Blog
How you feel about the way your teeth look has a big impact on how often you smile. Smiling more helps you look welcoming, friendly, and confident. If you don’t like the way your teeth look, learn how whitening or veneers can sparkle your smile.
Oct 9th, 2024
How to Protect Your Tooth After a Root Canal
Root canal therapy (RCT) uses advanced techniques to treat decay and trauma deep within a tooth, preserving the tooth and avoiding extraction. If RCT is in your future, here’s how to care for your tooth afterward.
Sep 19th, 2024
Pain When Chewing: Is It an Emergency?
With every bite comes a shock of pain that makes you want to either spit out your food, swallow it whole, or swear off eating. None of those options are acceptable. Find out when that chewing pain means you need to see a dentist immediately.
Aug 8th, 2024
Chronic Bad Breath? It Could Be a Sign of Periodontal Disease
It's normal to experience bad breath on occasion. However, if you constantly need to pop mints, it could be a sign of an underlying issue like periodontal disease. Keep reading to learn more.
Jul 9th, 2024
5 Tips to Care for Your Dentures
Dentures are a time-tested solution for missing teeth, restoring function, appearance, and confidence. If you have dentures or they’re in your future, these simple tips can help you keep them in top shape.
Jun 18th, 2024
Can Invisalign Treat an Underbite?
Favored for their comfort, the speed with which they straighten teeth and near invisibility, Invisalign® clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces. But what about underbites? Can Invisalign get the job done?
May 10th, 2024
4 Ways Veneers Can Upgrade Your Smile
A part of putting your best face forward is having a smile that dazzles. Unfortunately, most of us weren’t born with beautifully straight, white teeth, which is where dental veneers can make up the difference.
Apr 1st, 2024
What to Do If You Have a Loose Crown
Uh oh! You thought that crown on your tooth was in place for good. Suddenly, your crown is wobbling around rather than staying firmly in place — what should you do? Here’s your loose-crown plan of action.
Mar 7th, 2024
Gapped Teeth: Are They More Than an Eyesore?
Having a gap between your teeth is more than just a cosmetic issue–it’s also a medical condition, which, if left untreated, can cause additional health concerns. Learn more about what it means.
Feb 1st, 2024
Getting to Know Inlays and Onlays
Do you have tooth damage or decay? A dental crown may not be your only treatment option. Inlays or onlays could offer better solutions. Keep reading to learn more about these common tooth restorations and whether they could be right for you.
Jan 17th, 2024
Our Dentist's Secret to Optimal Oral Health
Your at-home oral care routine starts with brushing, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Read on as our dentist shares the secret to optimal oral health and how we can help you reach those goals.
Dec 11th, 2023
Why Do Some People Have Perfect Smiles Without Dental Work?
For most people, keeping the best smile means lots of dental work and good hygiene to look as good as possible. But some people seem to be able to accomplish this effortlessly. Find out how they do this and how you can, too.
Nov 1st, 2023
Warning Signs You're Not Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way
Brushing your teeth is essential to a good oral hygiene routine, but are you brushing your teeth the right way? Find out the steps to get your teeth as clean as possible when brushing.
Oct 1st, 2023
Common Oral Health Problems in Seniors
Seniors tend to have more oral health problems as they get older. Read on to learn more about a few common oral health issues you should watch out for.
Sep 1st, 2023
Are You Grinding Your Teeth? Here’s Why You Should Stop
Whether you grind your teeth when you’re stressed out or angry or while you sleep, it’s a problem. In this post, we explain why, and we also discuss some tips for stopping.
Aug 4th, 2023
8 Lesser-Known Hacks to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings are the pillars of good oral hygiene, but those aren’t the only ways to keep your mouth healthy. Here are eight lesser-known hacks you can use.
Jul 6th, 2023
Myths and Facts About Root Canal Therapy
Root canals are critical to avoiding tooth loss and maintaining a beautiful smile, but they’re often the most misunderstood procedures. Here, we dispel a few of the most common myths.
Jun 5th, 2023
Adult Tooth Loss Is Common: Here's How You Can Prevent It
Proactive oral care can prevent decay and eventual tooth loss. Learn more about what increases your risk of losing your adult teeth and how you can better maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for your lifetime.
May 1st, 2023
Here’s What to Expect When Getting Started With Invisalign®
Invisalign® clear aligners offer a way to radically improve your smile and your dental health, without the bother with wires and the aesthetic issues of traditional braces. But you may wonder what’s involved in getting your aligners. We explain here.
Apr 1st, 2023
Daily Flossing Is Just as Important as Brushing: Here's Why
How often do you floss? Can you remember the last time? If you skip this important oral hygiene habit on a regular basis, you’re missing out — it’s more important than you think. Keep reading to learn why.
Mar 3rd, 2023
Are Your Ruining Your Teeth With These Bad Habits
It’s easy to take teeth for granted until something goes wrong. But did you know you could be doing things every day that put your oral health at risk? Keep reading to learn more.
Feb 7th, 2023
What Is Tongue Scraping and Should I Be Doing It?
Good dental hygiene is crucial to good dental health. You’re probably already brushing and flossing. But are you scraping your tongue? Here’s what you need to know.
Jan 1st, 2023
Get Your Best Smile for Those Holiday Photos with Professional Teeth Whitening
It takes months of stain molecule buildup to discolor your tooth enamel. Luckily, it only takes one 45-minute teeth whitening session to lift those stubborn stains and brighten your smile. Here’s what professional whitening can do for you.
Dec 1st, 2022
Does My Toothache Need Emergency Dental Attention?
My tooth hurts! How do I know if my toothache requires a trip to the emergency dentist? Learn more about tooth pain and when it signals a more serious problem that warrants professional care by an emergency dentist.
Nov 1st, 2022
Why More Teens Are Opting for Invisalign®
Being a teenager is tough enough, so why make it worse with metal wires and brackets sabotaging your smile? Invisalign® makes it easy to straighten and perfect your pearly whites — and people will hardly notice you doing it.
Oct 1st, 2022
Help! My Tooth Is Cracked
A cracked tooth may seem like a minor problem, but even a hairline break can cause serious issues without treatment. If you think you’ve cracked a tooth, here’s what you need to know to avoid bigger problems.
Sep 1st, 2022
The Best Foods to Eat for a Healthier Smile
Just as sugary foods and sweet drinks can set the stage for dental decay and erode your oral health, wholesome, nutrient-rich foods can strengthen your teeth and protect you. Here’s how you can make your mouth happy.
Aug 1st, 2022
Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown
Are you confused by your treatment options when you need dental work? It’s easy to become overwhelmed when conversations stray from routine cleanings and daily brushing and flossing. Read on to learn about crowns and the role they play in oral care.
Jul 1st, 2022
Fix These Alignment Issue with Invisalign®
Bothered by crooked or crowded teeth? Invisalign® can correct these issues and more without the hassle of conventional braces.
Jun 1st, 2022
Summer Selfies: Another Reason to Have Your Teeth Whitened
Are you embarrassed by your discolored and stained teeth? Do you wish you could have clean, white teeth and a gorgeous smile? Learn about how teeth whitening can give you bright, beautiful teeth for those summer selfies!
May 1st, 2022
4 Signs of an Oral Abscess
An abscess is never a welcome sign of great health, It can be painful and can also cause you to feel self-conscious. Read on to learn more about oral abscesses and what you can do to treat it..
Apr 1st, 2022
Why Is It Important to Visit the Dentist?
Did you put off scheduling your next dentist visit? While you might not think it’s a big deal, missing regular dental appointments can wreak havoc on your oral health. Keep reading to learn why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly.
Mar 1st, 2022
5 Problems Cosmetic Dentistry Can Fix
If you have flaws with your teeth that hurt your self-confidence, cosmetic dentistry can help. Read on to learn more about all the problems that cosmetic dentistry can address.
Feb 1st, 2022
5 Benefits of Partial Dentures
Dentures are one of the most effective and popular options for smile restoration. But with so many options, it can be hard to choose the best one. Here, we share our best information about partial dentures, so you can make an informed decision.
Jan 4th, 2022
What to Do About a Cracked or Missing Crown
When your dental crown cracks or falls out, you become more vulnerable to painful complications. The sooner you get treatment, the better.
Dec 1st, 2021
When to See Your Dentist About a Toothache
Even a mild toothache can make life miserable, but it can be hard to decide whether you should call the dentist now or try to outlast the pain. We explain the causes of tooth pain and the symptoms that indicate it’s time to see your dentist.
Nov 3rd, 2021
What to Expect When Having a Root Canal
While a root canal sounds like a thing of nightmares, it is actually a simple, straightforward procedure — and much better than risking the pain and potential damage of delaying it. Read on to learn what to expect and why you don't want to wait.
Oct 1st, 2021
Why Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening Is Superior to Over-the-Counter Products
Too many people cover up their smiles. Are you one of them? If so, you need to learn more about the best choice for whitening your teeth ― the Zoom!® teeth whitening system. Learn more about this popular cosmetic treatment.
Sep 6th, 2021
4 Benefits of Dental Veneers
Are you tired of hiding your teeth behind a closed-lipped smile? Cosmetic treatments like veneers can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Continue reading to explore four benefits of dental veneers.
Aug 10th, 2021
Why Invisalign® Is a Better Choice Than Traditional Braces
There are lots of reasons you might not want to have traditional braces, but what do you do if you want straighter teeth or you need braces to correct a problem? Click here to learn about why Invisalign® is a great choice.
Jul 11th, 2021
Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is both common and problematic. If you fear sitting in the dentist’s chair, you’re not alone. There are tools you can use to overcome your fear and get the dental care you need.
Jun 13th, 2021
The Psychological Impact of a Whiter Smile
Think about that person who walks into a room and confidently flashes a brilliant smile, as opposed to someone who walks in tight-lipped. Guess which of those people everyone wants to meet first?
May 13th, 2021
Why Having a Proper Bite Is So Important
Did you know that orthodontic treatment does more than just straighten your teeth? Orthodontic treatment can correct a bad bite. Read on to learn why a proper bite is so important and how to tell if you have malocclusion.
Apr 6th, 2021
Understanding the Different Kinds of Bridges
If you need to fill a gap in your smile, bridges offer a comfortable, long-lasting option. But which type of bridge is right for you? Learn more about the different kinds of dental bridges here.
Mar 10th, 2021
How Long Will My Child Need Invisalign?
You’re oh so ready for beautiful teeth. You know that Invisalign® works faster than traditional braces and fixes your teeth nearly invisibly, but you also know that it can’t all happen overnight. How long will you need Invisalign? It depends.
Feb 1st, 2021
Are You Experiencing a Dental Emergency? Here’s What You Need to Know
A dental emergency can occur anytime, anywhere. Finding emergency dental care can be a challenge. Find out where you can go and what you should do in the event of a dental emergency.
Jan 1st, 2021
Veneers Can Correct More Smile Flaws Than You Think
Thinking about dental veneers to cover severely discolored teeth? Excellent choice. But we bet that veneers can correct more smile flaws than you thought possible.
Dec 1st, 2020
How the ZOOM! Whitening Method Works
If you’re bothered by the discoloration of your teeth, ZOOM! whitening may be just what the doctor ordered. In about an hour, the superior professional teeth whitening system can reveal a brighter smile you can feel confident about.
Nov 9th, 2020
If Your Teen Needs Braces, Give Them the Gift of Invisalign
If your teenager needs their teeth straightened, but they can’t stand the thought of bulky, uncomfortable metal braces, the Invisalign® system ― which uses clear, removable aligners ― might be just the solution. Read on to learn more.
Oct 1st, 2020
How Cosmetic Dentistry Is Actually Good for Your Oral Health
Having a perfectly aligned set of teeth not only makes a good first impression, but it may also be vital to your dental health. Learn more about how cosmetic dentistry can prevent a wide range of dental diseases.
Aug 31st, 2020
When Is Your Tooth Pain Cause for Concern?
How do you know when tooth pain is a cause for concern? Whether the pain is mild or severe, you might be confused about when it’s time to make an appointment. There are some vital clues in uncovering the source of pain that answer your question.
Aug 14th, 2020
10 Foods and Habits You Should Avoid to Protect Your Dental Health
Aside from the obvious culprits, there are some edibles you might be surprised to learn contribute to cavities, chipped teeth, and other oral health problems. Here’s a list of 10 foods and habits to avoid so you can have a healthier mouth.
Jul 2nd, 2020
Knowing the Difference Between a Crown and a Bridge
Crowns and bridges may solve similar dental problems, but they're very different dental appliances. Knowing the difference between a crown and a bridge will help you decide which is the best solution for your dental problems.
Jun 15th, 2020
What Kind of Situation Requires Emergency Dental Care?
When it comes to your health — even your dental health — there are times when you need medical care sooner rather than later. Here’s a look at the types of situations where emergency dentistry can play an invaluable role.
May 12th, 2020
When to Update Your Child's Mouthguard
The last thing any parent wants is to get a call from their child’s coach saying they need to see a dentist right away. Thankfully, you can prevent this from happening when you update your child’s mouthguard.
Apr 29th, 2020
How a Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth
No one wants to lose a tooth, and a root canal can help ensure that you won’t. The minimally invasive treatment, performed while the treatment area is completely numb, can help keep an infected tooth intact while preventing complications.
Mar 24th, 2020
The Link Between Oral Health and Your Overall Health
Is oral health really that important? Did you know that when you have gum disease, your risk of other health-related conditions increases? Keep reading to learn how ignoring this common oral health problem can impact your overall health.
Feb 4th, 2020
Resolve to Smile Brighter This Year with ZOOM!®
In a little over an hour while you relax in our dental office, you can walk out with a brighter smile thanks to the ZOOM! whitening system. If you desire a whiter, brighter smile, Zoom! may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Jan 5th, 2020
Non-Cosmetic Reasons to Consider Veneers
Dental veneers can whiten your teeth and give you a spectacular smile. But beauty isn’t the only reason to consider veneers. Here are non-cosmetic reasons to consider getting veneers.
Dec 1st, 2019
Straight Teeth Are Healthy Teeth: Why Alignment Matters
Misaligned teeth aren’t only a cosmetically unappealing. Straight teeth contribute to a healthy mouth and prevent serious dental conditions. Learn how tooth alignment affects your overall mouth health.
Nov 1st, 2019
Why You Should Never Ignore a Missing Tooth
Left unaddressed, a missing tooth can lead to difficulty speaking and eating normally, alignment issues, and self-consciousness.
Oct 1st, 2019
Tips for Taking Care of Your Invisalign Trays
Once you have your custom-made Invisalign® trays, taking good care of them is an important part of invisibly straightening your smile. Read more to learn how to keep your trays clean and odor-free.
Sep 3rd, 2019
How to Extend the Results of Teeth Whitening
Do you love the way your smile sparkles after you've had your teeth whitened? Do you wish it would stay that way? Keep your smile bright after your whitening treatment by following these easy tips and tricks.
Aug 1st, 2019
Adjusting to Life With Dentures
There may come a time when you need to replace some or all of your teeth with dentures. The transition will take some getting used to, but let us help you make the adjustment.
Jul 1st, 2019
Tired of Living with Crooked Teeth? Here's Why You should Consider Invisalign
Are you worried about how braces might affect your smile? You’re not alone. If you have problems with crooked teeth and need treatment, Invisalign® aligners might be the key. They can straighten your teeth and nobody will know you’re wearing them.
Jun 1st, 2019
3 Ways Veneers Can Help You Build Confidence in Your Smile
Do you want to hide your teeth in photos, because they’re stained or chipped, or because you have large fillings? See how veneers can improve the look of your teeth and help you feel confident about your smile!
May 2nd, 2019
Why Regular Dental Checkups Are So Vital To Your Oral Health
Your oral health is a vital indicator of your overall health. Bacteria that grows in your mouth can cause a wide variety of problems, some as serious as pneumonia. Protecting your oral health can be as easy as regular checkups with your dentist.
Apr 3rd, 2019
What Qualifies As A Dental Emergency?
When you have a dental emergency, you need help from a dentist as soon as possible. If you experience any of the following, contact us immediately.
Mar 5th, 2019
5 Symptoms that May Indicate You Need a Root Canal
Do you have a dental issue that needs a root canal? Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether to make an appointment or just let it ride. Learn what symptoms signal that you probably need a root canal.
Feb 6th, 2019
How Dental Implants Can Help Give You a Flawless Smile
When it comes to dental implants, there’s a lot to be excited about. They look, feel, and function most like natural teeth. Discover the many advantages of dental implants and how they can help give you the flawless smile you’ve always wanted.
Jan 10th, 2019
Here's How To Avoid Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies are never fun, and they rarely happen at convenient times. They can also be costly. You can avoid unnecessary trips to the dentist by taking certain precautions and using good oral hygiene practices.
Dec 11th, 2018
3 Interesting Facts About Veneers That You May Not Know
Dental veneers are a cost effective way to get the smile you really want. If you have crooked, damaged, or stained teeth, it can be socially awkward and even embarrassing. Porcelain dental veneers are a great way to change your smile.
Nov 19th, 2018
5 Reasons Invisalign Is the Best Teeth Straightening Option
Adults and teens are excited about the Invisalign option for straightening their teeth. Find out why, and learn how you can finally smile with confidence when you choose undetectable Invisalign as the best teeth straightening option.
Sep 13th, 2018
Seeking a Fresh New Look? Veneers Could Be the Answer
Dental veneers aren’t just for Hollywood stars anymore. These ultra-thin porcelain caps add amazing brightness to your smile, and veneers can cover and support minor to moderate tooth damage. They can even fix gaps and other appearance issues.
Aug 17th, 2018
What to Do If Your Tooth Gets Knocked Out?
A lost tooth that is properly protected can often be saved so that it functions normally again. By learning the how-tos of lost tooth protection, you can successfully preserve your natural tooth.
Feb 13th, 2018
10 Best Foods For Healthy Teeth and Gums
It turns out there are lots of foods that are not only great to eat, but they are great supplements to your dental care.
Jan 30th, 2018
What’s the Difference Between In-Office and At-Home Teeth Whitening?
What’s the Difference Between In-Office and At-Home Teeth Whitening?
Nov 2nd, 2017
How to Decide Which Cosmetic Fix is Right for Your Mouth
There are many cosmetic dental options to fix your smile, but how do you decide which one is right for you? Boosting your confidence and maintaining your dental health are important now and for the future. Find out the best options for your smile.
Oct 17th, 2018
Eight Unexpected Ways Oral Hygiene Impacts Your Health
Taking care good care of your mouth, teeth, and gums does more than prevent bad breath and reduce the risk of tooth decay. A healthy mouth wards off disease and chronic conditions, making it vital to your overall health.
Jul 25th, 2018
What Causes Bad Breath
Bad breath is embarrassing for someone who has it, of course, but it’s also awkward for friends and family members who don’t want to be around it — or be the one to point it out. Getting to the underlying causes of bad breath can tackle the problem.
Jun 18th, 2018
10 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
Few if any individuals would say that going to the dentist is fun. Most people recognize it as a necessary task to check off their to-do list every six months.
May 15th, 2018
6 Reasons Veneers May Be Right for You
If you’re researching your options for restoring or enhancing your smile, you may want to consider the benefits of veneers.
Apr 24th, 2018
Tips to Avoid Six Common Brushing Mistakes
As a kid, if you actually remembered to brush your teeth twice a day (or an adult reminded you), you were in good shape.
Mar 29th, 2018
Dental Emergencies 101: Your Step by Step Guide
Dental emergencies happen. When they do, Healthy Smile Dental is ready to help with a same-day appointment. Knowing what to do and what not to do in a dental emergency can make the difference between losing and saving a tooth.
Dec 18th, 2017
Be Prepared for the Daily Routine of Wearing Invisalign
Be Prepared for the Daily Routine of Wearing Invisalign
Oct 3rd, 2017
Thinking about getting Invisalign? Here's what to expect.
What to expect with Invisalign
Aug 29th, 2017
Dr Hannah Baek says “You don’t have to live with loose fitting dentures”
Dr Hannah Baek has the solutions for loose fitting dentures.
Jun 6th, 2014
Woodridge dentist says drinking water prevents tooth decay
Drinking tap water with fluoride can decrease the chance of getting tooth decay by 20 – 40%.
Mar 24th, 2014
March is National Nutrition Month
Celebrate National Nutrition Month by eating a diet that is high in calcium.
Mar 13th, 2014
How do I choose a fluoride rinse for my kids?
Fluoride in mouth wash can help protect your child’s teeth from cavities.
Mar 6th, 2014
60% of all kids get a cavity before age 5
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) reported that 60% of all US children had cavities before age 5.
Mar 1st, 2014
Dental App for kids – new tooth brushing game just launched
The Ad Council and the Partnership for Healthy Mouths, Healthy Lives created a new dental app for kids called ”Toothsavers”
Feb 18th, 2014
Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month with a new toothbrush!
Celebrate Children’s Dental Health Month by buying each of your children a new toothbrush.
Feb 3rd, 2014
How often should you visit the dentist?
Dr Hannah Baek at Healthy Smile Dental, your Woodridge dentist, recommends that adults visit a dentist every 6 months.
Jan 27th, 2014
Our Woodridge Dentist says “Flossing Prevents Cavities”
You can prevent cavities between your teeth by flossing just once a day!
Jan 13th, 2014
New Year’s Resolutions
Many of us make New Year’s Resolutions at the start of a new year. Why not add dental health to the list!
Jan 6th, 2014