Pregnancy Dental Care: Comprehensive Guide to Dental Health When Expecting

pregnancy dentistry in Palos Park

Pregnancy brings on a whole new world of responsibilities, and it can be a very stressful process to be in the know about everything that you should do to have a healthy transition into motherhood.

One of the things that doesn’t come to mind when you think pregnancy is the importance of dental health, but it is something that all expecting mothers should take very seriously! The ins and outs of dental hygiene when pregnant can be a bit complicated, so we have made it easy with a comprehensive guide to proper dental well-being while expecting. 

Share The News

Finding out that you are going to be welcoming a new human into the world is a very exciting time, but letting the right people know is crucial! Of course, those who mean the most to you are on the top of your list, your family and friends are going to be ecstatic, but don’t forget about your dentist!

Keeping up with your dental care is extremely important at every moment in your life, pregnant or not, but while expecting, dentists need to be in the know of all the details so that you can be properly treated with the highest care and safety! You should let your dentist know what Month you are in, and if it is a high-risk pregnancy when booking, this can determine just what treatments are safe for you and your baby and postponing any appointments that may pose risks!

Check With Your Obstetrician

palos park dentist for expecting mothers

Dentists are highly trained professionals prepared and experienced for every and any type of dental treatment, but it is crucial that you check with your obstetrician before your dental appointment to learn about any precautions/instructions that the dentists should be aware of.

This can help your dentist know just precisely what options are available for you when undergoing any kind of dental treatment. While pregnant, you can never be too safe!

The More Information, The Better

When considering dental care while pregnant, the more information you give to your dentist, the better! This includes a complete list of all medications and dosages that you are taking. Considering your specific information, your dentist may need to alter your care to suit you in this exciting time!

The Effects of Morning Sickness

One of the not so pleasant things about being pregnant is when you get morning sickness. One day you may wake up, and the thought of a particular food or flavor may be off-putting and make you sick. But don’t let that stop you from keeping up with your dental hygiene!

We recommend that you switch to a toothpaste that doesn’t have any flavor. This will help you not look at brushing your teeth as something that will make you sick; the flavorless toothpaste is the perfect option to keeping those teeth pearly white and welcoming your newborn with a healthy and vibrant smile!

Never Stop Your Dental Hygiene

Pregnancy Dental Care Tips

There are a lot of essential things that you have to do and prepare for while being pregnant, but don’t let other responsibilities take over your dental health.

Due to hormonal change, while pregnant, you can become increasingly susceptible to periodontal disease, and if you have tender gums that bleed easily, also a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. Don’t miss out on your dental check-up just because you are pregnant, the healthier you are, the better it is for the special someone that will be entering your life!

Tips For Maintaining a Healthy Mouth During Pregnancy

Because you are pregnant, it doesn’t mean making massive changes in your everyday dental health, just remember to:

Brush

Brushing your teeth should never stop, just make sure that you choose an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste and brushing your teeth no less than twice a day is crucial for proper dental cleanliness!

Floss

Don’t forget about flossing and getting rid of any plaque or food build-up, trust us, flossing thoroughly between your teeth daily is going to help keep you comfortable and fresh!

Eating Right

Pregnancy may bring upon some unexpected cravings, be aware of the negative effect some snacks can have on your teeth. So, if you snack, it’s best to do so in moderation.

Frequent Dental Visits

You can never be too sure when it comes to your teeth. So make sure you keep up with your visits to the dentist.

The Unique Benefits of Going to the Dentist While Pregnant

Sheehan Dental in Palos Park IL

There is absolutely no doubt, being pregnant is special. As you go through the process of transitioning into motherhood, every person that is involved in your journey has a long-lasting effect on you and your baby!

While expecting, it can create deep bonds, and that includes those with your dentist. As you experience care during this time, it will give you the trust you need to know that when your baby is growing up, they will have dental care to the highest standard!

Pregnancy Dental Care in Palos Park: The Sheehan Dental Difference

Throughout this unique time, you should be surrounded by those who want to go the extra mile to promote your health and happiness! The personalized experience at Sheehan Dental allows you to feel at home while receiving the dental care you need. Serving all types of dental needs in  Palos Park, IL, our extensive personnel and expertise are the perfect fit for you while expecting!

This is a special time, and putting the trust of you and your baby is not an easy thing to do. At Sheehan Dental, our number one goal is to show you why you should confide in us to give you the dental care that you require. See for yourself here, why we are one of the most trusted dental services in Palos Park, IL. If you are expecting and are in need of a dental center that has you and your baby’s dental needs in mind, don’t hesitate to contact us online at https://sheehandental.com/find-us/ or by calling us at 1 708-671-1510.

Professional Teeth Whitening Services Vs DIY

Teeth Whitening Services Vs DIY

Do you cover your mouth when you laugh or worry about the color of your teeth when you talk or eat? If so, then there are many people who feel the same as you. 70% of people are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth, and 61% want to make a positive change to how their teeth look.

The most common change that people want to see is an improvement to the whiteness of their teeth. 

If you’ve always wished that your teeth could be whiter, brighter and more radiant, then teeth whitening could be the ideal treatment for you. However, before you whiten your teeth, you have an important decision to make: should you visit your dentist for professional teeth whitening services or should you buy a DIY kit and whiten your teeth at home?

There are many differences between teeth whitening services performed at a dental clinic and DIY options; we’re going to explore some of the biggest…

Teeth Whitening Methods

Between DIY teeth whitening kits and professional teeth whitening services, you’ll discover many products and techniques for whitening.

If you head to the store for a DIY option, you’ll have the choice of whitening toothpaste, whitening trays and whitening strips. A specialist whitening toothpaste can take the place of your normal toothpaste for slight improvements to whiteness, while strips and trays must be applied/inserted multiple times until the desired results are achieved.

Visit your dentist in Palos Park for teeth whitening, to discover much more intensive treatment options. Many dentists provide two options for professional teeth whitening: supervised at-home kits and in-office treatment.  

The in-office treatment typically involves the use of a specialist whitening agent and a halogen light, which speeds up the procedure. The at-home treatment is similar to DIY kits in the sense that they’re used at home, but very different in terms of customization. You’ll receive custom trays that perfectly fit your teeth, professional bleaching gel and clear instructions on how to use the products for the best results.

Teeth Whitening Duration

There’s no exact timeframe for DIY or professional teeth whitening, as how much treatment you’ll require will depend on your desired results. DIY kits can be faster, as you won’t need to pay a visit to your dentist, but at the same time, it may take much longer to achieve good results.

You should expect to pay at least one visit to the dentist for professional treatment and have to set some time aside at home to maintain the results or to use the home whitening kit.

Teeth Whitening Safety

One of the biggest cons of DIY treatment is that it’s completely down to you to follow the instructions. When used incorrectly, DIY teeth whitening can damage your gums, causing them to recede and become more sensitive. 

With professional teeth whitening, you’re in a safe environment with constant monitoring. Even with the take-home kits, you have extra assurance of the safety of the product and professional instructions for its correct use.

Teeth Whitening Results

Before & After Teeth Whitening Results

DIY kits and professional teeth whitening services will both lead to whiter teeth, but not to the same degree. You can generally expect most off-the-shelf products to make your teeth between 2x and 8x whiter. With professional treatment, you can look forward to 6x to 8x whiter teeth.

Unlike DIY treatment, the patient receives a fully customized treatment when they visit a professional. The trays used during the treatment will be custom-made to fit the unique shape of the patient’s teeth and there’s a greater level of control over the results. With custom treatment, it’s easier to achieve even results that look great and last for a long time.

Teeth Whitening Cost

A big difference between professional and DIY treatment is cost. The amazing results that professional teeth whitening can deliver come at a higher cost than DIY treatments. However, as professional treatments typically have longer lasting results, the difference in cost isn’t as great as it might look at a quick glance!

Professional Teeth Whitening Services Vs DIY: Which Is Best?

If you want fast results without spending much, then DIY teeth whitening treatment could be the best option for you. However, if you want better results with a safer procedure that’ll give you a radiant smile in just a few hours, or over the course of a few treatments, then you’re better off going down the professional route.

DIY kits simply can’t compete with the expertise, experience and professional products that your dentist in Palos Park can provide!

Whichever teeth whitening treatment you decide to have, it’s important to remember that for the best results, you should visit your dentist in Palos Park beforehand for a dental cleaning. A dental cleaning will ensure that plaque is removed so the results from whitening aren’t blotchy.

For more information about dental cleaning and teeth whitening treatment in Palos Park IL, get in touch with Sheehan Dental – your local experts in smile transformations!

Top Reasons Why Regular Dental Checkups Should be Part of Your New Year’s Resolutions

Regular dental checkups are crucial to maintain excellent oral health and keep your smile looking and feeling beautiful. If you’ve fallen behind on attending regular dental exams in Palos Park, then there’s plenty of time to turn things around – and the New Year is the perfect time to start!

As the time draws closer to start making your New Year’s resolutions, here’s why visiting a dentist in Palos Park should be at the top of your list:

Boost Your Self Confidence

can affect confidence – like tooth decay, tooth loss and bad breath – can be treated or even prevented by visiting your dentist on a regular basis. If you’re unhappy with your smile for any reason, just a quick chat with your dentist is all that’s needed to put in place solutions that’ll boost your confidence.

Improve the Look of Your Smile

Dental cleanings are a crucial part of regular dental exams that can help to improve the look of your smile and increase the health of your teeth and gums – it’s win-win! If you dream of a bright white smile, then you can also discuss options for cosmetic procedures or teeth whitening with your dentist during a checkup.

As dental checkups are centered around prevention, they’re a great opportunity to get advice on how to prevent common problems and keep your smile looking incredible.

Enjoy a Better Facial Aesthetic

Taking care of your teeth and getting professional treatment to address problems like crooked teeth, overbites, crossbites and gaps in teeth can improve facial shape.

Your dentist can advise you on the best orthodontic treatments – like aligners and braces – to correct your teeth and improve facial imbalances. A beautiful smile and an improved facial aesthetic are just two of the amazing benefits of regular visits to the dentist!

Enhance Your Overall Health

Research has linked oral infections to serious medical problems like cardiovascular disease and difficulties controlling diabetes. For people with weakened immune systems, oral bacteria can increase the risk of infection elsewhere in the body. Gum disease may even increase the chances of babies being born prematurely!

The health of your teeth and gums is linked to the health of your entire body – great oral health is crucial for feeling great.

Screen for Oral Cancer

Did you know that your dentist can also perform an oral cancer screening during your normal exam? More than 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. It’s often possible for a dentist to identify the signs of oral cancer very early on, which is vital for beginning treatment when it can be most effective.

Oral cancer screenings in Palos Park are quick and painless, so there’s absolutely no reason not to schedule a screening!

Stay on Top of Gum Disease Prevention

One of the most important reasons to attend regular dental exams is to prevent gum disease – a problem that affects tens of millions of Americans. During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your gums and teeth and check for signs of gum disease. If they identify early signs of gum disease, they can provide you with invaluable advice on how to treat and manage it with the best hygiene techniques.

Regular checkups are essential for managing mild and severe gum disease and also for preventing its development by removing plaque. If left to build up, plaque can damage tissue and cause pain and bleeding, potentially resulting in gum disease.

Identify Underlying Problems

Gum disease isn’t the only problem that your dentist can identify early or prevent during a regular dental checkup. Dental x-rays are an invaluable tool for identifying a wide range of dental problems, such as impacted teeth, decay and cavities. Identifying any problem early means more time to treat the problem before it gets worse.

Detect Any Lurking Cavities

Cavities are an extremely common problem that can lead to a number of serious complications, like swelling, broken teeth, tooth loss and difficulties chewing. Regular dental checkups are vital for preventing, identifying and treating cavities.

During a dental cleaning, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, eliminating one of the biggest causes of cavities. Your dentist can also advise you on how to reduce other risk factors and treat any existing cavities to eliminate pain and stop larger problems developing. 

Our top reasons to make regular dental checkups part of your New Year’s resolutions build a great case for why you should contact Sheehan Dental to schedule a dental checkup visit today! Attending regular dental checkups in Palos Park will help you to achieve and maintain a beautiful smile and stay on top of your oral health in 2020 and for many years to come.

About Palos Park, IL

Discover Palos Park: Tranquil Community with Exceptional Dental Care

Located just 19 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Palos Park, Illinois, is a serene village known for its lush forest preserves, rich history, and tight-knit community. Palos Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and suburban charm, making it an ideal place to live, work, and receive top-tier dental care.

Dental Care in Palos Park

Sheehan Dental is the leading dentist in Palos Park, providing exemplary dental care & cosmetic dentistry for the Palos Park, IL community. Proud to serve the whole family, Sheehan Dental establishes good dental hygiene even in the youngest of children.

From cleaning and dental hygiene to polishing and oral exams, Sheehan Dental makes visiting the dentist a relaxing experience. We understand that many people are nervous about going to the dentist, and we know that it can be especially hard for young children. That’s why we go out of our way to give our Palos Park clients the very best possible service, and to make them feel at ease right from the start.

Whether you’re coming in for a preventative dental check-up or you need dental treatment, we want you to be proud of your smile so our exceptional dental treatment can provide whatever you need, from cleaning and whitening to Invisalign clear braces. Make an appointment to come and talk to your friendly Palos Park dentist today.

About Palos Park, Illinois

Established in 1914, Palos Park is characterized by its commitment to preserving natural beauty and fostering a close-knit community. The village is surrounded by the Cook County Forest Preserves, offering residents ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and a peaceful environment.

Palos Park Local Government and Services

The Village of Palos Park operates under a commission form of government, with a focus on transparency and community engagement. Residents can access various services and information through the official village website. ​Palos Park+5Palos Park+5Palos Park+5

Palos Park IL – Area Information

Palos Park is a charming village located in Cook County, Illinois, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and family-friendly atmosphere. The area is characterized by its lush parks, scenic landscapes, and well-established residential communities. With a strong emphasis on preserving green spaces, residents enjoy numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding along the many trails.

The village boasts a variety of amenities, including local shops, restaurants, and community centers that foster a close-knit community spirit. Education is a priority in Palos Park, with access to highly rated public and private schools, as well as nearby higher education institutions.

In addition, Palos Park’s convenient location allows for easy access to major highways and public transportation, making it a desirable place for commuters who work in nearby cities. The combination of a peaceful suburban lifestyle, excellent schools, and a strong community make Palos Park a wonderful place to live and raise a family.

Education

Palos Park is served by Palos School District 118, which includes Palos West Elementary School, Palos East Elementary School, and Palos South Middle School. The district is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student development. ​Home – Palos School District 118+4Home – Palos School District 118+4Wikipedia+4Home – Palos School District 118

Parks and Recreation

The Palos Park Recreation and Parks Department offers a variety of programs and facilities to promote community wellness and engagement. Residents can enjoy activities at the Recreation Center, Village Green, and Centennial Park.

Transportation

Palos Park is accessible via Metra’s SouthWest Service, providing convenient rail service to Chicago’s Union Station. Additionally, Pace Bus Route 379 connects Palos Park to neighboring communities, enhancing mobility for residents. ​Wikipediapacebus.com+1Wikipedia+1

Directions to Sheehan Dental

Address: 11901 S 80th Ave Ste D, Palos Park, IL 60464​

Phone: +1 708-671-1510​

Website: sheehandental.com

From 123rd St & La Grange Rd:

  1. Head east on 123rd St toward S 80th Ave
  2. Turn left onto S 80th Ave
  3. Sheehan Dental will be on your right​palostownship.orgGreatSchools.org+15Palos Park+15Palos Park+15

Why Palos Park is Unique

Palos Park’s dedication to preserving its natural landscapes, coupled with a strong sense of community, sets it apart from other suburbs. The village’s rich history as an artists’ retreat and its commitment to maintaining a tranquil environment make it a desirable place to live and receive quality dental care. ​

If your fantasy is living in a town which is small and rural, and a place where everyone wants to be your friend, Palos Park could be your dream spot. Look around and you’ll find yourself surrounding by the beauty of nature at its best. From the carpet of color provided by the flowers, to the the cool and lush greenery of the forests, you’re never far away from finding an outdoor spot which lets you reconnect with your inner self.

Palos is known for being a popular country retreat, with historic wooded ravines, extensive farmland and the fresh water of local springs. Surrounded by deep forests, Palos is a secret pocket of tranquility tucked away in Cook County.

Lots of people in Palos know each other; it’s that kind of place. Even those who grew up and moved away often return as Palos has that indistinguishable quality that’s unlike anywhere else. For a nostalgic afternoon, stop by The Plush Horse, a vintage ice cream parlor that offers the delicious flavors that you know and love.

From the tree-lined sidewalks to the leafy surroundings, it’s hard to find anywhere that compares with Palos. The perfect spot to raise a family, or just to kick back and relax, Palos is one of the best places you could find to live.

Palos Park – Nearby Places


The zip code for Palos Park is 60464. Some of the other suburbs, towns and cities that you’ll find close to Palos Park, Illinois
include:
• Palos Hills, IL
• Palos Heights, IL
• Worth, IL.
• Chicago Ridge, IL
• Orland Park, IL
• Hickory Hills, IL
• Alsip, IL
• Crestwood, IL
• Oak Lawn, IL
• Burbank, IL
• Goodings Grove, IL
• Justice, IL
• Bridgeview, IL
• Oak Forest, IL
• Midlothian, IL

The center of each of the cities listed is less than 7 miles from Palos.

Things to Do in Palos Park


There are many beautiful outdoor attractions in Palos Park, with fun for the whole family. Swallow Cliff Stairs, rated #1 on TripAdvisor, for “Things to do in Palos Park“, is a popular spot offering outstanding views and panoramas. With 125 stairs to climb to the top, it’s ideal for cardiovascular workouts, letting the children burn off some energy or just enjoying the fresh air. Surrounded by beautiful woodland, there are bathroom facilities nearby as well as a water fountain. Local trails provide plenty to do once you’ve reached the top, making it the perfect place to experience the stunning nature in Palos Park.

Things To Do in Palos Park IL - Swallow Cliff.

Swallow Cliff is not just for the warmer weather; in the winter months it’s possible to experience cross country skiing. The trails are excellent for beginners, providing a unique winter funday for the family. Throughout the year Palos Park holds many festivals including themes such as music, movies, lights and the arts. Seasonal markets also take place, a very popular activity especially in the run-up to Christmas.


Some of the most common work sectors in Palos Park:


• Health Care
• Manufacturing
• Office and Administrative Positions
• Management
• Sales/Sales Related

Compared to many other locations in the US, Palos Park has a high number of individuals working in technical positions such as Treating Practitioners and Health Diagnosing.

Public Transport in Palos Park

The Metra Rail – SouthWest Service includes a train station in Palos Park where you can travel by rail. This service is available on weekdays, and on Saturdays.

Palos Park – Helpful Area Information Links