Wilmette Dental Institute
Dr. Nolan Patel
Dental Exams & Cleanings
Healthy Smiles Start with Prevention!

If you want to avoid painful or complex dental problems, preventive dental exams and teeth cleanings are key!

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Dental Exams & Cleanings in Wilmette, IL

Dental Exams & Cleanings in Wilmette, ILThere is a saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. At Wilmette Dental Institute, we agree, especially when it comes to your dental health. 

That is why Dr. Nolan Patel and our team emphasize the importance of regular preventive exams and teeth cleanings for patients of all ages.

Your Health: More than Just a Beautiful Smile

What happens in your mouth does not stay in your mouth. Mountains of scientific research link your oral health to your overall well-being. 

Gum or periodontal disease is especially problematic. It has been shown to contribute to heart disease, diabetes, dementia, stroke, cancer, and numerous other health issues. Maintaining a healthy smile helps safeguard your overall health, making routine dental exams and cleanings crucial.

Meet Our Doctors:

Dr. Donald Hohman DDS
Dentist

Dr. Hohman graduated with honors from Loyola Dental School, then went on to complete a General Practice Residency after finishing dental school in 1986. Since then, he’s ...

Dr. Nolan Patel

Dr. Nolan Patel DDS

Introducing Dr. Nolan Patel, the practice owner at Wilmette Dental Institute.  Dr. Nolan focuses on providing comprehensive patient care grounded in the strong educational foundation he received from the University of Michigan.

One of Dr. Nolan’s ...

The Benefits of Preventive Dentistry

Routine exams and teeth cleanings help us catch potential issues before they become more significant and painful problems. By identifying early signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues, Dr. Nolan can treat them before you require more complex care.

What to Expect During a Dental Exam

You can expect the following during a routine check-up at our Wilmette, IL, dental office:

  • A review of your dental and medical history and the medications you take
  • A thorough oral examination to check your teeth, gums, and mouth
  • Digital x-rays, if necessary, to identify issues not visible to the naked eye
  • Oral cancer screening

Dr. Nolan uses an intraoral camera during your exam to get an up-close, detailed view of your mouth. By sharing the intraoral images with you, you can see what he sees, which helps you understand the problem and how treatment will benefit you.

If he identifies any concerns like cavities or gum disease, he will create a personalized treatment plan to get your oral health back on track. 

I highly recommend Dr. Nolan Patel if you are looking for a new Dentist.

I have been a patient of Dr Engleman for 20 years and was not very excited about his retiring. His practice was taken over by Dr. Nolan Patel about 1 1/2 years ago and I have now had the opportunity to see Dr. Nolan three times since Dr. Engleman’s retirement. I could not be more pleased with him. He has a terrific manor, is very capable and most importantly I feel safe in his hands. I highly recommend Dr. Nolan Patel if you are looking for a new Dentist.

 

The Importance of Teeth Cleaning

Kid in dental chair in Wilmette, ILTeeth cleanings performed by our skilled dental hygienists remove hard-to-reach plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss. This is crucial because only a dental hygienist can remove hardened plaque buildup (tartar) using specialized instruments. 

Teeth cleanings every six months work well for many people. However, Dr. Nolan and your hygienist will tailor a schedule to meet your needs. A routine teeth cleaning includes the following:

  • Checking for signs of gum disease
  • Removing plaque and tartar
  • Flossing carefully between the teeth
  • Polishing to remove stains and leave a clean, smooth surface 
  • Fluoride treatment for children

Gum Disease Treatment

If your hygienist finds gingivitis, the mild form of gum disease, she will recommend a treatment plan to eliminate it. This typically includes a thorough cleaning and guidance on how to brush and floss properly.

Advanced gum disease, called periodontitis, can lead to serious complications if left untreated. It begins with gum inflammation and then progresses to damage the tissue and bone supporting your teeth. Prompt treatment can help halt the disease's progression and protect your oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

A conscientious daily routine is key if you want to maintain optimal oral health between visits.

We recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily to remove food particles and plaque buildup that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. 

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush helps ensure a thorough clean without damaging your gums. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Don’t Forget to Floss Your Teeth!

Daily flossing is essential for maintaining gum health and avoiding cavities. Your floss reaches between teeth to remove food particles and plaque buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach. 

Dietary Habits and Oral Health

Dietary habits play a significant role in maintaining your oral health. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks and reducing alcohol and tobacco use can dramatically decrease your risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems.

Schedule Your Next Dental Check-Up with Us

Even with excellent oral hygiene habits, regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings at our Wilmette, IL dental office are essential. These appointments allow early detection and prevention of potential problems.

Contact Wilmette Dental Institute today to schedule your next check-up and keep your smile looking its best.

Dentistry is about more than treating problems—it's also about preventing them. You may wonder why you should visit the dentist if your teeth feel fine. The answer is that many dental issues may not cause pain or discomfort until they have progressed significantly.

Hidden Dangers Lurking Beneath the Surface

Even if you don’t feel any pain, there could be dental issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and even oral cancer lurking beneath the surface. These conditions can progress silently with minimal to no symptoms until they advance and become painful. By seeing you for routine exams and cleanings at our Wilmette, IL, dental office, we can provide early intervention before these issues become costly or complex to treat.

Benefits of Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental visits are critical in maintaining not only your oral health but also your overall well-being. These services allow us the opportunity to:

  • Thoroughly clean your teeth to remove stubborn plaque and tartar that lead to cavities and gum disease.
  • Screen for oral cancer, a highly-treatable condition when detected early.
  • Check for signs of gum disease or decay
  • Provide personalized advice to improve your at-home oral hygiene routine.
  • Monitor existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or implants, ensuring they're in excellent shape.

Your Smile Deserves Consistent Care

At our Wilmette, IL, dental office, our team is committed to providing personalized, thorough dental care. Contact us today to schedule your routine check-up and teeth cleaning to keep your smile looking and feeling its best

When you have a dental appointment, you know arriving on time and wearing comfortable clothing is important. However, is there anything else you should know that could make your visit more successful? Is it ok to eat and drink before a dental exam? Keep reading to find out.

Eating and Drinking before a Dental Exam

When deciding whether eating and drinking is a good idea before your next dental appointment, you should keep certain things in mind, including the following:

  • Appointment time — If your appointment is later in the day, you shouldn’t avoid eating and drinking. Make sure to brush and floss before arriving at your dentist’s office.
  • Dental treatment — If you’re having a surgical procedure or a lengthy dental treatment, talk to your dentist about whether it’s ok to eat before your appointment. Generally, having some food in your stomach is a good idea.
  • Medications — If you’re taking medications that require you to eat before taking them, be sure to eat before going to the dentist.
  • Certain foods and drinks — Although eating and drinking are usually encouraged before your dental visit, you may want to avoid certain foods, including citrus, garlic, popcorn, and sticky foods.

Questions about Dental Exams in Wilmette, IL?

If you need a dentist in Wilmette, IL, the dental team at Wilmette Dental Institute would love to hear from you! We can answer your questions and help you schedule a dental exam. Call our dental office at (847) 251-3110 to get started today.

Most dental insurance plans cover dental cleanings in Wilmette, IL, but there are typically annual limits, deductibles, and copays to consider.

Wilmette Dental Institute is a fee-for-service practice, meaning we are not in a network with any insurance plan, though we are happy to bill your insurance. This allows for a potential reimbursement for you directly from your insurer.

We use the fee-for-service model because it allows the dentist and patient to make oral health decisions without having to answer to a third-party insurer. Your dentist in Wilmette never wants to compromise the quality of your future smile or health due to insurance hassles.

Professional Teeth Cleanings in Wilmette, IL

Professional cleanings lower your cavity risks. They also help eliminate bad breath and help ensure you won’t develop tooth infections or gum disease.

Teeth cleanings should always complement excellent oral hygiene and comprehensive dental checkups.

Cleanings and checkups are part of prevention. Seeing the dentist twice yearly can also save time and money in the future.

Are You Looking for Dental Care in Wilmette, IL?

To learn more about our treatments and services or if you have questions about your dental insurance plan, contact a friendly and helpful dental team member today.

We look forward to seeing you at your next (or first) dental visit.

All dental practices are different, but with us, you can count on a comprehensive visual exam of your teeth and more!

Remember, our attention to detail benefits you. It can save you time and money on future general dentistry treatments because thoroughness allows us to diagnose issues early.

Expect the following:

  • A thorough health history, including a list of current diagnoses and medications
  • A comprehensive oral checkup of your teeth, gums, mouth, and surrounding tissues
  • Digital x-rays, as needed, to diagnose potential oral health issues that are not visible during your exam.
  • A professional teeth cleaning, if time allows
  • An oral cancer screening
  • A conversation with your dentist in Wilmette, IL, about findings and potential treatments

Your Comfort Is Our Priority

The dental exam is comfortable. You simply relax while the dentist completes your exam. Your teeth cleaning is also noninvasive and painless. Using special instruments, the hygienist clears debris from your teeth and gums, all that your toothbrush leaves behind.

After your checkup, we set aside time to answer any questions you might have. Likewise, the hygienist can provide tips for at-home brushing, flossing, and products (rinses, etc.) that might benefit oral health.

Comprehensive Dental Exams in Wilmette, IL

If it’s time for your next checkup and teeth cleaning, or have questions, contact a dental team member today.

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Are You Due for Your Next Dental Check-Up?

If you or your family are due for your next routine exam and teeth cleaning, call Wilmette Dental Institute to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve Chicago’s North Shore communities, including Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Evanston, and Highland Park.

Dental Exams & Cleanings Technology

Digital X-Rays in Wilmette, IL

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Digital x-rays allow our dentists to detect hidden problems like cavities and gum disease that can't be seen during a visual exam. We care about your safety and use low-dose digital x-rays because they limit your radiation exposure compared to traditional x-rays.  

Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings in Wilmette, IL
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