate to prevent injuries to the mouth.
  • Avoid bad habits: Quit smoking as it increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Similarly, limit alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking can harm your teeth and gums.
  • Regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular visits with your dentist for professional cleanings and examinations every six months or as recommended by them.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the chances of experiencing a dental emergency while maintaining optimal oral health!

Emergency dentistry plays a crucial role in providing immediate dental care and addressing urgent oral health issues. Whether it's a severe toothache, knocked-out tooth, or broken dental restoration, seeing an emergency dentist can make all the difference in preventing further damage and relieving pain.

Remember that prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental emergencies. However, accidents happen even with the best precautions in place. That's why having access to emergency dentistry services is essential for prompt treatment and resolution of any urgent dental issue you may encounter.

If you find yourself experiencing severe tooth pain or facing any other urgent dental problem outside regular office hours, don't hesitate to reach out to our emergency dentist near you. We are trained professionals equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to provide immediate relief and restore your smile.

A teeth extraction, also known as tooth removal or dental extraction, is a procedure in which a dentist removes a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This may be necessary for several reasons.

One common reason for a teeth extraction is severe tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired through other treatments such as fillings or crowns. In such cases, extracting the affected tooth can prevent further infection and spread of decay to nearby teeth.

Another reason for teeth extraction is overcrowding. Sometimes, there may not be enough space in your mouth to accommodate all your teeth properly. In these situations, the dentist may recommend removing one or more teeth to create space and align your remaining teeth correctly.

Gum disease can also lead to the need for a tooth extraction. When gum disease progresses and reaches an advanced stage called periodontitis, it can cause bone loss around the affected tooth, making it loose and eventually necessitating its removal.

Additionally, if you have impacted wisdom teeth - third molars that don't fully erupt due to lack of space - they may need to be extracted as well. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to neighboring teeth if left untreated.

While no one likes the idea of having their tooth pulled out, sometimes extractions are necessary to maintain oral health and prevent further complications down the line.

When it comes to getting a tooth extraction, knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety or uncertainty you may have. The procedure itself is relatively straightforward and typically takes less time than you might think.


Before the extraction begins, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that you won't feel any pain during the procedure. If multiple teeth need to be extracted or if they are impacted, general anesthesia may be used instead.

Once you're numb and comfortable, your dentist will carefully loosen the tooth from its socket using specialized dental tools. In some cases, a small incision in the gum tissue may be necessary to fully remove the tooth. While this sounds intimidating, rest assured that dentists are highly trained professionals who prioritize patient comfort and safety.

Afterward, your dentist will provide instructions for post-extraction care and prescribe any necessary medications to manage pain or prevent infection. It's important to follow these instructions closely for optimal healing.

Remember that every individual's experience with a tooth extraction can vary slightly based on factors such as their oral health and specific cases. Consulting with your dentist beforehand can help address any concerns or questions you may have about what specifically will happen during your extraction procedure.

While having a tooth extracted may seem daunting at first, understanding what steps are involved can alleviate much of the fear associated with this common dental procedure. Your oral health is important – trust in your dentist's expertise and know that they have your best interests at heart throughout every step of the process!

Taking care of your mouth after a tooth extraction is crucial for proper healing and to prevent complications. Here are some important tips to help you with the aftercare process.

  • Follow Your Dentist's Instructions: Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to care for your extraction site. It's essential to follow these guidelines closely to ensure proper healing. This may include taking prescribed pain medications or antibiotics, avoiding certain foods or activities, and correctly cleaning the area.
  • Control Bleeding: Some bleeding after an extraction is normal. To control it, gently bite down on a clean gauze pad placed over the extraction site for about 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, contact your dentist immediately.
  • Reduce Swelling: After an extraction, swelling in the face or jaw may occur. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth can help reduce swelling and discomfort during the first 24 hours.
  • Careful Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean is vital during recovery, but be gentle around the extracted area when brushing and flossing.
  • Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods that do not require much chewing while you heal, such as soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the wound.

Remember that every person heals differently, so if you experience prolonged pain, excessive bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms, contact your dentist promptly.

Restorative dentistry encompasses a wide array of dental procedures aimed at restoring the function, aesthetics, and overall health of one's teeth. This branch of dentistry focuses on repairing damage caused by tooth decay, trauma, or wear over time. Whether it involves simple fillings or complex full-mouth reconstructions, restorative dentistry aims to recreate natural-looking smiles while ensuring optimal oral health. With meticulous attention to detail and advanced techniques, skilled restorative dentists meticulously assess each patient's unique needs and tailor treatment plans accordingly.

From addressing cavities with tooth-colored composite resins to replacing missing teeth with dental implants or bridges, restorative dentistry goes beyond mere repairs; it strives for long-lasting solutions that seamlessly blend in with surrounding teeth. By employing state-of-the-art materials and technologies like digital imaging and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), these professionals provide patients with high-quality results that rejuvenate both their appearance and self-confidence.

The extensive range of services offered within this discipline ensures that individuals suffering from various dental issues can regain not only their smile but also their ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly again – an essential aspect often taken for granted until compromised by oral health problems. In summary, restorative dentistry serves as a transformative field dedicated to rehabilitating damaged teeth through personalized treatments designed to enhance both functionality and esthetics effectively.

Restorative dentistry goes beyond just fixing isolated issues; it aims to enhance your oral health as well as boost confidence in your smile's appearance. By addressing problems promptly through restorative procedures tailored to meet individual needs, you can enjoy improved oral function while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Restorative dentistry encompasses a wide range of treatments that aim to restore the function and aesthetics of your teeth.


  • One such procedure is dental fillings, which are used to treat cavities and prevent further decay. During this procedure, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills it with a material such as composite resin or amalgam.
  • Another common restorative procedure is dental crowns. These are custom-made caps that cover damaged or weakened teeth, providing strength and protection. Crowns can be made from various materials like porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of both.
  • For patients with missing teeth, restorative dentistry offers options like dental implants and bridges. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots onto which prosthetic teeth can be attached. Bridges, on the other hand, involve using adjacent healthy teeth as support for a false tooth.
  • Root canal treatment is yet another important restorative procedure that aims to save an infected or severely damaged tooth from extraction. During this treatment, the dentist removes infected pulp from within the tooth's root canal system before sealing it off to prevent reinfection.

These are just some examples of common procedures in restorative dentistry. Each treatment is tailored to meet individual patient needs and address specific oral health concerns successfully. It's always best to consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations based on your unique situation!

Restorative dentistry offers a wide range of benefits that can truly transform your smile and improve your overall oral health. Here are some key advantages to consider:

  • Enhanced function: Restorative dentistry procedures such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures can help replace missing teeth, allowing you to enjoy improved chewing ability and speech.
  • Improved aesthetics: If you're self-conscious about gaps, cracks, or discoloration in your teeth, restorative dentistry can address these issues. Treatments like dental veneers or tooth-colored fillings can restore the natural beauty of your smile.
  • Better oral health: Restorative treatments not only fix existing problems but also prevent further deterioration of your teeth and gums. For instance, filling cavities promptly prevents decay from spreading and potentially leading to more serious issues.
  • Increased confidence: Having a healthy and attractive smile can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence levels. Restoring damaged or missing teeth helps you feel more comfortable smiling in social situations.
  • Long-lasting results: With proper care and regular check-ups with your dentist, restorations can last for many years or even a lifetime. This means you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of restorative dentistry for an extended period.
  • By addressing dental concerns promptly through restorative procedures, you'll not only achieve a beautiful smile but also maintain optimal oral health for years to come!

To find out more about the dental services offered at Solace Dental, call Dentist Bolingbrook IL at (630) 759-3595 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 287 N Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, IL, 60490.

Location

287 N Weber Rd,
Bolingbrook, IL 60490

Office Hours

MON - TUE9:00 am - 5:00 pm

WED10:00 am - 5:00 pm

THU9:00 am - 5:00 pm

FRI9:00 am - 1:00 pm

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