At Secure Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy and beautiful smile. We also understand how important it is to understand your options and choose the right restorative dentistry treatment!

Let’s explore the differences between dental implants, crowns, and bridges to help you decide which option is best for your unique needs.

Understanding Dental Implants, Crowns, and Bridges
Let’s start by defining what these treatments are and how they work.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for missing teeth. This treatment is designed to mimic your natural teeth, in appearance, function and durability, and can last a lifetime with proper care.

With dental implants, a titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, acting as a root for a new tooth. A custom-made crown is then attached to this post, creating a natural-looking and fully functional tooth.

What are crowns?

A dental crown is also used to restore a damaged or broken tooth. Crowns are placed over the remaining part of the tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance. They are made from various materials, including gold, porcelain, or ceramic, and are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth that are anchored to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. These neighboring teeth, called abutments, are covered with crowns to support the bridge. Bridges can be made from materials like porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.

Dental Implants vs Crowns and Bridges: Which is right for you?

It all comes down to your unique needs. All three treatment options are highly-effective and ideal for restoring your smile, but there are cases where one restorative treatment may be better suited than another.

Dental Implants
Dental implants are ideal for individuals who have one or more missing teeth and are seeking a long-term solution. They are especially beneficial for those who have sufficient jawbone density to support the implant.

Dental Crowns
Crowns are suitable for those with a broken, chipped, or severely decayed tooth. They help restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance. Crowns are also a good option for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. For a broken tooth, a crown may be the least invasive option.

Dental Bridges
Bridges are a great choice for individuals missing one or more teeth in a row. They are a less invasive option compared to implants and are ideal for those who prefer not to undergo surgery or have insufficient bone density for implants.

Weighing Longevity, Cost and Function of Dental Implants Vs. Crowns and Bridges

Durability and Longevity

Dental Implants: Dental implants are renowned for their durability. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your oral health.

Crowns and Bridges: Crowns and bridges are also highly-durable but may need replacement or repair over time. Crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, while bridges can last between 5 to 15 years, depending on care and materials used.

Cost Considerations: Tooth Bridge vs Implant Cost

Dental Implants: The initial cost of dental implants is higher than crowns or bridges. However, considering their longevity and minimal maintenance, implants are cost-effective in the long run.

Crowns and Bridges: Crowns and bridges generally have a lower upfront cost compared to implants. However, they may require more frequent replacements and maintenance.

With either treatment, we offer flexible financing and accept a variety of dental insurance plans to help lower your cost!

Aesthetics and Functionality

Dental Implants: Implants provide the most natural look and feel. They function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Implants also prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintaining your facial structure.

Crowns and Bridges: Crowns and bridges also offer excellent aesthetic results and restore functionality. However, they might not prevent bone loss in the same way implants do, so it’s important that you choose the right treatment option for your specific case.

We’ll help you make the right choice.

At Secure Dental, we offer all these restorative treatments, and our highly experienced team is here to help you make the best decision for your smile and quality of life.

Whether you’re considering dental implants, crowns, or bridges, we’ll help you weigh your options, understand the pros and cons of each, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Ready to experience the transformative benefits of dental restoration? Schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located dentist offices in Schaumburg, IL; Portage, IN; Lake Station, IN; Hammond, IN; Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL; Foster Ave., Chicago, IL; East Peoria, IL; Moline, IL, or Davenport, IA.

At Secure Dental, we know how important a bright, white smile is for your confidence and overall appearance. Many people wonder, “Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them every day?” or, “why is my tooth gray/brown?”

We’re here to help you understand the causes of tooth discoloration, the different types of tooth stains, and your available treatment options! Here’s everything you need to know:

(Keep reading to find out how you can get your teeth professionally whitened and straightened!)

What causes tooth discoloration?

There are different types of discoloration in teeth, which can be broadly categorized into two types: extrinsic and intrinsic stains. Once you know the type of discoloration you have, it’s easier to determine the right treatment route.

Extrinsic tooth stains

Extrinsic stains affect the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel. These may be brown, orange, yellow or green in color.

Common causes of extrinsic tooth stains include:

• Food and drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables can stain teeth.
• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause yellow or brown stains.
• Poor dental hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause discoloration. In severe cases, this may cause green tooth discoloration.

Intrinsic tooth stains

Intrinsic stains occur within the tooth structure, not on the surface.

Common causes of intrinsic tooth discoloration include:

• Medications: Certain antibiotics, like tetracycline, can cause tooth discoloration if taken during childhood.
• Trauma: Injury to a tooth can cause it to turn gray or brown.
• Aging: As we age, the enamel wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath.

Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration in Adults

Adults may experience tooth discoloration due to various factors, including:

• Diet: Frequent consumption of staining foods and drinks
• Lifestyle: Smoking and poor oral hygiene
• Genetics: Some people have naturally thinner enamel, which can make their teeth appear more yellow.
• Aging: Natural wear and tear over the years
• Medical conditions and treatments: Certain illnesses and treatments, like chemotherapy, can affect tooth color.

Why do I have gray tooth discoloration?

Gray discoloration of a tooth is often a result of trauma or damage to the tooth’s nerve. When the nerve is injured and receives limited blood flow, it can cause the tooth to break down and turn gray over time.

If you have this type of discoloration, please schedule an appointment with us. One of our highly-experienced doctors will assess your condition to address both the cosmetic issue as well as underlying health concerns.

Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them every day?

Even with regular brushing, teeth can become discolored due to factors like diet, genetics, and aging. Brushing alone may not be enough to remove deep-set stains or intrinsic discoloration.

Professional dental care, including regular cleanings and whitening treatments with your Secure Dental team, can help maintain and improve the appearance of your teeth.

We’re here to give you any tips you need to reach your smile goals.

Professional Teeth Whitening for Tooth Discoloration

If you have tooth discoloration and are looking for “professional teeth whitening near me” in Schaumburg, IL, Portage, IN, Lake Station, IN, Hammond, IN, Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, Foster Ave., Chicago, IL, East Peoria, IL, Moline, IL, or Davenport, IA, we’re here to help.

We provide Pola Light professional teeth whitening take-home kits to help brighten your smile! Unlike over-the-counter products, professional whitening agents provide faster, more dramatic results.

Pola Light teeth whitening is safe, fast, and easy to use! It also features a unique blend of soothers and conditioners with high water content to reduce sensitivity and create a more comfortable experience during and after whitening.

Get teeth straightening and whitening near you!

If you’re looking to improve both the alignment and color of your teeth, our Secure Dental team offers ClearCorrect® clear aligner treatment with professional teeth whitening! We’re your all-in-one solution for achieving and maintaining a smile that’s not only healthy, but beautiful, straight and brilliant.

Clear aligners are a discreet and comfortable way to straighten your teeth without the need for noticeable, traditional metal braces. They’re virtually-invisible and won’t hinder your social or professional life, and they’re custom-designed just for you.

With ClearCorrect clear aligners and professional Pola teeth whitening, you can experience a stunning smile that lasts a lifetime.

Take the first step to renew your smile today.

Tooth discoloration is a common issue that can affect anyone. You’re not alone!

Understanding the causes and types of teeth stains can help you take proactive steps to mitigate potential causes and maintain a bright, healthy smile.

Whether you’re dealing with yellow teeth, gray discoloration, or other types of stains, Secure Dental is here to help. Our teeth straightening and whitening service is cost-effective and convenient.

You can get answers without even leaving your house, by completing a virtual consultation before you visit us! Simply click the SmileSnap button in the bottom right corner of our site to complete a quick clear aligner consultation and find out if clear aligners and whitening are ideal for you.

Prefer to start in person? Schedule an appointment with our family-friendly dentist’s office today.

So you’re ready to experience the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of, but you aren’t sure which treatment route is best? You’ve probably heard of both clear aligners and braces, but you may not know the specific differences between braces and aligners.

We’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know to weigh the pros and cons of braces vs. clear aligners:

1. Convenience: Braces vs. Aligners

Braces are permanently fixed to your teeth for the duration of your treatment, but clear aligners (like ClearCorrect®) are removable. This means you can easily take them out to eat, brush, floss, and clean your clear aligners.

Braces tend to get food stuck in the brackets and wires, which requires you to play closer attention to your oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup. With clear aligners, you just clean your teeth as you normally would before treatment!

When it comes to convenience, clear aligners are the clear winner over braces.

2. Appearance: Braces Vs. Aligners

One of the reasons why many people don’t take the step to improve their smile and enhance their quality of life is because they don’t see traditional braces as aesthetically-appealing. Maybe you’re concerned with braces affecting your confidence, or impacting your social or professional life. It’s a valid concern!

Fortunately, braces are not your only option nowadays. Clear aligners are their modern alternative. ClearCorrect clear aligners are made of high-quality, transparent plastic that makes them virtually-invisible when in place.

If appearance is your concern, clear aligners are the winner of this debate. Nobody has to know that you’re wearing clear aligners, and you can take them out temporarily for special occasions.

3. Comfort: Braces Vs. Clear Aligners

ClearCorrect clear aligners are custom-made to fit your unique smile. The curved, custom-fit edges of your clear aligners are molded to the natural contours of your gums and are designed to prevent discomfort.

Traditional braces are not custom-designed for your smile. Brackets may bother your cheeks and tongue, and can create soreness in your mouth. With braces, you run the risk of an “orthodontic emergency”, like a bracket breaking or wire popping out of place. This can require more visits to the orthodontist to fix your braces.

Clear aligners eliminate the risk of these emergencies, because they don’t use brackets, wires or rubber bands. When it comes to comfort, these special smile-transforming trays take the cake again!

4. Getting started: Braces Vs. Aligners

To get started with braces treatment, you’ll typically need to visit an orthodontist in-person for an exam, visit them again to have your braces placed, then visit them every 6 weeks to have your braces adjusted/tightened.

With ClearCorrect clear aligner treatment, you can get started from home! We offer a virtual assessment so you can use your phone to snap some pics of your smile, send them to us, and receive a personalized treatment plan within 24 hours.

Once you visit one of our highly-experienced doctors for a professional exam, you’ll get to complete virtual check-ins throughout the process for us to monitor your progress remotely, and minimize office visits for your convenience.

If you’re someone who values flexibility in your schedule and easy experiences, you’ll like how simple and streamlined the clear aligner treatment process is.

Take the first step today.

While both clear aligners and braces are effective treatments for aligning smiles, ClearCorrect clear aligners come out on top in terms of convenience, appearance and comfort.

We’re proud to provide top-quality clear aligner treatment at Secure Dental, with dentist offices in Portage, IN, Lake Station, IN, Hammond, IN, Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, Foster Ave., Chicago, IL, Schaumburg, IL, East Peoria, IL, Moline, IL, and Davenport, IA.

Our doctors and team are dedicated to providing the best possible care in your area. We take pride in creating a family-friendly atmosphere at our offices, and going above-and-beyond to meet our patients’ needs.

Take the first step to achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted! You can receive a personalized treatment plan and estimated treatment costs without leaving your home. Get started from home or on-the-go with a virtual consultation.

Top 5 Benefits of Dental Implants: A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth

Replacing missing teeth is not just about improving your smile; it’s about transforming your health, confidence and total well-being. Getting dental implants is life-changing!

Our highly-experienced team at Secure Dental is here to help you make the best decision for your smile and quality of life. Know the top 5 benefits of dental implants so you can determine if they’re right for you.

Smiles that go beyond aesthetics

1. Dental implants are the closest alternative to natural teeth.

Why dental implants? You won’t find a tooth replacement solution that mimics natural teeth as closely as dental implants do. Dental implants are made to resemble natural teeth in appearance, functionality, security and stability.

They act as artificial tooth roots that provide a stable foundation for replacement crowns. The same way you bite, chew, smile and speak with your natural teeth, you can do the exact same with dental implants. All of your favorite foods are back on the table!

2. Dental implants are made to last the rest of your life.

Dental implants are not a temporary solution. With proper care, dental implants are able to last 30+ years! The longevity of implants not only saves you the hassle of frequent replacements but also makes them a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Known as the gold standard of tooth replacement, dental implants are integrated directly into your jaw bone, which ensures the most stable foundation possible.

3. Dental implants can restore your confidence and self-esteem.

Appearance may not be the only benefit to dental implants, but it’s certainly one of the most important benefits. If you have missing teeth, you know how this condition can impact your self-confidence, your willingness to smile, and your desire to talk to new people.

When you don’t feel great about yourself, you can miss out on a lot of life’s opportunities. Replacing missing teeth with permanent, beautifully-crafted dental implants can encourage you to smile a LOT more, encourage you to live your social life and professional life to their full potential, and help you put your best foot forward everyday. We think that’s priceless!

4. Dental implants can preserve your jaw bone and natural tooth structure.

Dental implants are designed to stimulate the jaw bone (mimicking the stimulation of a natural tooth root), which prevents bone loss and reinforces your natural facial structure. Without dental implants, missing teeth will cause resorption of the jawbone over time. Getting dental implants is the only way to prevent this type of bone loss.

Preserving the jaw bone and stimulating bone growth are essential for maintaining the structure and strength of the smile, so you can eat, talk and smile normally, but they’re also essential for optimizing facial aesthetics. Missing teeth can create a sunken facial appearance that often causes self-esteem issues.

5. Dental implants are easy to maintain!

Care and maintenance may be concerns for some people debating whether getting dental implants is worth it. Fortunately, dental implants are cared for the same way you care for your natural teeth.

Unlike dentures, dental implants cannot be removed, which means you won’t need a special cleaning routine. It’s important that you brush your teeth at least twice daily, floss your teeth at night, and attend all of your dental check-ups – just like you would with your natural smile.

Still have questions about the benefits of dental implants?

Still wondering, “should I get a dental implant?” When you schedule an appointment with Secure Dental, our highly-experienced doctors will help you decide whether dental implants are your best option. We offer free implant consultations!

Ready to experience the transformative benefits of dental implants for yourself? Schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located dentist offices in Portage, IN, Lake Station, IN, Hammond, IN, Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, Foster Ave., Chicago, IL, Schaumburg, IL, East Peoria, IL, Moline, IL, or Davenport, IA.

So you have a missing tooth. What now?

Is it important that you replace your missing tooth or teeth? What are your tooth replacement options? Where do you even start?

At Secure Dental, we’re eager to answer your questions and help you find the right solution that empowers you to love your smile for a lifetime. Here’s what you need to know about replacing missing teeth:

Do I really need to replace my missing tooth?

Missing teeth is actually more than a cosmetic problem! Not only can this condition take a toll on your confidence and self-esteem, but missing teeth can actually impact the structure and function of your teeth and bite.

Compromised structure
When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth have a tendency to shift toward the gap, which can lead to misalignment and bite issues that strain the jaw joint. The void left by a missing tooth can also contribute to bone loss in the jaw, potentially compromising the facial structure and causing a prematurely aged appearance.

Because bite efficiency is impacted, this can create issues with speaking, chewing and digesting food.

Bacteria growth
The spaces left by missing teeth can unfortunately become breeding grounds for bacteria! Food and debris can get trapped in these spaces, leading to bacteria growth. Bacteria in the mouth can quickly lead to gum disease and infection, and then pass through the body, into the bloodstream, potentially leading to complications with the heart, blood and other organs.

Needless to say, yes! If you’re able to, it’s really important that you look into getting your missing teeth replaced.

Tooth replacement options

In the event that you lose a tooth or multiple teeth, the most popular tooth replacement options are dentures and dental implants:

Implant supported dentures and overdentures

There are a few different types of implant supported dentures that can replace multiple missing teeth. With removable options such as “overdentures”, which are custom dentures that can be fixed to healthy teeth or roots nearby or secured to a dental implant.

To a Fixed Full Arch or All-on-X for a more permanent replacement option for multiple missing teeth. These use a series of titanium posts to mimic a natural tooth root system in your gums, locking your custom dentures securely in place. This is great for those missing an entire row of teeth or several consecutive teeth and are looking for the most stable and long-lasting solution!

Dental implants

Dental implants are the closest alternatives to natural teeth! You can replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth with permanent dental implants. There are a number of types of dental implants available to restore unique smiles.

If you’re looking for dental implants, one of our experienced dental implant specialists will help you decide which type is best for your case.

Replacing missing teeth with sturdy dental implants allows you to chew and talk naturally again, preserves your jaw bone and tooth structure, optimizes facial aesthetics, reduces the risk of health problems, and so much more. They’re stable and secure, and prepared to last 30 years or more with proper care!

What about single tooth replacement options?

Dental implants are ideal for replacing a single tooth! With permanent dental implants, you won’t have to worry about removing and replacing your tooth to clean your smile. Your dental implant doesn’t require any special care either. Simply clean it as you would your natural tooth.

What are my front tooth replacement options?

If you’re missing a front tooth or multiple front teeth, you can replace them with a dental bridge, a partial denture or a dental implant. If possible, it’s ideal to replace front teeth with secure dental implants. This ensures that your front tooth or teeth won’t pop out of place while you’re going about your day.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost to replace your missing teeth will depend on the type of replacement option you choose, the severity of your condition and how many teeth need to be replaced.

At Secure Dental, we’re proud to offer a number of financing options, including LendingClub, Proceed Finance, and Sunbit. We also accept a wide variety of insurance plans to help lower your costs. We’ll work out a financing plan during your free dental implant consultation!

Still have more questions about replacing missing teeth?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. We’re happy to discuss our teeth replacement options with you.

Find out what you can expect on your first visit. Looking for “dental implants near me” in Indiana, Illinois or Iowa? Take the first step today by scheduling your free implant consultation with us!

Do you wish you had braces as a kid? Or maybe you had braces but didn’t wear your retainer, and now your teeth have shifted? Either way, the idea of getting braces nowadays may make you cringe.

Fortunately, orthodontic treatment has come a long way, and braces aren’t your only option anymore. If you’re looking to straighten your teeth but aren’t familiar with clear aligners, you’ll want to know all of your treatment options.

Understanding the Basics

How do braces work?
Traditional braces have metal brackets that are glued to your teeth, with metal wires that connect the brackets. Each bracket has a colored rubber band, or elastic, that secures the wire to the brackets.

Throughout braces treatment, you’ll visit your doctor every 4 to 6 weeks to have your braces “tightened.” This involves replacing wires and rubber bands to maintain pressure on teeth.

How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners are a modern solution and alternative to braces. They’re made of transparent plastic, which makes them virtually-invisible when in place.

Clear aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. They work in a series of sets – with one clear aligner for the top teeth and one for the bottom. Every two weeks or so (depending on your personalized treatment plan), you simply replace your current clear aligners with your next set of aligners. Each clear aligner set is designed to guide your teeth one step closer to their beautiful new formation.

Throughout clear aligner treatment, you get to complete virtual check-ins, only visiting us every 12 to 16 weeks or less! No unnecessary driving or energy needed.

Braces vs Aligners: Pros and Cons

Now that you know how braces and clear aligners work, how do you know which treatment is right for you? Let’s weigh the pros and cons.

Appearance

Braces
Traditional braces are undeniably noticeable due to their metal brackets and wires. Even clear braces are noticeable from a distance. One of the reasons many people choose clear aligners is because the appearance of braces may impact a person’s professional or social life.

Clear Aligners
Clear aligners have a very discreet appearance. They’re virtually invisible and undetectable and won’t draw attention when you’re speaking or smiling. You can straighten your teeth with clear aligners without anyone knowing!

Comfort

Braces
Every time you get your braces tightened (every 4 weeks or so), you will feel increased pressure and soreness for a few days. This can require you to switch to a soft diet and take pain relievers.

Metal brackets and wires can also hurt your cheeks and tongue, and require numbing gel or wax to cover the brackets. They also have an increased risk of brackets or wires popping out of place, falling off or loosening, which can be uncomfortable and can require you to visit your doctor earlier than planned.

Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are made from smooth plastic and are generally more comfortable than braces. There are no metal parts to cause irritation, and they apply gentler, more consistent pressure to the teeth. There are no tightening appointments and no extra pieces to break or fall off, which means no emergency appointments.

Convenience

Braces
Certain foods must be avoided during braces treatment in order to prevent damaging your brackets or wires, and meticulous cleaning is needed to maintain oral hygiene. You may have to use specialized flossers to be able to reach between wires. Food particles and debris can become stuck around brackets and make it awkward to eat around people.

Clear Aligners
Clear aligners can be removed when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. You can reach all surfaces and areas of your teeth and clean them the same way you did before treatment.

You can remove your clear aligners to deep clean them, and you don’t have to change your diet at all. Simply remove your clear aligners and eat your favorite foods. Then rinse them out and pop them back in place.

What is the difference between clear aligners and clear braces?

Clear braces are similar to traditional metal braces, except they use ceramic brackets that match the color of the teeth. While they are less noticeable than metal braces, they are still easily detectable and add a bulkiness to your teeth.

They also still involve brackets and wires, which can cause discomfort and require dietary restrictions. It’s particularly important to avoid food and drinks that can stain your clear brackets, so drinking wine and coffee should be limited or avoided with clear braces.

As you know, clear aligners are removable and made of smooth, transparent plastic, making them less intrusive in daily life. Wine and coffee are still on the table, and poking metal brackets or wires aren’t possible!

Who can get clear aligners?

Teens and adults
Clear aligners are an excellent choice for both teens and adults. Whether you’re a professional adult or a social teen, clear aligners are an ideal solution.

Active lifestyles
Since clear aligners are removable, they can be taken out during sports activities, reducing the risk of injury from metal brackets and wires.

Busy schedules
For those with busy schedules, clear aligners offer the convenience of fewer dental visits. Patients receive multiple sets of aligners at once and can change them at home, making it easier to fit orthodontic treatment into a hectic routine.

What to expect with clear aligners

At Secure Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. We offer professional ClearCorrect® clear aligner treatment with a highly-convenient treatment experience.

1.Get started from home!
You don’t have to leave the house to find out if clear aligners are right for you. Simply click the SmileSnap button in the bottom right corner, snap some photos of your smile, and send them to us, and we’ll send you a cost estimate and a treatment plan!

2. Come see us!
Next, you’ll come to see us for a quick in-person scan and confirmation of treatment. We’ll work out a custom financing plan, explain the treatment process to you, and start your journey.

3. Get convenient, virtual care from home.
Once you start wearing your clear aligners, you’ll complete convenient virtual check-ins through an easy, secured app. Complete check-ins on your own terms—from wherever and whenever. You can connect with our team and track your progress right from the app.

Get started today.

In the debate of braces vs. aligners, clear aligners are the clear winner in appearance, convenience, and comfort.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions about ClearCorrect clear aligners, and take the first step today!

Click the SmileSnap button in the bottom right corner to get started, or schedule an appointment with us at one of our convenient dentist offices in Schaumburg, IL, Portage, IN, Lake Station, IN, Hammond, IN, Foster Ave., Chicago, IL, East Peoria, IL, Moline, IL, or Davenport, IA.