Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Dental Care
Dental Healthcare
How often should I visit the dentist?
We recommend visiting the dentist every six months for a routine exam and cleaning. These visits allow us to remove hardened plaque (tartar), catch small problems early, and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Why is it so important to have dental exams and cleanings every six months?
Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque can build up and harden. Biannual dental cleanings remove tartar and help prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Exams also help your dentist catch early signs of dental problems before they become serious.
Why is plaque so harmful?
Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth when sugars and starches are left behind. If not removed, plaque bacteria produce acid that erodes enamel and can cause cavities or gum disease.
Why do I need dental X-rays? Are they safe?
Dental X-rays help us detect problems below the surface, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or infections. Today’s digital X-rays use very low levels of radiation and are considered extremely safe. We only take them when necessary for your diagnosis and treatment.
How can I maintain good oral hygiene at home?
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss at least once a day
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–6 months
- Schedule regular dental check-ups
We’re happy to recommend personalized dental care tips and products during your appointment.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when enamel wears away or gum tissue recedes, exposing the dentin layer of your teeth. This can make your teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet or acidic foods. Desensitizing toothpaste may help, but if it continues, you should schedule a check-up.
Why do my gums sometimes bleed?
Bleeding gums are a common sign of gingivitis (early-stage gum disease). Brushing and flossing more consistently and getting professional teeth cleanings to eliminate plaque and tartar can help reduce inflammation and bleeding.
What causes bad breath?
Also known as halitosis, bad breath can be caused by a few different things. It often results from poor oral hygiene or dry mouth. Some patients may also experience bad breath as a result of acid reflux. The key is to manage oral bacteria growth and improve your dental health.
What can I do to treat poor oral hygiene and dry mouth?
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day
- Schedule dental cleanings every six months
- Drink more water
- Limit caffeine intake
- Avoid mouthwash containing alcohol
- Stop all tobacco use
- Chew sugar-free gum (should only be for occasional use)
Some brands have created products that can help patients reduce dry mouth symptoms. You can also talk to your doctor to find out if any medication you’re taking may be causing the problem. For people with acid reflux, you should consult your doctor about the issue and review your diet.
Restorative Care
Do dental fillings hurt?
Dental fillings are quick and usually cause minimal discomfort for patients. We use local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Most patients feel only slight pressure or vibrations from tools during the process.
How long does a crown last?
Dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Avoiding habits like grinding your teeth and chewing on hard foods can help preserve your crown. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor its condition over time.
What is a root canal, and is it painful?
A root canal is a procedure designed to preserve a tooth that has become infected or is severely decayed. We remove the damaged tissue, clean the area, and seal the tooth. Thanks to local anesthetics and advanced techniques, root canals usually feel similar to getting a cavity filled.
How long does it take to recover from a root canal?
Most people recover in just a day. You may experience mild soreness, but it’s usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. You’ll be able to resume normal activities shortly after treatment.
How do I know I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. However, if they are impacted, crowded, or causing discomfort, we may recommend extraction to protect your oral health. Infected wisdom teeth usually do require extraction. A consultation and X-ray can help us determine the right course of action.
Cosmetic Dentistry
What are my options for teeth whitening?
We offer professional teeth whitening in Chicago that delivers better, longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products. Choose between in-office whitening or take-home trays customized to your smile.
What is dental bonding, and when is it used?
Dental bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair chipped, cracked, discolored teeth, or gaps. It’s a quick, affordable cosmetic dentistry procedure that usually requires just one visit.
What’s the difference between veneers and crowns?
Veneers are thin shells that cover the front surfaces of your teeth for cosmetic improvements. A crown covers the entire tooth to restore its strength when there’s severe damage or decay.
Can you fix a chipped or cracked tooth?
Yes, and depending on the severity, we may use bonding, veneers, or a dental crown to restore your tooth. Early treatment prevents further damage and improves your smile’s appearance.
Do dental implants hurt?
The implant procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel discomfort during placement. Afterward, slight swelling or soreness can occur, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Many patients return to work the next day. Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution that offers natural-looking results.
Orthodontics
What’s the difference between braces and clear aligners?
Braces use metal brackets and wires to correct alignment, while clear aligners like Invisalign use removable plastic trays that are nearly invisible. Both are effective, but aligners are often preferred by adults for their discreet appearance.
Can adults get braces or clear aligners?
Absolutely! More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment now than ever before. We offer Invisalign in Chicago to help straighten your smile comfortably and discreetly.
Dental Emergencies
Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?
Yes, we provide same-day emergency dental care in our Lincoln Park and Southport offices. If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or trauma, contact us right away.
What counts as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes:
- A knocked-out or broken tooth
- Severe toothache/dental pain
- Loose adult teeth
- Swelling or infection
- Lost crown or filling
- Pain from wisdom teeth or post-extraction complications
- Loose or broken dental appliances causing pain or injury
- Dental abscess
- Soft tissue injuries (tongue, gums, cheeks)
If you’re unsure, contact us immediately— we’ll help determine the best next steps.
What should I do if a tooth gets knocked out?
First, try to locate the tooth or pieces of tooth if it broke. Avoid touching the tooth root and use warm water to gently rinse off any debris. Place the tooth in a clean container with milk or your own saliva. Get to the dentist as soon as possible for the best chances of re-implantation.
Office & Scheduling
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or using our online appointment request form. We offer convenient hours, including walk-ins on Saturdays, at both our Lincoln Park and South Loop locations. Contact us today to schedule your dental visit!
Insurance & Payment Options
Do you accept my dental insurance?
We accept many dental insurance plans. Please visit this page or contact our office directly to confirm if we accept your insurance. Our team is happy to help you understand your benefits.
Do you offer payment plans or financing options?
Payment for dental services is required at the time treatment is administered. We will work to create a treatment plan that accommodates your financial situation. We accept various forms of payment, including cash, personal checks, debit cards, and most major credit cards. We also partner with a company that offers a 12-month interest-free payment plan.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Schedule your visit with Art of Modern Dentistry today. Our experienced dental team is here to listen to your goals, answer your questions, and help you find the right treatment for your smile and oral health.
Call us at 773-935-3600, contact us online, or request an appointment to get started. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.