Monday, February 24, 2014

Technology and Comfort

If you dislike visiting the dentist, you’re not alone. Nearly 10% of the population hates going to the dentist. Fortunately, we can make your visit more comfortable (and prevent future problems) with our state-of-the-art tools and variety of patient amenities. That's why Dr. Caputo uses laser technology to perform many of our treatments more efficiently, accurately, and painlessly. We also offer music and movies or if you need something stronger, the WAND and nitrous, to help you get your mind off your visit. We are always happy to make your visit more comfortable with the following technology and amenities.
 
When Dr. Caputo sees a product that has the best and most proven benefits, he studies its use at trusted dental institutions across the country before offering the product to his patients. Once he feels well informed and trained in using the tool, he shares the information with our team. When we recommend new procedures or tools to you, expect to be fully informed about the benefits, as well as all of your options.

Technology

  • Laser Dentistry
  • DIAGNOdent Laser Cavity Scan
  • Digital X-Ray
  • Intraoral Camera
  • Smile Reminder
  • CAESY Patient Education

Comfort

  • The Wand Computerized Anesthesia Delivery
  • Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
  • TVs in Treatment Rooms
  • Stereo Headphones and CD Players
  • Kids' Room with Video Games and VCR

Monday, February 17, 2014

Painful Pulp

Your teeth contain several layers: the outer protective enamel, a secondary layer of sensitive dentin, and an inner pulp that contains components commonly referred to as the "nerve" of the tooth. Each pulp chamber branches off, forming canals that lead toward the tooth root tip. These infamous root canals provide a means for the tooth to absorb what it needs from the blood and get rid of toxins or other unnecessary materials via the blood stream.
 
A deep cavity, traumatic injury, or tooth fracture can make the canal susceptible to bacterial infection, which can kill the pulp, stimulate increased blood flow, and create pressure within the tooth. This can cause severe tooth pain and may initiate bone degeneration, tooth loss, and even more acute pain. If you see a dentist in the earliest stages of this condition, the tooth may be saved with a root canal. Otherwise, it should be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic.

Easy Does It

Will root canal therapy hurt? Not with today's advanced analgesics and technology. In fact, the entire process can be so comfortable that many patients doze off. Oftentimes, root canal therapy can be completed in a single appointment. We simply clean out the diseased canal, fill it with a biologically-inert substance, seal it from further infection, and you're on your way. While some patients experience post-procedural soreness or slight tissue inflammation, these are controllable with over-the-counter analgesics. Follow-up care involves thorough home hygiene and regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month with Dr. Caputo in Naperville, IL



Each February, family dentistry practices from all over the country observe the American Dental Association’s annual event called National Children’s Dental Health Month. Though keeping your kids’ smile healthy is important all year round, Dr. Paul V. Caputo, Sr. and his team inNaperville, IL like to take this opportunity to add special emphasis to the importance of early oral hygiene. With our comprehensive array of children’s dentistry services, we’ll help ensure that your little one’s pearly whites stay healthy and strong.

Monday, February 10, 2014

Has your oral health fallen victim to injury, decay, neglect, or disease?

Are you worried that you might never regain the full function, comfort, and beauty of your smile? Regardless of why your teeth and oral health have deteriorated, as experienced restorative dentists, Dr. Caputo can give you a strong, healthy, vibrant smile through full-mouth reconstruction. At your visit, we’ll take radiographs, examine your teeth, review your existing dental work, check occlusion (how upper and lower teeth fit together), and learn about your overall oral health. This information will allow Dr. Caputo to understand your situation and how to help you.

 
In addition, the dentist will talk with you about your primary concerns and what you want you want us to do for you. Sometimes people want to eliminate pain, or improve function, replace teeth, or go for the entire package – beauty, comfort, and function. Whatever your needs, Dr. Caputo will listen to you, then create a full-mouth reconstruction plan to provide the services you need for the results you want.

Monday, February 3, 2014

Fluoride Supplements


Today, most US tap water contains fluoride. However, most bottled water doesn't. Many people have fluoride deficiency, which puts teeth at a greater risk for getting cavities. In some cases, parents think that they are protecting their babies by using bottled water to mix formula, but actually, tap water is better in this case. Many children pack bottled water in school lunches, and adults tend to toss a bottled water in the car instead of filling up a reusable water bottle with tap water.
 
Fluoride is an interesting mineral because it attracts other minerals and strengthens tooth enamel. At yourcheckup, we can determine whether your teeth would benefit from a fluoride supplement. If we find that your teeth could use a boost, we'll recommend a simple solution.
 
Fluoride mouth rinse in many flavors is available at our Naperville dental office. One quick rinse and your teeth will have a better chance of staying healthy. We offer supplemental fluoride for patients of all ages. Oftentimes, our hygienist will recommend additional ways to keep your fluoride levels up between dental visits. These may include switching to tap water or using a fluoride-rich mouthwash at home.