Education Center
Did You Know?
The world of dental health continues to spin fast and furiously, circulating with more knowledge and insights than ever before. And BK Dental confidently remains on the cutting edge.
As an honorable ally on the journey to complete dental health, our goal is to be on top of all the latest trends and data-driven intelligence so that patients are equipped with the know-how to make educated, informed dental decisions. BK Dental is proud to be a trusted source of dental knowledge and preferred dental partner in greater Chicagoland since 2009. Our seasoned experts will work hand-in-hand with patients to formulate a customized treatment plan that’s tailored to fit each individual’s specific needs.
The more you know, the wider you’ll smile.
Rhythmic masticatory muscle activity and repetitive jaw muscle contractions during sleep occur in up to 60% of adults, according to research from Sleep Foundation.
Make no mistake that the hazards of worn teeth pose a severe threat to most adults and an increasing number of children too. Bruxism, characterized by repetitive yet involuntary or subconscious jaw clenching or tooth gnashing, is a chronic condition that can be caused by various genetic, physical, psychological and psychosocial factors. Over time, these habits can flatten or chip tooth surfaces while also wearing down tooth enamel acting as a protective layer. More often than not, bruxism is linked to everyday life stressors like nervousness or anxiety. Symptoms of bruxism have gradually risen in global populations as a result of increased restlessness and uneasiness during times of turbulence. Monitoring and keeping worn teeth under control is a long-term game, so consider the advantages of a custom-fit night guard. Worn during sleep, a night guard can instill comfort and help curb tooth damage from overnight grinding or clenching.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are estimated to affect over 10 million Americans today, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull and can become distressed from involuntary teeth grinding or clenching overnight (sleep bruxism), as well as a misaligned bite. TMJ troubles can also result in facial/neck pain and even headaches. It’s safe to say that the consequences of TMJ disharmony can span far beyond the realm of just a dental concern. Avoid jaw irritation and restless nights with our TMJ treatment services, which can be an exceptional contributor in the fight against worn teeth or general discomfort. Our specialists will fabricate custom-made orthotic appliances designed to reduce (and possibly even eliminate) jaw joint inflammation while also correcting jaw positioning over time. Expect for TMJ treatment to improve bite technique along the way.
More than 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral oropharyngeal cancer this year, according to The Oral Cancer Foundation.
Furthermore, the CDC suggests that almost half of adults aged 30 or older have some form of periodontal disease. That’s why we encourage you not to forget your oral cancer screening, which should be completed bi-annually beyond routine cleaning and maintenance appointments centered around plaque/tartar reduction. While signals of oral cancer can be noticeable through mouth sores or difficulty and pain when swallowing, it also has the potential to develop without symptoms too. Detection of an oral cancer in its early stages will allow for more effective and less invasive treatment in later stages.
