- Dental ExaminationDiagnosis A comprehensive oral examination, including x-rays, is crucial to diagnosing periodontal disease. At that time, we will use a special instrument called a periodontal probe to measure the depth of the pocket between the tooth and the gum tissue. The pocket depth measurement, clinical examination and x-rays help us determine the precise location, extent and severity of gum disease.
- X-raysExposure to all sources of radiation - including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home - can damage the body's tissues and cells. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of X-rays is extremely small. Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to the low radiation levels emitted by dental X-rays. Some of the improvements are new digital X-ray machines that limit the radiation beam to the small area being X-rayed, higher speed X-ray films that require shorter exposure time and the use of film holders that keep the film in place in the mouth (which prevents the film from slipping and the need for repeat X-rays and additional radiation exposure). Also, the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protects the body from stray radiation (though this is almost nonexistent with the modern dental X-ray machines.) In addition, federal law requires that X-ray machines be checked for accuracy and safety every two years, with some states requiring more frequent checks.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningThe dentist or hygienist will ask about your recent medical history, examine your mouth and decide whether or not you need x-rays. Depending on your treatment plan, the hygienist may use a special dental instruments to check your gums for gum disease. Your dentist will evaluate your overall dental health and conduct an oral cancer screening by holding your tongue with gauze, checking it and your whole mouth, then feeling your jaw and neck.
- Teeth Cleaning
- Fillings
- Resin Composite
- VeneersVeneers A porcelain veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of the tooth needs a “face lift”. Similar to composite bonding, veneers are attached directly to the existing tooth structure.
- CrownsCrown and bridge treatment will restore lost teeth, support remaining teeth and help you maintain optimum dental health.
- BridgesWhen several neighboring teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge is the optimal treatment option for replacing them. The implant bridge consists of three major aspects: dental implants, abutments, and the dental bridge. While a traditional bridge uses healthy neighboring teeth to secure the dental crowns in your mouth, the implant-supported bridge is firmly held in place by the implants.
- Dental Bonding
- Root Canal TreatmentMost of the time a tooth can be fixed by filling the cracked enamel or recreating the missing portions of a healthy tooth. Other times, however, the damage goes past the outer portion of the tooth, also called the enamel, and reaching the tooth pulp. When the inside of the tooth is infected or inflamed it may require a root canal procedure, otherwise known as endodontic treatment.
- DenturesWhether you are missing some or all of your natural teeth, you can derive many benefits from replacing them with full or partial dentures.
- OverdenturesYou may also be a candidate for implant-supported overdentures. Implant-supported overdentures are a full set of dentures that clip into place along your jawline to perform the appearance and function of natural teeth. Like the full-arch fixed bridge denture, the overdenture is supported by dental implants. However, the overdenture can be removed for cleaning and maintenance. Your oral surgeoun will attach a supporting structure to the implants so that you can snap your overdentures into place for increased stability and comfort while eating, drinking and speaking.
- Dental ImplantsDr. David M. Karas was born in the Chicago area and has resided here his entire life. He received his undergraduate and dental degrees from Loyola University and has been practicing in the Oak Brook and Elmhurst areas since 1987. His practice has focused on implant dentistry from the beginning and he has received extensive postgraduate training, including a one-year training course sponsored by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
- Oral Surgery
- Tooth ExtractionsFirst, Dr. Karas will take x-rays of your mouth and determine the optimal placement of the implant along your jawline. Once the implant has been surgically placed, the abutment and crown will be attached during restoration procedures. Most patients report less pain during recovery than with wisdom teeth extractions, but any discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication. If you are anxious about any stage in the implant procedure, the team at Oak Brook Dental Center is always ready and willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
- Bone Grafting
- Orthodontics
- Invisalign OrthodonticsHow does Invisalign work? An Invisalign-trained dentist will utilize 3D computer imaging technology to demonstrate the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired result. This imaging technology is then used to design an individualized series of custom-made aligners. The patient wears each aligner for about two weeks while the teeth move incrementally. After two weeks, the current aligner is replaced with the next one until the final position is achieved.
- BracesWhat is Invisalign? Invisalign is the virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth without braces, using a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets. You wear each set of clear aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move - little by little, week by week - until they have straightened to the final position your doctor has prescribed. You'll visit your doctor about once every six weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
- Teeth WhiteningDo you wish you had whiter teeth? Thanks to new materials and technology, you can have a whiter, brighter smile! Ever notice how some people can practically light up a room with their bright, beautiful smiles? A natural-looking, sparkling white smile can be yours with a safe, painless and effective professional tooth-whitening procedure – and a little help from us!
- Cosmetic DentistryCosmetic dentistry is a blending of art and science. With a focus on esthetic results and using a variety of the latest restorative techniques and materials, we can enhance your smile to give it a more pleasing appearance. To address these conditions, any or all of the following cosmetic techniques may be used.
- General DentistryDr. Nili performs all phases of general dentistry, including cosmetic, restorative and surgical procedures. He takes pride in educating his patients and focuses on understanding their concerns in order to better serve their dental needs.